A Review: Architectural Criticism of the Municipal Hall of Mangatarem, Pangasinan

Author: Debbie Anne E. Sebastian

UP-FAS2-BSAR4-02
[email protected]
Abstract: This research proposes to analyze the Mangatarem Municipal Hall Building in
Pangasinan as a case study for improving the utilization of public space and heritage
structures, while also evaluating its merits and drawbacks. The hall was an example of a
Spanish-era structure. It's built of a blend of wood and concrete. Tragically, the New People's
Army burned it down in 1946, but it was restored and rebuilt to its original form under Mayor
Jose J.'s administration. A municipality hall is a public office building that hosts
administrative business and attracts visitors daily. (Palazzo et al., 2013) Public space is
considered as a positive, which is a space that is used for positive activities and usually
managed by the government. (Eriawan & Setiawati, 2017) This presentation will utilize Ada
Louise Huxtable’s 8 Principles of Reading a Building as the methodological framework for
evaluating the architectural subject matter.
Keywords: Mangatarem Municipal Hall, utilization of public space, heritage, Ada Louise
Huxtable

INTRODUCTION
This research aims to assess the accessibility and utilization of public spaces in a case study
location, focusing on the impacts of rapid urban growth on evolving functional and physical
structures. Access to, and utilization of, public spaces and their physical and functional
structures are among issues that are negatively affected by rapid urban growth. Especially in
evolving economies, public spaces in urban settlements are far behind reaching the
contemporary standards of better endowed cities. (Pasaogullari & Doratli, 2004) As many
urban thinkers have emphasized, public areas, such as neighborhood parks or community.
Community gardens are one of the key components that identify the city's distinct appeal
points. However, in rapidly developing cities, comparable to the general lay- out of the cities
and the peculiarities of the buildings structures and open spaces are facing a change in their
physical structure, lost their relevance, and the amount and quality of public areas began to
decline. Lefebvre contends that every culture in its history has created a unique social area
that meets its linked economic obligations. Production and social production (Lefebvre,
1991).

Mangatarem got its name from the combination of the Ilocano words "Manga ken Tirem,"
which means "mango and oyster." According to legend, the name "Mangatarem" was given to
woodcutters who occurred to cross paths in a forested area that is now the town's location.
One of them ate a mango, while the other had oysters. When they both saw this, they yelled
"Manga ken Tirem," giving the name Mangatirem or Mangatarem.
The Manleluag Hot Spring Protected Landscape is located in Barangay Malabobo, near the
municipality's southern boundary.
Agriculture is the primary driver of Mangatarem's economic activities. The municipality has
the largest land area in the entire Pangasinan province. A large proportion of its homes have
family members who work or have moved overseas.

The town's poblacion area continues to draw significant food, retail, and service
establishments from Metro Manila and other cities in Pangasinan. Magic Group of
Companies (Magic Mall), CSI Supermarket, Puregold, McDonald's, Jollibee, Mang Inasal, 7-
Eleven, and Mercury Drug are among the most well-known retail and food establishments.
Banks, couriers, pawnshops, and auto/motorcycle repair shops are examples of service
establishments, including Metrobank and Land Bank of the Philippines, among others.
The town's public market serves not only inhabitants, but also farmers and businesses from
the neighboring towns of Urbiztondo, Aguilar, and San Clemente (Tarlac), particularly on
weekends. This is one of the reasons why major business establishments began to take notice
of the municipality and chose to open branches there. (Bayan ng Mangatarem, 2022)
Mangatarem's Municipal Hall Building, in Pangasinan, is another example of a Spanish-era
structure. It's built of a blend of wood and concrete. It was burned down in 1946 but was
restored/reconstructed to its original form during Mayor Jose J. Alamillo's administration
from 1955 to 1956. (Heredencia Filipinas, 1976)

