Two years after being hit by a fire, the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) said in an update that the Manila Central Post Office (MCPO) has begun rehabilitation. After the structural integrity of the building was assessed, the terms of reference for the detailed architectural and engineering design were released this month, greenlighting the start of the retrofitting.
The Fire Incident
On May 21, 2023, a devastating fire broke out at the historic Manila Central Post Office, a neoclassical landmark in Liwasang Bonifacio. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) determined that the fire started in the building’s basement and lasted for over 30 hours before being declared out on May 23.
According to their report, they concluded that the fire was purely accidental. It was found that a car battery explosion in the Mega Manila Storage Room, located in the southern part of the basement, was the main cause of the fire. The room contained office supplies, thinners, and paint cans, which were all highly combustible, which led to the rapid spread of the fire.
The fire caused significant damage to the building, with initial estimates placing the cost at ?300 million. The accident destroyed at least two structures within the post office and led to the loss of numerous items, including letters, court documents, and parcels.
Restoration Efforts
After the building was confirmed to be structurally sound for retrofitting earlier this month, rehabilitation work has officially started.
"This project is about honoring our past, preserving our identity, and showing the strength and unity of our people through heritage conservation and nation-building," PHLPost CEO and Postmaster General Luis Carlos said in a statement.
The terms of reference aim to guarantee that modern safety, accessibility, and environmental requirements are met while also safeguarding the Manila Central Post Office’s historical and cultural significance.
