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Known advocates of true Filipino architecture, the renowned Mañosa brothers designed this iconic, low-rise building of one of the largest corporations in the country, San Miguel Corporation, with the renowned Banaue Rice Terraces as their main inspiration.
The Philippines, unlike other countries, is not often known for its architectural heritage and modern structures. However, this does not mean that the country lacks architectural wonders. In fact, if one looks closer, the country holds a trove of interesting structures, both old and new.
It is nice to be reminded of the beautiful places that we have here, as a breath of fresh air from our busy lives; buildings that we may often pass by when we go about our daily activities, are wonders in their own right that we sometimes fail to even look at.
Here are some of the noteworthy scene-stealers in the Philippine architectural landscape.
San Agustin Church (Manila)
This church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the first religious structure built by the Spaniards in the late 1500s, making it the oldest stone church in the country. San Agustin Church is known for its earthquake baroque architecture, similar to the Spanish-built churches found in Mexico, and withstood major earthquakes that struck Manila in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. In the church’s mausoleum is the final resting place of Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi, the Philippines’ first governor-general.
Quezon Hall – University of the Philippines Diliman (Quezon City)
The first edifice that will greet you upon entering the country’s premier state university is a structure designed by National Artist for Architecture Juan Nakpil. Quezon Hall is a significant part of the campus since it not only highlights the Oblation (the iconic symbol of the university), but is also home to the university’s administrative offices. Its neoclassic style is evident in the huge pillars, while the whole building is said to have been inspired by the work of renowned architect Eliel Saarinen, with Nakpil adding his personal touches to it.
Philippine International Convention Center (Pasay)
Under the Marcos administration and with the funding of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) was constructed as the first international convention center in Asia, with the primary purpose of building a suitable venue for international meetings. The whole complex was designed by yet another National Artist, Leandro Locsin, and was constructed in the manner of Brutalist architecture, which is marked by raw concrete and the “frank” portrayal of materiality.
The Mind Museum (Taguig)
The Mind Museum is a multi-awarded educational science facility at the heart of Bonifacio Global City (BGC). This building is definitely a standout in a sea of glass-curtain-walled structures in BGC, as the lead architect, Eduardo Calma, intended it to be. A modern building that is almost reminiscent of The Jetsons (that old cartoon show set in the distant future), it was built with green architecture and energy efficiency as priorities.
San Miguel Corporation Building (Mandaluyong)
Known advocates of true Filipino architecture, the renowned Mañosa brothers designed this iconic, low-rise building of one of the largest corporations in the country, San Miguel Corporation, with the renowned Banaue Rice Terraces as their main inspiration. It is said to be one of the first early examples of green architecture in the country, and was landscaped in 2006 by no less than the father of Philippine architecture, Ildefonso Santos.
Zuellig Building (Makati)
Situated in the middle of the busy Makati central business district, the Zuellig Building is an all-glass skyscraper that is but awe-spiring. It was designed by the international architectural firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill with local partner firm W.V. Coscolluela & Associates. This 33-story building is the first Philippine structure to be awarded a Platinum level in Leader in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) by the U.S. Green Building Council.
Historic Town of Vigan (Ilocos Sur)
This heritage village in Vigan is known as the only surviving town that dates back from the 16th century. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is deemed as one of the finest examples of the fusion of “old Asian building design and construction with European colonial architecture and planning.” A typical house in this old village is made from natural materials like terracotta, lime, wood, and capiz shells. A walk around the town will definitely make one feel as if he or she has traveled back in time.
Philippine Arena (Bulacan)
The largest indoor arena in the world, this multipurpose indoor theater is situated in Ciudad de Victoria in Bocaue, Bulacan, and is a project of local Christian sect Iglesia ni Cristo. Boasting a capacity of 55,000 spectators, the structure was designed by U.S.-based firm Populous, with the Narra tree and the local nipa hut (traditional Filipino house) in mind.
Tanghalang Mariang Makiling – National Arts Center (Laguna)
This open theater inaugurated in 1976 is National Artist Leandro Locsin’s neo-vernacular take of a nipa hut. The Tanghalang Maria Makiling can accommodate 1,000 to 1,800 people. Its famous red roof is visible from the nearby towns of Laguna. Due to its elevated location, this theater offers a panoramic view of Crocodile Island, Crocodile Lake, Talim Island, Mount Banahaw, and the mountains of Rizal.
