Vice Mayor Isko Moreno expressed on Tuesday his intention of reclaiming Intramuros, which is currently being managed by the Intramuros Administration (IA), an attached agency of the Department of Tourism (DoT).

The IA was created by Presidential Decree 1616 way back in 1979.

Its role is to preserve Intramuros and restore the Walled City's former glory. However, the role of the IA has confused residents and the city government.

“The specific functions of the IA are confusing,” Moreno said. He cited garbage collection and parking issues which hound the people of Intramuros. As of the moment, the garbage collection for Intramuros is being done by the Manila City government, despite the IA's “authority” over the city.

Moreover, the towing of cars in Intramuros is also being done by the IA, though most people assume it's the Manila City government which is responsible for this.

“We have to make a stand on the laws given by the city,” he said. “I do not disagree with the Presidential Decree but I disagree with the implementation of the Presidential Decree.”

Moreno insisted that the sole function of the IA is to “protect Intramuros as a tourist destination” as well as to “restore Intramuros buildings and landmarks.”

City councilors support Moreno’s opinion, with 4th District Councilor DJ Bagatsing adding, “The City of Manila has to reclaim its rightful mandate as governing body in Intramuros. It's time the Walled City be brought back to the arms of Manila.”