It is said that “building is not a place- it simply brings a place into existence” (Heidegger, 1993).
In the context of the Philippine Senate, Senate, the senate itself bring b ring places into existence. Historically, the Philippine Senate had a great impact not just from its roots but to the significant places it had served as its seat. From its first session, it is said that seven (7) edifices had served as its home in the past 100 years of its existence. First, is the Goldenberg Mansion in San Miguel, Manila, in which it had its first session. Then, it was followed with the historic Intendencia Building in Intramuros, previously occupied by Spanish Royal Navy Club and Gen. McArthur respectively; which the senate had occupied it from 1916 to 1926. The Legislative Building, was the most significant place of the Philippine Legislature Legislature in which “lower” and “upper” house was coined. The building is said to be planned to house the Philippine
Library, the Philippine senate occupied the session hall in the second floor of the building from 1926 to 1935. After the liberation of the City of Manila in 1945 caused the destruction of the building, which made the Senate housed on a schoolhouse and then returned again to the Legislative Building until it transferred to its current site in 1997. (Official Gazette of the Philippines) Simply put, the Senate had continuously followed the shape of the different homes it had occupied. Government building design in the Philippines is often classified as “cost - efficient” and “practical” and gives a mere space for a number of its employees. Public buildings has been identified
as a controversial topic from the critics as the actual design of buildings commenced by other local architects on the scene after Juan Arellano and Antonio Toledo had retired from service. (Alcarazen, 2015) At present, the raising awareness of people regarding good design, symbolism, and better workplaces had led to the diverse designs of government and office buildings that responds to the needs and the good „culture‟ of workplaces.
The senate, in which had been flexible from the places it had occupied, seeks for its identity in which should be mirrored to the face of our society in its contemporary time. Winston Churchill once said, “We shape our buildings, and afterwards our buildings shape us”. Conversely, the success of
architecture is directly connected to its flexibility, same that happened to Senate in which its previous homes has been altered to its own requirements is one characteristic of transforming a building from an anonymous space into a „specific place‟. (Kronenburg) As said in the recent committee committee report of the
Senate regarding the relocation of the current senate buildi ng, it envisions a “world- class” and an “iconic” senate house comparable to the Sydney Opera House and the parliament buildings in
America. Because of this „seeking for identity‟ for the new Senate building lie the topic of the definition of
modernity and its presence in the public buildings in the Philippines up to the present. In general, Philippine modern architecture is a mix of criticisms, saying that our modernity was somehow a ‟poor copy‟ of the American - European models. Architectural works especially during the Marcos era became
the center of criticisms and mostly define the pillars of Philippine modern architecture by the works of Locsin, Manosa, and other roster of architects. Unlike the “poor copy” of architecture of the west as
said by critics, precedent architecture built before and after WWII explains that the Philippine modern architecture architecture is not an alternative modernity but modernity on its own. However, Cabalfin Cabalfin proposes that our modernity to be a “hybrid modernity”. Moderni sm in the Philippines is reflected by our link to the
other parts of the world, we should also recognize that our historical and cultural specificities are the main aspects of the architectural heritage that we have now. From the nineteen hundredth century (1900s) up to the post- war and from the post war to the present is a different matter. This chapter will trace down the shift of architectural concepts from the precedent to aiming the parameters of the 21 st century or the present day issues historically, politically, culturally, and environmental issues and redefine what should be the concept of the project, and eye it just like what the words “iconic” and “world - class” truly mean.
Most of the discussions regarding Philippine architecture are connected to the Asian and the Western cultures. Since Philippines was declared as an independent nation in 1945, the beginning of the search of its identity commenced as a roster of architects to design architecture that would embody our society. One shortcut explanation to the morphology of Philippine modern architecture is the Philippines exhibit on the 15 th Venice Biennale in 2016. The Philippines as a first- time participant of this prestigious biennale, its exhibition was theme t hemed d as “MUHON: Traces of an Adolescent City” muhon evokes contemplation through the primal act of marking a fixed point in both space and time. Creating a “muhon” as a placemarker is affirming one‟s existence and claiming a stake in the universe.
Figure 1 Philippines' Gallery on MUHON Exhibit- History Room. (Source: http://bluprint.ph/wpcontent/uploads/2017/10/muhon2.jpg)
Conversely, the word “adolescence” theoretically describes the struggle for identity that Metro Manila
now confronts. (Locsin) The art exhibition has nine muhon representing 9 buildings/structures/specific place and its history, modernity, and conjecture- eliciting conjectures and reconcile opposing forces on progress and permanence. The curators are from LV Locsin & Partners Leandro Locsin Jr., Sudarshan Khadka Jr., and Juan Paolo de la Cruz and chose 6 different architects/ architectural firms and three visual artists to choose their „muhon‟ to reinterpret. Nine placemarkers arranged in a 3x3 grid form
using three rooms (History, Modernity, Conjecture) were identified and was given an interpretation as follows: (Gregorio, 2017)
. Three rooms were used to convey the meaning of history, modernity, conjecture. History signifies darkness, solemnity, then the modernity expresses reflection, uncertainty and conjecture is open, white, wh ich means hope and repose. It is also evident the presence of grid flooring that em phasizes strict and conformity, different array of lines in the seco nd room that means chaos, and all-white room and white pebbles that re presents discussions and awareness and nature.
Pasig River has been the cradle of civilization of Metro Manila since the beginning of time, and the most definitive environmental feature of Metro Manila. This river is significant in the previous time wherein it was used for trade but now becoming less significant as people prefers motorways and the emerging environmental problem of pollution. Despite of neglect, Pasig river remains a landmark, a surviving one.
