National University - Manila

College of Architecture
551 MF Jhocson St. Sampaloc, Manila, PH 1008

Towards a Prospective Nayon:

An Analysis of the Trends, Issues, and Strategies in the Landscape
Design of Cultural-Themed Parks in the Philippines

ADESGN6S: Architectural Design 6 - Site Development Planning and

Landscaping

Calma, John Andrei B.

Cruz, Rosario D.
Orata, Anthony R.
Villaflor, Hans I.
ARC226
 Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study

Culturally themed parks serve as important locations for preserving and displaying
intangible cultural heritage, which represents a country's uniqueness, diversity, and identity. In
the Philippines, such parks are instrumental in educating visitors about the country's rich history
and traditions while promoting cultural appreciation. Cultural-themed parks, like Nayong
Pilipino in Clark, Pampanga, offer an immersive experience that incorporates historical replicas,
traditional performances, and landscaped gardens to celebrate Filipino heritage. Through
innovative landscape and spatial designs, they create spaces to highlight Filipino customs,
culture, and intangible cultural heritage (Zheng, 2024).

Nayong Pilipino, or Philippine Village, has a long history that originates from the
country's attempts to identify and promote its cultural heritage. As the first cultural theme park of
its kind in Southeast Asia, Nayong Pilipino’s opening marked a crucial step in the Philippines'
efforts to showcase its heritage and attract tourists. Renowned architects collaborated on the
park's development, which included design elements from different Philippine areas. The
Tagalog Region was designed by architect Luis Araneta, while the Ilocos and Cordillera regions
were crafted by National Artist for Architecture Leandro Locsin (Lico, 2003). The Mañosa
Brothers envisioned the Bicol Region, which is renowned for its miniature version of the Mayon
Volcano (Annual Report, 1986; NPF, 1995; Bragais, 1997). A complete representation of
Philippine cultural diversity in one location was the outcome of this cooperative design process.

Over the years, Nayong Pilipino has contributed to the country's cultural tourism through
educational tours, cultural shows, and exhibitions (Cabalfin, 2012). These diverse spaces show
how culturally themed parks may serve as dynamic places for education and Cultural exchange.
However, despite its importance, Nayong Pilipino has problems like decreasing tourist numbers
and changing audience expectations. To overcome these obstacles while preserving its cultural
integrity, creative approaches are required (Nayong Pilipino Foundation Facts Sheet, 2021)..
 This study analyzes the trends, issues, and strategies in the landscape design of Nayong
Pilipino in Clark, Pampanga, to understand how it handles the challenges of cultural
representation. Analyzing landscape design trends and methods for finding a balance between
heritage and modern needs are necessary to address these issues and by examining its current
state and its narrative landscape, this research aims to expand the focus on how cultural parks
can be improved as spaces for heritage preservation and education, and effectively balance with
modern tourism demands.

Statement of the Problem

Specifically, this study aims to investigate the following:

1. How does Nayong Pilipino’s landscape design simplify Filipino culture and reflect
colonial perspective, undermining its authenticity as a heritage space?
2. What are the current trends of Filipino cultural-theme parks relative to landscape and
spatial design?
3. What issues and challenges do Filipino cultural-theme parks face, considering the decline
of conventional amusement settings and the rise of technological advancements?
4. What design strategies and solutions can be implemented to improve the landscape
design of cultural-themed parks, reflecting the diversity and complexity of Filipino
heritage?

Objectives of the Study

The primary objectives of this study are as follows:

1. To analyze how Nayong Pilipino's landscape design simplifies Filipino culture and
reflects a colonial perspective, ultimately undermining its authenticity as a heritage space.
2. To explore the current trends in Filipino cultural theme parks concerning landscape and
spatial design, which can be integrated into the redevelopment of Nayong Pilipino.
3. To analyze the challenges faced by Filipino cultural theme parks due to declining
traditional amusement settings and increasing technology, and to explore strategies for
sustainable development.
 4. To identify design techniques and solutions that can improve Nayong Pilipino landscape
design while representing the richness and complexity of Filipino history.

