MANILA — The Department of Tourism (DOT) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) joined hands with the Intramuros Administration to “converge military heritage and cultural tourism” as they inaugurated the new headquarters of the 1304th Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (RRIBn) on Monday.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, who has earned the honorary rank of lieutenant colonel in the Philippine Army Reserve, said the partnership links the essence of history and public service.

"Intramuros, the heart of Manila, has always been a beacon of our heritage. By establishing the battalion headquarters here, we are not only honoring our past but also paving the way for a future where history and service to our nation are intertwined to create a unique tourist destination,” she said.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony and unveiling of the marker were followed by a combat drill performed by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) ROTC unit and  1304th RRIBn personnel.

Since the historical place was once again nominated as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction at the London-based World Travel Awards 2024, the collaboration also eyes to enhance tourists’ experience in Intramuros — as the new headquarters will serve as a designated stop for the Philippines Hop-on Hop-off (HOHO) tours.

Bus for the Philippines Hop-on Hop-off (HOHO) tours.

The said cultural tour will reintroduce the Capital City and Intramuros. In total, it has 9 stops around the Walled City.

A regular silent drill is also planned every Sunday by the officials as both a security measure and an added attraction.