Pandacan Bridge is an example of how iconic architecture turns into a paradoxical one with the presence of informal settlers. It became a reminder that although these descriptions are opposites, but is a shadow-twin. It tackles the need of maintaining the users within the iconic structures to maintain its existence and placemarker- a thing that is still useful to people and the preserving steps to maintain it- or otherwise the increasing level of neglect and decreasing significance generates insignificant developments.
a Figure 3 Tad Ermitano with his Art Installation. Depicting the Pandacan Bridge, Ermitano uses "kariton" and "trolley" in layman's term to depict the current situation in Pandacan Bridge. It conveys the problem of informal settlers living under the bridge and their lives in these "kariton”
Makati stock exchange is not just a iconic edifice when it comes to physical appearance but an intangible symbol of heritage and moving forward as the structure as a witness of the country‟s economic growth. The current hurdle of the Makati Stock Exchange to
demolition is an inquiry of building new structures while keeping heritage and cultural identity without sacrificing modern-day solutions.
Figure 4 Makati Stock Exchange Reinterpretation by LIMA Architecture. The effigy represents the struggle of the building to decay and aim for survival. (http://bluprint.ph/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/muhon-series.jpg)
It is the origin wherein progress and development started. Kilometer zero is a symbolism of a worldview, as it observes and investigate different social issues that surround these individual projects from its well- known times, neglect, to its predicaments, but still connected and a permanently present force as Metro Manila. Consequence to this is arising
relative issues such as the changes in government, reform, progress, which is still observed and being studied in the Philippines for implementation today.
The design of the Ramon Magsaysay Center is describes as a grove of trees, with the column acting as its deep- rooted trunks. Ramon Magsaysay center is an example of innovation and is one of the esteemed work of Arturo Luz, thus experiencing now urban survival as its design was modified, and is still on struggle on existence.
According to Manosa & Co, embodied with the concept of “bayanihan” or people
coming together to complete a herculean task, is the main concept of the Tahanang Pilipino or called the coconut palace. This house is a symbol of contemporizing and squeezing out the creative juices of Filipinos of using local materials and methologies, and symbolizing the essence of collaboration to achieve its ingenuity. The concept of binhi (seed) is a picture of life and growth, a symbol of innovation and a constant work in progress through the continuous exploration of Filipinos to innovations and serendipities.
The Mandarin Hotel is one of the precedent iconic structures in the developing Makati Business District. It evokes discussion with the architects to its generative stages of design, as it is being chipped down to rubble. This also gave way to its tribute to its 40- year existence and internalize to its connectivity it has left with historical authenticity.
Chinatown is known as the oldest settlement of Chinese emigrant in the world. Nowadays, it became a face of a smaller version of a bigger picture of business and commerce in the Philippines and the emergence of capitalism. This curatorial work opens for a discourse on the lack of social awareness for a certain balance among economic, cultural and humanitarian development.
The PICC is one of the examples of the most maintained and a surviving structure of the Locsin buildings. Because of subsequent changes in our society, it states a fact that there is no certain guarantee of the permanence of these structures to survive, as its related contemporaries faced abolition or threats. Should these worst case scenario persists, the only hope is to preserve its memory of its existence and qualities in a new proposal.
. From the left- right, first row, Jorge Yulo's Mandarin Hotel, Makati Stock Exchange by LIMA Architecture, Pasig River by CIS Design Consultancy. Second row lines up with Binondo Church by Mark Salvatus, Kilometer Zero by Poklong Anading, and Pandacan Bridge by Tad Ermitano. In the last row, display the works of Ed Calma reinterpreting PICC, Manosa and Co. for Tahanang Pilipino and Ramon Magsaysay Building by 8x8 Design Studio Co.
The conclusion of this exhibition is clarifying and revising the IRRs of the National Cultural Heritage Act (RA 10096) with its practical limits of maintaining heritage structures that are above 50- years old, those designed by a National Artist, and entails significant waterfronts, parks, to qualify as a cultural heritage and presumed to be in a protected status. The exhibition also argues that the perception and attitude of most Filipinos on heritage structures is still immature. Cultural heritage as defined, is the place or a landmarks which also entails its surroundings, the sky, its ambiance. “Ang heritage ay lumang bahay lang” (Zerrudo, 2016) During his talk on the lecture series entitled “Conservation 101” Eric Zerrudo explained the misconceptions about heritage most of the people know every time the term “heritage” is
concerned. Rather than a simple ancestral house, heritage means deeper and diverse directions not limited to the built structures. “Heritage is anything of value from the past that
gives meaning and identity to the present and inspires the future generation. The conjecture room in the exhibition, as characterized by all- white walls, with white pebbles, is a symbol of discussion and discourse. This refers to the future of the built environment in the Philippinesthe possibilities and solutions to the dilemma. “We felt the need to ask this really strong question: Are we demolishing our buildings before we‟ve had the time to fall in love with them?” (Khadk a, 2016) Placing these placemarkers
on the limelight of discussion, are the team‟s reinterpretation of the past, present and future. It is seen that Manila has developed so much that it became one of the densest places in the world. With the rapid changes of creation- destruction- creation- destruction is an endless cycle that makes Filipinos not to give a value and understanding because time is not enough for its existence. Time is a key factor in the generation of a place. (Nitschke, 1993) In the country ‟s case, it is evident that some important structures like the CCP, Malacanan Palace, Meralco Theater,
and other buildings are still undergoing maintenance because it is facilitated and owned by people who appreciates it, and understands its value. In addition Metropolitan Theater, a 1930architecture by Juan Arellano is an example of revitalization and reuse headed by the NCCA. For a place to be valued and its architecture to work, it has to be lived in, worked in, used, overtime. By launching the MUHON exhibit, it allows us to ponder the realities that surrounds us, particularly on our built heritage and shape our identity. Pondering about the realities of the Philippines by means of exposing it to the world means collaboration at a bigger scale, thus reliving the truest narrative in the country. (Chee Kee, 2016)
