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Im so happy that the current PSC has made the right decision. Lots of memories by me with

my first international meet in 2000 as a 15 year old at the National Open. I’m sure a lot of

others a lot older memories of the stadium.

Two thumbs up Chairman Butch Ramirez.”THATS GOOD FOR THE COUNTRY!”

Article from Manila Bulletin Dennis Principe.

by Dennis Principe

Athletes and sports officials can now heave a sigh of relief.

The Rizal Memorial Complex which the City of Manila has been eagerly trying to sell to a

developer who planned to convert into a shopping mall will stay as a sports complex.

In a ruling handed down recently, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines

(NHCP) declared Rizal Memorial as a national historical landmark thus preventing it from

being demolished or converted into something else.

The commission said it is declaring it as such by virtue of the powers vested in them by

Republic Acts 10066 and 10086.

Most noteworthy is that Resolution No. 5 of the NCHP, signed by its chairman Rene R.

Escalante, four ex-officio members and one member. Hence has identified the complex as ‘an

important Cultural Property’ because of its historical significance.

While the resolution mentioned the RMC’s contribution not only in past sports events. But also

its role during World War II as well as its hosting of countless entertainment, religious and

social gatherings.

The NHCP stated that it was because of Filipinos’ adeptness in sports. As noticed by the

Americans during the American period. That the large-scale complex was constructed within

the 10-hectare Harrison Park which was then ceded by the City of Manila.

While Section 5 of RA 10066 states that anything declared by the NHCP as an important

cultural property. And will get protection from any attempt to modify, demolish or sell the

said property.

So the resolution, approved by the NHCP board last March 27, was lauded by Philippine

Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William Ramirez.

Ramirez immediately thanked the National Museum of the Philippines through Director IV

Jeremy Barns.

“We appreciate with thanks the passing of the said declaration after due

deliberation of the National Museum panel of experts. It is with great joy that we

accept the recognition,” said Ramirez . “Rest assured of our commitment to

protect, preserve and conserve these historical structures considered as cultural

heritage which will serve as inspiration and pride of today’s Filipino youth and the

future generation.”

Also opposing the sale was Rio Olympics silver medal winner Hidilyn Diaz. Also several

other top athletes and former national athletes also opposed its sale.

You can read more about other track ovals in the Philippines.

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Sale of Rizal Memorial stopped

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