Icon of Resiliency

The Bahay na Bato, a traditional Filipino house, is a remarkable example of

resilience. Its unique structure is designed to withstand the strong winds and
earthquakes that often hit the Philippines. The house is constructed using mostly
locally sourced materials, such as wood and stones, and a special binding paste,
which is believed to contain egg whites. This combination of materials creates a
sturdy structure that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Despite its Spanish
origins, the Bahay na Bato has become one of the most recognizable houses in the
Philippines. Its simple yet elegant design, coupled with its ability to withstand natural
disasters, has made it a beloved symbol of the country's culture and history.

Some part of the bahay na bato is aljibe, which served as a water cistern; atop
it is azotea. Inside the sala of the Bahay na Bato, one would often find an almario. A
vertical pillow rack that is used to air-dry bed linens and pillows. Moving on to the
kitchen area, you would find the banggeras, a slatted wooden dishrack that adorned
the dining room and provided a convenient spot for air-drying freshly washed
tableware. Before being stored in the platera or paminggalan. Persianas, a type of
jalousy on window panels, shielded the house interior from the sun. They played a
pivotal role in regulating light and air within the Bahay na Bato. It contributes to the
comfort and airy ambiance. Also, it has a high-pitched roof like the Bahay Kubo.

As we move on to explore the architectural features of the Bahay na Bato, we

come across the postigas—service doors that were carefully cut alongside the main

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entrances. These doors were designed to cater to the needs of both pedestrians and
carriages alike. The wider doors provided ample space for the carriages to pass
through, whereas the smaller ones facilitated pedestrian movement. Along with the
postigas, the Bahay na Bato also boasts other architectural elements such as vitrinas
and painadoras. These elements not only add to the aesthetic appeal of the structure
but also hold immense cultural significance. They represent the rich cultural heritage
of the Philippines and serve as a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the artisans
who crafted them. Moreover, the structure of the Bahay na Bato is built to withstand
the test of time. It is constructed in a way that can withstand strong typhoons and
other natural calamities.

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