Mayor Al supports plans for Dagupan “Chinatown”
MAYOR Alipio Fernandez Jr. has expressed full support for the development of a Chinatown in Dagupan as proposed by the city’s Filipino-Chinese community. “I am open to the idea because it will be a big boon to the city,” Fernandez said even as he pointed out that he and members of the Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce still have to meet and discuss the project concept.
Being proposed to be converted as little Chinatown of Dagupan City is Rizal Street where many establishments owned by Filipino-Chinese are located.
There are two Chinese schools along that street and a Chinese temple is now under construction in the area.
The office of the Filipino-Chinese Charity Foundation which offers Chinese language lessons and values formation can also be found on Rizal Street.
The Pangasinan Universal Institute, a prestigious primary and secondary school run by Fil-Chinese parents is also there.
The old Botica China can also be found on Rizal Street.
“We have many Dagupenos whose parents or ancestors came from China, by birth and by integration, and they are as Filipinos as we are,” said Fernandez, who previously served as immigration commissioner.
He said the project will help showcase Dagupan’s tourism potential which will help enhance the city’s socio-economic development.
To be known as the location of Chinese restaurants and source of good products, the Chinatown could attract more tourists, diners and shoppers, the mayor said “People will flock to our Chinatown for food and for goods that are distinctly Chinese.”
“A Chinatown every where in the world is known to be the place where one can find good food and cheap but quality commodities,” he added.
Fernandez also said the establishment of a Chinatown could set off the urban renewal program in the downtown Dagupan, a project being actively supported by the local Filipino-Chinese community.
City Planning and Development Officer Romeo Rosario said Rizal Street is a good location for Dagupan’s Chinatown since this can be expanded to include portions of A.B. Fernandez Avenue where many Filipino-Chinese shops are also located.–LM
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