Академический Документы
Профессиональный Документы
Культура Документы
ILOILO CITY
CONSERVATION PLANNING
AND DEVELOPMENT
GUIDELINES
i
Contents
Preface v
Introduction Include on the purpose and mandate of ICCHCC as reflected in 1
Regulation Ordinance No. 00-054 and the purpose of the
Procedures and Guidelines.
ii
2. To designate the Heritage core area
3. Introduce Streetscape Development
a. Walkability
b. Connectivity
c. Quality Architecture and Urban Design
d. Street Trees
e. Signages and Street Lighting
f. Sidewalk Pavement and Furnishings
4. Urban Amenities and Commercial Activities
a. Diversity and Mix-use
b. Sidewalk Cafes
c. Street vendors
d. Revitalization of Central Market/Night Market
e. Open Spaces
f. Public Facilities
5. Quality Architecture and Urban Design
6. Involvement of Multi-sectors entering out, conservation programs
and projects
iii
Section 17 Specific building requirements with illustrations and drawings 82
a.) Architectural guidelines
iv
Preface
The conservation of Iloilo City Downtown Central Business District Heritage Zone calls for
both government and private sector participation. The city government created the Iloilo City Cultural
Heritage Conservation Council (ICCHCC) to take lead in advancing its cultural heritage conservation
and promotion. The plan is to upgrade the street environment and upgrade its own properties in order
to stimulate its revitalization. Since most of the properties to be conserved are privately owned,
private sector role is important.
v
Introduction
Careful handling of the City’s historic fabric is very essential in order to avoid past
mistakes. The Central Business District (CBD) of a city attracts visitors, expands business
scope and sophistication and even transmits its heritage effort to conserve its fragile
architectural heritage. A plan of action therefore is necessary to ensure that both government
and private actions are coordinated to achieve the desired results.
The Conservation Planning and Development Guidelines specifically deal with
planning and urban design strategies that can help realize the conservation of a heritage zone
within one of Iloilo City’s most important business centers the Downtown CBD. The
guidelines cover conservation initiatives for the downtown CBD Heritage Zone, which
includes commercial-residential mixed blocks bounded by the major streets of J.M. Basa,
Iznart, Muelle Loney, Rizal and General Luna. It also covers neighbor blocks bounded by
the side streets of Guanco, Arroyo, Aldeguer, Arsenal, Mapa, Delgado, Yulo, Solis, and
Aduana. Included also are topics on conservation, restoration as well as redevelopment
measures for buildings and sites. Envelop control will also be discussed and will cover
guidelines for the sites.
All heritage buildings within the Downtown CBD Heritage Zone are currently being
inventoried and catalogued by the ICCHCC with assistance from the Ford Motor Company
Environmental and Conservation Grants. All buildings in the heritage zone that are to be
restored, repaired, demolished, and reconstructed shall be reviewed by the ICCHCC for city
government approval. Even new construction shall be dealt with and subject to the
guidelines prescriptions.
1
Section 1. Cultural Heritage Conservation Policy of Iloilo City
2
Section 2. Scope
The Conservation Planning and Development Guidelines for the Downtown CBD
Heritage Zone will apply to the preservation and conservation of heritage buildings and sites
located within the Downtown Central Business District, within the territorial jurisdiction of
the city of Iloilo, Philippines. The scope of the guidelines application covers all the areas
bounded by the Muelle Loney at the East, the line of buildings along Iznart Street at the
West, the Capitol grounds at the North and the Sta. Maria Catholic School at the South.
4
a. Chairperson – Official of the City of Iloilo or non-official
b. Vice Chairperson – Representative of the association of Architects in the City of
Iloilo
c. Iloilo City Conservation Bureau (ICCB)
d. Canadian Urban Institute (CUI)
e. Department of Tourism (DOT) 6 – Regional Director
f. CREBA
g. City Engineer
h. United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) - Iloilo Chapter
i. United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) - Marikudo Chapter
j. United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) - Hamili Chapter
k. Philippine Institute of Architects (PIA) Iloilo Section
l. Federation of Councilors Association
m. Private Sector
n. City Environment Office
o. City Planning Development Office (CPDO)
It shall be the responsibility of the Council to meet regularly for the following functions:
a. Identify and document cultural heritage or legacy buildings and sites in the city
b. Plan and implement a Heritage Conservation Program that will include the
identification and conservation of Heritage Zone and promotion of citizen and
private sector participation in all related program initiatives.
c. Formulate and enforce an Implementing Rules and Regulations as prescribed by
Section 3(b) of Regulation Ordinance No. 2001-071 and other local heritage
conservation policies and guidelines.
d. Ensure the integration of heritage conservation into the City’s Development
Plans/Programs, Zoning Regulations, Building Construction Permitting Systems
as well as in all other related future plans and policies.
5
The council, as the need arises may create other Technical Working Groups (TWG)
or expand the membership of the council or the TWG upon approval of the city mayor.
6
There shall also be created Technical Work Groups for the Council’s technical work
needs which will be composed of the following:
a. TWG for Planning
b.TWG for Ways and Means
c. TWG for Policy Formulation
d.TWG for IEC and Advocacies
e. TWG for Regulation and Enforcement
f. Other committees and membership. The council, as the need arises may create other
TWGs or expand the membership of the Council or the TWGs.
g.Executive Director. In order to help coordinate the routine activities of the Council
and the TWGs the City Planning and Development Coordinator is hereby
designated as Executive Director and will be back staffed by a Secretariat
composed of at least two (2) city government personnel.