Significance of the Study

Cultural Preservation and Promotion: This study explains how Filipino heritage,
customs, and expressions are preserved through landscape design in culturally themed parks such
as Nayong Pilipino. By ensuring that history and culture are successfully expressed and
appreciated by both local and foreign tourists, this knowledge may guide the creation and
rehabilitation of similar places around the country, protecting both tangible and intangible
cultural treasures for future generations.

Tourism Development: The study provides helpful Information for the development of
tourism. A well-planned park with a cultural theme attracts a lot of visitors and increases the
Philippines' appeal as a travel destination. Nayong Pilipino in Clark can maximize its overall
layout and aesthetic appeal to draw more tourists and generate economic benefits for the local
community and the country by understanding the trends and effective landscape design
techniques.

Community: This research can highlight the importance of cultural heritage and its
representation in public spaces. By identifying effective design strategies, the study can
contribute to the enhancement of cultural parks, making them more attractive, educational, and
relevant to the community. The research may identify opportunities for community involvement
in the design and maintenance of such spaces, promoting local ownership and sustainability.

Policy Makers and Government Agencies: This study can be used by organizations that
work in the fields of tourism, culture, and environmental preservation to guide their planning and
development projects. To ensure that these areas successfully fulfill their intended cultural,
economic, and environmental purposes, the creation of guidelines for future projects can be
guided by understanding successful strategies and common problems in the landscape design of
culturally themed parks.
 Educator and Academic Institutions: Educators and educational institutions can use
this research to enhance curriculum content about Philippine cultural landscapes by offering
learning materials that focus on cultural awareness and creative design techniques.

Architecture Students: This study will be useful to architecture students as it offers a

real-world example of how cultural narratives may be incorporated into tangible design features
and provides methods for complete site research that takes environmental and cultural issues into
consideration. The analysis of trends, issues, and strategies will provide future architects with
valuable knowledge and ideas for their design projects, especially those involving cultural
heritage and public spaces.

Scope and Delimitations of the Study

The study’s scope revolves around the analysis of Nayong Pilipino in Clark, in terms of
its existing conditions, spatial and landscape design, historical background, and development, as
part of the purpose of redeveloping the concept of Nayong Pilipino. Beyond the site’s conditions,
the researchers will also investigate potential factors that influence the site, such as site
demographics and user analysis.

The researchers aim to further study the issues and challenges of the Nayong Pilipino, as
well as of other Filipino cultural parks and urban development. Alongside the said issues and
challenges, the researchers will investigate certain application design strategies and solutions
concerning site planning and cultural preservation of existing cultural parks. Additionally, the
researchers will select similar existing projects with exemplary requirements for landscape
design. Afterwards, the results that will be obtained with this study will help the researchers to
conceptualize a new configuration of the Nayong Pilipino.

Definitions of Terms
 Chapter 2
LITERATURE REVIEW

Nayong Pilipino Overview

Nayong Pilipino is a park set up for the preservation and emphasis of cultural heritage
and history. Initially built in 1970 at Pasay City, Nayong Pilipino was established as a
microcosm of the country for visitors to know what the different traditions, architectural styles,
and cultural practices are all about in a given location within the country. Its purpose is to go for
purely educational and recreational purposes, teaching loyalty among Filipinos and even foreign
tourists.

The Nayong Pilipino has both replicas of some historic sites, traditional houses, and even
iconic landscapes such as the Banaue Rice Terraces, Mayon Volcano, and prominent heritage
churches. The experience consists of bringing the audience within the craftsmanship and artistry
of Filipino culture, utilizing immersion. It also has live performances, folk dances, and craft
demonstrations, putting the rich performing arts heritage of the country in the spotlight.

Historical Background of Nayong Pilipino

Nayong Pilipino originated in the 1970s during the time of Imelda Marcos rule. This
explains why the modern 45-hectare park near the Manila International Airport is now popularly
known as Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and was intended as a cultural showcase to
international and local visitors. Nayong Pilipino is a physical replica of the famous landmarks
where a tourist can experience the incredible differences of the Philippine archipelago in just one
visit.

