LA CONSOLACION COLLEGE BACOLOD

SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, FINE ARTS

AND INTERIOR DESIGN

HOA 4
RESEARCH/TASK NO. 1:
MODERN ARCHITECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES

SUBMITTED BY:
DE GUZMAN, CELINE GRACE

YEAR & SECTION :

SUBMITTED TO : AR. PERLYN OLARTE-VIOLANDA
MODERN ARCHITECTURE
MODERN ARCHITECTURE IN
IN THE
THE PHILIPPINES
PHILIPPINES
Philippine architecture today stands as a testament to a rich and complex history, profoundly
Evolution of
Evolution of Modern
Modern Philippine
Philippine Architectural
Architectural Styles
Styles
shaped by both indigenous traditions and a succession of foreign influences. It is often and Characteristics
and Characteristics (1946-Present)
(1946-Present)
described as an architectural melting pot, a natural growth enriched by varied absorptions,
evolving from pre-colonial Malay cultures through Spanish colonial rule, American The architectural landscape of the Philippines has undergone significant transformations since the mid-20th century, reflecting
Commonwealth, and into contemporary times. The late National Artist for Architecture, Leandro the nation's journey through post-war recovery, political shifts, and increasing global integration. The table below provides a
Locsin, aptly characterized Philippine architecture as "elusive," noting its full utilization of comparative overview of the dominant styles, key characteristics, and the socio-political contexts that shaped modern Philippine
architecture across three distinct periods.
modern technology while remaining a "residue of the different overlays of foreign influences"
that have accumulated over centuries. These influences encompass early Malay culture,
vestiges of Hindu tendencies, over three centuries of Spanish dominance, nearly 50 years of
Dominant
American control, and the enduring impact of Arab and Chinese trade. This intricate blending Period Styles/Movements
Key Characteristics
has forged a unique, idiosyncratic, and distinct fusion of cultures and architectural styles across
the Philippine landscape.

Widespread use of reinforced

The transition to what is considered "modern" in the Philippines is not a clean break from the
concrete, steel, glass; "form
past but a continuous process of absorption and reinterpretation of styles and materials. This
follows function"; cubic/geometric
evolution has often occurred in direct response to significant socio-political shifts and the forms; absence of applied
inherent challenges of the tropical climate. This report will focus on the periods following World International Modern Style, Soft
decoration; brise-soleil, glass
War II, which marked a decisive turn towards modernism as a symbol of national rebuilding and Modernism, Early Tropical
Post-War & Republican (1946-1970s) walls, pierced screens, thin
Regionalism
the ongoing search for a distinct national identity. The persistent layering of historical concrete shells; experimentation
narratives, where past architectural forms and foreign styles are not simply replaced but with sculptural plasticity;
absorbed, reinterpreted, and remain discernible beneath the surface of newer designs, adaptation of vernacular forms
underscores a continuous dialogue between indigenous and foreign elements, between tradition with modern materials.
and innovation. This makes the concept of "modern" in the Philippines uniquely complex and
constantly evolving, reflecting a persistent negotiation of identity through built forms.
Raw concrete, heavy/imposing
forms; monumental scale; re-
emergence/modernization of
Brutalism, State-Sponsored bahay kubo/bahay na bato motifs;
"Filipinization," Locsin's "Bipolar "floating effect" (cantilevers,
Marcosian (1965-1986) Architecture," Mañosa's elevated masses); "grounded
Neovernacularism flight"; "enclosed openness";
alternative spatial characters;
integration of indigenous materials
with modern technology.