7
Section 6: Functions of the Technical Working Group
8
Section 7. Cultural Heritage Registration and Designation Procedures
The ICCHCC shall establish and maintain a register, to be known as the Iloilo City
Cultural Heritage Register, for the documentation of cultural heritage sites in Iloilo City,
including:
• National shrines, national monuments, and national landmarks identified by
the National Historic Institute (NHI) that are located in Iloilo City;
• All buildings/structures located in Iloilo City that have been in existence for
50 years or more;
• Plaza Libertad, Molo Plaza, Arevalo Plaza, Mandurriao Plaza, Jaro Plaza
• Other cultural heritage sites designated by the ICCHCC as having cultural
heritage and historical value.
b. Contents of Register
The Register established by the ICCHCC shall list all property situated in Iloilo City
that has been designated by the ICCHCC or otherwise nationally designated as having
cultural heritage value, and shall contain, with respect to each property.
• A legal description of the property
• The name and address of the owner; and
• A statement explaining the cultural heritage value or interest of the property
and a description of the heritage attributes of the property.
The Register many contain property that has not been designated by the ICCHCC but
that the ICCHCC believes to be of cultural heritage value, and shall contain a description
of the property that is sufficient to readily ascertain the property.
9
c. Cultural Heritage Designation
The ICCHCC may designate a property as having cultural heritage value in, but not
limited to, the following circumstances
• The property is deemed to be of cultural heritage value due to its cultural,
historical, architectural, archaeological, aesthetic, scientific or educational
worth
• The property/structure is within the Central Business District of Iloilo City
• The property/structure is within the Central Business District of Iloilo City
and has been in existence for 50 years or more
• The property/structure is not within the Central Business District of Iloilo City
and has been in existence for 50 years or more
10
The owner can take pride that the designation is a way of acknowledgement of the
heritage value of his/her property and for the community to appreciate and promote
awareness of its historic past. It provides a process to ensure that changes to the property
are property managed to maintain or enhance its heritage value.
f. Effects of Designation
11
g. Heritage Designation Procedure
The ICCHCC may identify, inventory, and designate sites within Iloilo City to be of
cultural heritage value if:
• The property meets the prescribed criteria for designation as referred to in
section 7.
• The designation is made in accordance with the process set out in this section.
h. Notice Requirements
i. Contents of Notice
Note: scope of R.O. No. 00-054 as am. R.O. No. 2001-071 limits ICCHCC cultural
heritage conservation to buildings, structures, plazas that have been in existence for at
least 50 years in Iloilo City, or are located in the Iloilo Central Business District Heritage
12
Zone. Since this section presumes that ICCHCC may designate “new” heritage
properties not indicated in the ordinance it may not be applicable at this stage.
A person who objects to a proposed designation by the ICCHCC shall, within thirty
(30) days after the date of publication of the notice of intention to designate in a
newspaper having general circulation in Iloilo City, serve on the ICCHCC a notice of
objection indicating the reason for the objection and all relevant information.
l. Hearing
Upon the expiration of the 30-day period, the ICCHCC shall conduct a hearing open
to the public to ascertain whether the respective property should be designed, and the
ICCHCC, the owner, and any concerned party who has filed an objection pursuant to
section 7 and such other persons as specified by the ICCHCC shall be parties to the
hearing.
m. Service of Notice
ICCHCC shall serve formal notice to the owner of the property, stating the reasons
for the public hearing, and set the hearing date within thirty (30) days from receipt of
such notice. ICCHCC shall publish the notice of hearing in a newspaper of regional
circulation to inform the public.
If there be failure to serve the formal notice at the official address of the owner,
ICCHCC shall publish notice of hearing in a newspaper of regional circulation to inform
the public.
13
The ICCHCC may combine two or more related hearings and conduct them in all and
for all purposes as one hearing.
The final decision on the application shall be duly entered into the Register.
14
Iloilo City’s peculiar urban morphology developed during the first century of Spanish
colonial settlement. A remarkable degree of urban transformation happened in 1571 when
the Spaniards settled in the village of Arevalo. After the Dutch razed Arevalo in 1618 the
region’s urban center shifted a few kilometers east to the village of Iloilo where the major
anchorage was located.
Iloilo remained a missionary and administrative center until the mid-18th century
where the Chinese merchants began to export the regions handicraft textiles. The growth of
the clothing industry eventually marked an impact on the demography and morphology of the
15
six towns which compromise the urban area. Population data for 1776 indicate that these
were still small towns. Jaro had 2531 residents, Molo had 2343 and Iloilo had only 835.
The opening of the port to international trade in 1855 and the boom of the sugar
industry led further to the acceleration of urban development at the mouth of Iloilo River and
its immediate environment particularly at the Iloilo proper. With the arrival of Mr. Nicholas
Loney, designated British vice consul for the province of Iloilo, Iloilo was transformed as
one of the dominant port in the country between 1860 and 1871.
The shift from the textile to sugar export immediately marked an impact on almost
every aspects of Iloilo’s urban development. With the number of vessels entering the port,
Iloilo replaced Manila as the regional center for distribution of foreign export and import.
Because of the rapid growth of business and economic activities, major changes such
as increase in population, office spaces, and expansion of town’s center greatly influence the
urban morphology of the town. As it grew steadily as a trading center of Panay and Negros,
by virtue of a commonwealth act it attached the nearby towns of Lapaz, Jaro, Mandurriao,
Molo and Arevalo to form the city, until it was formally elevated to the status of a city on
October 5, 1809.
