TACLOBAN CITY – The city’s historic Plaza Rizal, a central landmark and gathering space for Taclobanons, is set for a major rehabilitation worth P50 million, funded by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) of the Department of Tourism (DOT).
The renovation, expected to begin next month aims to transform the less-than-a-hectare plaza—located along Real and Justice Romualdez Streets, across the Archdiocesan Shrine of Santo Niño de Tacloban—into a more functional, accessible, and visually appealing urban space.
Built in 1974, Plaza Rizal is named after the country’s national hero, Dr. José Rizal, whose 10-meter statue will be relocated from the plaza’s corner to the center as part of the redesign. The statue, currently made of concrete, will be recast using granite for a more durable and polished look.
According to Architect Karen Chelo Binghoy of the City Architect’s Office (CAO), who leads the project’s design and planning, the improvements aim to strike a balance between aesthetics and utility.
“The goal is not just to beautify the space but to ensure it serves the community’s needs better,” Binghoy said in an interview on July 25.
She also assured that several Narra trees inside the park would not be cut down.
Key features of the rehabilitation include the expansion of the plaza’s stage from 380 sqm to 480 sqm, with added multi-purpose wings on both sides to house dressing rooms and comfort rooms; construction of ramps and PWD-friendly restrooms to enhance accessibility; renovation of the City Tourism Office, with a new souvenir shop inside the park; replacement of cobblestone flooring with concrete pavement for durability and easier maintenance; and installation of ornamental plants and flower boxes that will double as seating areas for visitors and parkgoers.
Binghoy said the upgrade is also designed to revitalize community use of the space, especially during weekends and public events, and to serve as a more inviting hub for both locals and tourists.
As one of Tacloban’s most recognizable civic spaces, Plaza Rizal has long been the site of commemorative events, including Rizal Day and Yolanda memorials. Officials hope that with the upcoming transformation, the park will become a vibrant, inclusive, and meaningful public space once again.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