Modern architecture blends historical and

cultural elements with advanced technology and
Pluralism, Postmodernism, local materials. It features "tower-on-the-
Global Architecture, High-Tech, podium" designs, utilizing lightweight, strong
Contemporary (1980s-Present) structures with insulated panels, steel,
Deconstructivism, Retro-
aluminum, and glass. A strong emphasis is
modernism/Minimalism, Green placed on sustainable design, incorporating eco-
Architecture, Smart Urbanism friendly materials, energy and water efficiency,
passive cooling, smart home technology, and
adaptive reuse.
Post-War and
Post-War and Republican
Republican Era
Era Architecture
Architecture
(1946-1970s)
Socio-Political and
Socio-Political and Economic
Economic Context
Context

The architectural landscape that emerged from the ashes of World War II was largely The Philippines in the immediate post-World War II years faced immense challenges.
characterized by a pragmatic embrace of modernism and a nascent, yet determined, The Battle of Manila in 1945 resulted in widespread destruction, rendering the city the
second most devastated Allied city globally due to American bombardment. This
search for a distinct national identity. This period laid the groundwork for much of massive decimation of urban built-heritage and colonial architecture necessitated an
what would follow in Philippine modern architecture. urgent and extensive reconstruction effort.5 The US War Damage Rehabilitation Fund
became a crucial resource, aiding in the rebuilding of pre-war neoclassical structures
such as the Manila City Hall and the Post Office Building, often restored to approximate
their original designs.
Influential Architects and Notable Buildings
The nation also stood at the dawn of a new era, gaining independence on July 4, 1946,
and ushering in a period of political, economic, and cultural sovereignty. In this context,
Federico Ilustre
modernism was strategically adopted by the new nation-state as a powerful means to
served as a consulting architect from the 1950s to the 1970s. His designs break from colonial vestiges and to symbolize growth, progress, advancement, and
were notable for their hybrid approach, blending modern architecture with decolonization. It offered a convenient aesthetic to reject the American neoclassicism
neo-vernacular elements. His most iconic work is the: prevalent in pre-war Manila and to channel a renewed sense of national mythology.5
The choice of modern architecture was not arbitrary; it was a deliberate political and
Quezon Memorial Monument (constructed from 1952-1978), an Art Deco cultural strategy for the newly independent Philippines. This approach underscored a
centerpiece in Quezon City featuring three pylons clad in Bianco Carrara
conscious effort to leverage architecture as a potent symbol of national sovereignty and
marble, symbolizing the three main island groups of the Philippines.7 Ilustre
a clear departure from its colonial past. The perceived symbolic appeal of technological
also designed the original Manila International Airport (now NAIA).
advancement, economic prosperity, and cultural progress associated with modernism
meant it was seen as a visual manifestation of the nation's aspirations on the global
Angel E. Nakpil stage, making architecture a key instrument in the complex process of postcolonial
nation-building.
a Harvard-trained architect and nephew of National Artist Juan Nakpil,
played a crucial role as City Planning Commissioner of Manila during
The settlement of war damage claims subsequently triggered a significant construction
the post-war reconstruction years. He designed the
National Press Club building (inaugurated in 1955) , noted for its use boom. Architects, many of whom had been inactive during the war, joined these
of glass and steel while maintaining a tropical feel. His reconstruction efforts. To address widespread housing shortages and infrastructure
12-storey Picache Building was considered the first skyscraper in the deficits, and to reduce construction costs while expediting completion, there was a
Philippines. pragmatic shift away from the ornate motifs and ornamentation of the pre-war era.
Post-war austerity favored straightforward, no-nonsense architectural forms, which
modernism readily supplied.
Tomas Arguelles
The government played a proactive role in shaping this architectural direction. It
was a prominent Filipino architect during the late Spanish and early American periods, known for his Art Deco
immediately pursued modernism to sustain its patrimony, leading to the vision of a new
style buildings in Manila, such as the Heacock Department Store building and the Calvo Building.7
Capitol Complex. As early as 1947, a mission composed of architects and engineers was
dispatched to study modern capitals in the United States and Latin America, with their
findings intended to influence the master plan for the modern capital city and university
campus. Quezon City was declared the capital in 1948, with a master plan influenced by
Washington D.C.'s urban scheme. This active government involvement highlights a
crucial aspect of this era: architecture was not merely an artistic or functional endeavor
but a state-driven project aimed at projecting a specific national image.
 Characteristics and
Characteristics and Styles
Styles
The modern era in Philippine architecture began with the widespread adoption of the International Modern Style, characterized by its simple, straight [Link] stylistic shift involved the pervasive use of
reinforced concrete, steel, and glass, along with a preference for cubic forms, geometric shapes, and Cartesian grids, notably marked by a general absence of applied [Link] guiding principle of "form
follows function" became central to architectural design during this period.

