Question & AnswerQ&A (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1277)
Presidential Decree No. 1277 provides for the preservation of the Walls of Intramuros and the restoration of its original moat and esplanade.
The Walls of Intramuros are a monument to the artistry, craftsmanship, and industry of Filipino artisans and laborers, and represent an integral part of Philippine national history, having been declared a national historical monument under Republic Act No. 597.
The decree mandates that the Walls of Intramuros should be restored, preserved, and maintained according to the decree and relevant rules and regulations.
Parts with minor damages shall be maintained and cleaned as is, parts almost totally destroyed shall be left as is and not reconstructed, and parts with partial destruction shall be restored.
An access road of at least six meters along the inner face, and a clear space of 55 meters along the outer face of the walls, bastions, and ravelins shall be maintained, including the restoration of the moat and esplanade in these zones.
Yes, the area shall be opened to the public and shall not be obstructed or used for parking at any time.
They have three months to clear the area; otherwise, the Military Corps of Engineers will demolish the structures and the cost of demolition will be charged against them.
For the first offense, a fine of not less than 100 pesos and not more than 1,000 pesos; for subsequent offenses, a fine of 1,500 to 5,000 pesos and/or imprisonment of one to six months.
The National Historical Institute exercises supervision and control and issues rules and regulations to implement the provisions of the Decree.
No building shall be constructed or remodeled in the protected areas without the prior approval of the National Historical Institute.
Necessary funds shall be included in the appropriations for the National Historical Institute, with disbursements made according to general auditing rules and regulations.
All laws, orders, rules, and regulations inconsistent with this Decree are repealed or modified accordingly.
It took effect thirty days after its publication in the Official Gazette.