Originally conceived as a proposal for a souvenir shop featuring indigenous crafts at the
Cultural Center Complex, the idea evolved into a full-scale cultural theme park under the
leadership of former First Lady Imelda Marcos. Some theories suggest that Marcos drew
inspiration from Disneyland in Anaheim, California, aiming to establish a similar theme park
industry in the Philippines (Cabalfin, 2012).

Through the years, Nayong appeared to have become its partner in the culture tourism of
the Philippines by providing education tours, cultural shows, and exhibitions. However, these
activities were not without challenges in terms of maintenance and modernization encroached by
urbanization. By the early 2000s, as airport expansion was fast becoming a done deal,
discussions began on how best to close down the original site and eventually relocate and re-
establish Nayong Pilipino.

Evolution of Nayong Pilipino from Pasay to Clark

In 1986, during the People Power Revolution, the Nayong Pilipino had various
challenges. One of the lists is financial mismanagement, declining tourist numbers, and
competition from private theme parks. In 2002, the park was compelled to close due to airport
expansion, also Nayong Pilipino was relocated to Clark, Pampanga. In 2007 where efforts were
taken to maintain its cultural mandate while responding to modern tourism needs. However,
drawbacks such as a lack of proper funding and low public awareness undermined its long-term
sustainability. Withstanding these challenges, Nayong Pilipino is an essential institution in
upholding Filipino cultural heritage through festivities, educational programs, and regional
craftsmanship promotion. Its past represents a combination of successes and frustrations in
keeping cultural preservation alive amid urbanization and political turmoil.

Furthermore, as of 2024 to 2025, Nayong Pilipino continues operations in Clark,

Pampanga, although on a smaller scale than its original location in Pasay. The Nayong Pilipino
Foundation (NPF), an associated agency of the Department of Tourism, continues to operate the
park. While it no longer commands the same level of attention as it once did, efforts are being
made to revive its role in cultural education and tourism.
Issues and Challenges of the Nayong Pilipino

Nayong Pilipino, also known as the Philippine Village, has faced several problems and
challenges since its establishment in 1972. One ongoing issue is its struggle with financial
stability, inconsistent funding, and poor management. Reports have discovered problems such as
missing equipment, project overpricing, and questionable use of donations, and these internal
problems made it hard for Nayong Pilipino to grow and succeed. And even though one of
Nayong Pilipino's main missions was to research Filipino culture, this did not always happen as
often as it should. The focus was more on having shows and things for visitors to see, instead of
studying and sharing deeper knowledge about Filipino heritage. This causes Nayong Pilipino to
neglect its research goals.

The abandonment of its former location near Manila International Airport and the
financial difficulties have contributed to the closure in 2002. The park, which previously served
as a prime tourist attraction by giving a tiny version of the Philippines, was moved due to airport
expansion needs. However, the relocation of Nayong Pilipino has also created challenges. The
park was moved from Pasay to Clark Exposition in Pampanga in 200,7, and plans emerged for a
new location in Parañaque City. These relocations have also likely affected operations and
required resources, as well as impacting public accessibility and the park's identity.

The COVID-2019 pandemic has also complicated the foundation’s efforts. In response to
the health crisis, Nayong Pilipino paused its development efforts to focus on public health and
economic issues. This stop has delayed the execution of their concept for a new cultural park,
which was intended to revive the interest in the site as a cultural and eco-tourism destination.
These internal and external factors have created a difficulty for Nayong Pilipino, with periods of
popularity followed by decline and attempts at renovation.

