Closing streets near heritage sites favored

CEBU, Philippines - To protect and preserve historical sites, Mayor Michael Rama is in favor of the “pedestrianization” of streets along historical landmarks.

 “I am very into pedestrianization of streets particularly where heritage sites and tourists at,” he said in a press conference yesterday.

This means that portions of streets located right beside historical landmarks will be off limits to vehicles, but would reportedly ensure that the foundation of the landmark like the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño along Osmeña Boulevard will remain strong.

 Basilica rector Fr. Jonas Mejares earlier explained that the dust and vibration on the road caused by vehicles passing along Osmeña Boulevard can contribute to the deterioration of the church’s façade, which is made of coral stones.

 Aside from the basilica, Rama is also in favor of implementing the concept in Barangay Parian where a heritage monument and Casa Gorordo Museum are located.

 The heritage monument was built purposely there because it was once an enclave of wealthy families in Cebu during the Spanish Period. Parian was also a Chinese business district. The Monument is a tableau of renowned historical figures such as Rajah Humabon, Jose Rizal and Pedro Calungsod who are all recorded in Cebu’s rich history.

Meanwhile, the Casa Gorordo Museum is the 19th century residence of the first Cebuano Bishop Juan Garces Gorordo. It was recognized as a national historic landmark by the National Historical Institute in 1991.

Rama is optimistic that “pedestrianization” will not worsen traffic conditions in the city, provided that appropriate plans and strategies by the City Transportation Office will be in place.

“There would be no traffic problem if it is properly managed. If there is traffic it also means prosperity,” he said.

Pedestrianization, Rama said, would have a good impact because people will be encouraged to walk, thereby the “grandeur” of Cebu’s national historical attractions will be seen and appreciated like in Europe and Spain.

“Sometimes there are compromises looking at the micro and macro aspects. But, we have to adapt (change for the betterment of our historical sites),” he added.

CCTO Executive Director Rafael Yap said in any implementation of pedestrianization initiatives, planning is needed to outline the policies and actions to the vision of a pedestrianized downtown.

 He added that the social and economic impacts of pedestrianization must also be incorporated in the comprehensive planning design.  (FREEMAN)