Miranda, Joselyn C.
AR492C-ARCH42S3
PCS-01: Compilation of Select Heritage Buildings
Barasoain Church, Malolos, Bulacan
Located in the center of Malolos, Bulacan, Barasoain Church is not only an
architectural masterpiece but also a symbol of deep historical importance in the Philippines.
Barasoainchurch was constructed in 1630 in Malolos City, Bulacan.
The church documented several significant events that took place in the country.
During General Aguinaldo's temporary stay, three major events in Philippine History
occurred at this church: the assembly of the First Philippine Congress (September 15, 1898),
the drafting of the Malolos Constitution (from September 29, 1898, to January 21, 1899), and
the establishment of the First Philippine Republic (January 23, 1899). On August 1, 1973,
President Ferdinand Marcos declared the church as a National Shrine through Presidential
Decree No. 260.
Ongoing initiatives are in place to preserve Barasoain Church as a national heritage
site. Projects focused on conservation and maintenance, along with partnerships with
heritage organizations, contribute to maintaining the church's resilience against time. The
goal is to not only uphold the church’s structural soundness but also to guarantee that future
generations can value its historical and architectural importance. Barasoain Church also
comes alive with cultural events and celebrations that honor its historical legacy. Annual
festivities, including reenactments of historical events and processions, immerse visitors in
the vibrant traditions of Malolos. Adjacent to the church is the Museum of Philippine Political
History, which holds various artifacts and memorabilia that document the country’s political
history. The museum offers an in-depth narrative of the occurrences that led to the approval
of the Malolos Constitution and the creation of the First Philippine Republic.
First United Building, Manila
The First United Building, formerly called the Perez-Samanillo Building, is an Art Deco
structure constructed in 1928 on Escolta Street in Binondo, Manila, Philippines. It was
designed by national artist Andres Luna de San Pedro, who is the son of the painter Juan
Luna. This building was erected during the American colonial period when Escolta served as
the financial hub of the nation, and it survived the Battle of Manila during World War II.
Today, the First United Building is recognized not only for its historical and
commercial significance but also as a lively platform for artistic and cultural activities. Half of
its spaces are devoted to cultivating a community of artists, designers, and entrepreneurs
who find inspiration within its very walls. Galleries, workshops, and performance venues
share space with cafes and boutiques, transforming the First United Building into a hub for
urban life, history, and art.
Laxamana House, Pulilan, Bulacan
Built in 1929, this residence is where Japanese officials stayed during World War II.
The real owners and occupants of this heritage house turned it into a museum cum event
place; this is one example of the adaptive re-use of the old house. What distinguishes this
house is its impressive collection of artworks. As you explore the home, you'll encounter
paintings by national artist Dr. Abdul Mari Asia Imao, along with a dedicated room featuring
the work of pulileño artist Demetrio Diego. The Laxamana House exemplifies a traditional
bahay-na-bato, with stairs leading guests to the living room, particularly during the annual
Mandala Art Festival.
Paoay Church, Ilo Ilo
The Saint Augustine Church, often referred to as Paoay Church, is a Roman Catholic
church located in the Municipality of Paoay, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. Built in 1710, this
church is well-known for its unique architecture, characterized by the large buttresses
located on its sides and rear. In 1973, the Philippine government designated it as a National
Cultural Treasure, and in 1993 it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part
of the ensemble of Baroque Churches of the Philippines.
Palacio de Memoria, Paranaque
Palacio de Memoria is a renovated seven-story pre-war house designed in colonial
revival style, originating from the 1930s. According to anecdotal reports, this estate and its
original two-story seaside structure were initially commissioned by Antonio Melian y Pavia,
the third Count of Peracamps, for his bride, Margarita Zóbel de Ayala. However, little is
known about the architect who designed the building, although the main ballroom features
an Art Deco terrazzo floor adorned with a stunning tinikling motif, attributed to National Artist
Juan F. Nakpil. By adaptive reuse, the house is now used as an arts and events center.
References:
https://thebulacan.com/blog/history/barasoain-church-a-journey-through-time-and-faith-in-ma
lolos-bulacan/
https://www.scribd.com/document/434087759/Barasoain-Church
https://firstunitedbuilding.com/history
https://celebrate.pulilan.gov.ph/tourism/Old-House-Casa-Fransisco-The-Laxamana-House/4
https://filmphilippines.com/locations/paoay-church-ilocos-norte
https://www.palaciodememoria.com/about/faqs-and-guidelines/