Fig 1. Old Municipal Hall of Mangatarem, Pangasinan

Improving the use of public spaces, such as Mangatarem's municipal hall, is critical for
increasing community participation and improving inhabitants' general quality of life. These
places serve as focal points for social interaction, government, and local activities, making
them critical to developing community relationships and encouraging civic pride. By
maximizing their utilization, such as holding cultural events, public forums, or seminars, the
municipal hall can become more accessible and hospitable to all members of the public.
Furthermore, well-used public spaces can stimulate local economic activity by drawing
visitors and promoting local business participation. Proper management and innovative
redesign of these areas can also address issues like overcrowding and underutilization,
ensuring that the municipal hall evolves to meet the growing needs of Mangatrem's
population.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Improving Public Space Utilization
Rogers most recently argues that great cities are known for their great public spaces, and one
measure of any city’s greatness is its ability to provide recreation, natural beauty, and
signature open spaces for its citizens. Successful public spaces pay dividends for cities,
building civic pride, increasing tourism and economic investment, and contributing to health
and quality of life (Rogers, 2003). Also, public spaces share a significant role in city planning
and community socializing. However, the growth of cities has led to a decline in the use and
vitality of some of these centers of activity and communication (Madanipour,
1992). There was a general decline of public spaces in the second half of the 20th century,
followed by the recent rapid growth of cities since the late 1980s, especially in the developing
countries. Public spaces in the developing countries turn into left-over spaces as a result of
the rapid growth. There must be a renewed interest in understanding more precisely the
relationship between cities and the open space within them. Moreover, cities must sketch out
interconnected greenways linking neighborhoods, public spaces and natural areas (Harnik,
2003). Every aspect of planning and development should be infused with
a concern for imaginative and effective uses of public spaces (Goodmann, 1968).
What is a Public Space?
What Is Public Space? answers the question from a personal, cultural, and urban design point
of view. It begins by defining public space by what it does or accommodates and explores the
many ways that spaces are made “public” by people, meanings, and practices. The muddled
distinction of public/private, however, requires a critical rethinking of the term. An alternative
perspective purposes a multidimensional definition based on public space characteristics—
physical aspects, ownership, governance or management authority and funding, control and
influence, symbolic/historical meanings, and political activity. Public spaces can be scored
along various scales (high to low, large to small, open to closed) and then defined by their
specific characteristics. A brief review of the prehistory of public space that traces its origins
back 12,000 years concludes the chapter by highlighting its significance in early human
settlements as well as in the present. (Low, 2022)

Public space is peculiar to cities; it is the clearest expression of the urban predicament, the
tension between the physical proximity and moral remoteness of city dwellers. The exact
nature of this condition and its consequences have been at the centre of debates from the
classics of urban studies until today. The multitude of people living together, the necessities
and the possibilities this entails have fascinated urban theorists. (Bodnar, 2015)
Advantages of Direct Beneficiary
As the public is the direct benefactor and participant in the city, knowing the public's attitudes
and thoughts on using underground space to improve urban landscape is vital to democratic
and sustainable urban planning, and it can inform public-interest plans and policies.
Researching public perceptions of underground space can inform urban renewal and
enhancement programs, foster innovation, and serve as a valuable resource. Upgrading the
urban landscape can help diversify and optimize urban functions. (Zhao et al., 2024)
• That the term "public environment" includes, as well as physical places:
(1) the public's interest that all environments protect people's health,
safety, and welfare, including people of limited and diverse capabilities;
(2) the way in which the public is involved in decisions about all our en-
vironments; and (3) the delivery of services to the public, no matter how
they're paid for.
• That public environments are places that profoundly affect public life and
are (1) used for the common good, and for affecting it; (2) accessible to
and shared by a diversity of people and open to general observation;
and (3) an arena for a social life that can be apart from friends or family.
• That public life is most richly played out in our large urban centers and
diminishes in quality and richness as city size decreases.
• That public life is distinct from private life and performs important func-
tions: (1) It is a forum . .. where the individual's private pursuit of hap-
piness gets constantly balanced by the rules of fairness and reason di-
rected to the common good; (2) it is group action where people come
together both to be power, and to symbolize their power; (3) it is a school
for social learning, where the range of permissible behaviors gets ex-
plored; and (4) it is where the Stranger is met on Common Ground.
• And, given our penchant for intereweaving and integration, public life
is also about learning of all kinds, about work, markets and commerce
and, very largely, pleasure. (Brill, 1989)