Every nation thrives with an established civilization, a government with integrity and trust gained from its people. Philippines as a unitary, democratic government is always being questioned on the term “public service”. Integrity, as widely used term, has no perfect meaning, thus categories it depending on one‟s use. Integrity when it comes to government can mean public service with honor. On the other hand, trust in vernacular term means “tiwala”. According to Hardin (1998), the first result of lawfulness is “trust” which me ans that the existence of law enables people to trust. For instance, they
trust that the existence of law protects their lives and properties. Since trust of the people is vital for a government to thrive, losing trust means the downside output of public a dministrators‟ efforts in maintaining and sustenance of the civilization. Unfortunately, government in the Philippines is still facing a massive graft and corruption especially during the term of Ex-Pres. Gloria Arroyo which particularly includes infrastructure projects like the NAIA Terminal 1 project, SCTEX, Metro Rail Transit (MRT3), Northrail Transit, and local government projects that produces lesser quality structures at an unfairly priced deal. (Brillantes & Fernandez, 2011) 3.1.2.1 The Country‟s Proposed Shift to Federalism The rise of this proposal also tends to interfere with the current goal of the government for a change in the 1987 Constitution. One of the contentious issue that arouse from President Duterte‟s campaign is the country‟s changes in the constitution in which Philippines is to shift
from a republic, unitary state into federal parliamentary type of government. Federalism is described as the unification of separated states in one political system that allows each to maintain its fundamental political integrity. (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2016) This kind of government is said to be a way to normalize disputes especially in the Mindanao region. (Ranada & Villarete, 2016) Consequently, after Duterte‟s win in the May 2016 elections, he had promulgated Executive Order No. 10, that appoints a 25- member committee to review the 1986 Philippine Constitution. The lower house is currently doing the draft of the federalism proposal, expected to be completed in December 2017. Based on the preceding proposals regarding federalism like the senator Aquilino Pimentel III, the country is to be divided into 10 or 11 states, in which goals to decentralize power from Metro Manila and develop each of these autonomous regions. Other proposal of
the federalism came from CMFP (Citizen‟s Move ment for a Federal Philippines) in which
election is performed by means of State Assembly. (Ranada & Villarete, 2016) One reason for pushing this type of government is decentralizing powers from the central government and promotes specialization which entitles locals more power over funds and resources. It is also said that it may be a solution for correcting and prevents political gridlocks, thus bringing the government closer to its people. It means that local officials can be more accountable to their people, therefore, there would be no more excuse for delayed projects and services in which, mostly are the reasons why people question the integrity and gives lesser trust to the government. (Ranada & Villarete, 2016) Architecturally, given that the proposed shift of government, if will be permitted, may take place within a few years‟ time, it can displ ay great changes when it comes to the Congress
organization and the flow of work between offices. This kind of government may also hasten government developments and structures that is needed by the people. Restoring integrity and gaining trust from the Filipino people is the greatest homework of government officials to make to restore and maintain the unity of the country. Change of government means not just the timeline of the preceding government but also its shifts and the continuous action of the government to give proper services and changing people‟ s perception regarding Philippine issues.
Reflecting what Brillantes and Fernandez said, looking in the worldview to see realities we can‟t see in our scenario. Looking in the bigger picture, by looking back and realizing aspects and virtues to maintain of the politicians can mean a changing government that brings itself closer to people. A thriving government reflects in its environment, from the open spaces to its built structures. As globalization has taken toll to the Philippines, it is observed that the government has been in collaboration with the other sectors, most likely with the foreign nations for funding and assistance. Reflected in the (PPP) are the recent major projects highlights in the current administration such as the New Manila International Airport, LRT Line 6 Project, Nayong Filipino Project, and countless projects especially projects in which the transport sector will benefit. Observing this, the hurdle of the government to restore public trust and maintaining its integrity is by means of not by just improving economically but in the sense of establishing tangible accomplishments in which the general public would benefit. The changing government of the Philippines every six years has different conjectures to the people, as reflected in the trust ratings done by accredited agencies. Another fact is each term means a totally different platform of projects and reform on laws. Simply put, when the government became associated with the corruption and the anomalies in the government resulted to poor satisfaction of the general public. In the case of public buildings and structures, since the design of the government buildings especially in the local government are “practical” and “generic” in design of the facilities , it
was observed that the government isn‟t paying attention to the perception of the occupants in the long run and results to worn out, or mismatch of specifications to the needs of the users- resulting to shorter time of existence of a building or worsening conditions encountered by the building as time passes.
In line with this, since the perception of the occupants of each public building is needed, a Post Occupancy Evaluation is a way of feedback to the on a buildings performance in use. According to
Nawawi and Khalil, POE provides a mechanism for understanding the mutual interaction process between buildings and users‟ needs and for recommending ways of improving the environment
necessary to accommodate these needs. This rating system is also one way to fulfil other objectives aside from getting user‟s satisfaction, but identifying other issues such as building defects. In the study entitled “Post-occupancy evaluation correlated with building occupants ‟ satisfaction: An approach to
performance evaluation of government and public buildings ”, the researchers identified the problem of maintenance and management of buildings in Malaysia, and uses the guidelines of the POE in identifying errors and issues in eight parliament buildings. (Nawawi, 2008) POE as defined by Watson (2003) is a systematic evaluation of opinion about buildings in use, from the perspective of the people who use them. Unlike the usual maintenance practices, the evaluation is done in actual settings.