During the 1950s and 1960s, staple architectural elements included brise-soleil (sun baffles), extensive glass walls, pierced screens, and innovative thin concrete shells. This period also saw the emergence of
"Soft Modernism," which involved experimentation with the sculptural plasticity of poured concrete, leading to soft, sinuous organic forms achieved through thin shell technology. Furthermore, mid-century
modern aesthetics were influenced by the burgeoning "Space Age," fostering a strong faith in technology and the future. This translated into architectural designs featuring long, lean horizontal lines, soaring
upright structures, and parabolic arches, all intended to convey a sense of speed and progress.
However, the initial embrace of the International Style, with its
widespread use of glass curtain walls, presented a significant
challenge in the tropical climate of the Philippines. These designs
materials used
materials used often led to considerable heat build-up, necessitating heavy reliance
on artificial ventilation and air-conditioning, which in turn consumed
high amounts of energy. This functional contradiction created a
reinforced
reinforced dynamic tension between the desire for a modern, global image and
concrete the practical realities of the local environment. The 1973 oil crisis
further underscored the need for energy-efficient solutions, prompting
a re-evaluation of vernacular building traditions as sources for
sustainable design.

This critical re-assessment gave rise to early forms of tropical

innovative thin
innovative thin
regionalism. By the mid-1960s, a growing number of architects began
concrete shells
concrete shells
to re-appraise the country's architectural and cultural heritage as a
direct source of design inspiration, focusing on expressing local
identity in built forms. This included adapting Maranaw and Southern
Philippine motifs,vinta colors, and distinctive roof [Link]
adaptive phase demonstrates a crucial shift: the problem of climate-
insensitivity became a catalyst for the development of a more context-
extensive glass sensitive modernism, integrating traditional wisdom with
walls
walls contemporary techniques. This approach was also evident in
international expositions, where bahay kubo forms were reinterpreted
using modern materials like translucent acrylic sheets and capiz.

A notable development during this era was the "high-rise fever" that
transformed Manila's skyline. Initially, building heights were legally
limited to 30 meters. However, with the amendment of Manila
sun baffles
sun baffles Ordinance No. 4131, this restriction was lifted, leading to a rapid
proliferation of taller structures. The construction of buildings like the
Insular Life Building and the Picache Building as early "skyscrapers"
symbolized a significant shift from the sprawling, horizontal urbanism
of the colonial past to a vertical, dense modern [Link] "fever"
was indicative of a burgeoning economy, increased urbanization, and a
strong desire to project an image of a modern, bustling metropolis,
pierced screen
pierced screen aligning with the broader narrative of national progress and
advancement.
 Marcosian Architecture
Marcosian Architecture
The architectural period under the Marcos regime is distinct,
characterized by monumental structures, a state-driven cultural
agenda, and the controversial concept of the "edifice complex."

Socio-Political and
Socio-Political and Cultural
Cultural Context
Context
The Marcos regime, particularly under the influence of First Lady Imelda Marcos, launched an ambitious and extravagant This highlights architecture's role as a potent political tool, a physical
building program in the 1970s, which became known as the "Golden Age of Philippine Architecture". This extensive manifestation of an authoritarian regime's desired narrative, rather than solely an
program was designed to legitimize the "New Society" and to foster a strong sense of national identity and nation- artistic or functional endeavor.
building.
The regime promised a national rebirth and the resurrection of old Filipino
This era is often associated with the "edifice complex," a term used to describe Imelda Marcos's relentless drive for traditions, with Imelda Marcos positioned as "The Patroness of the Arts"
monumental construction. This pursuit was frequently criticized for its immense financial and human costs, especially overseeing a "cultural renaissance". This involved the deliberate invention of a
given the widespread poverty and corruption prevalent at the time. Many of these projects were heavily funded by foreign "national architectural style" based on indigenous architectural icons, unified
loans, contributing significantly to the nation's burgeoning debt, which reached approximately $28.3 billion by [Link] under the motto "Isang Bansa, Isang Diwa" (One Nation, One Soul).The
construction of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) complex alone, for instance, incurred a debt of PhP 63 million architecture of this period was an integral part of a broader "social engineering"
by 1972, ultimately necessitating a government bailout. The "edifice complex" was not merely a descriptive term for rapid effort under the "Bagong Lipunan" ideology, designed to project an image of
construction; it served as a critical commentary on the means (foreign loans, corruption, and the tragic human cost progress and a "benevolent dictator". Brutalism, with its inherent heavy and
exemplified by the Manila Film Center accident 13) and the purpose (propaganda and the projection of a modern, imposing nature, was strategically co-opted into state architecture during the
progressive image despite underlying internal realities ). Martial Law period
Marcosian Architecture
Marcosian Architecture
Characteristics and
Characteristics and Styles
Styles Key manifestations of his philosophy include:

The Marcosian era was largely defined by the dominance of Brutalism, an Alongside Brutalism, the Marcos regime also championed a state-sponsored Floating Effect: Inspired by traditional stilt houses, Locsin created
architectural style characterized by its use of raw concrete, heavy forms, and "Filipinization" of architecture, which gained prominence by the 1970s. This a "floating effect" in his designs, emphasizing upper floors and
involved the re-emergence and modernization of traditional motifs, with the designing massive structures that appeared to levitate, often
imposing presence, which became typical of many buildings within the CCP
achieved through sweeping ramps or cantilevered elements.
Complex. This style was initially a global architectural response to the post- bahay kubo (nipa hut) and bahay na bato (stone house) becoming popular
war urgency for rapid and affordable rebuilding. In the Philippine context, forms to be copied and reinterpreted. This refashioning of ethnic symbols and
Notable examples include the Tanghalang Pambansa (CCP
Brutalism aligned with the post-independence momentum, leveraging vernacular forms with a modernist vocabulary was particularly evident in Main Theater) and the Philippine International Convention Center
concrete for its durability, availability, and suitability to the country's tropical buildings within the CCP Complex. (PICC).
climate and seismic activity.
While "Filipinization" aimed to reassert local identity through architectural
Grounded Flight: This concept involved transforming the floating
The widespread adoption of Brutalism during this period was thus driven by motifs, its implementation under an authoritarian regime raises important
quality into lighter forms that maintained a connection to the
both practical post-war needs and its symbolic alignment with the Marcos questions about its authenticity and inclusivity. The portrayal of traditional ground for support, often featuring a dominant roof inspired by
regime's authoritarian image. Concrete was a pragmatic choice due to its elements, while intended to foster national identity, often led to a simplification traditional architecture.
availability and suitability for the climate, but its inherent qualities of mass and and normalization of complex cultural realities, potentially ignoring underlying
permanence were also deliberately utilized to project an image of strength, sociopolitical struggles and contributing to a homogenous narrative that Enclosed Openness: Locsin aimed for a poetic harmony
unyielding authority, and stability, fitting the "constitutional authoritarianism" masked internal diversity.6 This suggests that the "Filipinization" was a state- between interior and exterior spaces, creating segregated yet
ideology of the "New Society". This dual nature of Brutalism, serving both controlled narrative, instrumentalized for political ends, rather than a purely continuously flowing areas. This was often achieved with multiple
organic cultural expression. permeable enclosures around a central core, reminiscent of
functional and symbolic purposes, adds a significant layer of complexity to
traditional Filipino architecture.
understanding its prevalence during this era.
Leandro Locsin, a National Artist for Architecture, was a pivotal figure in this
Alternative Spatial Characters: He emphasized non-physical
era, known for his distinctive "Bipolar Architecture". His style masterfully barriers, dividing spaces by alternating narrow-wide and light-
blended monumental and bold forms, frequently utilizing concrete, with dark characteristics, frequently designing low, dim entrances that
traditional Filipino elements and a sensitive response to the tropical climate. contrasted sharply with large, airy interior spaces to synthesize
spatial experiences.

raw concrete
raw concrete

glass
glass
Marcosian Architecture
Marcosian Architecture
Influential Architects
Influential Architects and
and Notable
Notable Buildings
Buildings