After World War II, Iloilo City continued its role as the major port of entry of western
Visayas, handling the foreign trades of the region and managing the commercial and
industrial activities of Panay. As the city grew, the urban center particularly the Central
Business District (CBD) became the focus of urban development. Problems related to traffic
congestions, parking spaces, drainage, demolition of historic buildings, the need for urban
planning and urban design was evident. The city must address all these problems before it
deteriorates.
In 1930 Architect Juan Arellano of DPWH drafted a physical plan outlying the spatial
distribution of different land uses of the entire city (see Fig. 4). The plan was similar to
Ebenezer Howard’s concept of “Garden City”, a central city surrounded by smaller garden
cities, Arellano’s proposal indicate the functional relationship between the center and its
surrounding districts by separating them with parks and gardens. It was considered to be the
16
first urban plan for the city. Overlapping of events and changes in the leadership of the city
government however left the plan unimplemented.
17
Result of Land Use Development in the city in 1934 (see Fig. 5) marked a big
contrast from the 1930 Arellano plan, wherein large development of high density commercial
buildings dominated the skyline of the major and interior branch streets of the CBD. At the
mouth of Iloilo River, big warehouses bordered its meandering curve. Towards the west,
Nipa bamboo houses enveloped the outlying suburbs occupying almost one half of its entire
area. Overall, the grid pattern of development was influenced by the growth at the port and
the CBD.
18
J.M. Basa Street, The Then Calle Real J.M. Basa Street in 1986
(From the Manila Daily Bulletin, September 1907)
In the CBD, J.M. Basa Street was the shopping center of Iloilo city and was situated
in the heart of the city. It was formerly called CALLE REAL. Calle Real also known as the
Escolta of Iloilo was the site of most of the town’s European and Chinese retail stores. Built
largely on a swamp in 1860’s the commercial center had grown by using earth fill using earth
fill to form roadbeds elevated above the estuaries high watermark. First class commercial
and residential structures were built upon the roadways elevated frontage establishing two
criteria for prime real estate – properties along major and minor streets. Iznart and other
interior branch streets compliment the overall urban structure of the CBD.
John Foreman, in his visit in Iloilo, had this to say of the appearance of the Calle Real. He wrote:
“The Calle Real or High Street is a winding road, which leads through the town in the country.
The houses are indescribable – that tale of all styles. Three or four architectural adornment.
Some are high – others low – some stand back with the few yards of pavement before them –
others come forward and oblige one to walk in the road. At the extreme end of the Calle Real is
the government house built of wood and stone, and then in a very bad condition but the style is
good and it has quite the appearance of an official residence. Before it is semi-circular garden,
and in front of this is a road fenced, - in plot, in the middle of which stands a flag pole…”
The location and the winding nature of Calle Real have been remained up to this day.
Today, there are more than 100 various business establishments lining both sides of J.M.
Basa, Iznart and other interior branch streets ranging from bazaar to department stores,
restaurants, banks, hardwares, drugstores and other retail stores. As it was in the 19th century,
the CBD is still the liveliest place in the entire city.
19
Section 9. Existing Situation
Iloilo City’s CBD Heritage zone includes mixed commercial residential blocks
bounded by two main streets of J.M. Basa, Iznart and Gen. Luna. Muelle Loney connected to
the interior branch street of Guanco, Arroyo, Aldeguer, Arsenal, Mapa, Delgado, Yolo, Solis,
and Aduana.
a. Land Use
Iloilo City CBD conservation area is approximately 25 hectares of land majority of
which are privately owned. It was designated as Central Business District, C-1 principally
for commerce, trade, services, and other allied business purposes.
20
Majority of the heritage structure are predominantly two-to-three storey buildings.
The lower ground floor serves as stores and shops while the upper floors are utilized as
residential spaces. Built mostly in the early 1900, it has varied architectural styles with
almost uniform scale resulted to fine grain quality in texture. Most of the façade of the
buildings e.g. Cacho, S. Villanueva, Javellana Buildings are symmetrical with central
composition of graduated curved toppings in a pinnacle - like development.
The arched bays have three or more arches, fluted columns with a characterized motif
by the stylized natural elements of local species of plants such as banana, coconut leaves
and other native flora. Buildings in the conservation area are made of reinforced concrete
which utilizes its plastic and dynamic qualities
21
Fig. 8. Regent Arcade, Iloilo Central Trading and Villanueava building
It is also worth noting the Elizalde and Co. building (COA) a platoresque style of the
Spanish colonial architecture in the Philippines with a base of massive stone supporting a
light frame of wooden upper floor. The overall effect is like a light airy upper structure
which at night looks a giant bird cage.
c. Landscaping
There are only two main public open spaces (see Fig. 9 and 10) within the CBD
conservation area namely, Plaza Libertad and Freedom Park (Burnham Park) in J.M. Basa St.
However these areas used as recreational environment provides little contrast to the ambience
of the streetscape especially at the core area. There are strips of green spaces found at the river
promenade at Muelle Loney fronting the old warehouse.
Shading and inter shading are offered but the arcaded and tightly packed of the 2 to 3
storey commercial buildings within the narrow streets of J.M. Basa and Iznart. In addition,
lack of trees or other greenery along the tight streetscape compounded the hard landscape
urban characteristics of the CBD conservation area.
23
d. Traffic / Car Parking
Two main streets namely J.M. Basa and Iznart serve as the major arterial converging
route leading to and leaving the CBD conservation area. These streets are heavily used
throughout the day. Except for Aldeguer street which is part of turn around route in the
CBD core area, all other branch streets serve as two-way traffic and on-site parking.