Figure 6 Post Occupancy Evaluation Process. Source:
As seen in the figure above, the existing building is studied by its typology, its floor area and the year built, directs to formulation of the objectives in the initial phase. During the “Process Phase” it shows the planning process that includes a feasibility study, analysis of the building‟s pe rformance,
and formulate the POE. Then, conducting of the evaluation is initiated, collecting data from the users, and analysing the data collected. Application of the findings is then made by means of documentation, or report, and formulates the plan of action. Lastly, the action response of the platforms which determine the success and at the same time, determining the possible scenarios in different timetables: within 3 months, to a year, and in the next years. The study conducted in eight parliament buildings in Malaysia is done by using a score- based of the various building elements, services, and environment in the scale of 1-10, firstly by done by evaluator and the
based on the occupants itself. The general score of
the buildings shows an over-all satisfaction in each building‟s component. In conclusion, the tabulation of data gathered is assessing the overall correlation between performance level and occupants‟ satisfaction level is summarized in the following table.
Figure 7 Correlation of Building Perform ance and Occupants' Satisfaction
Scores are categorized as follows: Very High Correlations (0.80-1.00), High Correlations (0.510.79), and Low Correlations (0- 0.49). Based on the chart, majority of the parameters were in the region of high and very high correlations between building performance scores and occupants‟ satisfaction scores, meaning views of both the evaluator and occupants are related when it comes to finishes, maintenance, air conditioning and other areas. The final graph concluded that the POE programs were effective and maintenance aspects for the building are done properly. The POE approach is proven to be relevant when it comes to assessing the current condition of the building. Citing the same observation to the public buildings in the Philippines, it is seen that we focus mainly on the mere maintenance of buildings but rarely on occupants‟ satisfaction and innovat ions or improvement. One evident characteristic about the study is how they clearly differentiate the meaning of “performance” and “satisfaction”. To simplify, being able to solve one problem in a structure is different from the views
of the people usually using the building, and occupants‟ perception of “enough” and “excellent” is different from one another. The importance of knowing the users of the building is important in maintaining its performance, innovating, and keeping up its aesthetic quality and significance. Conversely, applying service design approach by means of POE (Post Occupancy Evaluation) is a vital toolkit to determine the possible solutions and future plans for its development. Aside from that, maintaining and creating liveable work environments improve work quality and intensifies focus and satisfaction of employees. According to (Wight, Chen, Dodd, & Weiler, 2011)work environment is also a key factor to employee health and stress. Current office settings with crowding and noise can be associated in producing chronic stress disorders of its employees. In their research, it proves the presence of nature contact of employees in their offices reduce stress and health complaints. On the other study conducted by the Whole Building Green Council in UK, knowing more of the users of the building leads to innovations
and careful consideration planning workplaces that consider health, social and productivity concerns such as:
Indoor air quality
Interior Layout
Thermal Comfort
Look and Feel
Daylighting and Lighting
Active Design
Biophilia
Amenities and Location
Noise
Health, wellbeing and productivity are on the cusp of being b etter understood and applied in the industry, and advances in technology will bring that even closer. Engaging with this agenda early and carefully promises significant benefits for companies who choose to stay ahead of the curve. (Whole Green Building Council, 2014)
Historically, aside from the establishment of the Philippine Legislature in 1916, the concept of ruling and government has been crudely initiated by means of set of rules and chiefs ruling each of the barangays in the Philippines. The struggle of the Philippines to independence is one recognized by the establishment of the Malolos Congress then the bicameral congress was created during Jones Law, when America was transferring some leadership rights to the Philippines which led to the creation of the 1935 Constitution which is called the Commonwealth Congress. Latter in 1946, the Congress of the Philippines commenced, which gave birth to what is now the House of Representatives and the Senate of the Philippines. Among the powers exercised by the Senate were: 1. Ratification of treaties entered into by the Executive; and 2. Confirmation of appointments made by the President. After this period, the Congress was abolished in accordance to the 1973 Constitution, having a unicameral congress during Martial Law. After the almost 20 years of Martial law, democracy was restored with the People Power, which also restores the current setting of the Congress of the Philippines. The Senate of the 17th Congress is currently headed by Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, Pro Tempore Ralph Recto, Majority Leader Vicente C. Sotto III and Minority Leader Franklin Drilon. It has thirty-six (36) permanent committees and five (5) Oversight committees to fuel the wheels of the legislative mill. The Senate or any of its committees may conduct formal inquiries or investigations in aid of legislation. The committees are classified into: (1) standing or permanent; (2) special or ad hoc; (3) joint; and (4) sub. Subcommittees are created to parcel the work of standing or special committees. The "special" committees are created for a particular purpose and dissolved after accomplishing such purpose. Joint committees are those that include members of both houses. (Pastrana & Raval, 2001)
Reflected to the changes that continue stir up the country and the government to the 17 th congress is the evident change of the homes that sheltered the Senate. From its first house, then moving to the Legislative Building, until its current home, these houses had been witnesses of the discussions and arguments that passed different bills and resolution. According to the committee report regarding the transfer of the current Senate house to a new site, it was stated that a temporary settlement still cannot be considered a home that truly enshrines the dignity of the Philippine Senate. (Lacson, 2017) Supporting the statement, it is vital for a continually functioning office to allocate funding to its new home and providing necessary spaces for all its occupants. Since the relocation talks started 16 years ago, various sites had been proposed to relocate the building. Below are the places that has been significant to the history and influence what Senate is today.