Leandro Locsin Felipe Mendoza

a National Artist for Architecture, was the primary architect behind many of the regime's designed the Batasang Pambansa Building, a key government edifice that continued the
most iconic structures. His works include the Tanghalang Pambansa (National Theater) architectural ambitions of the state.
(1969), the headquarters of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).He also designed
the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) (1976) , the National Arts Center in
Laguna ,PHILCITE (Philippine Center for International Trade and Exhibitions) , and the Folk
Arts Theater (Tanghalang Francisco Balagtas), famously constructed in just 77 days for the
1974 Miss Universe Pageant. Beyond the CCP complex, Locsin's influence extended to the
Makati Stock Exchange (MSE) Building (1977) and the St. Andrew the Apostle Church
(1968).

Jorge Ramos

is credited with designing the Philippine Heart Center. Other notable projects from this
period include Nayong Filipino, a miniature village simulating folk art and architecture from
Francisco Mañosa
different regions, established as one of Asia's first cultural parks. The regime also initiated
numerous BLISS Housing projects and various health facilities such as the Lung Center,
was the architect behind the Coconut Palace (Tahanang Filipino), a unique state guest
Kidney Institute, Eye Center, Lungsod ng Kabataan (Children's City), and the Research
house designed to showcase the versatility of coconut as an export product and
Institute for Tropical Medicine. Significant infrastructure projects like the San Juanico Bridge
construction material. Its roof was notably inspired by a salakot, a traditional Filipino hat.
and the Manila Bay Reclamation Project (1974) further underscored the regime's
Mañosa also contributed to the design of the San Miguel Building (with his brothers) and
monumental building ambitions.
significant religious structures like the EDSA Shrine.
 Contemporary Philippine
Contemporary Philippine Architecture
Architecture
(1980s-Present)

Post- WAR Era and REPUBLICAN YEAR

The period from the post-EDSA era to the present has seen Philippine
architecture evolve into a landscape of pluralism, influenced by globalization, The mid-1980s, particularly following the EDSA Revolution of 1986, ushered in a period of "Post-
EDSA euphoria" and the restoration of democracy in the Philippines. This political shift coincided with
and increasingly focused on sustainability and smart urban development. the country's move towards economic liberalization and greater integration into the global economy.

Under President Fidel V. Ramos, the "Philippines 2000" economic program was launched with the
ambitious goal of elevating the nation to the status of a "newly industrialized country" (NIC).10 This
vision spurred the production of what became known as "global architecture" in the Philippines. The
influx of foreign investments during this time led to a "high-rise euphoria" and the development of
"intelligent" buildings, transforming urban skylines.

A significant consequence of the post-EDSA transition was the widespread rejection of Marcosian
modernism. After 1986, the monumental architecture of the Marcos regime was largely condemned,
perceived as symbols of excess, repression, and authoritarian power, symptomatic of the "edifice
complex". This condemnation led to a decisive shift away from the stern modernist paradigm.
Postmodernism, with its "anything-goes" exuberance, offered a sense of liberation and quickly
permeated the architectural [Link] demonstrates how political shifts directly influenced
architectural aesthetics, moving from a unified, state-imposed style to a more fragmented, diverse,
and expressive one. The return to ornament and traditional design elements can be interpreted as a
reassertion of cultural freedom and a rejection of modernism's perceived aridity.
 Contemporary Philippine
Contemporary Philippine Architecture
Architecture
(1980s-Present)
Characteristics and Styles
Contemporary Philippine architecture is characterized by a pronounced pluralism and an overt application of historical references, often with blunt symbolism. Postmodernism, which
gained significant traction in the 1980s and 1990s, manifested as an aesthetic language heavily influenced by classical architecture.

This style incorporated "decorative packaging" on facades, juxtaposing symbolic elements and enveloping them with irony and metaphor. Other defining characteristics included a
garish application of color and a notable return to ornament and traditional design elements. It involved reinterpreting traditional Spanish colonial and local Filipino motifs,
reintroducing ornamentation (such as capiz windows and elements from the bahay na bato), and fusing local materials with modern technologies.

