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"REVIVING LEGACY: ADAPTIVE RE-USE AND RESTOTATION OF

FORT STA. ISABEL INTO A CULTURAL HUB IN TAYTAY,

PALAWAN"

An Architectural Thesis Presented to the Faculty of the

Department of Architecture Palawan State University

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree

Bachelor of Science in Architecture

By:

Renzo M. Diwa

October 16, 2023

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ABSTRACT

Fort Sta. Isabel, a special place nestled in Taytay, Palawan, its a historical site that holds memories of

the past, tells us something about the Philippines earlier times. The fort is acknowledged as a site for

cultural interactions, from which unique community connections could be developed, maximizing

spread effects. This study presents an exploration to the adaptive reuse potential and restoration of

this iconic fort, re-imagining Fort Sta. Isabel as a community-oriented space accommodating tourist’s

experience and locals’ needs. The foremost objective is to breathe new life into this historic site,

fostering culture, community engagement and promotion of handicraft products. The adaptive reuse

plan envisions Fort Sta. Isabel as a well designed cultural hub with performance spaces, artifacts and

art gallery, artisan market, and green spaces. In parallel, it emphasizes the preservation of the fort's

historical significance and structural integrity as well as delving into the potential economic and

social impacts. The researcher approach combines architectural assessment, historical records,

community involvement, and expert consultations. Key questions include whether the revived fort

will attract more visitors, boost the local economy, enhance community life, and can it promote

Taytay as one of the best cultural destination in Palawan.

Keywords: adaptive reuse, tourism, cultural hub, heritage, historical structure

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title page………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………1

Abstract…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………2

Table of contents…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3

CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

1.1.Background of the Study…………………………………………………………………………………………………………5

1.1.1.Adaptive reuse of historical structures and sites.………………………………………………………….5

1.1.2.Introduction of Cultural hub in the community……………………………………………………………..5

1.1.3.Cultural heritage of Palawan.………………………………………………………………………………………..6

1.1.4.Overview of Taytay and Fort Sta. Isabel’s history.……………………………………………………….…6

1.1.5.Overview of Taytay’s socio-economic profile on cultural tourism and locally made products

and handicrafts.…………………….…………………………………………………………………………………………….…7

1.2.Statement of the Problem……………………………………………………………………………………………………….8

1.2.1.Under-utilization of the historical site Fort Sta. Isabel……………………………………………………8

1.2.2.Subpar facilities for preservation of arts and artifacts, endorsing cultural tourism and

promoting handicraft products.…………………………………………………………………………………….……….8

1.2.3.Tedious recreational spaces for the community…………………………………………………………….9

1.3.Project Objectives.…………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………….9

1.3.1.General project objectives………………………………………..……………………………………………………9

1.3.2.Specific project objectives………………………………………..……………………………………………………9

1.4.Objective of the study.………………………………………..…………………………………………………………..……..10

1.5.Significance of the Study.……………………………………..…………………………………………………………..…….11

1.5.1.To the Community of Taytay.……………………..…………………………………………………………..…….11

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1.5.2.To the Local Artisans.……………………..…………………………………………………………..…………….…..11

1.5.3.To the Tourism Industry..…………………….……………………………………………………..……….…….….11

1.5.4.To the Local Government.…………………….……………………………………………………..…………….….11

1.5.5.To the Educational Institutions…………………….……………………………………………..…………….…..11

1.5.6.To the Future Research.…………………….………………………………………………………..…………….…..11

1.6.Scope and Limitations.…………………….………………………………………………………..…………….……………….12

1.7. Definition of terms…………………….………………………………………………………..…………….…………..……….13

References…………………….………………………………………………………..……………………….……….…………..……….15
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CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background of the Study.

1.1.1. Adaptive reuse of historical structures and sites.

Historically, buildings have served various functions over time. However, modern

society places greater emphasis on preserving architectural heritage. Therefore, choosing

new purposes for heritage buildings requires a more professional approach today.

Deciding to repurpose a building involves complex set of factors like location,

historical value, and market trends. Building conservation now plays a role in broader

urban revitalization. Adaptive reuse is seen as a potent strategy, and urban development

has environmental consequences (Bullen & Love, 2011).

