DENR to raise P500 million for Ninoy Aquino Park redevelopment

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) plans to raise P500 million to redevelop the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Nature Center (NAPWNC) into a world-class ecological tourist attraction.

According to DENR Secretary Ramon Paje, “Filipinos, young and old alike, will soon be able to enjoy a first-rate ecotourism center which is not only affordable and environment-friendly, but also a perfect venue for biodiversity conservation that will educate visitors on Philippine endemic flora and fauna.”

The master plan for the redevelopment of the 22.7-hectare park was conceived recently by renowned urban planner Palafox and Associates.

The estimated cost of the project is P500 million.

Paje is also looking at possible partnerships with the private sector in financing the park’s re-development.

According to Paje, government’s resources are very limited.

The private sector, however, Paje noted, has the much needed business and technical expertize.

As such, he said, “their participation will be very much welcomed, following certain investment guidelines because the park is a protected area.”

The DENR plans to redevelop the NAPWNC in stages.

The Visitors’ Center, which is the site of official meetings, training and the like, has been renamed the Bulwagang Buhay-Ilang and is now equipped with wi-fi facilities as well as a functional library known as the Biodiversity and Climate Change Information Center.

The Wildlife Rescue Center, which provides temporary shelter for animals that are turned in by the public or those confiscated from illegal traders, has likewise expanded its functions and has been renamed as the Wildlife Rescue and Research Center.

There are on-going negotiations for additional entertainment and diversion as well.

These include a commercial strip which will be the site of a weekend bazaar; regular weekend performance by the Teatro Filipino at the amphitheatre; a zip-line adventure ride across the lagoon; and guided educational tour package for schools.

All buildings or infrastructure to be erected or renovated within the center will follow a theme that portrays sustainable designs and technology.

“The overall scheme is for the park to showcase the use of green technology, architecture and energy,” according to Nelson Castillo, the Protected Area Superintendent (PASu).

Aside from the rescue center and a four-hectare lagoon that doubles as a fishing grove, the park’s sprawling, tree-filled landscape provides excellent picnic and outdoor recreational grounds.

It is also a common site for film or TV productions.

The park receives an estimated 500-800 visitors everyday, peaking to as much as 2,000 on weekends.

It is an inexpensive get-away from the busy and polluted city.

The entrance fees are pegged at P5 for students and P8 for non-students.

Senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) enjoy free entrance.

The NAPWC was declared as a protected area in 2004 under Republic Act 7586 or the National Integrated Protected Area System (NIPAS) Act.