Pearl Farm Beach Resort (Samal Island)
National Artist Bobby Mañosa also designed the beautiful waterfront bungalows in Pearl Farm Beach Resort, Samal Island. These bungalows are inspired by the stilt houses of the Samal tribes found in the Sulu Sea. These beautiful accommodations are made out of natural materials abundant in the Philippines, including bamboo, coconut, and yakal.
Mall of Asia Arena (Pasay)
The iconic eye-shaped MOA Arena is one of the biggest event venues in Metro Manila. Its eye-shaped exterior represents what it promises its patrons—a “feast for the eye” experience. This building sitting on top of a 64,085 square meter land area, can comfortably fit up to 20,000 people.
SM Aura Premier (Taguig)
Vertically and horizontally, SM Aura Premier is a unique structure in BGC. Its fluid architectural design, which creates a smooth curve from the tower down to the mall area, makes it stand out. Aside from its amazing design, this building is the first and only mall certified Gold under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system for its green features. Arquitectonica, a Miami-based architectural firm, designed this building.
Manila Cathedral – The Minor Basilica and Metropolitan (Manila)
The current architectural design of the Manila Cathedral is Romanesque Revival (also called Neo-Romanesque). This architectural style features more simplified arches and windows. The Manila Cathedral features a cupola, stained glass windows, mosaics, and restored walls from the earlier cathedral that was destroyed in 1945.
Malacañang Palace (Manila)
The Malancañang Palace is the official residence and principal working place of the Philippine president. The architectural design of the palace and other mansions and office buildings inside the complex are reminiscent of bahay na bato and neoclassical architecture. The palace was the only major government building in Manila to survive the bombing during World War II.
The Ruins (Negros Occidental)
Built in the 1900s, this 903 square meter mansion of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson is one of the tourist destinations in Talisay. The remaining structure is what’s left of the mansion that has withstood the test of time. The Ruins is of Italianate architecture with neo-Romanesque columns close to the facade of Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Main Building – University of Santo Tomas (Manila)
Fr. Roque Ruaño designed UST’s Main Building with a Renaissance Revival architectural style. This rectangular building is made up of 40 separate structures independent of one another, with two interior courtyards. This is not only one of the iconic buildings in the country but also the first earthquake-resistant structure in the Philippines. Its design features were perfected after the lessons learned from the Great Kantō earthquake in Tokyo and Yokohama in September 1923.
Henry Sy, Sr. Hall – De La Salle University (Manila)
The Henry Sy Sr. Hall (HSSH), or Centennial Hall among Lasallians, is a 14-floor building in the middle of the DLSU-Manila campus. This building, iconic for its box shape and white wavy lines standing on multiple stilts, was designed by Leandro V. Locsin Partners. It was built based on the concept of a “habitable tree” to reflect DLSU’s growing role in education and commitment to environmental sustainability. It has a green roof, solar panels, a rainwater collection system, a water reuse system, and pocket gardens.
The Mega Tower (Mandaluyong)
Sitting beside Mega Mall is The Mega Tower, a 50-story building, bagging the number one spot of the tallest building in Mandaluyong and the fifth spot in the Philippines. This skyscraper is distinguished by its sophisticated S-shape design. This design is hoped to provide seismic resilience while achieving an ambitious architectural design.
Manila Metropolitan Theater (Manila)
The Manila Metropolitan Theater, located in the heart of Manila, Philippines, is a cultural and architectural gem. Known for its stunning neoclassical design, the Metropolitan Theater has symbolized the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene for decades. Recently restored to its former glory, this historic landmark offers a captivating blend of history, art, and live performances. The Manila Metropolitan Theater showcases a rich tapestry of Filipino heritage and artistic excellence, from its ornate facade to its grand interiors.
The Luneta Hotel (Manila)
The Luneta Hotel is a historic boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Manila, Philippines. With its rich heritage dating back to 1919, this iconic hotel designed by Spanish architect Salvador Farre has been lovingly restored to its former glory, capturing the essence of Old Manila. Boasting beautifully appointed rooms and suites, the Luneta Hotel provides a luxurious retreat for discerning travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience. The Luneta Hotel offers a seamless fusion of old-world grandeur and modern comforts, from majestic French Renaissance-styled architecture to warm Filipino hospitality.