In the Philippines, cultural heritage preservation and adaptive reuse are governed

by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in relationship with the

National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP). National laws, including the

National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009 and the National Building Code, provide the legal

framework, supplemented by local ordinances. On the global stage, UNESCO offers

comprehensive guidelines and resources for heritage conservation through its World

Heritage Centre (National Commission for Culture and the Arts - Directory - E-flux, n.d.).

According to "Adaptive Reuse: Preserving Our Past, Building Our Future - DCCEEW"

(2021), a successful adaptation involves preserving the existing building and its historical

context while adding a contemporary layer that enhances the heritage structure's

character.

1.1.2. Introduction of Cultural hub in the community.

Cultural hubs play a vital role in our society, enhancing it by celebrating various

cultures' arts, history, religion, and heritage. Different communities, municipalities, and
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universities contribute to this enrichment through the construction of facilities like

performing arts centers, museums, places of worship, heritage centers, and libraries.

To create and manage cultural hubs within a community, it is important to have a

sophisticated mix of functions, good collaboration between the partners, local support, a

sustainable business model, a close-knit community, and a community manager. Cultural

hubs can also help artists showcase their talents, take their practice to a new level and

overcome the challenges associated with their location being so far from the big urban

centers (Creative Europe, 2018, p. 7).

1.1.3. Cultural heritage of Palawan.

Palawan, a province located in the western part of the Philippines, has a rich

history dating back to prehistoric times. The arrival of various settlers, including Chinese,

Malay, and Spanish, greatly influenced the province’s culture and traditions. Palawan is

home to several indigenous communities, such as the Tagbanua and Batak, who have a

rich cultural heritage and maintain their traditions through music, dance, and handicrafts.

Palawan is also known for its exquisite handicrafts and unique souvenirs, such as

intricately woven baskets and mats, hand-carved wooden sculptures, and the famous

“Palawan pearls.” The province’s festivals are a testament to its rich cultural heritage and

traditions, with lively street parades, pulsating music, and colorful traditional dress

(Culture & Heritage - Palawan Perfection, 2023).

Palawan has several cultural heritage sites and structures such as the Palawan

Heritage Center, Palawan Museum, Kuyba Almoneca, Cathedral of St. Joseph, Tabon Man

Museum. Plaza Quartel, Cuyo Fort xand Fort Sta. Isabel of Taytay, Palawan (Travel

Palawan, 2023).

1.1.4. Overview of Taytay and Fort Sta. Isabel’s history.

According to the Municipal Government of Taytay, Palawan (2022), Taytay, an

ancient town, derives its name from "Taytayan," a wooden walkway used by natives as a
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bridge. It was once inhabited by the Tagbanwa mountain tribe. Taytay became part of the

vast territory of the Royal Sultanate of Brunei and the Sultanate of Sulu in the 14th

century. The first Western mention came from Antonio Pigafetta, who anchored in Taytay

in 1521 during Ferdinand Magellan's expedition. In 1623, Augustinian Recollects

established Taytay, dedicating it to St. Monica. Attacks by Muslim invaders and Chinese

pirates prompted the Spanish to build a durable coral stone fort, consolidating their

control over the region known as Provincia de Paragua.

1.1.5. Overview of Taytay’s socio-economic profile on cultural tourism and locally made

products and handicrafts.

According to the Municipal Government of Taytay, Palawan (2022a), as of

December 2021, Taytay is home to a population of 88,416 and 20,434 households. 15,128

residents, the largest population that resides in Barangay Poblacion where Fort Sta. Isabel

is specifically situated. Taytay's economy is robust, contributing significantly to Palawan's

fisheries, seaweed, and cashew production, generating a total revenue of

P471,923,094.14 in 2021. The municipality is a also a key producer of rice, coconut and

cassava, earning it the moniker "Rice Bowl of Northern Palawan.