Manila had been the first home of the Philippine Legislature with the Goldenberg Mansion in San Miguel, Manila and a more-than-a-decade Legislative Building now houses the National Museum of the Philippines. The post office building has once proposed to be the relocation site for new senate. Nowadays, Manila is a place of urban blight and struggle for survival of its structures by means of neglect and demolition. (Munaariz, Perez, & Caguimbal, 2014-15) Citing these problems, the need of urban renewal in Manila is needed to restore its colonial cultural heritage. Manila is a symbol of lost and now, and a regaining soul despite struggles.
Pasay City, that house the current Senate is located is a significant place for which the term “Manila sunset” is originated. Few years ago, a proposal to relocate the Senate in Manila
Film Center was made but was rejected due to the structural integrity of the building and issues of paranormal activites. Famous for its Roxas Boulevard in the early 1970‟s, the city is also famous for iconic structures that depict modernity and creative minds of designers to reinterpret Philippine architecture with response to modernity by designing brutalism structures and creating the concept of floating structures. To summarize, Pasay city is a definition of a conquest for specific architecture and is an emblem of “hybrid modernity”. (Cabalfin, 2016)
Historically, Quezon City was appointed as the new capital of the Philippines during Pres. Quirino in 1948. In connection with this, this city is also famous for the its masterplan by Juan Arellano and Harry Frost known as the Frost- Arellano Plan. The Constitutional Hills, also called Batasan Hills was a part of this plan which supposed to accommodate the edifices of the government. The Batasang Pambansa, designed by Felipe Mendoza, was masterplanned accommodating the whole Congress of the Philippines and the Malacanan Palace. However, up to this time, the House of Representatives now only stands and the rest of the area was reserved for the Philippine Military Academy.
As one of the successful PUD (Planned Unit Development) today, Fort Bonifacio Global City has been famous for the emerging mixed- use developments and serves as the commercial and financial district, owned by the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) which is an agency that has corporate powers to convert former military bases into financial districts, catering different typologies ranging from office, institutional, residential and the like. As a present option for the relocation of the future Senate house, Taguig City is significant when it comes to the ease of land acquisition but also important in a way that it is accessible to other developments, major roads, and further supported by the transfer of the Supreme Court of the Philippines in BGC in which is to be designed by Manosa and Co. a. A survey was conducted by to its employees in relation to the possible transfer of the current Senate, in which 1032 responded out of 1714 total number employees.. According to the survey conducted to the Senate last September 19, 2017, it indicated the transportation expenses, place of residence of employees, and choice between Antipolo and BGC for the relocation.
Expenses not indicated Php 501.00 and more Php 401.00 to Php 500.00
Php 101.00 to Php 200.00 Php 00.00 to Php 100.00 Php 201.00 to Php 300.00
Based on the pie graph above, transportation expenses are categorized in 6 ranges, 34.11% or 352 of the 1032 respondents spend from Php 101.00 to Php 200.00, 203 employees (19.67%) spend Php 201.00 to Php 300.00, 146 employees (14.15%) spend Php 0.00 to Php 100.00, 77 employees (7.46%) spend Php 405 to Php 500.00, while 74 employees spend Php 501.00 or more on transportation expenses. In the aspect of place of residence, it is shown that 154 (14.92%) reside in Quezon City, followed by Cavite with 130 employees (13%). Next is Manila with 106 employees (10.27%), Makati with 73 employees (7.07%), Pasay with 69 employees (6.69%) and Paranaque with 65 employees (6.30%).
Finally, based on the pie graph below, the survey provided that 691 respondents (66.96%) preferred the senate to relocate in Taguig City, while 191 employees preferred in Antipolo (18.51%). However, 11.72 % of the respondents answered to neither Antipolo or Taguig and lastly, 29 (6.69%) did not indicate their stand regarding the transfer of Senate. It is shown that location was taken in consideration. (Lacson, 2017)Therefore, the survey summarizes that location and its accessibility is vital for the development of the new senate house.
Answer not indicated Neither of the Two Sites
Antipolo Site Taguig Site
b. According to Vivencio Dizon, the CEO/President of BCDA, there are developmental plans to ease traffic in BGC. There is a plan to extend the six- lane road in which Mckinley is calling “Grand Boulevard” all the way to Pasong Tamo Exit (now Chino Roces Ave.) to
decongest Lawton Drive. If the plan will push through, there will be an additional exit from the city center. Aside from that, there is also a plan to acquire the right of way owned by the Department of Education in order for the six- road exit be extended to the South Luzon Expressway. Currently, BCDA and DPWH has started the widening of the Lawton Drive, thus making it a six- lane road. According to the time table presented by the BCDA, the plans of the extension of the Grand Boulevard and the widening of the Lawton Drive will be completed in the year 2019.
Senate is a legislative body that is secondary to the Office of the President which passes bills, and makes very important decisions. Thus, studying these parameters give way to different considerations to be studied about the project such as its historical significance, the importance of trust and integrity in the government, health and productivity, and current scenario and struggles of the architecture of modern buildings and how the future Senate will take shape in its new environment without losing its significance. “Flexible design has been a constant component in human design
activity”. (Kronenburg)Since architecture and design of buildings demands to be flexible enough and
responds to its users, environment and society, this project entails the same thing- but considering its cultural context. “There is nothing permanent in this world except change” - Mahatma Gandhi Since the
government is changing in an instant and is always tentative, assessing these parameters give rise to the goal of this project as a flexible in scope, thus planning and designing conducive environment that withstands any change that it might have and making it as functional, significant, and a make it as a reflection of society.
