COMMUNITY-LED CULTURAL MAPPING

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, 2018

Documenting living heritage in Manila’s oldest neighbourhood Quiapo

Quiapo was historically known for its elegant wooden houses, but is these days more associated with cheap markets and low cost accommodation. In this forgotten neighbourhood we worked with 3 local heritage NGO’s and local district authorities to identity and document heritage sites. Through the lens of locals we discovered architectural highlights, long-standing mom-and-pop shops, and many memories hidden in the urban fabric.  

The objective was raising awareness, sense of belonging, and ownership. Through the mapping process we created multiple new dialogues: 1) between different local stakeholders, 2) between young visitors and local shop owners 3) between young heritage enthusiasts and local government. The process concluded with a map, digital app and influencer reconnaissance guided tour, yielding inspirational articles in the on-line press. 

Collaborative Partnership:

Funded by:

“We are proud to be part of this initiative. For the first time we map out the cultural assets. It is important to document their stories, they form the foundation of our preservation work” 

– Tina Paterno, Technical director, San Sebastián Basilica Conservation and Development Foundation, Inc.