Whilst Taytay is outshone by its neighboring towns like El Nido and San Vicente in

tourism, it sees a notable influx of tourists during the first half of the year (January to

June) and peaks in the months of February and March. The municipality's tourism

potential primarily revolves around nature-based attractions due to its rich marine

ecosystems. It also offers opportunities for cultural interactions, promising unique

community experiences (Municipal Government of Taytay, Palawan Taytay, Palawan,

2022a).

When it comes to locally made handicrafts, there is a noticeable absence of even

small-scale businesses or establishments that specialize in selling these items, with the

exception of artisans hailing from distant barangays whose income varies depending on
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factors like product demand and skill level. While some crafts like pottery, beadwork,

shell crafts, mat weaving and nito weaving offer modest to reasonable incomes, others,

such as woodcarving, can provide decent earnings, especially when catering to tourists

collectors.

1.2. Statement of the Problem.

1.2.1. Under-utilization of the historical site Fort Sta. Isabel.

The underutilization of Taytay's Fort Sta. Isabel and its lack of defined active role

within the community is linked to limited cultural tourism in the municipality. This

historical landmark's potential remains largely untapped, and its significance is not

effectively integrated into Taytay's broader cultural tourism initiatives. According to

Ganancial (2023), the fort's restoration and repurposing plans, with an allocated total

budget of P6.1 million in 2022, aimed to attract additional visitors and further boost

Taytay's tourism economy. However, the fort's role in the community is not clear, and

there is a lack of promotion and marketing of the fort as a cultural heritage site. This

results in low awareness and interest among tourists, which affects the cultural tourism

in Taytay.

1.2.2. Subpar facilities for preservation of arts and artifacts, endorsing cultural tourism and

promoting handicraft products.

According to the Municipal Government of Taytay, Palawan (2022a), Taytay, while

overshadowed by neighboring tourist destinations, still experiences a substantial visitor

influx in the first half of the year, capitalizing on its rich marine ecosystems. The

municipality can also offers unique cultural interactions and products from local artisans,

with varied handicrafts and yielding decent earnings.

However, besides the absence of a clearly defined role of Fort Sta. Isabel, The

municipality also lacks well designed spaces, such as museums and cultural centers,
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necessary for educating and engaging tourists and locals about its rich heritage.

Moreover, subpar facilities for preserving art, artifacts, and promoting local handicrafts

further hinder cultural tourism.

1.2.3. Tedious recreational spaces for the community.

The limited and tedious of recreational spaces in Barangay Poblacion, Taytay and

adjacent baranagays has a notable impact on social interactions within the community.

The lack of areas for gathering hinders residents' ability to connect and bond, affecting

their quality of life. Developing recreational spaces is essential for promoting a vibrant

social community, fostering a sense of belonging and unity among Taytay's residents, and

encouraging more social engagement.

1.3. Project Objectives.

1.3.1. General project objectives.

1.3.1.1. To revitalize Fort Sta. Isabel and boost cultural tourism in Taytay, Palawan. This

involves transforming the historical site into a functional cultural hub that caters

to both the local community and tourists. Enhancing the experience for tourists

while also addressing the needs and interests of the local residents and artisans.

1.3.2. Specific project objectives.

1.3.2.1. Ensure the preservation and structural integrity of Fort Sta. Isabel to safeguard its

heritage through historical restoration.

1.3.2.2. Establish a dedicated performance space within Fort Sta. Isabel, capable of

hosting cultural events, exhibitions, and performances that showcase the rich

heritage of Taytay.

1.3.2.3. Curate an art gallery within Fort Sta. Isabel that preserve and displays local art

and artifacts, providing both residents and tourists with a deeper understanding

of Taytay's cultural heritage.

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1.3.2.4. Create an artisan market within the cultural hub, where local artisans can display

and sell their handicraft products, encouraging economic growth and preserving

traditional craftsmanship.

1.3.2.5. Design and maintain green spaces and gardens within Fort Sta. Isabel, providing a

serene and inviting environment for relaxation and social interactions, fostering

a sense of community.

1.4. Objective of the study.

1.4.1. Investigate guidelines, mandates and laws regarding preservation, restoration and

adaptive reuse of cultural heritage sites. In the Philippines, the NCCA, along with NHCP,

oversees cultural heritage preservation while UNESCO's offers comprehensive guidelines

heritage conservation through its World Heritage Centre.