BODY OF THE PAPER

Mangatarem’s Municipal Hall Building, situated in the province of Pangasinan, is a
remarkable example of Spanish-era architecture that serves as a vital link to the town’s
historical and cultural heritage. Constructed using a harmonious blend of wood and concrete,
the building reflects the craftsmanship and materials commonly utilized during the Spanish
colonial period in the Philippines. This architectural landmark is not just a government
facility but also a symbol of Mangatarem's identity and historical continuity, embodying the
community's traditions and resilience. However, its history is not without challenges. In 1946,
the structure was tragically burned down, leaving a void in both its physical and symbolic
presence in the town. Despite this unfortunate event, the community’s deep regard for its
cultural heritage spurred efforts to rebuild and restore the municipal hall.
Under the leadership of Mayor Jose J. Alamillo, a focused and deliberate initiative was
undertaken to bring the municipal hall back to life. Between 1955 and 1956, during his
administration, the structure was reconstructed to its original form with meticulous attention
to detail, ensuring that its historical essence and architectural features remained intact. This
restoration was not merely a construction project but a testament to the collective resolve of
Mangatarem’s people to honor and preserve their history.

Fig. 2. The current Municipal Hall of Mangatarem

As documented in Heredencia Filipinas (1976), this building continues to stand as a proud
reminder of the town’s colonial past, resilience, and dedication to safeguarding its cultural
legacy. Today, it remains a central hub of governance and public life while serving as a
lasting monument to the enduring spirit of the Mangatarem community.
Location
 Fig. 3. The Municipal Hall’s location along the Romulo Highway
The Mangatarem Town Hall is strategically placed in Mangatarem, Pangasinan, on a major
road that runs diagonally across the image. It is bordered by a number of noteworthy
structures and highways, which add to the area's accessibility and utility. The Mangatarem
Public Market, located northwest of the town hall and across the main road, is a bustling area
that acts as a major economic hub for people. The nearby BHF Puregold Mangatarem
provides store options for daily requirements.

To the south of the town hall is the Mangatarem Town Plaza, a green, open space with paths,
planting, and a circular feature that is presumably intended for entertainment and community
gatherings. Other public facilities are located adjacent to the plaza and around its southwest
corner. To the northeast, numerous minor streets intersect, notably Austria Street and Gomez
Street, forming a well-connected network of roads. This section of town also has residential
and business buildings, demonstrating the area's mixed-use.

McDonald's Mangatarem restaurant, located directly southeast of the town hall, provides the
neighborhood with a modern fast-food dining choice. Beyond that, the CSI Mangatarem
Shopping Mall is located along the main road and serves major shopping and retail needs.The
major road that runs through Mangatarem Town Hall serves as a critical link to adjacent
establishments and highways such as Mabini Street, allowing inhabitants and visitors to move
about easily. Mangatarem's dense cluster of companies, public buildings, and road networks
reflects its status as a vital hub for commerce, governance, and community activity.