Impact of past designs on Filipino cultural representation in Nayong Pilipino

Past designs of Nayong Pilipino have shaped how Filipino culture has been presented,
and this has had a major impact on its cultural representation. The Idea of “condensing the
country” into a single Location showed that a complex and diverse archipelago had been
simplified into exhibits that were simple to understand (Cabalfin, 2014).
 While the goal was to show the best of the Philippines and create nationalistic joy, the
design approach replicated histories similar to past colonial expositions like the 1887 Exposicion
General de las Islas Filipinas in Madrid and the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair. These previous
expositions had shown indigenous Filipinos in reconstructed villages, which compared them with
the modernism of the invaders and showed them as savage and different(Cabalfin, 2014).

The "Colonial Plaza" at Nayong Pilipino shows certain aspects of Filipino history while
disregarding others. By displaying replicas of Spanish-colonial landmarks such as Intramuros
and the Barasoain Church, it shows the Spanish presence in the Philippines. However, there is a
noticeable absence of references to the American colonial period. This chosen focus creates a
distinct narrative about Filipino history and identity, which may hide other important events and
influences that shaped the country(Cabalfin, 2014).

A small group of people made decisions about what to display and how to show it, often
with the influence of leaders such as Imelda Marcos. This made it unclear who was sharing their
version of Filipino culture and whether it resembled the different opinions and experiences of
Filipinos. The simplistic images and stories presented in these designs might result in a limited or
even interpreted sense of what it means to be Filipino, both for visitors and Filipinos (Cabalfin,
2014).

Previous and current management efforts in Nayong Pilipino

Marcos Era Establishment (1970-1986)

In 1970, the Nayong Pilipino was established under the Marcos administration, which for
many had been a highlight of the heritage of the country as provided for in Presidential Decree
No. 37 (1972). Had the park featured miniature replicas of iconic Filipino landmarks, indigenous
villages, and regular cultural performances, it would have served both as a tourist attraction and a
propaganda tool for the promotion of a national identity. Such managed culture programs under
Ime-Marcos became a pet project of the regime but were criticized for their politicized
representation of Filipino culture.

Post-EDSA Decline (1986-2002)

 After the 1986 People Power Revolution, Nayong Pilipino suffered from neglect, funding
cuts, and allegations of mismanagement. Cultural revivals did not fare well because of lowering
park visitors and major issues related to maintenance. It was given in 2002 after the government
reclaimed the Pasay property for NAIA Terminal 3's expansion, which led to the sudden closure
of the site despite protests from heritage advocates.

Relocation to Clark (2007-2019)

Nayong Pilipino came under Executive Order No. 615 in 2007 when it was reopened at the
Clark Freeport Zone. However, it could not live in its former glory at its new location. Poor
access and marketing are factors in the low visitor turnout for the park. The park instead focused
on educational tours and regional festivals, but could not compete with newer entertainment
places because of budget constraints and a lack of modernization.

Current Revitalization Efforts (2020-Present)

The Nayong Pilipino Foundation (NPF) has taken it upon itself to attract public-private
partnerships (PPPs) towards a P1.5 billion redevelopment of its facilities with eco-friendly
upgrades and digital exhibits. Recent partnerships with the Department of Tourism incorporate
the park into cultural tourism circuits, whereas Senate inquiries push for stronger measures
against corruption. Nayong Pilipino continues battling funding and public consciousness
challenges as it seeks a new path for itself in the preservation of Filipino heritage, even in light
of all these efforts.

Site Inventory and Analysis of Nayong Pilipino in Clark

SITE FACT SHEET:

Location: Clark Freeport Zone, Mabalacat City, Pampanga
Land Area: 90,727.25 sq. m.
Site Accessibility:
 - Dinosaurs Island (2.9)
- Coronation Premium Manufacturing Inc. (450 m)
- Site Skills Training Clark (180 m)
- Marcos Village Barangay Hall (700 m)
- Iglesia Ni Cristo Lokal ng Mabalacat-Marcos Village (750 m)
- Marcos Village Elementary School (900 m)
- Macapagal Village Elementary School (1.6 km)
- CWC Pumping Station 7 (2 km)
- PAGASA Clark Sypnotic/Airport Weather Station (4.2 km)
- Philippine Science High School - Central Luzon Campus (2.1 km)
- Clark Nature Park, Inc. (2.5 km)
- Clark International Airport (2.9 km)
Access Road
- Centennial Road
- Prince Balagtas Avenue
- Creekside Road
- Panday Pira Avenue
- Claro M. Recto Highway
Sun and Geological Data
Coordinates
- Latitude: 15°12'15"N
- Longitudinal: 120°31'49"E
Sun Path Analysis
Summer Solstice
As of May 20, 2024, at 12:00 pm
Azimuth: 340.17°
Altitude: 85.99°

