Here’s How You Can Hold Events and Activities in Intramuros for Free

Intramuros, also known as “The Walled City,” takes pride in being one of the most sought-after tourist attractions in the world. The UNESCO-declared heritage site boasts preserved architecture and landmarks dating back to the Spanish era: Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, San Augustin Church, and more. Beyond offering a glimpse of rich Filipino culture and history, its historical sites are also free to use for events, shoots, exhibitions, and conferences. Read on to find out how you can secure an Intramuros events place for your activities and affairs! 

Also read: 16 Must-Visit Historical Buildings & Heritage Houses in the Philippines

Intramuros open call for events and activities

Looking for an accessible space to hold your events? The Intramuros Administration is calling on creative and cultural workers or enterprises to make use of its heritage sites. However, rent may only be waived, provided that the proposed activities promote Philippine art, heritage, or tourism.

Ultimately, a huge part of this initiative is to help MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises) across sectors such as arts, entertainment, tourism, sports, and fitness recover from the pandemic. See more terms and conditions here. 

Indoor and outdoor activity areas in Intramuros

Proponents or event organisers can choose among 18 activity areas in Intramuros. These rent-free sites include indoor spaces, gardens, parks, plazas, and open-air roof decks. 

Indoor locations

1. Teatrillo
2. Casa Blanca 

Fort Santiago areas

3. Baluratillo de San Francisco Tunnel and Roof Deck 
4. Bamboo Garden 
5. Rajah Sulayman Theather 
6. Promenade Soledad
7. Almacenes Reales 

Other locations:

8. Baluarte De San Diego 
9. Puerta Real Gardens 
10. Baluarte de San Andres
11. ASEAN Garden
12. Arzobispo Park
13. Plaza Roma
14. President’s Gallery
15. PC Barracks
16. Legazpi Urdaneta Monument Plaza
17. Plazuela de Santa Isabel 
18. Baluarte de Dilao
    

Also read: 10 Classic Restaurants in Intramuros for Timeless Filipino Cuisine 

How to secure an Intramuros events place

For easier access and convenience, you may fill out application forms and submit them online. Interested parties looking into using Intramuros’ heritage sites may propose their projects here.

For conferences and other public lectures, organisers must provide a concept note for the proposed event as well as a complete roster of the speaker/s involved. For exhibitions, a detailed inventory of all items or artworks to be displayed must be submitted. 

While the rent may be waived for the activity areas in Intramuros, operating expenses incurred will be subject to fees. This will include electricity, use of dressing rooms, and overtime pay for staff and personnel. For a complete list of other utilities charged, click here. Additionally, for activities with an audience (e.g. concerts, lectures, plays) entrance fees will be applied.

For any additional inquiries, you may reach the Intramuros Administration at tourism@intramuros.gov.ph. 

Also read: 7 Best Things to Do in Escolta on a Day Trip to Old Manila

What better place to host exciting events than at the Walled City, where rich history and heritage abound? Take part in the #SupportLocal movement and help promote Philippine art and culture!

FB image credit (L-R): fototrav; hungdh via Canva Pro.