24
e. Pedestrian Movement
25
f. Skyline
J.M. Basa and Iznart are two main streets that act as the principal determinants of the
urban and the skyline in the CBD conservation area. While its primary function is to
allow mobility a large part depends on how clear the route is in relation to the height of
the buildings around the area.
Before the construction of the skywalk, these two main streets created a strong view
corridor from the capitol down to the terminating edge of Iznart street, overlooking the
Guimaras island. Notably, the well proportioned height of the 2 to 3 storey buildings
embracing the tight streetscape actually preserve the visual impact of the CBD
conservation Area.
The existence of the skywalk creates a poor physical relationship to the area it serves.
Rather than define the unique form of the heritage area, it slashes and acts as a blighting
and disintegrating force.
Improper location and sizes of existing signages and utilities malign the historical
landscape of the Downtown CBD heritage area. As a whole, its role does not serve to
complement the building’s architecture rather it is a major contributor to visual chaos.
Fig. 16 Improper sizes and location of signages along J.M. Basa Street
Section 10. CBD Conservation Concept Plan
27
Section 10. CBD Conservation Concept Plan
a. Concept Plan
28
Fig. 17
Fig. 18. Existing Building heights in the CBD
29
b. Objectives of the Conservation Concept Plan
Varied architectural styles of neo-classic, localized art deco, Post colonial are the
most significant elements of the heritage buildings in J.M. Basa and Iznart streets while
the period of their construction closely overlay with each other, their styles are mostly
organized, resulted to the fine grain texture of the CBD.
In order to achieve the traits of the historical development traditional activities can
still continue to conform the authentic environment.
The concept plan is to adopt new urban principles as one of the guiding post in the
reformation of the built environment through restoration of the Downtown CBD,
promotion for new expression, and to develop and contribute to the continuing
development of the area. Vacant sites, buildings with poor quality architectural styles will
be allowed to redeveloped within specified conservation guidelines.
30
d. Proposed Plan and Design Features
Fig. 19
31
Fig. 20
Historically, the two main streets JM Basa and Iznart constitute the main
center and contribute to the center of activity of the Conservation Area. These
focal points should therefore be the priority for revitalization. These two main
streets will be reactivated to incorporate festival-related trades and other activities
to blend with the preserved historical buildings.
1. Walkability
32
The introduction of the “walkability” concept shall maximize the
potential for buildings housing retail shops to create a consistent sense of
spatial enclosure, bringing shop windows and entrances closely adjacent to
pedestrian zone.
Fig. 20 Not only trees but also other forms of green or plants Fig. 21 Maximizing the use of the Sidewalk for smooth
enhances the climatic condition and the built environment. pedestrian traffic flow.
33
Fig. 22 Arcaded Pedestrian Sidewalk create the sense of continuity and connectivity
34
3. Street Trees
Street tree planting is probably one of the best downtown urban design
improvements. Particularly when the architecture has variances in
character, height and design, a canopy of trees provide a unifying visual
matrix. Investing in trees creates a sense of identify for a streetscape
concept while preserving the visibility of storefronts. To reinforce the
linear character of the urban streetscape, street tree plantings should be
uniformly spaced.
35
4. Signages and Street Lightings
Design Considerations
A simplified and coordinated program for the use and design of public
directional and information signs is also needed to organize their
presentation and to reduce visual clutter.
36
Fig.27
Fig.28
Fig.29 Fig.30
37
Fig. 32 This proposed uniform signages provides a
visual continuity and a more organized streetscape.
38
5. Sidewalk pavement and furnishings
Fig. 33
Fig. 34
Garbage disposal bins will allow for easy access for people to throw
wastes and garbage. There are two possible options for a functional trash
receptacle and shall be uniformly bolted to the pavement. One option for
39
a suitable design shall be a black coated receptacle and has a side opening
for litter deposit. And a low-cost receptacle made of galvanized pipe.
Design Consideration
Paving material should be comfortable and walkable in all weather. A
single special paving material should be used to create a unifying design
that would accentuate the sidewalk design.
1. Diversity in mix-use
40
range of choices in activities, merchandises and services. Diversity should
create a streetscape that is filled with people and the downtown plane has
always something new to offer.
2. Sidewalk cafés
Fig 38 Fig 39
41
Street vendors
Street vendors are special retail users that can create an active and
interesting downtown street life as well as offer a low-capital entrance into
the retail business for local entrepreneurs. As the case may be with the
street vendors along the CBD, who has been part of the streetscape for
decades. In light of this reality, street vendors may be seen as outdoor
markets that may be integrated in open spaces, allowing vendors to sell
there goods in portable and movable carts.
Fig. 40. At present, the streetscape of Calle Real shows the visible
presence of street vendors encroaching on the sidewalk.
The present situation of the street vendors in the CBD has defined
them as informal entrepreneurs having no permanent stalls and being
given by the local government free use of the public space. Such
privileged allows them to encroach anywhere along the only available area
which is the sidewalk. Their visibility along the sidewalk of the CBD has
been allowed by the government for so long that uprooting them in their
current location will result in protests and violent reactions. However,
letting them remain and permitting them to stay without conditions and
restrictions will bring about no improvement in the streetscape of the
CBD.
42
In as much as the street vendors have become eye sore on the overall
aesthetic of the CBD, the proposed solution would be to relocate them in one
major area.
43
Fig. 43 Fig. 44
Fig. 45
44
different walks of life and varying age group to the CBD area has
promising results.
