Government Agencies and Architects Join Forces to Restore Historic Manila Central Post Office 🇵🇭

In May last year, a massive fire tore through Manila’s historic post office building slightly injuring seven people and razing the nearly 100-year-old landmark. The fire started in the basement of the neoclassical, five-story building and the estimated total damage was worth P300 million.

According to Bureau of Fire Protection the fire caused major damage or total damage to the Manila Central Post Office.

Restoring The Historic Post Office

From ashes to grandeur, the historic Manila Central Post Office (MCPO),which was destroyed by fire early last year, is set to rise again, thanks to a collaborative effort between the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost), the Philippine Institute of Architects (PIA), and Pacific Paint (Boysen) Philippines, Inc.

These dedicated architects, heritage experts, and paint specialists have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) to voluntarily provide essential expertise towards the restoration of this architectural gem located in the heart of Manila.

This selfless act will breathe new life into the building that has stood as a silent witness to Philippine history for decades.

Designed by renowned Filipino architects Juan M. Arellano, Tomas Mapua, and Ralph Doane, the MCPO's construction began in 1926 and was completed in 1930. Its strategic location along the Pasig River, its majestic neoclassical architecture, and its 14 imposing pillars - representing the 14 provinces that revolted against Spanish rule -
all stand as testaments to the cultural and historical significance of the Philippine Postal Service.

The collaboration between PHLPost, PIA, and Boysen
Philippines represents a united front in the fight to preserve history and build a brighter future. This partnership will provide invaluable expertise in architectural conservation, archeological research, and documentation, ensuring that the MCPO is restored to its former glory while preserving its historical authenticity.

The involvement of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, the National Commission for Culture and Arts, the Department of Tourism, and various private organizations further strengthens the resolve to restore the MCPO. 

Meanwhile, PHLPost, through the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority of the Department of Tourism procured a detailed architectural and engineering study and even
commissioned Ar. Franz Ignacio, as a consultant, to aid in the restoration of the MCPO Building.

Pasig River Esplanade Update

The construction of River Esplanade is part of the ongoing rehabilitation and revitalization of riverside along Manila. The project aims to transform the once neglected riverside into a vibrant tourist attraction. Once completed, the esplanade is expected to attract thousands of foreign and local tourists.

Besides the tourism potential, the project is also
expected to draw more investments into the capital. Manila is still considered to be among the “dawning developers”—which referred to cities that “have an emerging tourism infrastructure, gradual tourism growth and lower visitor concentration but with potential to grow.”

One of the features of the project is the multi-colored water fountain located within the platform of the esplanade. Other features of the esplanade include: concrete park benches, plant boxes, and dozens of colonial-style lamposts.

The river esplanade project begins from Manila Central Post Office stretching to the historic district of Intramuros and it will be connected via a pedestrian bridge which will pass under the Jones Bridge. Construction of the second phase of the project is now ongoing.

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