METHODOLOGY
Methodologies of Research
This study's research methodology will be Qualitative Research Design. Qualitative
Research methods are designed to help uncover the behavior and perceptions of a target
audience with regard to a certain subject. Such an approach is used to assess both external
and internal influences affecting the person. These parameters and other pertinent information
can only be collected using such methodology.
Criteria of Criticism
This study employs qualitative research methods, specifically observation and literature
review, to assess the utilization of the Municipal Hall of Mangatarem as a public space. The
focus of this section is to conduct an in-depth analysis to determine whether the municipal
hall meets the established criteria for being considered a “good example of improving public
space utilization.” By examining factors such as accessibility, functionality, community
engagement, preservation of cultural value, and adaptive use of the space, the study aims to
evaluate how effectively the municipal hall serves the needs of the residents while enhancing
its role as a vibrant, well-utilized public area. Insights gathered through observations and
literature sources will allow for a clearer understanding of its contribution to social
interaction, cultural continuity, and local development.
The researcher references a related literature previously reviewed, specifically Ada Louise
Huxtable outlining the Eight (8) Principles of Reading a Building namely, Execution,
Background, Light and Ventilation, Vicinity, Space, Observation, Movement, and
Character.
The criteria used for evaluation are carefully enumerated and elaborated upon based on the
literature reviewed in this paper. These criteria serve as the foundation for assessing and
critiquing the Municipal Hall of Mangatarem, particularly in determining the success of its
adaptive reuse as a public space. Given the constraints of time and resources, the researcher
has selected a set of key factors from the broader list presented in the literature. These chosen
factors are deemed most relevant within the architectural and cultural context, focusing on
critical aspects such as functionality, accessibility, sustainability, and community impact.
This focused approach enables a deeper exploration of how the adaptive reuse of the
Municipal Hall balances public space needs with the preservation of its architectural
significance. By narrowing the scope to these specific factors, the study aims to provide a
clear and measurable analysis while highlighting the hall’s success or shortcomings as a well-
utilized public space. Ultimately, this evaluation seeks to contribute to a broader discourse on
adaptive reuse practices, emphasizing the role of public buildings in fostering social, cultural,
and architectural value within the community.

Architectural Criticism
1. Execution
The Municipal Hall strikes a mix between utility and simplicity, demonstrating its ability to
adapt to current needs while maintaining its traditional role as a major hub for governance
and public service in Mangatarem. It has a simple but functional architectural design. The
construction is two stories tall and painted in a mix of beige and green tones, giving it a clean
and modest aspect while remaining traditional. The conspicuous rectangular layout
emphasizes its simple and economical design, while the flat roof adds a modern and
functional look.
The building's huge, rectangular windows on both floors provide for plenty of natural light
and ventilation, which helps with energy efficiency and tenant comfort. The facade has
minimal ornamentation, with horizontal green bands highlighting the perimeter and breaking
up the monotony of the plain walls. A tiny portico in the center of the front elevation serves
as the primary entry, giving the building an attractive and formal aspect.

2. Background
It gives valuable data into its environment and surroundings, which have a direct impact on
the building's total impact and utilization. The municipal hall is located in a developed yet
modest location and is flanked by facilities that appear to serve a variety of residential,
commercial, and public uses. These nearby buildings, with their modest architectural
characteristics and pitched roofs, evoke the spirit of a small yet lively provincial town. This
strengthens the hall's role as a major hub of governance, allowing citizens to access public
services while remaining close to other necessary facilities.
The obvious presence of utility poles and power lines indicates dependable infrastructure and
connectivity, guaranteeing that the municipal hall can function properly to provide
government services. Furthermore, the surrounding paved roads and properly indicated
pedestrian lanes improve accessibility, making it easier for residents and visitors to reach the
municipal hall, whether on foot or by car. This leads to increased public interaction with the
facility, as its convenient position allows for seamless integration into the community's
everyday activities.

3. Light and Ventilation

The building's design incorporates wide, rectangular windows on both floors, which are
essential for optimizing natural light throughout the interior. These windows allow sunlight to
penetrate deep into the rooms, reducing the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours
and increasing the building's energy efficiency. This abundance of natural light brightens the
interior, creating a welcome environment for individuals who visit or work at the town hall.

In addition to lighting, the building's ventilation is carefully examined. The broad, properly
spaced windows provide for adequate circulation and cross-ventilation, promoting cooling
and airflow even on heated days. By leveraging the surrounding environment, including
crosswinds and open areas, the building can remain well-ventilated, allowing for pleasant
internal temperatures without the need for air conditioning systems for cooling. This
emphasis on natural ventilation promotes a more sustainable approach to building
management, improving both environmental efficiency and occupant comfort.