The concept of the Night Market in Iloilo City shall be an activity that
may revive the night life of the CBD and bring in more people to the area.
The Hoskyn’s compound as the proposed location shall be developed to
create an atmosphere of orderliness and keep the safety of the area at all
times. The Night Market shall introduce a different kind of shopping
environment, basically since its operation shall be at night time. The night
market shall open at 6:00 p.m. and close shop at around 2 am. This time
frame allows for convenient shopping particularly for those who work
during the day at the same a more pleasurable shopping experience
because of the cooler environmental condition during night time.
The proposed night market is also an option for street vendors to have
a permanent retail stall and making the sidewalk area of the CBD free
from any blockage particularly as one of the proposed activities to revive
the Calle Real is a Heritage Walk Tour.
45
With the present ordinance to revive the Night Market and the CBD
being the most feasible place for this, will be able to have the opportunity
to change the sluggish environment to a venue that would be the talk of
the town.
4. Open Spaces
Public spaces, whether modest or grand provide a focus for
surrounding development. Open spaces, as well, provide a setting for
social interaction as well as provide physical and psychological comfort.
46
Open Spaces can enhance CBD’s overall built-environment. This
public space component of the urban design framework establishes the
basis to attract people to the area thus contributing to the increase of the
economic and commercial activity of CBD.
5. Public Facilities
47
Fig.54 Florence, Italy (2005)
48
Fig.57 Fig.58 Fig.59
Buildings along Calle Real requires refurbishing of its façade and maintaining it, to give a sense of order and design.
Similar to pictures shown below where old buildings in Europe are being constantly repaired and refurbished.
Fig.60 Fig.61
Old buildings in Europe maintain there quiet dignity with orderliness and clean finish of
its façade by constantly repairing and refurbishing it.
The repetition of design linkages or themes also helps build a recognizable identity or
sense of place for CBD Conservation Area, making it a more marketable location for a range
of uses. It is important to emphasize the characteristics that make CBD’s existing
architecture special and to develop local or regional vernacular architecture. This prevents
anonymous, anyplace architecture to weaken the CBD’s special identity.
49
f. To involve Multi- sectors in carrying out conservation programs and
projects
Academic/ Research
Representative from Institutions
Government Agencies
Downtown CBD
Conservation
Development Projects
(ICCHCC)
Barangay officials/
Constituents
NGO’s, Private Section
City Constituents
50
Section 11. CBD Conservation Program
All identified buildings, streetlights, monuments and plazas within the Downtown
CBD Heritage Zone will be conserved in accordance with the planning and development
guidelines. Conservation guidelines will also cover the following sites and areas:
2. Façade design control shall include reflection of height of its arcaded walks,
cornices, heights, parapets, pitched roofs and opening configurations, which will
be evaluated on a case to case basis depending upon the design of the neighboring
structures.
51
Fig. 62 Compatibility of façade design,
52
b. List of heritage buildings and sites
Fig. 63
53
c. Guidelines for infilling and new architecture
As integrated in the conservation program there are buildings and sites with no
architectural significance, (e.g. buildings less than 50 years, vacant sites not declared as parks
and open space in the conservation area, etc.). These are the sites on which upon the
demolitions or clearing of site encumbrances, new structures will be permitted. The new
buildings to be added are intended to add cohesiveness to the existing streetscapes, which
may appear to somewhat disrupt the continuity of lines and adversely affect roofscape and
streetscape due to these gaps and vacant spaces.
Fig. 64 Fig. 65
Nationale-Nederlanden building
(The dancing building)
Prague, Czech Republic
54
Fig. 66 Glass Pyramid in the main courtyard of Louvre museum, Louvre France
As these sites are set within a heritage zone, lined with architecturally and his
historically significant building, the design of any new buildings or structure thereon must
therefore respect the unique qualities of the streetscape.
The following general guidelines are not intended to promote any particular style but
instead describe parameters, without dictating or imposing predetermined solutions. A
variety of expressions are also encouraged so as to carry on the unique architecture and
heritage of the Downtown CBD Heritage Zone Contemporary designs and materials may
only be executed in a manner sensitive to the area.
55
1. Scale
The scale of new building should be similar to that of the heritage structures
immediate or adjacent to it including their visual orientation with their immediate
streetscapes (i.e. arcade buildings).
The building mass should be broken into increments that correspond to the
scale and massing of existing buildings through the use of setbacks and variable
roof heights.
A strong cornice line, parapet, covered building line arcade are important to
the sense of the streetscapes at the Downtown CBD Heritage Zone. These should
be incorporated into the new designs.
56
3. Façade Design
The starting point in creating a unified block face and in organizing the
diversity of architectural styles and details in a given street is the understanding of
the building façade design framework. The framework is composed of two major
elements, the upper façade and the storefront.
The Storefront
a) Renovation of display window/lower face should emphasize the open
character of the storefront and its contribution to the street by maximizing the
amount of window exposure provided in the area framed by the sign frieze
and the piers of the upper face.
57
b) Entrance doors should be the focal point of the storefront. It should include
glass panels to maximize the visibility of the store interior. The style of the
door and its hardware should be compatible with the design character of the
commercial storefront; the use of commercial stock residential doors should
be avoided. Where entrances to upper stories adjacent to the storefront, they
should blend into the framing architecture so that they read as secondary
elements.
d) On corner buildings, the original design of side elevations facing the street
usually replicates the architectural of the front façade. Storefront and upper
façade design should be applied in renovating side elevations.
e) Unfinished side elevations that are visible from the street, should be upgraded
by removing or screening exposed mechanical equipment and extending some
of the front facades wall materials, color, or detailing to the side elevation.
