Luneta Park set to undergo repair works

THE historic Quirino Grandstand in Luneta Park, Manila will be closed to public until June to pave way for the needed repair works, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said Tuesday.

DPWH Undersecretary Romeo Momo said the National Parks Development Committee, an attached agency of the Department of Tourism (DOT), has ordered to close down the venue as the reconstruction of the facility might start next month.

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“Our structural engineers have to make their reevaluation of the structure in five to six weeks. By that time, they will have their recommendations and design plan that the DPWH has to do on its reconstruction,” he said.

Momo added that they have to determine the depth of the cracks and subject the structure to further inspection prior to its retrofitting.

The estimated cost of the repair is about P50 million.

Earlier, the DPWH inspected the structure, which was built in the 1930s and found it unsafe.

DPWH Assistant Secretary Raul Asis, head of the agency's Building Inspection Team, said there were cracks on the roof and beams of the building that can make it collapse when a strong earthquake occurred.

The 3,800 square meter grandstand has been host to national celebrations and other activities, such as concerts and prayer rallies.

Bro. Eddie’s concern

In a related development, presidential aspirant Bro. Eddie Villanueva is questioning the denial of his request to hold their campaign rally at the Luneta Park slated on Saturday, February 13, 2010.

The Bangon Pilipinas standard-bearer said they were informed by National Parks Development Committee that their request was denied, noting that “politically related rallies” are not allowed at the park.

“In line with our thrust in maintaining security and the safety of the public, we regret to inform you we don't allow politically related rallies here in Luneta Park,” a letter signed by executive director Salome Habal sent to Villanueva’s political party dated February 4.

Villanueva said if their request was granted they intend to use the Luneta grounds for their proclamation rally scheduled this weekend.

Ironically, Bangon Pilipinas was able get a permit to hold their “patriotic rally” held Tuesday morning at the Luneta Park. The event unfurled the biggest Philippine flag made on record.

The activity was led by Villanueva and his running mate Perfecto Yasay Jr. and their seven senatorial candidates, turning the event into a campaign kick-off rally.

Villanueva is running again for the highest position in the land. He joined the presidential race in 2004 but lost to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

He is one of the nine other presidential aspirants who are trying their luck in the May 10, 2010 national polls.

On the other hand, Yasay said they are looking to question the constitutionality of the park's policy against the holding of political rallies.

“(Luneta Park) has been used before in political rallies. We feel very strongly this is a political discrimination so our party cannot show its strength in winning the elections,” he said. (FP/Sunnex)