PNB Financial Center, Pasay City
Figure 8 GSIS Complex in Pasay City (Source: http://adserver.bworldonline.com/webpics/articles/image/20111027ac213.jpg)
The GSIS building complex houses both GSIS and the current senate house in Pasay city. Built by Jorge Ramos, this edifice is one of the example of the esteemed structures during the Marcos Administration. Ramos, is also famous for his work for the Philippine Heart Center. The building was completed in 1985, but it was not fully utilized until 9 years later, when the GSIS finally moved in to the building to be its new headquarters. Then on 1997, the Senate house rented as their office after it moved from the Legislative Building now called the National Museum of the Philippines. The building was said to be awarded as Passive Solar Design Award at the World‟s Fair. The
building is an example of an energy efficient architecture. Designed with light shelves, it was utilized as these light shelves catch sunlight and reflect into a series of surfaces so that the farthest spaces from the natural light can be pleasantly well- lit without the usage of electricity. This building also takes advantage of the prevailing winds via breezeways to cool and ventilate the building. A breezeway is an architectural feature similar to a hallway that allow the passage of breeze between structures and accommodate high winds, and provide an aesthetic variation, also similar to the concept of venturi effect.
Figure 9 A breezeway in a form of a long pathwalk. Other breezeways were portrayed in the connections of the terraces. (Source: https://shutterchitecture.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/dsc00740.jpg)
Aside from that, the exercise of placing greeneries on the flat roof has been taken advantage for a good landscaping and a terraces- look-a- like feel by staggering each floor back from the edge of the one floor beneath it. The terraces- look- alike structure doesn‟t only serve as an aesthetic element according to John Nicholas Ramos, Jorge Ramos‟ son, also an ar chitectural designer in a local
newspaper, explains that the terraces like staggering of each level emulates the way the rainwater is gathered. (Enriquez, 2010)
Figure 10 Greeneries on the top of each roof. (Source: http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7174/6634152581_f0a6c6779b.jpg)
From its appearance, it demonstrates an example of practicality and raising the issues of environmental aspects into making sustainable features while being an example of Philippine architecture that acknowledges modernism but instigating Filipino cultural values. Aside from being the official headquarters of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), it also has the following amenities:
Figure 11 Grand Staircase located at the main entrance of GSIS office.(Source: https://shutterchitecture.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/dsc00747.jpg)
Figure 12 Entrance to the GSIS Theater (Source: https://shutterchitecture.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/dsc00737.jpg)
It also features a theatre and an art museum, named GSIS Museo ng Sining displaying classical artworks and paintings done especially by Fernando Amorsolo. One of these is the “History of Philippine Music” which was first displayed in Metropolitan Theater.
Since 1997, the senate has moved in to the GSIS complex from the Legislative Building now called the National Museum of the Philippines. It houses the offices of the 24 senators (senate proper) and the Offices under the Senate Secretary (secretariat). As of the count, there are 1746 employees currently working inside the office areas. Due to lack of space, some senators‟ extension offices were located outside the senate house. Below shows the existing plans of the Senate building.
Figure 13 Ground Floor Plan. (Source: Senate of the Philippines MSGB Office)
The ground floor, is mainly allocated for one mainly small entrance, a parking space for the immediate occupants, and utility rooms such as the power storage, storage rooms and offices for the other offices under the secretariat.
Figure 14 Second Floor Plan. (Source: Senate MSGB offcice)
The second floor of the senate building is where the session hall and committee rooms are located. This floor also entails the media for press conferences, senate hearing coverage and other media work. This is possible by the multipurpose rooms that has accordion separator that depends its use on the event.
Figure 15 Third Level Floor Plan. (Source: Senate MSGB Office)
Figure 16 Fourth Floor Plan. (Source: Senate MSGB Office)
On the other hand, third and fourth levels are dedicated for the administrative offices. Third floor is where the publication bureau is located. Fourth floor on the other hand, is where a mini museum is located containing pieces that were once used in senate and was displayed for exhibit.
Figure 17 Fifth Floor Plan. (Source: Senate of the Philippines)
, Figure 18 Sixth Floor Floor Plan (Source: Senate MSGB Office)
Lastly, the fifth and sixth floor entails the offices of the senators. Since there are around 30- 40 staffs per senator, some of the senators‟ offices rented another extension office in accommodating
transactions and queries. Fifth floor also provided extension offices and meeting rooms. Office of the Senate secretary, office of the Senate President, Senate President Pro Tempore, Majority Leader and Minority Leader is located on the sixth floor.
In totality, the senate building is planned based on the existing needs of its users vs. the space that was provided. Overall, the GSIS complex is well planned when it comes to its aesthetic quality, environmental approaches and a reflection of the Filipino architecture. However, the current situation of the senate by is not suited for the Jorge R amos‟ structure. It is observed that because of the space restrictions, the hierarchy of spaces became unorganized, thus, created long hallways each floor. It is also observed that the senate has only one entrance and exit, thus making it one way for the main entrance and at the same time, also a service entrance for equipment. The place occupied by senate was not given a provision for interaction spaces, resulting to stark, and gloomy spaces. Since the GSIS is designed with light shelves that reflects light to the inside, it was not utilized and taken in consideration in planning the workspaces. On the other hand, using the architectural qualities of the GSIS complex is vital for the new senate house. Aside from its architectural qualities, it is shown that the shuttered windows in a form of light shelf is a great aspect of the building aside from its terraces- like appearance. Most importantly, giving importance to the place in its cultural and historical quality side, thus a parameter for recreating the new home for the senate.
New Supreme Court Building in BGC by Manosa and Co.
Figure 19 Perspective of the New Supreme Court Complex. (Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer as cited Manosa and Co.)