Where windows cannot be introduced painted large graphics can be applied to
unbroken wall surfaces to add interest. Graphics are usually most effective
who contained within an area of neutral color.
58
h) Sign materials should be compatible with the building overall architectural
character. Materials that convey a low quality image such as plastic signs
should be avoided. Use of too many colors should be avoided.
i) Building Entrance.
Major building façade and entrance should be oriented to street frontages as
primary connectors, pedestrian spine or image arterials. The location and
entrance should be replicated those of existing building.
In front setback, new development should replicate the setbacks of
existing building to create a consistently developed edge. This will reinforce
the downtown’s urban development pattern, and enhance pedestrian
orientation.
k) Roof/Parapet
The shape of the roof or parapet should be compatible with the building to
which it is visually related.
l) Architectural Details
Architectural details including materials, colors, and textures should be
treated so as to make the new building compatible with its original
architectural style and character in order to preserve and enhance the overall
architectural style or character of the Downtown CBD Heritage Zone.
59
3. Major and New Development
60
b) Introduction of public art (e.g. manhole covers, fire hydrants, building
graphics) to help humanize the environment. These utilitarian components
can become art when carefully designed.
c) Create an attractive safe environment for all users of the street with adequate
ornamental lighting, traffic signal and other design improvement
d) Enhance the pedestrian environment through sidewalk improvements, street
furnishing, and crossing improvements at major crossing location
e) Enhancement of existing sidewalks and arcades through proper
implementation of the required uniform grade and vertical clearances
throughout the entire length of the street within the block (refer to rule VI-
arcades and sidewalks of the National Building Code)
f) Encourage environmentally sensitive design including plant boxes and other
landscaping elements to soften and add beauty to the street environment.
In the conservation area, arcades and sidewalks shall be provided as required by the
conservation plan, subject to existing laws and regulations. The ICCHCC shall determine
which street shall have an open arcade or an arcaded sidewalk or both.
b) All Arcades shall follow the existing width throughout the entire length of the
street within one block from one street corner to corner
61
1. Combined open and arcade sidewalks may be provided with a planting
strip separating the arcaded portion and the open portion.
2. Arcades may be cantilevered from the building line over the sidewalk
subject to the condition of the conservation guidelines or PD 1096 (NBC).
d) Grade of sidewalks
1. All sidewalks as much as possible shall be uniform throughout the entire
length of the street.
2. Whenever there is a difference in grade between the two connecting
sidewalks, the two sidewalk shall be joined by means of a ramp subject to
the conditions of the conservation guidelines or PD 1096 (NBC)
e) Obstructions on sidewalks
All sidewalks whether open or arcaded in the conservation area shall be free
from any obstructions.
62
Section 12. Land Use Policies / Historical Cultural Heritage Overlay Zone
The primary thrust of conservation is to consolidate and enhance the activities that
already exist and which contribute to the uniqueness of the heritage zone land uses will
follow the Iloilo City Comprehensive Land Use Plan except for compatible uses, which are
limited to some extent. When needed, adaptive reuse may also be applied in close
coordination with the ICCHCC.
63
5. All the allowable uses above shall comply with the architectural and design
standards and the prescribed height and bulk limitations provided in the
Comprehensive Land Use Plan of Iloilo City.
1. Offices like office buildings, office condominium with residential units in upper
floors.
2. General retail stores and shops including but not limited to department stores,
other retail stores and business shops.
3. Food and markets and shops including, but not limited to bakeries and bakeshops,
wine stores, supermarkets and grocery stores.
4. Personal service shops including but not limited to beauty parlors, barbers shops,
dressmaking and tailoring shops.
5. Recreational centers/establishments including but not limited to movie
house/theaters and arcades cafes.
6. Restaurants, coffee shops, internet cafes and other eateries like fast-food centers,
sidewalks and arcade cafes.
7. Short term education/special education like dancing schools, speech clinics, self-
defense and other similar activities.
8. Commercial housing like hotel, apartment, pension house, lodging inn, club house
and apartel.
9. Government institutions like convention centers embassy/consulates, libraries,
museums, vocational schools, scientific, cultural and academic centers and
research facilities.
10. Private institutions like business offices, clinics, computer schools, banks and
financial institutions, radio and television facilities.
11. Commercial activities like baking products, meat, fruit and vegetables, plant and
flower shops, repair of optical instruments, and equipment and cameras,
bookstores, building garage/multi-level parking.
12. Other commercial activities of the same as above cited.
64
Section 13. Prohibited Uses in the Downtown CBD Heritage Zone
The following uses shall not under any circumstances, be allowed within the
Downtown CBD Heritage Zone:
65
Section 14. Guidelines for Restoration and Renovation
All original architecturally significant design features of all heritage buildings shall
be retained and preserved. Where replacement is necessary, conformity with the ICCHCC
approved design modifications should be observed. All existing significant additions or
modifications that are compatible with the original designs and distinctive character should
be retained as evidence of historical development and architectural evolution.
Adaptive use or re-use means adopting a new but compatible use of the building that
will not require major structural or exterior alteration. There shall be fixed physical limits of
space that could be adapted to uses other that the original use of the building.
a. Demolition
All applicants for demolition must first be approved by the ICCHCC prior to
any action taken on site. Any building or portion of the building, which contributes
to the streetscape, should not be demolished without similar approval. A demolition
plan showing the extent of the proposed demolition, conservation checklist and
photographic evidence should be submitted with the written rationale for the
proposed demolition.
b. Masonry
All masonry works in the conservation area are to be plain cement finish,
which shall be maintained in the entirely and in all parts of the building. Mortar
shall duplicate the original material in composition, strength color, texture, joint size,
method of application and joint profile. Use a stucco mixture that duplicates the
original in composition strength, texture, and general appearance to repair damaged
surfaces.
