History of Architecture: Filipino Architecture

HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES

PRECOLONIAL ARCHITECTURE IN LOWLANDS & COASTAL AREAS

  • Overview: Historical journey through the Philippines' architecture from precolonial times.

THE FILIPINO SPIRIT AS EXPRESSED THROUGH ARCHITECTURE

  • The concept of Diwa:

    • Definition: The essence or spirit found in Filipino architecture, particularly visible in constructed spaces such as homes.

    • Attributes: Demonstrates the Filipino spirit of Oneness.

The Filipino Expression of Self

  • Essence from Diwa leads to:

    • Halaga: Represents the values Filipinos associate with their beliefs and experiences, intrinsic to self-perception and cultural identity.

    • Expressions are reflective of Filipino cognition:

    1. Intellectual - isaloob: Keeping knowledge or beliefs in mind.

    2. Volitional - kusang loob: Acting from one's own volition.

    3. Emotional - magbago ng loob: Changing feelings or attitudes.

    4. Ethical - utang na loob: Sense of gratitude and indebtedness.

  • Holistic thinking: Filipinos view contexts seamlessly, a single word can convey multifaceted meanings clear within context.

Concept of Oneness

  • Oneness as the foundational element of the Filipino spirit:

    • Unified self-concept extending beyond individual to family and social groups.

    • Non-dualistic worldview; interconnectedness with the universe.

    • Influence on Filipino behavior and physical expressions through architecture.

LOWLAND VERNACULAR DWELLINGS

Bahay Kubo Overview

  • Bahay Kubo: The traditional Filipino dwelling, evolving from the Austronesian term Balai and influenced by the Spanish term cubo (cube), emphasizing cubic geometry.

  • Characteristics of Bahay Kubo:

    • House on stilts: Common in Southeast Asia; functional for flood resistance and ventilation.

    • Structure: Timber, bamboo, thatch, with voluminous roofs for humidity management.

Historical Accounts of Bahay Kubo

  • Described by:

    • Pedro de San Buenaventura, OFM: Mentioned "kubo" as mountain houses.

    • Diego Bergaño, OSA (1729): Defined "kubu, balungbung" for simple huts owned by peasant families.

BUILDING MATERIALS

  • Key materials used:

    • Timber

    • Bamboo

    • Thatch (Nipa, Cogon, Anahaw)

    • Fibers (Rattan)

  • Construction techniques include:

    • Post and lintel system with Molave hard wood preferred (Philippine Yellow rosewood - Vitex geniculata).

FILIPINO ANTHROPOMETRY

  • Traditional system of body measures:

    1. Tumuro: Distance from thumb tip to forefinger tip.

    2. Dangkal: Thumb tip to middle finger tip extended.

    3. Dipa: Arm's full span from fingertip to fingertip.

    4. Dati: Width of a finger.

    5. Damak: Length from middle finger tip to palm edge.

    6. Dapal: Length and width of open hand.

  • Measurements categorized in relation to Spanish and English units, to provide proper dimensioning in traditional construction.

BUILDING ANATOMY OF BAHAY KUBO

  • Key structural components:

    • Haligi: Posts which are main structural supports.

    • Kilo (rafters), Sikang (purlins), Sepo (girts): Supportive framework for roofs.

  • Construction style promotes ventilation and protection against humidity, demonstrated through:

    • Steep thatched hipped roof and latticework for walls.

Distinct Horizontal Divisions

  • Three main sections:

    1. Stilts: Foundation elevated to prevent flooding and allow storage for livestock/tools.

    2. Upper Living Unit: Single or multipurpose living space depending on family needs.

    3. Roof: Characteristic steep roof with thatching for insulation.

FENESTRATIONS AND INTERIOR LAYOUT

  • Types of openings in Bahay Kubo:

    • Awning-type windows: For natural lighting and protection.

    • Sliding or hinged doors: Ensuring access and air flow.

  • Interior design considerations:

    • Open space for multifunctionality: living, dining, storing.

    • Distinct areas for cooking and bathing.

URBANIZATION AND INFORMAL SETTLING

  • Urbanization: Process of population movement towards cities, anticipated to reach 60% of global population by 2030.

  • Characteristics of Informal Settlements:

    • Shanty structures reflecting local materials and designs originating from Bahay Kubo.

    • Informal shanties often lack basic services: water, electricity, sanitation.

    • Commonly built in available vacant lots, railways, or along riverbanks, leading to social and environmental issues.

HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF ESTEROS

  • Definition and significance of Esteros in Manila: Tidal channels integral to urban infrastructure.

  • Historical decline of esteros due to various factors including urban development, waste accumulation, leading to flooding problems.

CURRENT ISSUES AND SUSTAINABILITY

  • Ongoing challenges within the housing sector focusing on informal settlements and urban resilience.

  • Philippine architecture as a reflection of socio-economic conditions and cultural heritage.

REFERENCES

  • A comprehensive list of academic texts and sources related to Filipino architecture and its historical and cultural importance, including works by renowned scholars and historical accounts of architecture in the Philippines.