1.4.2. Study architectural design and guidelines for a cultural hub center at Fort Sta. Isabel.

Collaborate with experts to ensure the development of a multifunctional space that

aligns with guidelines from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in

the Philippines and international standards like UNESCO's "Operational Guidelines for the

Implementation of the World Heritage Convention."

1.4.3. Seeking expert assistance both for conducting a financial audit of the restoration budget

and conducting a thorough structural assessment. Identify opportunities for financial

optimization while having an overview at the structural integrity of the historical site.

1.4.4. Assess the efficacy of current cultural tourism initiatives in Taytay, with a focus on their

influence on the promotion of Fort Sta. Isabel and locally crafted products, particularly

handicrafts. Furthermore, actively engage with local artisans to stimulate promotion and

collaboration.

1.4.5. Conduct research, surveys and interviews to assess the experience and perception of both

tourists and local residents regarding Fort Sta. Isabel's cultural value. In addition, Evaluate
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how limited recreational spaces in Barangay Poblacion and nearby areas affect

community quality of life and social interactions.

1.5. Significance of the Study.

1.5.1. Community of Taytay.

This project enriches the quality of life in Taytay by creating recreational spaces,

preserving traditions, and fostering a sense of belonging. It also offers economic

opportunities that improve the well-being of residents and celebrates the local culture,

strengthening community identity.

1.5.2. Local Artisans.

With a dedicated artisan market, this initiative empowers local artisans by

providing a platform for showcasing and selling their handicrafts. It expands their market

reach, stimulates economic growth, and safeguards traditional craftsmanship, ensuring

their sustainability.

1.5.3. Tourism Industry.

The transformation of Fort Sta. Isabel into a cultural hub elevates Taytay's status

as a cultural destination, attracting more tourists. This boost bolsters the local tourism

sector, generating economic activity through increased visitor numbers, supporting local

businesses and employment.

1.5.4. Local Government.

The research provides a practical roadmap for the local government, aligning with

their development goals. It enriches the local community by fostering a sense of

belonging, preserving cultural traditions, and stimulating economic growth. This, in turn,

ensures the well-being and prosperity of the area's residents.

1.5.5. Educational Institutions.

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This study serves as a valuable educational resource for architecture and heritage

preservation students. It offers insights into adaptive reuse and community-driven

development, facilitating academic institutions' educational goals while promoting the

preservation of cultural heritage

1.5.6. Future Research.

This study forms a foundational resource for researchers and scholars in

architecture, heritage preservation, and community development. It offers a model for

further exploration of similar initiatives, encouraging continued efforts in preserving

cultural heritage and revitalizing historical sites.

1.6. Scope and Limitations.

1.6.1. This research centers on Fort Sta. Isabel in Taytay, Palawan, Philippines, with a primary

focus on its historical and cultural importance. Architecturally, it analyzes adaptive reuse

and restoration, aiming to transform it into a cultural hub encompassing performance

venues, art exhibitions, artisan markets, and green landscapes. Additionally, it evaluates

the impact on cultural tourism, local community enhancement, and the promotion of

local artisanal crafts, all while adhering to national and international regulations. Expert

insights guide financial and structural evaluations, and the study critically assesses the

effectiveness of existing cultural tourism initiatives in Taytay, particularly their role in fort

promotion and support for local craftsmanship.

1.6.2. The study does not cover other forms of heritage sites or historical structures in Taytay or

Palawan.

1.6.3. The study does not delve into broader issues of tourism outside the cultural context.

1.6.4. The study does not include an exhaustive architectural analysis but focuses on the

architectural elements relevant to the transformation.

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1.6.5. The structural assessment focuses on obtaining an overview of the structural integrity of

the historical site but doesn't involve an in-depth structural engineering analysis.

1.6.6. While the study seeks expert assistance for conducting a financial audit, it does not aim to

provide a detailed financial plan for the project but rather an assessment.

1.6.7. While the study acknowledges the absence of small-scale businesses specializing in

selling locally made handicrafts, it does not provide an exhaustive market analysis.