66
c. Aches and Columns
Arches and columns on the buildings facades or arcaded sidewalks lining the
buildings shall be restored to their original expressions. Pilasters, cornices,
architectural decorative grills, moldings and other decorative elements shall be
maintained as part of the façade of the building.
Fig. 68
Fig. 69
d. Corbels and Brackets
e. Other Elements
The design, scale, detail and finishes of other elements like doors, windows,
shutters, iron grills and architect metals are important to the physical expression of
the buildings. They contribute in defining the particular style and age of the buildings
and should also be retained and protected.
67
In restoring heritage buildings, it is preferable to repair the existing original
component rather than to replace it with a new but identical component. Installing
new component of different detail and design from the original in inappropriate and
therefore should be avoided at all times.
68
Fig. 75. The old Commercial Building of the Elizalde and Co. Inc.
Prior to its restoration, 1970s
Fig. 76.The edifice of the Elizalde and Co. Inc. after its restoration, 1980s
69
f. Painting and Colors
The original finish and decorative features of the building’s façade are
important in defining its historic character and therefore must be identified, retained,
and preserved. Great majority of the buildings in the conservation area, are thus
painted. In repainting historic structures, appropriate color c\scheme must be
observed in order to retain the unique color presence of the building. Selecting a paint
scheme from the wide range of appropriate colors available and determining the
proper placement of the colors on the building, the true architectural character of the
property will be respected. ICCHCC technical staff provides technical assistance in
choosing appropriate colors related to the building style and personal preference of
the owner
Fig. 78
Fig. 77
Fig. 80
Fig. 79
1. Existing signage
In order to retain the unique ambiance of the historic streetscape, control
measures are necessary to preserve the zone’s history and architecture while
allowing signs to retain their visual importance to the streetscape. As signs vary
considerably in their impact on the street, on public safety and on the architecture
they compliment because of size, design, location, structural design, their
evaluation by the ICCHCC shall be made in a case-to-case basis with careful
considerations to the following:
71
2. New Signages
New signages and signboard of heritage buildings shall only be allowed under the
following regulations:
a. The design of signages and signboards should be approved by the ICCHCC and shall
be an item for consideration in the Conservation Plan Clearance.
b. There shall only be a maximum of two (2) signages allowed for every store, shop or
business establishment and should only display their business/corporate names. Its
placement at balconies, cornices, capitals, brackets, roofs, doors or windows should
not disfigure or conceal any architectural feature or detail of the building.
c. Where allowed by the ICCHCC, signages and signboards of facades shall only be
allowed if they are safely secured structural members that are stable such as columns,
beams and concrete or bricks walls.
d. Depending upon the façade design, the maximum size of a signboard for every day
(in between two columns) or per total leased frontage should not exceed 1/3 of bay’s
horizontal width or 1/3 of total width of a business establishment’s leased frontage,
expansion of the size may be granted by the ICCHCC on a case to case basis.
e. Only parallel installation of signs shall be allowed on building facades provided that
these are within prescribed limits of the PD 1096 or should protrude beyond 150 mm
allowable limit, whichever is lower. Perpendicular installations shall only be allowed
along arcaded walks with the approval of the ICCHCC and in strict compliance to PD
1096.
Fig. 81
72
Fig. 82 Fig. 83
73
3. Sign Types
a. Signboards
Signboards above the store front transom windows, long narrow flush
mounted sign panels showing company logo are an integral party of the slam front
design. Simple and effective signboards generally consisting of painted gold leaf
lettering against a dark painted background is highly recommended.
b. Overhanging signs
Overhanging or bracket mounted signs consisting of a two-sides painted
wooden panel by a metal decorative bracket projecting from the building’s façade
are allowed. Recent type of materials like “panaflex” may only be allowed if they
are mounted by a metal decorative bracket to maintain the antiquity or character
of the building.
74
h. Lighting
All lighting, including decorative lighting shall be neatly incorporated so as
not to detract from the architectural expressions or cause the building to appear
untidy. Wires and other electrical equipment shall be neatly installed and maintained.
Installation of lighting fixtures shall not cause damage to any architectural fabric.
Lighting for new modern signs shall be evaluated in a case to case basis.
Fig. 85 Fig. 86
1. Mechanical, plumbing and electrical lines, ducts and vents shall be located in
the interior of the building or below grade. Metering equipment and junction
boxes may only be installed on street façade/location with the approval of the
ICCHCC.
2. Air conditioning and other mechanical equipment should be of the most
compact design available, and shall be located so as not to detrimentally affect
the building or its neighbor’s visual or sonic environment.
75
All refrigerant lines shall be underground or concealed within the building.
Wood lattice or similar screening is recommended as enclosure for the equipment.
All mechanical equipments shall not be located on balconies or galleries.
76
Section 15. Proposed Urban Design Standards Control Plan
Historic sites and facilities shall be conserved and preserved. These shall be as much
as possible be made accessible for educational and cultural enrichment of the general public.
