President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Wednesday, July 26, guaranteed his administration’s continued support for initiatives aimed at fostering the country’s national heritage.
The Chief Executive, at the same time, said the government is taking steps to make the Philippines a more attractive place for tourists and investors.
The President made these assurance as he graced the grand opening of Rizal Park Hotel in Ermita, Manila.
The hotel stands at the site of the iconic Manila and Army Navy Club. The revival of the historical landmark was a project of Simon Paz of the Oceanville Hotel and Spa Corporation.
“The revival and restoration of this iconic and historical landmark are the manifestations of our common desire to promote and preserve our vibrant culture and rich history,” the President said in his speech.
President Duterte commended the “truly admirable” vision and effort to conserve the site, adding that the company regained and added more value to the “long neglected” place.
“It is likewise noteworthy that this project was undertaken considering the tremendous cost and risk it might incur,” he added, noting that restoring a building is more generally expensive than constructing a new one.
The Chief Executive also cited the retention of some of the original designs and interiors.
He said this signifies the emphasis on the protection and enhancement of the heritage aspect of the hotel.
“By restoring the building’s former grandeur, we are not only preserving a piece of our history but we are also embracing a clear national identity,” Duterte said.
The President also vowed that the government would pursue measures to make the Philippines a “safer, more convenient, and more attractive” place for both tourists and investors.
“Together, let us open new doors of opportunities so that we can usher in a lasting and greater prosperity for all,” he said.
After his speech, President Duterte was given a tour of the hotel.
Also present in the event were Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chair Dr. Rene Escalante, Oceanville Hotel and Spa Corporation President Simon Paz and Executive Vice President Brian Paz.###PND