1.6.8. The study provides an overview of relevant laws and guidelines but does not perform a

comprehensive legal analysis.

1.6.9. While international guidelines from UNESCO are considered, the study primarily revolves

around the local and national context in the Philippines.

1.6.10. The study assesses the experience and perception of tourists and local residents

regarding Fort Sta. Isabel's cultural value but does not delve into the psychological

aspects in detail.

1.6.11. The study mainly concentrates on the community of Taytay, Palawan, especially Brgy.

Poblacion, which is the heart of taytay and where Fort Sta, Isabel is specifically located.

Without including other areas outside of Taytay.

1.7. Definitions of Terms.

Fort Sta. Isabel - A historical site located in Taytay, Palawan, Philippines, serving as the primary

focus of this research. This fort has historical and cultural significance and is proposed for

adaptive reuse and restoration.

Historical and Cultural Importance - Refers to the historical and cultural value of Fort Sta. Isabel

in the context of its role in the Philippines' history and heritage.

Adaptive Reuse - The practice of repurposing existing structures, in this case, Fort Sta. Isabel, to

accommodate new functions while preserving their historical and architectural value.
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Cultural Hub - A multifunctional space designed to celebrate and showcase the arts, history,

heritage, and traditions of a community or region.

Performance Spaces - Areas within Fort Sta. Isabel designed for hosting cultural events,

exhibitions, and performances related to Taytay's heritage.

Artisan Market - A designated area within the cultural hub where local artisans can exhibit and

sell their handicraft products.

Green Spaces - Gardens and outdoor areas within Fort Sta. Isabel created for relaxation, social

interactions, and community engagement.

Cultural Tourism - Tourism activities that focus on exploring and experiencing the cultural

aspects and heritage of a destination.

Legislation and Guidelines - Refers to national and international laws, including those set by the

National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in the Philippines and UNESCO's guidelines

related to heritage conservation.

Economic and Social Impacts - The effects of the project on the local economy, community life,

and societal aspects, including income generation and quality of life.

Palawan - A province in the western Philippines with a rich cultural heritage and history.

Tagbanua and Batak - Indigenous communities in Palawan known for their cultural heritage and

traditional practices.

Handicraft Products - Locally made items, including pottery, beadwork, shell crafts, mat

weaving, nito weaving, and woodcarving.

Recreational Spaces - Areas within Barangay Poblacion, Taytay, and neighboring areas meant

for social interactions, gatherings, and community engagement.

Barangay Poblacion - The heart of Taytay, Palawan, where Fort Sta. Isabel is situated.

This set of terms provides a clear understanding of the key concepts and elements used in the

research, helping to navigate the study's content effectively.

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References

Bullen, P. A., & Love, P. E. (2011). Adaptive reuse of heritage buildings. Structural Survey, 29(5), 411–
421. https://doi.org/10.1108/02630801111182439

DCCEEW. (2021, October 3). Adaptive Reuse: Preserving our past, building our future.
https://www.dcceew.gov.au/parks-heritage/heritage/publications/adaptive-reuse

Creative Europe. (2018). Cultural hubs: A study of the strategies and practices of successful cultural
hubs. https://ec.europa.eu/programmes/creative-europe/sites/creative-europe/files/
library/study-cultural-hubs_en.pdf

Ganancial, R. (2023). Taytay’s tourism business expected to benefit more from historic fort
restoration. PALAWAN NEWS. https://palawan-news.com/taytays-tourism-business-
expected-to-benefit-from-historic-fort-restoration/

Mısırlısoy, D., & Günçe, K. (2016). Adaptive reuse strategies for heritage buildings: A holistic
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Municipal Government of Taytay, Palawan. (2022a, August 15). Socio-Economic Profile - Municipal
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National Commission for Culture and the Arts - Directory - e-flux. (n.d.).
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Palawan Perfection. (2021, September 9). Culture & Heritage - Palawan Perfection. Palawan
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Travel Palawan. (2023, May 3). Discovering Palawan’s rich cultural heritage | Travel guide.
https://www.travel-palawan.com/cultural-heritage/