Manila Mayor Franciso ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso said that he was open to Department of Tourism (DOT) Sec. Bernadette Romulo-Puyat’s suggestion to open the city’s parks to people of all ages once a week for a designated “Family Day.”
In an interview on DZMM Teleradyo’s Sakto, Domagoso said, “Of course, we want to support [domestic] tourism, lalo na ngayon. At least kahit papaano may madudulot na negosyo at trabaho ‘yan. If there is an open space, an alternative for the people to go to, we’ll support it.”
It may be recalled that Intramuros opened the gates of Fort Santiago, Casa Manila Museum, and Baluarte de San Diego last February 17, but only for visitors aged 15 to 65 years old.
DOT chief Bernadette Romulo-Puyat took note of the reopening of Intramuros and said that the agency was pushing for a “no age restriction policy” for visitors. She explained that she was suggesting at least a one-day exemption for families, including senior citizens. “Kasi ang turismo ay para sa pamilya, hindi lang for mga 15 to 65 years old,” she had said.
Domagoso went on to say, “Let me take this opportunity na hikayatin ang ating mga kababayan na pumasyal kayo sa Intramuros. Kapag napasyal ka sa Intramuros noon kabahan ka, ngayon mas maaliwalas na. Malapit na rin mabuksan ang Metropolitan Theater sa April.”
The mayor said that he is supporting these moves to gradually reopen public spaces because it would help boost the city’s economy.