4. Vicinity
The Mangatarem Town Hall is conveniently positioned on a major route in Mangatarem,
Pangasinan, surrounded by vital establishments that make it easily accessible. To the
northwest, the Mangatarem Public Market and BHF Puregold offer commercial services, and
to the south, the Mangatarem Town Plaza provides a green space for community gatherings.
Nearby streets, including Austria and Gomez Street, form a well-connected network for both
residential and commercial purposes. To the southeast, McDonald's Mangatarem and the CSI
Mangatarem Shopping Mall meet the area's retail and dining needs. The major road that runs
through the town hall connects it to adjacent businesses, confirming Mangatarem's status as a
center for commerce, governance, and community activities.

5. Space
It has a well-organized spatial design that reflects its practical purpose as a public service
facility. The building's facade shows a rectangular shape with well-defined spaces that make
optimum use of the available space. The plan appears to prioritize simple access to both the
front and side entrances, providing an open pathway for pedestrians and allowing occupants
to utilize the space with ease. The adjacent grounds also demonstrate intelligent use of public
space. The planted green spots and little trees near the building soften the structure's look
while creating a welcoming atmosphere. The building's location in a rather open area creates
an overall impression of spaciousness, which is accentuated by the wide pedestrian walkways
and surrounding streets.

The municipal hall's architectural design incorporates both useful indoor and outdoor spaces,
ensuring that the building meets both practical and communal needs. The hall's overall space
design, with vast environs and visible circulation sections, symbolizes its position as a civic
monument for a diverse variety of citizens and visitors. The room also displays the building's
versatility, indicating that it can support future changes in usage or enlargement as needed.

6. Observation
The building's architectural style is utilitarian yet modest, fitting for its duty as a municipal
center. Its two-story rectangular shape, with beige walls and green accents, reflects a
straightforward, clean aesthetic that values functionality over extravagant adornment.
However, when compared to more distinctive public buildings that display unique cultural or
historical influences, this basic design may be seen as lacking in character or visual intrigue.

The huge, rectangular windows on both levels appear to be well-placed for natural light, but
their uniformity across the building's face feels a little boring, lacking variance that could add
more dynamic or appealing aspects to the structure. While these windows provide ventilation
and light, they are not visually appealing enough to pique interest or prompt consideration on
the building's historical or cultural value. The immediate surrounding space has several
favorable aspects. Green vegetation around the building's flanks softens the hard structure,
adding a much-needed touch of nature while also contributing to a public-friendly setting.

However, the relationship between the building's architecture and its surroundings is an
important factor to consider. While the town hall is centrally positioned and easily accessible,
it feels detached from the surrounding public areas, such as the Mangatarem Town Plaza,
which may benefit from stronger visual and functional integration with the municipal
building. The lack of more open, shared spaces between the plaza and the hall may result in
wasted opportunities to enhance community interaction.

7. Movement
It conveys a sense of static solidity rather than dynamic movement. The building's
rectangular, boxy shape gives it a basic, grounded air, with little to imply motion or
movement. The building's clean lines and horizontal bands of green emphasize its stable
presence in the landscape, strengthening the idea of stability and function rather than
fostering a sense of active interaction or advancement.
The windows on the front are similarly positioned over the structure, providing limited visual
movement. The spacing and symmetry of the windows create a delicate visual rhythm, but it
does not convey the type of movement found in architectural styles aiming to engage with
energy or flow. The building's largely consistent front feels more grounded, indicating an
administrative headquarters that values stability over visual mobility.

8. Character
It demonstrates a character based on simplicity and pragmatism. Its style, which features a
rectangular structure with beige walls and green accents, exemplifies a no-frills, utilitarian
attitude common in public buildings. The simple facade depicts a building that values
functionality and endurance over ornamental flourishes. The lack of decorative decoration or
intricate architectural characteristics gives the facility a plain, businesslike appearance that
reflects its position as a civic center.

