Petition launched to save Rizal Coliseum from Erap plan

A change.org   petition is urging President Rodrigo Duterte to save the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila following reports that Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada plans to convert the sports coliseum into a mall.

The petition called “Save Rizal Memorial Sports Complex,” initiated on November 26, needed 7,500 signatures before being submitted to Duterte, Estrada, the Manila city council, and the Philippine Sports Commission.

READ: Erap plan to convert Rizal coliseum into a mall scored

As of posting time, the petition had 6,596 signatures.

“This petition calls for the Manila City Government to improve the Sports Complex  to be better and redevelop the Harrison Plaza-RMSC area into 60% open and green space,” the petition reaD.

It said that “Rizal Memorial Stadium, Coliseum, and the rest of the complex are architectural and historical gems, as it is designed in Art Deco style and has hosted different international matches. It is not only a gem; it is a functioning and international class sports facility.”

The petitioners wanted to adopt the proposal of architect Paulo Alcazaren, “which provides “comprehensive and contextual solution.”

Heritage advocates have criticized Estrada for his plan, saying another shopping mall would not do any good on the cultural development of Manila. CBB/rga