Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI) has submitted a formal petition to the National Center for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) seeking the removal of the Greenbelt 1 shopping center from its designation as an Important Cultural Property (ICP).

In a Twitter post on Wednesday, July 26, the NCCA informed the public about Ayala Land’s petition to revoke the Important Cultural Property status of Greenbelt 1, a creation of National Artist Leandro Locsin.

Greenbelt 1, situated at the intersection of Paseo de Roxas and Legazpi streets, was originally established as “Greenbelt Square” and opened in 1982. It stands as a well-known commercial hub, housing numerous stores, restaurants, and services.

The structure was conferred its ICP designation due to its association with Leandro V. Locsin, a National Artist for Architecture. However, RA No. 10066 allows for the delisting of properties under special circumstances, and Ayala Land seeks this outcome for Greenbelt 1.

Protected by RA 10066, Greenbelt 1 is shielded from “exportation, modification, or demolition,” presenting challenges to Ayala Land’s redevelopment plans for the area.

Ayala Land’s 24-page petition argues that while Greenbelt 1 was designed by a National Artist, it lacks the exceptional cultural, artistic, and historical significance required for an ICP in the Philippines. The petition claims that the alterations and renovations made by the owner before the effectivity of RA 10066 have deviated from Locsin’s original vision and architectural style.

The company contends that Greenbelt 1 is primarily a commercial establishment, advocating for its transformation into a comprehensive, thoughtfully designed mixed-use development that can better serve a larger population and provide necessary employment. The envisioned development aims to be aesthetically consistent and in harmony with Makati Central Business District’s (CBD) urban architectural plan.

The NCCA is now receiving submissions in support of or against the petition. Interested parties can submit their positions to the Cultural Properties Protection and Regulation Division’s Declaration and Public Heritage Section via email at dphs@ncca.gov.ph until August 15.

Photo: NCCA