The government and private sector partners have launched the second phase of a major revitalization project in Binondo to preserve the 432-year-old district’s legacy as the world’s oldest Chinatown.
Building on the restoration of Jones Bridge last year, the new phase expands a specialized lighting program across key streets, cultural landmarks, and commercial corridors to boost tourism and local commerce.
The project covers accent and ambient lighting at the La Madre Filipina pillars, MacArthur Bridge and Santa Cruz Church. The upgrades include the district’s four traditional gates and high-tech additions like hologram lighting along Quentin Paredes, Ongpin, and Sabino Padilla streets. A projection-mapping program is also scheduled for the historic Binondo Church.
The initiative follows the model of the Pasig River Bigyang Buhay Muli program, which uses heritage restoration to drive urban renewal. Organizers aim to increase pedestrian traffic and local spending while strengthening cultural stewardship within the Filipino-Chinese community. The project is funded through voluntary contributions from community leaders and the private sector.
During the phase II launch on Feb. 13, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the initiative is about honoring shared histories and giving the district the attention and respect it deserves.
“These efforts will reinforce the district’s historical role as a center of trade, of faith, and community, and support culture-based tourism and local economic activity,” Marcos said.
The president said the project serves those who live in the district and the many visitors who travel through its streets daily.
“Moreover, it is for every Filipino and for anyone who wishes to gain a better understanding of our culture and our history,” he said.
The city government of Manila and Filipino-Chinese community leaders collaborated on the proposal, which received early support from the President and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos.
Since its founding in 1594, Binondo has served as a primary archive of Filipino-Chinese commerce and culture, surviving colonial rule and war to remain a central pillar of the nation’s economic life.