The New Supreme Court of the Philippines was a product of the international completion led by the Supreme court of the Philippines to construct the new building in Fort Bonifacio Global City. Last October 2, 2015, the Supreme Court and the Bases Conversion Development Authority executed the Contract for the acquisition of a 2.1-hectare land in Fort Bonifacio, Global City which will serve as the site of the New Supreme Court Complex. (Supreme Court of the Philippines, 2016) The Supreme Court also emphasizes the building should be “culturally iconic building and a legacy for generations to come.” The winning design vetted other 60 local and international firms for the design.
The design of the complex was inspired by the star and the sun of the Philippine flag, emphasizing the cultural context of the project. Headed by the son of Franciso Manosa, Gelo Manosa, Ludwig Alvarez, and Interior Designer Bambi Manosa, Canada- based design consultant Engr. Albert Bicol and Malaysian ecoarchitect Ken Yeang, the complex is a symbol of culturally- sensitive and environmental- conscious.
Based from their video presentation, the building is employed with passive cooling and natural light as seen in Figure 22.(Manosa, 2017) This was possible by the means of sun reflector systems, that reflects light into workspaces and the need for artificial light substantially goes down. Aside from that, resiliency is a consideration in which the building has the lowest carbon footprint possible, and also able to withstand earthquakes. This kind of approach works on tropical climates, thus associating rainwater recycling and irrigation is essential in Manosa‟s desig ns. Programs for organic waste
recycling and sun harvesting will also be integrated to the project. (Labrador, 2017) “We went for a timeless design that evokes the historic associations of the institution, while also
being relevant to present-day lifestyles,” (Manosa, 2017) Inspired from the sun of the Philippine flag, the complex is composed of three building clusters that encircle a central circular tower which will house
the En Banc hall. The program also features chambers for the supreme court justices, and the remaining for housing the office of the staffs and employees. (Caruncho, 2017)
Figure 20 Bridge Links to the Central Circular Building, which will house the En Banc Hall. (Source: Supreme Court of the Philippines as cited Manosa and Co.)
Figure 21 Main Lobby Visualization. (Source: Supreme Court of the Philippines as cited Manosa and Co.)
Figure 22 Passive Cooling Design. Because of the three bridged clusters which have stilts on the ground, it became a breezeway that promotes efficient air circulation around the premises. Source: Screen grab from video presentation by (Manosa, 2017)
Based on their given design features, it is a new what Manosa presented as it is famous in indigenous Filipino design in context and main principles of lighting and ventilation. The given specifications about the environmental systems are timely topics, aiming for the title of the “Net- zero” facility. Also, what is new about their proposal is integrating biodiversity by not just creating greeneries
for interaction and sense of openness but integrating the local and natural flora and fauna which means it will also integrate the fauna in its surroundings. Also, one of the useful considerations solved by this project is the parking lot that will accommodate up to 600 slots for the employees and its visitors, since this is one of the common problems in a site development. The segregation of spaces by means of the three clusters of the building is made to regulate spaces from public to private spaces, a consideration made because of the current interference of the media and the public regarding national issues being judged by the highest judicial sector in the Philippines. Lastly, their aesthetic design of the building is an innovation from the usual classical revival style, usually incorporated in the design of most of the government buildings today such as city halls, taken the New Caloocan City Hall (as seen in the figure below) as an example which adapted this kind of revival style. Since we were once colonized by the Americans, we also adapted the Classicism in which America adapted from Georgian Style famous in Europe which influenced them in the design of their parliament buildings, also known as the Federal or Adam style. (The Editors of Encyclopedia Brittanica, 1999) Studying these design evolution of the public buildings in the Philippines, the Manosas designed a modern facility, still reflected the historicity of the Supreme Court, and adding a specific reason and concept in their design.
Figure 23 New Caloocan City Hall, designed using the classicism/ federal style revival. This city hall is expected to complete before the elections in 2018. (Source: caloocancity.gov.ph)
This project is an example of implying reason in design, as the senate building also seeks for its identity. Conversely, the conceptualization that is rooted in the cultural, environmental, and social context is important to giving the right solution to the problem. One aspect to be adapted to the project is identifying the pros and cons of the place, which is the BGC, also the same site of the project, not just by incorporating environmental and resilient features but justifying the place and “bringing the place into existence”. (Heidegger, 1993) The project New Supreme Court of the Philippines, as embodied in the related literature, is a symbol of conjecture in building the future iconic and world-class buildings which continue to maintain its cultural impact and flexibility in design, as reflected in other precedent iconic structures in the Philippines.
London City Hall by Foster + Partners
Figure 24 View of the London City Hall leaning beside the Tower Bridge of London. (Source: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/de/b9/a7/deb9a7c68b96cde309efa0dd5e34030d.jpg)
According to Foster and Partners, the city hall is one of a capital‟s most symbolically import ant projects, which expresses the transparency of the democratic process. (Foster + Partners, 2002) The London City Hall is one of the projects emphasizing these potential by means of transparency and at the same time, wholly sustainable and environment- friendly building. City Hall is part of the More London development located between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, on the south bank of the Thames. (Greater London Authority) It houses the assembly chamber, committee rooms, and public facilities. It is also evident that the assembly chamber faces the north across the river and is enclosed with glass to allow the Londoners watch the Assembly at work. The general public is also introduced to the building by the space called the “London Living Room” which is a public space used for exhibitions and public
functions, and offers views of London, accessed by elevators and gentle ramps.
Figure 25 Helical Staircase that all ows public‟s access to the London's Living Room. (Source: https://londonunveiled.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/city-hall-interior-2.jpg)
Architectural Analysis: Based on its form, the building is shaped with no front and back, and is leaning against the river, and is facing north to prevent it from overshadowing the river. The southern part of the building where it is leaning is staggered inward to provide sun shading. Also, its shape is a geometrically modified sphere which limits exposed heat to its roof, thus preventing it from direct sunlight exposure.
