The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) is preparing to start the official restoration of the Manila Central Post Office (MCPO).
In a news release, PHLPost said that it is preparing the Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Detailed Architectural and Engineering Design (DAED) will guide the rebuilding of the MCPO, ensuring it adheres to modern safety, accessibility, and sustainability standards while preserving its historical and cultural integrity as a national heritage site.
The DAED is also the basis for accurate cost estimation and public bidding for transparency and proper resource allocation.
“This project is about honoring our past, preserving our identity, and showing the strength and unity of our people through heritage conservation and nation-building,” Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer Luis Carlos said.
The Department of Tourism, through the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, commissioned a private firm to study the structure of the MCPO.
The study revealed that it is suitable for retrofitting despite being significantly damaged by a fire.
The PHLPost has partnered with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for the repainting of the MCPO's facade.
It also held a series of coordination and succession meetings with cultural agencies to align restoration goals and strategies.
The Office of the First Lady and Office of the Executive Secretary are leading the restoration through a whole-of-government approach with the DOT, TIEZA, MMDA, the Department of Budget and Management, Department of Public Works and Highways, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, City Government of Manila, National Museum of the Philippines, and National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
The MCPO was one of the country's finest examples of neoclassical architecture. It was designed by Filipino architect Juan Arellano and completed in 1926.
It has served as the PHLPost’s headquarters as a historical landmark along the Pasig River banks before it was gutted by a fire on May 21, 2023.
PNA PHOTO
