MMDA honors Imelda Marcos with dedication marker on 50th anniversary
Photo by Analy Labor for DAILY TRIBUNE
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Wednesday unveiled a dedication marker at the MMFF Auditorium in honor of former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos, who served as the first governor of the then–Metro Manila Commission (MMC), now known as the MMDA.
The unveiling of the marker was part of the month-long celebration of the MMDA’s 50th Founding Anniversary, themed “Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future: 50 Years of Quality Service and Governance.”
The ceremony was led by MMDA Chairman Atty. Don Artes, with Mrs. Marcos as the guest of honor.
“In recognition of her lasting legacy, the MMFF Auditorium is dedicated to the former First Lady for her invaluable contribution to the Philippine cinema industry, her steadfast support for the Metro Manila Film Festival, as well as her enduring efforts toward the cultural development of the Filipino people,” Artes said.
“We are deeply honored with the presence of the former First Lady, which symbolizes our shared commitment to continuing the legacy of culture, service, and dedication to the people of Metro Manila,” he added.
The MMFF Auditorium, located on the fifth floor of the new MMDA Head Office in Pasig City, serves as a venue for the celebration and promotion of Filipino artistic talent and creativity.
As the first governor of the MMC, established in 1975, Mrs. Marcos achieved notable milestones not only in the development of Metro Manila but also in the advancement of the Philippine film industry.
During her tenure, she oversaw a period of extensive urban development under her “City of Man” campaign, which reflected her vision of transforming the capital into a modern, cultural, and progressive city.
Among her key contributions were the establishment of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)—the country’s premier institution for Filipino arts and culture—and the creation of the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF), first held in 1982, which aimed to create a Cannes-like atmosphere in Manila and give the Philippines global recognition in the international film community.