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Rosette Adel - Philstar.com
May 13, 2026 | 7:30am
This August 2023 photo shows Paco Park in Manila.
Diego Delso via Wikimedia
MANILA, Philippines — The National Commission for Culture and the Arts has approved a broad conservation measure for Paco Park, a National Cultural Treasure.
The National Parks Development Committee described the approval as “great news” for National Heritage Month.
"This approved [Conservation Management Plan] is a guarantee that the Cementerio Municipal de Manila y Capilla de San Pancracio will be protected and sustainably managed for years to come," the committee said in a Facebook post on Monday, May 11.
"Thank you, NCCA!" it added.
For the NCCA, the newly approved conservation plan “serves as a primary guiding document for its stakeholders to ensure that the Paco Park is conserved and managed sustainably for future generations.”
The 199-page plan identified several priority areas for repair and conservation, including the circular masonry walls, ossuary, St. Pancratius Chapel, park grounds, GomBurZa memorial and Rizal’s first tomb.
Conservation priorities
"These plans are only recommendations and provide a general direction in addressing the immediate and long-term needs of the chapel and for a holistic approach to its conservation and management," the document stated.
The plan was prepared by architects Ira Espina and Jeffrey Cobilla of Architects Espina, Perez-Espina & Associates and Escuela Taller de Filipinas in December 2024.
The plan will prioritize the "integrity of the circular masonry walls,” which “have been weakened due to the growth of vegetation, prolonged water exposure, and incompatible interventions.”
“To address these issues, it is highly recommended that shoring and props be installed in unstable sections, such as balusters and handrails, to provide stability against external forces,” it added.
The plan also recommended the removal of vegetation growing on the walls and the improvement of drainage systems along the walkways and masonry walls.
Another priority area is St. Pancratius Chapel, which was identified as the central and "most iconic element" of Paco Park.
Under the measure, the chapel’s “inadequate lighting,” “improper waste disposal,” “continuous vibrations from heavy vehicles” and “the absence of clear wayfinding infrastructure” affecting the site and visitor experience will be addressed.
Funding options
Funding strategies to be explored include park operations, state funding, sponsorships, partnerships with other organizations and institutions, grants, and community and cultural engagement.
Paco Park qualifies for financial support under laws such as Republic Act 10066, or the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009.
Formally known as Cementerio Municipal de Manila y Capilla de San Pancracio, Paco Park was originally built as a cemetery during the Spanish colonial period and later became known for its ties to Philippine history, including the temporary burial of national hero Jose Rizal after his execution in 1896.
It was named a National Cultural Treasure under Museum Declaration 8-2015.
