President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. took a significant stride in revitalizing the historic Binondo district on Saturday, reaffirming its profound cultural and historical significance to Filipino-Chinese heritage. Joined by First Lady Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos, the President led the ceremonial lighting of the iconic Jones Bridge in Manila, a poignant event coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China.
“This is what the Chinatown Revitalization Project is all about. It is about restoring Binondo and reaffirming its cultural and historical place and significance to our shared heritage,” President Marcos stated during the ceremony. He emphasized a vision for Binondo as a welcoming destination, adding, “We will transform Binondo into a place that we can always return to. From the old Manileños to the first-time visitors, lahat welcome dito.”
Beginning June 7, the public is invited to experience a weekly lights and sounds show at Jones Bridge. This initiative is a key component of the First Couple’s “Pasig: Bigyang Buhay Muli (BBM)” campaign, which seeks to breathe new life into the Pasig River and transform it into a vibrant hub for tourism and commerce.
The project highlights the impactful role of private sector partnership in preserving public heritage and fostering national pride. The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) spearheaded contributions from numerous benefactors through a dedicated fundraising initiative. Major diamond sponsors include FFCCCII, Filipino-Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation, and the Double Dragon Group. Platinum sponsors include Converge ICT Solutions, Filinvest Group, LT Group, Megaworld Group, Metrobank Group, SM Group of Companies, and SteelAsia, among others.
President Marcos underscored the broader scope of these revitalization efforts. “It is part of our bigger push to bring life back into our historic districts. As we speak, we are implementing projects to revitalize the Pasig River, including the Pasig River Urban Development Project, so our people can breathe and move more easily,” he noted.
The Chief Executive extended an invitation to the public, particularly the youth, to visit Binondo and immerse themselves in its thriving culture and economic activities. “Because how can we know our history and culture if we do not know and experience them ourselves? So, I encourage everyone, especially the younger people, to visit Binondo. Come back to Ongpin, Escolta, Carvajal, and the streets that have yet to be discovered and celebrated,” President Marcos urged.
The lighting of Jones Bridge marks a symbolic and tangible step in the ongoing efforts to restore Binondo to its former glory, reinforcing its vital role in the nation’s cultural tapestry and economic landscape.
