Designed by Ildefonso P. Santos, Halamanang Pilipino was more than just a park. It was a vibrant tableau of Filipino culture. It was a project of the Nayong Pilipino Foundation. The park was Imelda Marcos’s vision. She wanted to showcase Filipino culture to the world.
The Old Nayong Pilipino officially opened its gates in 1970. It was located near the Manila International Airport. Now it is called Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The park spanned 22.3 hectares. The entire property covered 45.9 hectares.
At its peak Halamanang Pilipino was divided into six regions. These zones represented different parts of the Philippines. These were Ilocos, Cordillera, Tagalog, Bicol, Visayas and Mindanao. Each zone offered a unique glimpse into the traditions and architecture of its region.
Imagine strolling through Halamanang Pilipino. You could see models of famous tourist spots. There was the Mayon Volcano. You could also find the Banaue Rice Terraces. The historic houses of Vigan were represented. Even the Chocolate Hills of Bohol had a place here. The Magellan’s Cross from Cebu was present too.
Halamanang Pilipino was a hit. In 1991, it welcomed one million visitors. It sustained this popularity until 1994. But by 1995, visitor numbers began to drop. The facilities started to deteriorate.
In 1993, President Fidel V. Ramos launched a fundraising campaign. He hoped to restore Halamanang Pilipino to its former glory. But this was not enough.
Relocation was proposed in 1999. Tourism Secretary Gemma Cruz Araneta suggested moving the park to Clark. This plan was shelved. Later, the Manila International Airport Authority needed more land. They wanted to comply with international safety standards.
In 2002, Halamanang Pilipino closed its doors. A taxiway and service road were built on its land. This was for Terminals 2 and 3 of the airport. The Tagalog Region, Mindanao Pavilion, and some Visayan sites were torn down.
Halamanang Pilipino briefly reopened in 2004. Clearing and renovation cost u20b1600 thousand. Attractions included Bicol, Cordilleras and Ilocos regions. There was also an aviary. A playground and picnic area remained. Lagoons added to the scenery. The park closed again later.
In December 2024, San Miguel Infrastructure signed a 25-year lease for the park. This included renovation and infrastructure development. PAGCOR also planned to build its headquarters there.
Halamanang Pilipino also hosted the Museum of Philippine Traditional Culture. It was run by the office of the Presidential Assistant on National Minorities. The museum closed in 1983. There was an aviary and an aquarium too.
Halamanang Pilipino was considered the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. It offered a comprehensive look at the diverse Filipino culture. It captured the essence of the Philippines in one place.
Today, Halamanang Pilipino remains a memory for many. It represents a time when culture and recreation came together. It was a place where Filipinos could celebrate their heritage. It was also a place where tourists could get a glimpse of the Philippines.