Winter Solstice
As of December 31, 2024, at 12:00 pm
Azimuth: 51.74°
 Altitude: 179.65°

Demographic Profile (As per PSA 2020 census)

- Province of Pampanga Population: 2,437,709
- Mabalacat City (1st district, 1st class component city):
Population: 294,116
Population Density: 3,567/ sq. km
Population Growth Rate (2015-2020): 3.35%
Population by Gender:
- Male: 147,911
- Female: 145,205
Population by Age Distribution:
80+ years 1,977
70-79 years 5,910
60-69 years 14,090
50-59 years 24,099
40-49 years 32,739
30-39 years 44,960
20-29 years 58,805
10-19 years 55,098
0-9 years 55,438

The 9-hectare site of Nayong Pilipino sits between the Industrial District and Technology
and Business Park, as per the District Map of the Clark Development Corporation. Several
recreational, commercial, and industrial buildings surround Nayong Pilipino, including casinos,
resorts, factories, and corporations.

Site Physical Characteristics

The site and its surrounding landscape are generally flat, which is suitable. ble
Land Use and Zoning
Climate and Weather
SWOT Analysis

Issues and Challenges of Filipino Cultural Parks

Themed Architecture and Integrated Machines for Recreation

Technological advancements in interactive exhibits and smart spaces

Sustainable and eco-friendly design elements
Cultural authenticity vs. modern reinterpretations of Filipino Architecture

Complex Landscape Design and Its Practices in the Philippines

Key Elements of Philippine Complex Landscape Design

Landscaping Design Trends and Strategies

Chapter 3
RESEARCH METHODS

Chapter 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Chapter 5
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
References:

Nayong Pilipino Foundation. (2024, March 5). Nayon: Journal of Natural and Cultural
Heritage - Nayong Pilipino Foundation. https://nayongpilipino.gov.ph/nayon-journal-of-
natural-and-cultural-heritage/

Zheng, W. (2024). Research on Narrative Landscape Design Strategies for Theme Parks Based
on Intangible Cultural Heritage Perspectives. Applied Mathematics and Nonlinear Sciences, 9(1).
https://doi.org/10.2478/amns-2024-2943

https://nayongpilipino.gov.ph/npf-charter/
https://openarchive.icomos.org/id/eprint/2502/1/Philippine%20Landscape%20Heritage
%20Education%20-%20ICOMOS%20PH_10112020.pdf

https://www.academia.edu/17982888/
_Condensing_the_Country_Identity_Politics_in_the_Design_of_Nayong_Pilipino_Philippine_Vi
llage_and_1998_Expo_Pilipino_Theme_Parks_?auto=download

https://nayongpilipino.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Unthread_-Unravelling-the-Museo-
ng-Nayong-Pilipino-Project.pdf

https://nayongpilipino.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Nayong-Pilipino-Facts-Sheet-1.pdf

https://nayongpilipino.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/NAYON-pages_with-ISSN-
Number.pdf

https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1972/11/06/presidential-decree-no-37-s-1972/

https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2007/04/02/executive-order-no-615-s-2007/

https://elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph/thebookshelf/showdocs/26/60000
https://www.esquiremag.ph/long-reads/features/nayong-pilipino-history-a00289-20210507-lfrm2

https://bluprint-onemega.com/architecture/heritage/old-nayong-pilipino-a-park-of-cultural-
representation/

https://ciac.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Annex-D-Parks-Design-Scheme.pdf