77
Section 16. Guidelines for Nonconforming Buildings or Structures
b. All owners and other persons of interest of nonconforming building and structure shall be
notified within three (3) months from the effectivity of these rules about the non
conformity of their respective structure, specify the nature and extent of the
nonconformity.
c. Any developer or owner who has been issued a permit or Clearance to construct a
building or structure prior to the promulgation of these rules which does not conform to
the conservation rules and guidelines, but has not conform to the conservation or
substantial work on the site shall be required to re-apply for a permit from ICCHCC to
ensure compliance with these rules.
78
c) replacement of an old building or structure with a new one, provided the
new one confirm to conservation guidelines
d) structure alternatives/non structure repairs of restoration which does not
conform to the conservation guidelines
e) resumption of the former use of the structure after abandonment or
discontinuance of the same
e. Buildings destroyed or damage by force mejeur by more than 50% requiring major or
substantial reconstruction or repair to put them in their original condition they shall be
required to conform to the application of the conservation program.
1. All buildings shall be allowed to exist for as long as they are properly maintained
and in good structural condition and so long as their original façade remains
unchanged. Should major changes be proposed, the building has to conform to
the same architectural guidelines prescribed by ICCHCC.
h. Hearings
79
The ICCHCC may conduct hearing to determine alternative means of dealing with
specific nonconforming uses. The affected parties may be consulted on suitable
arrangement in hearings held for the purpose, but the ICCHCC shall have the final
authority to determine the best alternative and the manner of its application.
The ICCHCC may, depending on the availability of funds, recommend to the city
government grant subsidies or other forms of financial assistance to owners or occupants
of nonconforming buildings. These may include exemptions approved by the local
Sangguniang Bayan.
j. Monitoring/Enforcement
The ICCHCC shall monitor and oversee all developments within the conservation
area to determine compliance with its laws, policies, rules and regulations. In case of any
noncompliance or violation the ICCHCC shall take necessary steps by issuing and
enforcement notice to the owner or occupant of the building or structure.
k. Penalties
80
The following shall be subject to the penalties provided therein:
1. Any deviation from or modification of the approved plan without the official
concurrence of the ICCHCC
2. Any authorized change in the use of building or structure
3. Illegal constructions undertaken without prior approval of the ICCHCC and
the building official
4. Violation of any provision of the ordinance and its implementing guidelines
l. Hearing
The ICCHCC shall conduct a hearing, determine the nature and extent of violations.
For this purpose the affected party shall be given the opportunity to present witnesses and
documentary evidence in his defense.
m. Continuing Offense
Violation of the ordinance and its implementing guidelines shall impose penalties in
accordance to the provision of Ordinance No, 00-054 until the violation is corrected.
This does not preclude the ICCHCC from filing with the appropriate criminal complaint
against the defender.
n. Demolitions
The ICCHCC and the building official may after hearings have been conducted, order
the demolition of any building, structure or improvements which has been or being
constructed in violation of these rules.
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
Section 18. Permit System
b. The owner or developer shall apply at the Iloilo City Planning Office by submitting a
copy of each of the following required documents to support his/her application form
obtained from the ICCHCC. all application to be filed shall be in prescribed forms
sworn by the applicant and supported by the following:
1. Transfer certificate of title and/or written authority duly notarized from the
owner of the said property.
2. Tax Declaration and current tax receipts.
3. Location Plan Site, Lot Plan & Vicinity Map duly signed by the Geodetic
Engineer.
4. Previous permit (e.g. Building, ECC) secured from the ICCHCC, Building
Official, DENR, etc.
5. Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) from the DENR.
6. Project studies, if any.
7. Architectural Plans (floor plans, elevation sections, details, and perspective
superimposed on actual photographs of site (refer to PD 1096 requirements)
108
c. Additional Guidelines
1. The ICCHCC shall evaluate process and pass upon the application within a period
of one week from the submission thereof. All application approved as to design
and architectural standards, the owner/developer shall receive a copy of his
development permit, to be known as “CP Clearance” (Conservation Plan
Clearance) including the terms and conditions the ICCHCC may impose and
copies of the approved final drawing.
2. The owner shall submit the approved final drawings, to the local building official
for further evaluation as to the compliance with the provision of the National
Building Code (PD 1096).
3. No changes/alterations from the approved plans may be allowed without prior
written authorization from the ICCHCC with copy furnished to the local Building
Official.
4. The Technical Representative of the ICCHCC shall inspect and monitor the
construction to determine compliance with the approved drawings, specification
and the terms and conditions of the CP Clearance.
5. Upon the completion of the construction of the project the owner/developer shall
request the ICCHCC a “Certificate of Satisfactory Completion” which shall be the
basis for the issuance of the certificate of Occupancy by the local Building
Official.
6. The “CP Clearance” issued by the ICCHCC shall be effective for a period of one
(1) year from its issuance. Failure of the owner or developer to undertake
construction within the prescribed period could render a CP Clearance null and
void. Failure to comply shall be considered an unauthorized development, subject
to the penalties provided by the NBC (PD 1096).
7. Appeals from decision of ICCHCC. Owner/developer dissatisfied with any
decision or the terms and conditions imposed by the Council may, within thirty
(30) days from the receipt of the decision, appeal to the ICCHCC whose decision
may be further elevated to the city government’s Sangguniang Panlungsod.
109
Permit System Flow Chart
Pre-Application
Consultation with ICCHCC
Application
ICCHCC Decision
Building Permit
Processing
110
Section 19. Conditions on “CP Clearance” (Certificate Conservation Plan Clearance)
All local ordinances executive orders and policies found not in consonance with the
ordinance are hereby or modified accordingly.
Any person found violating this ordinance shall be subject to a fine of:
111
Section 24. Separability clause
112