Figure 26 Section Detail of the London City Hall. On the left side (facing north) is the staircases leading to the Living room, the right side are the offices, then on the lower ground is the piazza, and cafe area designated for the public.
On the other hand, based from the study of Sadeghi et. al entitled “Symbolic Meaning of
Transparency in Contemporary Architecture: An Evaluation of Recent Public B uildings in Famagusta” insisted that London is one of the cradle of modern architecture. (Sadeghi, Sani, & Wang, 2015) In their study, one of the London‟s iconic buildings such as the London City Hall is studied based on its
characteristic to connect the symbolic meaning of modern architecture and the perception of the people regarding transparent structures. Based on the table generated from their research using “content analysis method”, the study about the London City Hall i s presented as follows:
Figure 27 Analysis of the London City Hall and Symbolic Aspects 2018)
(Modified by Umali,
Based on the table generated, London City Hall as a symbolic architecture is proven by its aspect. In summary, one can tell that a certain edifice is a symbolic architecture based on these:
Based on key structural and idea behind the concept
Universal patterns
Based on Past Experience
Based on Functional Aspect
Based on User‟s Point of View
Refer to the Context
Aside from the tangible aspect of development, the research further identifies people as an agent in giving architectural meaning to the built environment. It is concluded that symbolic meaning and architecture can be identified by many factors, ranging from the opinions of different people, and is changeable from time to time. It is also argued that although all glass or transparent architecture is a definition of modernity, there are countless meanings on every structure being built. Conversely, literature review study about the modern buildings in London signifies that everyone should live in a meaningful living environment. By this way, people can give their valuable perception on buildings.
Norman Foster‟s project is a justification of a modern building with re spect of its context. The
idea behind the transparent façade of the building and the accessibility of the public from the bottom main entrance to its observatory is an indication of how the building, as a tangible representation of the government, tries to connect to the public by opening the structure and implying the concept of “see through” which says about transparency and democracy. Its site also depicts the historic London, while
on transition of change, while taking in consideration the history each building had unfold. Conversely, according to the research written by Sadeghi, et. al., creating transparent buildings without relating to its people cannot be considered architecture but a construction. Relating it to the proponent‟s project, these key aspects can be used to
and
the outcome of this research.
By this, every designer can answer t he question as what Peter Eisenman asks “Why does this building look like this?”
The US Capitol Building is where the US Senate and the House of Representatives came to discuss, deliberate and craft laws. Located in Washington D.C., it is one of the iconic landmarks which
actively holds sessions for the last two centuries. Evident on its appearance, this building is an example of Neoclassical architecture, which derives its design from Greece and Rome. (Bigler, 2004) `
Based on history, the US Capitol is derived from the design of the Washington DC made by
Pierre Charles L‟ Enfant, who refused to submit the drawings of the US Capitol. Instead, Dr. William
Thornton, a versatile physician did the design and was immediately approved to be the final design for the building. Other architects interfered the project as Thornton lacks knowledge on building technology. The senate chamber was first completed, then the newly- elected Jefferson, appointed Benjamin Latrobe, to finish the remaining parts of the building. Latrobe followed the ideas of Thornton about the exterior façade while incorporating his own design in the interiors. Because of the war of 1812, the building was burned, and was reconstructed by the supervision of Charles Bulfinch, which obeyed the precedent design of Thornton. In 1850s, the Capitol continues to expand with the increasing number of legislators and states, alongside with the architects‟ challenges about expan ding and maintaining the building. (Architect of the Capitol) At present, continuous efforts on modernization and maintenance was made by different architects appointed as the architect. Until recently, in 2008, the newest addition in the US Capitol complex includes the US Capitol Visitor Center, said to be ¾ the size of the Capitol itself.
Figure 28 US Capitol Visitor Center (Source: https://cdn.crtkl.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1/2015/11/cvc-4.jpg)
Based from the 3D section below, the ground floor of the structure is dedicated on the committee rooms, the Hall of Columns and amenities accessible to the public. The second level south wing holds the Chamber of the Representatives while the north wing is dedicated to the senate, also included its congressional offices. The rotunda serves as a common space and a ceremonial space which is also a gallery tha t displays paintings and memorabilia depicting the country‟s history. The third floor is also accessible to the public in which overviews the second floor in which both of the houses are in session, the rest of this floor occupies other offices, committee rooms and Press rooms. The fourth floor and the basement level/ terrace level of the US capitol are occupied by offices, machinery rooms, and other support areas.
Figure 29 3D Section of the US Capitol. It consists of the south wing that houses the House of representatives and the north wing as the Senate chamber. It also points other important features of the Capitol such as the Sta tuary Hall, Hall of Columns, Old Senate Chamber, Stature of Freedom, Capitol dome, ,Crypt and the Capitol Rotunda. (Source: https://www.howitworksdaily.com/inside-the-us-capitol-building/)
The US Capitol study can be associated locally from the Legislative Building and the proposed Constitutional Hills (now called the Batasan Hills) in Quezon City. The Old Legislative Building, which houses both the Senate (Upper house) and the House of Representatives (Lower house), reveals the same intention that of the US capitol- coordinating the two legislative branches. The two branches were once together in the building because of the legislative process itself. The legislative process entails first the interference of the House of Representatives, then the Senate before the final approval of the President, which constitutes the executive branch of the government. In other cases, the coordination of both houses are needed if there are joint resolutions, or resolutions that requires combined session of both houses, which affects the national level. Unlike the design of the US Capitol, the Legislative building consists of the upper level dedicated for the senate and the lower level for the House of Representatives.
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