The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) proudly underscores its commitment to cultural preservation, sports tourism, and sustainable tourism development through its continued stewardship of the Club Intramuros Golf Course (CIGC)—one of the Philippines’ most historically significant recreational sites and a distinctive gem in the country’s golf tourism landscape.
Strategically located within the storied walls of Intramuros, the Club Intramuros Golf Course offers a rare combination of athletic pursuit and heritage immersion. Established in 1906 during the early American colonial period, the course is not simply a leisure amenity but a living mark of Manila’s layered history. Its manicured greens and fairways sit against the backdrop of Spanish-era fortifications, old watchtowers and historic artillery—making it one of the few golf courses in the world built entirely within a preserved heritage district.
More than a destination for golf enthusiasts, the Club Intramuros Golf Course plays a vital role in sustaining cultural identity and community vibrance. It serves as a green lung within the capital’s historic center, a venue for sports tourism activities, and an iconic tourist spot that connects modern recreation with the Philippines’ colonial heritage.
A Testament to TIEZA’s Mandate to Protect, Preserve, and Promote Tourism Assets
As one of TIEZA’s managed properties, the Club Intramuros Golf Course exemplifies two of the agency’s four core mandates: (1) to develop and maintain quality tourism infrastructure, and (2) to preserve cultural and historical assets for future generations.
TIEZA’s dedication to the preservation of CIGC ensures that its historic significance is honored while continuing to meet standards for sports tourism facilities. Current efforts include heritage-sensitive landscaping, structural conservation, facility upgrades, drainage and irrigation improvements, and sustainability-focused maintenance work—each guided by the agency’s responsibility to balance preservation with modern tourism needs.
“TIEZA is committed to protecting tourism assets that reflect our cultural roots and elevate the Philippines as a global destination,” said TIEZA COO Mark T. Lapid. “The Club Intramuros Golf Course is a symbolic reminder of our past and a vibrant platform for sports tourism. Its continued preservation is made possible through the support of every Filipino traveler.”
Building Tourism Together: How Travel Tax Contributions Sustain CIGC
TIEZA emphasizes the collective power of Filipino travelers in shaping the country’s tourism landscape. A portion of travel tax collections directly supports the operations, upkeep, and preservation of tourism assets under TIEZA’s portfolio—including the Club Intramuros Golf Course—ensuring the continued protection of its historical structures and the improvement of its tourism facilities. This includes maintenance of the course’s fairways, greens, and heritage-sensitive landscaping, and upgrading of facilities such as lighting, safety features, and visitor amenities for year-round playability.
Every contribution made by travelers helps TIEZA sustain the CIGC as a safe, enjoyable, and historically significant site—allowing both local and foreign visitors to appreciate the unique experience of golfing within the centuries-old Walled City.
Strengthening Golf Tourism in the Philippines
As golf tourism continues to grow globally, the Club Intramuros Golf Course stands as one of the Philippines’ most strategic assets. Its central location, night golf offerings, rich heritage value, and picturesque setting make it a key attraction for international golfers and tour operators seeking distinctive, memorable experiences.
CIGC complements the country’s broader network of world-class golf courses, further positioning the Philippines as an emerging golf tourism hub in Asia. As part of TIEZA’s long-term tourism development roadmap, enhancements to the course are expected to support increased visitor arrivals, economic activity for Intramuros and nearby communities, and wider recognition of Manila as a historic yet dynamic destination.
A Living Heritage, Sustained by Collective Support
With its blend of history, heritage, and sport, the Club Intramuros Golf Course represents a triumph of cultural preservation and tourism development. Its continued protection is a shared responsibility—made possible through TIEZA’s stewardship, the support of the Department of Tourism, the involvement of the Intramuros Administration, and the contributions of Filipino travelers through the travel tax.
Recently, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized his vision for the revitalization and sustainability of Manila City landmarks and centers. TIEZA supports this direction and recently launched the "Sundays at Club Intramuros" initiative to give the community an opportunity to enjoy non-golf activities such as walking, jogging, light exercises, and small group picnics within the historic Intramuros walls.
As TIEZA advances its mission of Building Tourism Together, CIGC remains a powerful reminder that preserving the country's past plays an essential role in shaping a stronger, more vibrant tourism future.
For more information, visit https://tieza.gov.ph and follow @TIEZAOfficial on Facebook, and @tiezagovph on Instagram and X.
About TIEZA
The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) is the infrastructure, investment, and asset management arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), mandated to develop, manage, and supervise tourism infrastructure projects and Tourism Enterprise Zones (TEZs) across the country. Through strategic investments in public tourism facilities, flagship destinations, and sustainable development initiatives, TIEZA plays a vital role in enhancing the country's tourism-readiness and the tourists' travel experience seamless and meaningful. TIEZA is committed to helping transform the Philippines into a globally-competitive tourism destination.
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