QUEZON CITY -- The district of the Walled City holds many facets of narratives beginning with the history of Manila, a number of uprisings, the Second World War, among others. We can see Intramuros as a place grounded on heritage and the center piece of Manila’s must-visit tourist attraction. Yet unknown to many, the Walled City of Manila has a community apart from its known sites such as Fort Santiago and museums like Casa Manila and San Agustin Museum. Intramuros, as a district, is composed of five barangays, with actual residents. One may observe a number of houses within its inner streets, school and universities, government agencies, private companies, public and private institutions, and numerous establishments that form a composite of what Intramuros is – a living community.

The title ‘heritage district’ however, entails an impression that Intramuros, with its sites, museums, places of interest, cafes, and other establishment, should maintain order, safety, and cleanliness. The latter on the other hand, is a priority project and should be a community-driven activity.

Cleantramuros is as simple as it aims to be – a clean Intramuros. The task however, will require the support from various sectors that care for the Walled City. Intramuros Administration’s hashtag, #WeAreIntramuros embodies community efforts, different institutions working together for a better Intramuros. We are afterall, the face of Intramuros – its history, current and future state.

As a community-based and homegrown project, we call for volunteers from various sectors to take part in this long-term project. With its launch on Friday, March 17, 4 pm at Plaza Roma, we need the support of the Intramuros community, public and private sector, local and international non-profit organizations to take part in this endeavor to promote a culture of cleanliness in the Walled City.

Interested parties are encouraged to register online through bit.ly/cleantramuros. Walk ins on the day of the launch are also welcome to join. For those who will be coming as an individual or a group, The Intramuros Administration is requesting for donation of broom, dustpan, gloves, and garbage bags to help sustain the project. A free tour of Intramuros will be given to volunteers after the clean up drive.

For more information or inquiries on Cleantramuros, please contact the Urban Planning and Community Development Division of the Intramuros Administration through urban@intramuros.gov.ph or 09171889951, 85272811 or 85270420. (IAntramuros Admministration)