The drive for NIC status propelled the production of "global architecture," typified by corporate headquarters and structures reflecting a "Global Village" concept, where
communities are connected by new technologies enabling instant communication worldwide. High-Tech architecture also emerged, characterized by light and strong structures,
heavily insulated wall panels, and the prominent use of steel, aluminum, and mirror glass.

Other contemporary styles include Deconstructivism, exemplified by structures like the CSB School of Design and Arts by Eduardo Calma, and Retro-modernism (sometimes
referred to as Minimalism), which features lucid lines, transparent volumes, and clean-cut massing.

A crucial development in this era is the emergence of Contemporary Filipinism. Emerging architects are creatively repurposing traditional elements to communicate modern
Filipino narratives, emphasizing a dynamic, adaptable identity that respects heritage while embracing global trends. This includes the innovative use of traditional materials like
bamboo in modern structures.

heavily insulated
steel aluminum mirror glass
wall panels
 Contemporary Philippine
Contemporary Philippine Architecture
Architecture
(1980s-Present)
Current Trends and Innovative Designs
A significant current trend in contemporary Philippine architecture is the widespread adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly construction methods. This includes various green building projects that utilize
technologies such as solar farming for energy efficiency, rainwater collection systems for water conservation, and regenerative materials in construction. The Philippines has demonstrated a tangible
commitment to this trend, with a 4.6% compound annual growth rate in eco-friendly certified buildings between 2016 and 2021. Key principles of this sustainable approach include a conscious focus on
energy and ecological conservation. There is an increased integration of eco-friendly and locally sourced materials, such as bamboo, nipa, recycled steel, and eco-friendly concrete. Designs prioritize
passive cooling strategies, natural ventilation, and maximizing natural light to minimize energy consumption.

The use of renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, is also becoming more prevalent. This current emphasis on green and sustainable architecture represents a contemporary manifestation of
long-standing indigenous building practices. Traditional Filipino homes, like the bahay kubo, are recognized as the "original sustainable house" , built from readily available materials, designed for natural
ventilation, and inherently climate-conscious. This reveals a profound continuity: modern sustainable practices are not entirely new imports but a re-discovery and technological enhancement of indigenous
wisdom. This implies that the future of Philippine architecture is deeply rooted in its past, offering a unique, context-specific approach to global challenges like climate change.

The commitment to sustainability is further reinforced by the adoption of formal certifications and policies. This includes the implementation of the Philippine Green Building Code, which sets minimum
standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, material sustainability, and solid waste management. Furthermore, international certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design) and local rating systems such as BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence) are actively promoting higher levels of sustainability and energy efficiency in projects.
Notable examples of green buildings in the Philippines include:
The Arthaland Century Pacific Tower (ACPT) in Makati City, recognized as the Philippines' first certified net-zero development, achieving both LEED
Platinum and BERDE 5-Star certifications. It is designed to reduce 45% of its total annual energy demand, sourced entirely from renewable energy.

The Asian Development Bank in Mandaluyong.

The BTTC Centre in San Juan City, which incorporates a power-regenerating electrical system for elevators and a variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system
for AC units.29

The Shell Shared Services Office in Makati, the first LEED Silver certified green building, powered 100% by off-site wind energy.

The Zuellig Building in Makati, the first in the country to achieve LEED-CS Gold (later upgraded to Platinum), featuring a low-emissivity (Low-E) glass
system and a centralized paper recycling plant.

The Citi Plaza in Taguig, which holds two LEED Platinum certifications for its efficient water and energy use.

The real estate industry has also witnessed a significant increase in smart township developments over the last few decades, driven by rising housing
demand, improved infrastructure, and a desire for sustainable urbanization.4 These developments offer modern amenities and smart designs, frequently
incorporating smart home technology that allows residents to control household equipment via smartphones or tablets.4 They also feature open areas
with Wi-Fi networks, promoting remote work capabilities. Sustainability framework initiatives within these townships aim to conserve energy, protect the
environment, and support economic growth, with novel solutions like intelligent waste management systems.