Despite its plain facade, the building's symmetrical layout and regularity give it a sense of
order and stability. The clean, continuous lines and regular window arrangement provide a
sense of discipline and efficiency, which is appropriate for a public administration hub. The
green accent lines on the building offer a touch of vitality, introducing a breath of freshness
into the normally neutral tones, relaxing the formal tone of the architecture and increasing its
approachability while maintaining the seriousness of its mission.
The Mangatarem Municipal Hall's character transmits a blend of functionality, stability, and
openness, establishing it as a public space based on practicality and service while still
welcoming involvement and maintaining communal order.

CONCLUSION
The primary aim of this research was to thoroughly analyze the Municipal Hall of
Mangatarem as a notable example of adaptive reuse of a heritage building, examining its
effectiveness in blending historical preservation with modern functionality. This study sought
to explore the success of the Municipal Hall in maintaining the core architectural elements of
the original structure while transforming it into a space that meets the evolving needs of the
community. In doing so, the research also aimed to offer a detailed critique of the building’s
positive aspects, such as its accessibility, functionality, and architectural coherence, alongside
its shortcomings. These areas of critique focus on aspects such as architectural design,
integration with the surrounding environment, and the building’s ability to foster community
engagement while maintaining its heritage character. By delving into both the strengths and
weaknesses of the Municipal Hall, the study strives to contribute to the broader conversation
about how heritage buildings can be successfully adapted for modern use without
compromising their cultural and historical significance.
The Mangatarem Municipal Hall provides a good foundation for public space utilization,
there are places for improvement. While its strategic placement in the town center provides
accessibility and enables connection with nearby services, the building's design and function
might benefit from more active community engagement. The hall's architectural style is
simple and modest, which serves its role as an administrative facility, but it may lack the
visual vitality and interaction required to properly energize the surrounding public spaces.
There are opportunities to improve the integration of the Municipal Hall and neighboring
public spaces, such as the Town Plaza, in order to promote more community-driven events,
foster engagement, and create a more inclusive environment. However, while the simplicity
of its design encourages straightforward functionality, there is an opportunity to enhance its
dynamic interaction with the surrounding environment. In terms of ventilation and natural
lighting, the Municipal Hall incorporates design elements that ensure adequate light and air
circulation, creating a comfortable atmosphere for its users. Yet, there is potential for even
more integration of interactive, flexible spaces that would encourage public engagement and
elevate the civic experience.
The integration of landscaping around the Municipal Hall softens its solid, functional form,
providing an aesthetic break and promoting community interaction in adjacent spaces like the
Town Plaza. These surrounding open spaces allow for diverse uses, fostering community
events and outdoor activities. However, more direct engagement between the Municipal Hall
and these spaces could enhance public connection and enrich the building’s role in the urban
fabric.
Ultimately, while the Municipal Hall of Mangatarem effectively serves its purpose as an
administrative hub and contributes to the town’s broader public infrastructure, its current
design reflects a missed opportunity for deeper, more active engagement with the community
and the built environment. Incorporating dynamic design elements that promote flow,
interaction, and accessibility could significantly enhance its impact, improving overall public
space utilization and offering more vibrant, adaptive spaces for future usage.
Although the facility has adequate lighting and ventilation and provides a comfortable
atmosphere for public service delivery, a more adaptable and multi-functional design could
enhance the space's public use. Mangatarem can improve the use of this important public
space by rethinking the hall as a civic landmark that encourages activity and connection,
changing it into a focus for community involvement, cultural activities, and social interaction
rather than just a place of administration. Through thoughtful architectural adaptations and
better integration with the surrounding public infrastructure, the Municipal Hall has the
potential to become a more active and vibrant public space, fulfilling its role not only as a
government center, but also as a place that fosters a stronger sense of community.

-End-
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