Have you been to the newly rehabilitated Lagusnilad Underpass, lately? You would be amazed at how it looks now. It used to have graffiti-laden walls and dilapidated floors, but now it’s replaced by artistic murals.
Even if you were not from Manila, you would be proud to see how clean and green Lagusnilad underpass, which connects Intramuros to the Manila City Hall.
Manila City Mayor Francisco Domagoso led its soft opening on Monday (August 24, 2020).
The murals, according to reports, were created to boost awareness of Filipino art, history, and culture and to bring art to public places. The murals highlight important events in the Philippine history and vibrant photos of Manila’s landmarks, such as Jones Bridge and the New Binondo Chinatown Arch.
There is also a portion in the murals dedicated to frontline workers in the battle against COVID-19, such as medical and delivery workers.
Visitors and passersby would be delighted to see vertical gardens, and signages written in Baybayin to help people navigate the area.
An interactive info desk was placed to provide information about the city.
For those who worry about slippery floors especially the elders worry not. The city government used non-skid tiles for the commuters’ protection especially during the rainy season.
The underpass was also given ample lighting and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to ensure the safety of pedestrians.
For those asking about the iconic Books from Underground, it gets to keep its place in the underpass. It was moved near the Manila City Hall entry/exit point of the underpass. The books are stacked in new bookshelves.
The renovation project worth P5 million was made possible by donations from private companies and national government agencies.
Lagusnilad rehabilitation is a collaboration of the city government with the University of Santo Tomas College of Architecture alumni and faculty Arch. Juanito Malaga, John Benedict Fallorina, Sean Patrick Ortiz, Leon Centeno Tuazon; and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts for the underpass’ overall design.
The mural artists: Marianne Rios, Jano Gonzales, and Ianna Engano; while those who made the signages are Raven Angel Rivota, Edrian Garcia, and John Leyson.
Source: mb.com.ph