Dizon, Raphael Duane R.

March 12, 2013

“Summing It Up: The Critique of Architecture”

Architectural Critique: Magallanes Church

Through the influence of the Spaniards, the Philippines is one of the countries whose

dominant church is the Catholic Church. Showing the evident importance of this institution,

there are presences of several religious structures found in each heart of the different cities

and provinces in the country.

A notable religious structure that was built in the Magallanes Village in Makati is the

Parish of St. Alphonsus Mary de Liguori popularly known as the Magallanes Church. First

constructed under the design of National Artist, Arch. Leandro V. Locsin in the 1960’s, the

initial structure was used until it was destroyed by a fire in 2004. The "new structure will be a

symbol of a community transforming tragedy into grace"(Galicia, D.). With the original

concrete buttresses surviving the fire, the church was rebuilt in 2007. The current church is

designed by Arch. Dominic Galicia. It is a "reminder that the community survived a tragedy

together" (Galicia, D.).

The church is defined as "a building that is used for Christian religious services"

(http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/church) however it is also defined as "a body

or organization of religious believers" (http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/church).

Utilizing and emphasizing this concept, the Parish of St. Alophonsus Mary de Liguori is a

testament to the concept that the faith and spirit does not lie on the design and grandeur of the

structure but on the body of people.

Photo: Magallanes Church Facade and Bell Tower Photo: Betis Church Facade and Bell Tower

Since the time when Christianity entered the Philippines, several churches have been

established by different orders. Many of which follow a certain architectural plan, the

Cruciform layout, a reflection of the Christian Cross. Deviating from this tradition, the

Magallanes Church utilizes geometric forms for its design. Instead of the cruciform tradition,

the church has a diamond plan with the two corners cut off to function as the main entrance

and the altar. Topping off the church is a glass structure reminiscent of a traditional church

dome cut off into sections to give a modern interpretation. Housing the bells of the church is

an unusual form comprising of different levels of angles forming an interesting bell tower

near the facade of the church. Traditionally, bell towers are supposed to be high enough that

is could be easily seen from afar and one could identify the approaching town nearby.

Interestingly, the bell tower of the Magallanes Church deviates from this tradition since it is

lower than the structure itself. What is noticeable from afar is the main structure itself.

Surrounding the church are series of buildings with modern designs serving as offices and

chapels. With these bold choices of designs, the structure deviates from the symbolisms and

takes a redefinition of what a church truly signifies. It "will also serve to sustain things other

than tangible material resources: Memory and Faith".

Photo (Left to Right): Magallanes Church Garden and Stations of the Cross, Plants embedded in decorative rocks, Capiz Light Fixtures, Clay roof tiles

A notable and pleasing feature of the church is its location. Surprisingly, the ambiance

and feel of the area is peaceful and relaxing despite the fact that it is beside two different

schools, and a highway and skyway. As one moves around the area, the rich gardens and

landscapes completes the relaxing and peaceful experience. Displays of different artworks in

the Stations of the Cross and fountains can be found complimenting the plants surrounding

the area. Surprisingly, found between each buttress are plants embedded in multi-colored

rocks which catches the attention of passers nearby. Interestingly, each buttress are topped off

with lighting fixtures made of capiz shells which gives a Filipino touch. From concrete and

glass to clay tiles and bricks, the building features the use of various building materials.

Photo (Left to Right): Magallanes Church Main Entrance, Revolving Panel Doors, Church Interior

Finding and entering the main structure is not a hassle. One would notice the use of

glass which gives the impression that it is transparent and welcoming. The steps are easy to

climb because of the good proportion of each tread and riser. An interesting feature is the

railing composed of a three-pronged metal which goes well with the design of the church.

Unlike most churches which uses a double panel doors, the main entrance has this distinct

intricately carved revolving panel doors and glass doors on wooden frames. Seeing it from

the outside, one would think that it may seem small however, once you enter the church it

feels very spacious. Inside the building, a catcher of attention is the curved staircase on each

side leading to more seats on the second floor. Not only is it elegant but it also saves on

space. The floor features a horizontal pattern of tiles except for the main pathway which

utilizes a vertical pattern. The area is well-lighted and well-ventilated due to the use of glass

windows and doors however, since it is air-conditioned during most times, the windows are

used more to let natural light in. However with a number of openings and the location of the

place, natural wind and air flow could still make the temperatures comfortable and refreshing.

The ceiling is formed by the sectioned dome each separated by a glass and these triangular

structures topping off each columns which serves as blinds that modulate the amount of light

entering the building. One would find scaffoldings which may function as pathways above

the structure. Providing the users comfort while keeping the sanctity of the place, it shows the

combination of functions and design.

Photo: St. Alphonsus Mary de Liguori Parish Altar

Photo: St. James the Apostle Parish Altar

Aside from the exterior and plan of the

church, the interior also deviates from the

traditional designs of the old churches. In

keeping with the spirit of the place and with

signification, we find a radial arrangement of seats instead of the traditional linear

organization. Accommodating four to five hundred people, this arrangement signifies a

communal gathering amongst the people. Instead of having a Grand Altar or "Retablo" like in

many traditional churches, the main altar of the church features a simple glass mosaic on top

of a curved wooden base on which where the tabernacle lies. It has fewer sculptures with

only three images compared to the altars of the old churches. Instead of the traditional four-

cornered table, found in the altar is a unique table which is a representation of a broken bread.

It is simple compared to the other churches yet it gives an impact. Above the altar is a

breathtaking view which features a stained-glass interpretation of the Holy Spirit with the sky

as its background. One would feel the peace and serenity as he or she prays not seeing

concrete ceilings but the heavenly skies themselves.

The design and spirit of the parish goes back to the foundations of the church. Like in

the olden times when the early Christians did not have grand churches, the faith is the main

focus of the believers. By its design and ambiance, it provides a serene and peaceful place to

worship. Diverting a person's attention from the busy and complicated life even for just a

moment, it allows one to reflect and feel that he or she is one with the Almighty. "It is as a

Phoenix rising that the structure will serve as an agent of faith" (Galicia, D.). By stripping

down the grandeur of the structure, it makes a statement that faith does not rely on the

spectacle of the church but on the faith and beliefs of the body.

Works Cited:

n.a. (2010). The History Of Saint Alphonsus Mary Di Liguori Parish. St. Alphonsus

Mary Di Liguori Parish. Retrieved March 10, 2014, from

<http://saintalphonsus.ph/history.html>

Galicia, Dominic. (n.d.). Magallanes Church. Retrieved March 24, 2014, from

<http://www.domgalicia.com/search/label/Magallanes%20Church>

Macairan, Evelyn. (2004, September 10). Fire Hits Magallanes Village Church. The

Philippine Star. Retrieved March 10, 2014, from

<http://www.philstar.com/metro/264189/fire-hits-magallanes-village-church>