RESTORATION OF MANILA CENTRAL POST OFFICE (MCPO) AS NATIONAL HISTORIC BUILDING: ADAPTIVE TO ATTRACTION

Abstract

The restoration of historic sites plays a crucial role in tourism, as many modern tourists prefer visiting preserved landmarks with cultural and historical significance. The fire that devastated the Manila Central Post Office, a renowned architectural landmark in the Philippines, has intensified calls for action to preserve and restore national heritage sites. Despite previous efforts advocating for the conservation of historical buildings, the responsibility now falls on government agencies and stakeholders to ensure their preservation. This study proposes the restoration of the Manila Central Post Office as a national historic building and its transformation into a tourism hub in Manila, which could significantly boost the city’s tourism industry. This study employs a descriptive research design, which provides an accurate representation of the characteristics and behaviors of the target population. By utilizing surveys, observations, and data collection methods, the research aims to analyze the feasibility and impact of restoring the Manila Central Post Office as a tourist attraction. This approach enables a deeper understanding of key issues, challenges, and potential benefits associated with the restoration process. Findings indicate that among the key factors assessed, community impact ranked highest with a weighted mean of 3.40, followed by regulatory challenges at 3.36. Market demand was ranked third with a weighted mean of 3.34, while cost and investment ranked fourth at 3.32. The structural design received the lowest ranking, with a weighted mean of 3.28. The overall weighted mean of 3.34 suggests strong agreement among respondents regarding the feasibility and potential benefits of restoring the Manila Central Post Office. The results highlight the significance of restoring the Manila Central Post Office as a tourist attraction, as it aligns with evolving consumer preferences and operational changes in the tourism industry. The study emphasizes how transforming a historic building into a museum or tourism hub can attract visitors from various locations, ultimately contributing to the cultural and economic revitalization of the area.