These developments also prioritize quality of life, providing access to recreational facilities such such as swimming pools, gyms, and parks, and
integrated security systems.

Examples include:
Filinvest City in Muntinlupa City, a 275-hectare integrated urban development, and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig and Makati, a financial district
known for its extensive commercial landmarks and focus on green spaces and pedestrian paths.

Contemporary urban planning in the Philippines also involves strategic zoning of different areas for specific uses, such as residential or commercial
sectors. A notable trend is the conversion of abandoned areas into creative spaces, including offices, co-working spaces, galleries, and retail stores,
aimed at attracting entrepreneurs and fostering economic development.
 Contemporary Philippine
Contemporary Philippine Architecture
Architecture
(1980s-Present)
Prominent Architects and Exemplary Projects

The contemporary era continues to be shaped by both established figures whose philosophies resonate today and a new generation of architects pushing innovative boundaries:

Juan Nakpil Leandro V. Locsin

though primarily influential in earlier periods, his pioneering whose influence extends into contemporary discussions
work in the 1920s revolutionized Philippine architecture by due to his pioneering works in integrating modernism with
utilizing local materials like bamboo instead of relying solely Filipino identity, designed the Philippine International
on imported components, thereby establishing a distinct Convention Center (PICC). His CCP Main Theater is also
Filipino aesthetic with international influence. His approach cited as an exemplary project showcasing the successful
remains foundational for contemporary sustainable integration of indigenous design elements with modern
practices. architecture.

Emmanuel “Manny” A Miñana

Anthony Nazareno
expresses a deep affection for Filipino culture, seeking to
abstract familiar forms from the country's architectural draws inspiration from his travels, particularly to
vocabulary to reinvent the past with contemporary Japan and Italy. He emphasizes that while
translations of simplicity, context, elegance, and comfort. materiality is crucial in his design
He strives to create peaceful, harmonious environments
that capture soul and spirit through light, energy,
technology, and materiality.

Francisco Mañosa
Conrad Onglao
whose philosophy continues to profoundly influence
contemporary practice, championed Filipinism and the use
of indigenous materials. He integrated passive cooling and
finds inspiration through travel, books,
natural lighting into his designs, a foresight that aligns
and digital resources. His design
perfectly with today's sustainable architecture movement.20
philosophy is rooted in principles of
Several contemporary architects are actively shaping the
simplicity, balance, scale, timelessness,
current architectural landscape, as highlighted in various
and proportion.
publications
 Conclusion
Modern architecture in the Philippines is a dynamic narrative of resilience, identity formation, and continuous adaptation. From the immediate post-war period, where modernism was
embraced as a symbol of newfound independence and a break from colonial pasts, through the monumental and often controversial Marcosian era, to the pluralistic and increasingly
sustainability-driven contemporary period, architecture has consistently served as a mirror reflecting the nation's socio-political landscape and cultural aspirations. The "elusive"
nature of Filipino architecture, as described by Locsin, is a testament to its ongoing process of absorbing, reinterpreting, and fusing diverse influences, always striving to find a
delicate balance between global trends and a distinct local identity.

The journey began with a pragmatic embrace of modernism driven by the urgent need for reconstruction and a desire to project a progressive, decolonized image. This period saw the
strategic adoption of modern architecture as a tool for nation-building, aiming to visually divorce the Philippines from its colonial vestiges. However, the initial climate-insensitivity of
the International Style prompted a necessary adaptation towards "Tropical Regionalism," demonstrating a crucial phase where practical realities led to a more context-sensitive
modernism. The subsequent "high-rise fever" further underscored the nation's burgeoning urban ambitions and economic confidence.

The Marcosian era, while dubbed a "Golden Age," was characterized by a top-down, state-controlled projection of power and national identity. The "edifice complex" manifested as a
series of monumental constructions, often criticized for their immense costs and authoritarian symbolism. The widespread adoption of Brutalism during this time served both
pragmatic needs for rapid construction and the symbolic purpose of projecting an image of strength and unyielding authority. While the regime promoted "Filipinization" by
reinterpreting traditional motifs, this state-controlled narrative raises questions about its authenticity and
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