Metropolitan Theater to reopen in 2022 or earlier — NHCP

After decades of inactivity, the Metropolitan Theater in Manila will reopen in 2022 or earlier, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) said on Monday.

“Definitely, this will be opened full operation before the end of the first term of Mayor [Isko Moreno],” NHCP chair Rene Escalante told reporters during an inspection of the landmark on Monday.

Moreno's first term as Manila mayor will end in 2022.

The activity was led by Moreno, Escalante, and National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCAA) chair Virgilio Almario.

The Metropolitan Theater was built in the 1930s and was destroyed during World War II, Escalante said. The theater was rehabilitated in 1960s and again in 1970s, he added.

Escalante said the theater has been neglected since the transition of the pre- and post-EDSA Revolution in the 1980s.

It has been undergoing restoration in recent years.

“Na-declare itong National Cultural Treasure ng National Museum at National Historical Landmark ng National Historical Commission [of the Philippines],” Escalante said while explaining the significance of the establishment.

Escalante noted that they will put a mall and museum on the second floor and a souvenir shop and cafeteria on the ground floor.

The NCAA will also have an office in the establishment, he added.

The NHCP, NCAA and the city government of Manila will work together for the reopening of the abandoned theater.

“Kami panatag. Kumbaga hindi na siya pag-mamayariin ng isang financial institution na wala namang linya sa mga heritage,” Moreno said. “Now the city government of Manila and the people of Manila is at peace because it is in good hands.” — BM, GMA News