The Potential Impact of the PAREX Proposal on the Cultural Significance of Intramuros

Jhoanna Angeline U. Zialcita

Note: This is a paper produced under the Internship Program of the IA Center for Intramuros Studies.

Abstract

Cultural heritage in the Philippines is facing conservation challenges as the country’s urbanization accelerates. The shift towards contemporary art forms weakens the authenticity of its historical built heritage and environmental setting. With the growing demand for transportation mitigation in Metro Manila, San Miguel Corporation proposed an elevated expressway. The Pasig River Expressway (PAREX) is designed to be constructed on the Pasig river alignment, obstructing the scenic views of the country’s historical landmarks. One of the affected areas in the PAREX proposal is Intramuros. In this study, the PAREX rationale is examined and compared to Philippine heritage policies, revealing its implications on the country’s cultural heritage. Research reveals that historic urban landscapes, such as Intramuros, are a source of irreplaceable cultural resource that must be conserved. Interventions that are in conflict with its nature must be examined for the safety of its cultural value.

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About the Intern: Jhoanna Angeline U. Zialcita.

This research paper was completed in September 2022.

Jhoanna Angeline U. Zialcita is a De La Salle-College of St. Benilde undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree. She took up a specialization in Architectural Heritage Conservation in college which enabled her interest in Philippine Architecture History. During her heritage studies, she was exposed to cultural mapping and conservation methods. Through a series of research papers in her heritage class, she was able to hone her skills in research development and historical analysis. She is also an architecture apprentice during the writing of this paper, incorporating the concepts of environmental planning and history studies. Her experience in architecture has provided a lens on the significance of historic urban landscapes in this paper.

Mentor: Christian Emmanuel Catahan

Intern’s testimonial:

“It is an honor to be alluded to as an intern of the Intramuros Administration, and having this opportunity to reflect on as time passes is exceptional. Before taking the internship, I had no expectations of it but to enjoy the learning process and seek knowledge from my peers. I was able to garner a wealth of information, this will help me as I grow as a Filipino who values history. I would like to credit Sir Christian Catahan for his patience in mentoring me, he allowed me to learn as a history enthusiast. His guidance throughout this internship has been an important role in helping me get through writing this research paper. Thank you to Sir Rancho Arcilla as well for taking me under his internship wing, I am grateful for this educational experience as it will help me in many ways in the near future. I hope to continue on this path of heritage conservation in the years ahead.“

Learn more about the Internship Program of the Center for Intramuros Studies

Interested in applying for an internship at the IA Center for Intramuros Studies? Email us your CV with cover letter via [email protected].

Note: The opinions expressed by our interns in their papers and presentations during their internships with us do not necessarily reflect any statement, stand, or position of the Intramuros Administration or of any of its personnel. Moreover, inclusion of research papers or project proposals in the online database of the Center for Intramuros Studies or the website of the Intramuros Administration do not necessarily constitute as an endorsement.

For more information contact the Center for Intramuros Studies via [email protected]
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