The Cebu City Council is taking decisive action to address the escalating costs of preserving one of its most cherished historical landmarks. Councilor Nyza Archival has introduced a proposed ordinance aimed at updating the entrance and rental fees at Fort San Pedro, a move driven by the urgent need to fund maintenance and conservation efforts at this vital heritage site.
Preserving History Comes at a Cost
With maintenance expenses steadily climbing, the council has recognized that the current fee structure, established under City Ordinance 2201 in 2009, is no longer sustainable. The proposed amendments have already been forwarded to the Committee on Laws for thorough review and study, marking a critical step toward ensuring the fort's long-term preservation.
Entrance Fees to Remain Unchanged
In a bid to keep the site accessible to the public, the council has announced that entrance fees will not be increased. Regular visitors will continue to pay P50, while students and senior citizens will maintain their discounted rate of P40. This decision underscores a commitment to balancing financial needs with public accessibility.
Significant Increases in Rental Fees
The most substantial changes are proposed for rental fees associated with events and special occasions held at the fort. These adjustments are designed to better reflect current operational costs and support ongoing preservation work.
- Children’s Playground Area: Rental fees would rise to P16,000 on weekdays and P18,000 on weekends for exclusive commercial use.
- Garden Area: Proposed rates are P11,500 on weekdays and P13,500 on weekends.
- Bastion Areas: Fees would increase to P7,500 on weekdays and P8,500 on weekends.
- Cuerpo Hall (Air-conditioned): A new rental category is being introduced at P16,000 on weekdays and P18,000 on weekends, applicable per six-hour block.
Additional Provisions for Event Organizers
The proposed ordinance also includes several benefits for event organizers. It offers four hours of free setup time and aims to standardize parking inclusions, providing greater clarity and consistency for those renting the facilities. These measures are intended to streamline operations and enhance the overall experience for users.
Current Rates Remain in Effect
It is important to note that the existing rates from 2009 are still being enforced. The proposed amendatory ordinance has not yet been approved, meaning no changes will take effect until it passes through the necessary legislative processes. The council's move highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining historical sites in the face of rising costs, with a focus on sustainable funding solutions for Fort San Pedro's future.
