How Mall Culture Moved to the Center of Philippine Life

The Philippines, a country known for its vibrant culture and warm hospitality, has seen a significant shift in its social and economic landscape over the past few decades. One of the most notable changes is the rise of mall culture, which has moved to the center of Philippine life. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, including the country’s tropical climate, urbanization, and the multifunctional nature of malls.

Historical Context and Evolution

The concept of malls in the Philippines began to take shape in the 1970s with the establishment of Ali Mall, the country’s first major shopping mall. Over the years, malls have evolved from simple shopping centers to multifunctional spaces that cater to a wide range of needs. Today, malls are not just places to shop; they are community hubs where people gather, socialize, and access various services.

Climate and Convenience

One of the primary reasons for the popularity of malls in the Philippines is the country’s tropical climate. With temperatures often soaring and the rainy season bringing heavy downpours, malls provide a comfortable, air-conditioned environment where people can escape the heat and rain. This convenience has made malls an attractive destination for Filipinos looking to spend their leisure time in a comfortable setting.

Urbanization and Accessibility

As the Philippines has urbanized, the development of malls has kept pace with the growing population in cities. Malls are strategically located in urban centers, making them easily accessible to a large number of people. This accessibility has made malls a central part of daily life for many Filipinos, who visit them not only for shopping but also for dining, entertainment, and even accessing government services.

Multifunctional Spaces

Modern malls in the Philippines are designed to be all-in-one destinations. They house a variety of establishments, including supermarkets, restaurants, cinemas, gyms, medical clinics, and even government offices. This multifunctionality makes malls a convenient place for people to accomplish multiple tasks in one trip. For instance, a person can shop for groceries, pay bills, watch a movie, and have a meal, all without leaving the mall.

Social and Cultural Hub

Malls have also become important social and cultural hubs in the Philippines. They host events, concerts, and exhibitions, providing a space for community engagement and cultural expression. Additionally, many malls hold Catholic masses on Sundays, further integrating them into the social fabric of Filipino life. This role as a community center has strengthened the bond between malls and the people who frequent them.

Economic Impact

The economic impact of malls in the Philippines cannot be overstated. They provide employment opportunities for thousands of people and contribute significantly to the local economy. According to data provided by the Philippine Retailers Association, shopping malls account for about 15% of the country's GNP and 33% of the entire services sector. The presence of malls has also spurred the growth of surrounding businesses, creating a ripple effect that benefits the broader community.

Conclusion

The rise of mall culture in the Philippines is a testament to the adaptability and resilience of Filipino society. Malls have become more than just shopping centers; they are integral parts of daily life, providing comfort, convenience, and a sense of community. As the country continues to develop, it is likely that malls will remain central to the social and economic landscape of the Philippines.

Source: ZRE

New book surveys Metro Manila’s architectural landmarks

‘Architectural Guide Manila’ features the built heritage of the Philippines’ capital region with writings by architects and heritage advocates

Bianca Weeko Martin’s Architectural Guide Manila presents in style the built heritage of Metro Manila spanning the Spanish, American, and the contemporary periods. It is a handy book with short but informative essays accompanied by eye-catching images of buildings featured.

In her introduction, the Canada-based Filipino-Indonesian author relates how she fell in love with the country’s history and architecture and mentions her ancestral home in Baliwag, Bulacan, a still extant two-story house completed in 1934.

The recently launched book ‘Architectural Guide Manila.’

Published by the Berlin-based DOM Publishers, the book was launched on 11 May at the Manila Metropolitan Theater with a panel discussion featuring the author; architect Gerard Lico who contributed an article on brutalism and post-colonial architecture; architect and curator Peter Cachola Schmal; and Patrick Kasingsing of Brutalist Pilipinas.

They discussed heritage conservation projects and efforts in Manila as well as its built environment. Following the launch was a tour of Manila facilitated by the group Renacimiento Manila.

Apart from Lico’s essay, representative buildings from the Spanish to the American periods are discussed starting off with Intramuros including the Manila Cathedral and Fort Santiago, the historic Bahay Nakpil-Bautista, Paco Train Station, Luneta Hotel, the National Museum complex, and the Far Eastern University campus. Also featured are churches and chapels, old and new and structures of tropical modernism such as the Government Service Insurance System Complex in Pasay City and the Pacific Star Building in Makati City.

While many of the featured building are already written about in many other publications, the book’s strength lies on the feature on Metro Manila’s modernist and post-modernist structures. These structures are located in the cities of Pasay, Makati and Taguig.

Aside from Lico, the book’s other contributors include Singaporean scholar Joshua Tan, Aya Maceda of New York’s Parsons School of Design, Edson Cabalfin of Tulane University in Louisiana, Neferti Tadiar of Barnard College in New York, and Kasingsing.

Offering a fresh take on the architectural milieu of Metro Manila, the book is a perfect guide for a weekend stroll or an afternoon coffee in the Philippines’ capital region.

Source: Daily Tribune

What to consider when purchasing solar flood lights

In a world that increasingly values sustainable alternatives, solar flood lights stand at the forefront of innovation in outdoor lighting. It’s the simple and genius solution of harnessing the sun’s power to generate light and create security.

What are some of the most important factors to consider when purchasing fixtures for your property?

LOOK AT LUMENS, NOT WATTS

Traditionally, wattage has been the standard metric for measuring the brightness of light bulbs. But when it comes to solar flood lights, lumens are a more accurate indicator of brightness. Lumens measure the total amount of visible light emitted by a source, providing a better gauge of a light’s actual brightness. For outdoor spaces, consider higher lumen values for increased visibility and security. Look for solar flood lights that provide sufficient lumens to meet your specific illumination needs.

CONSIDER COLOUR TEMPERATURE

Beyond brightness, consider the color temperature of the solar flood lights. Color temperature is measured in Kelvins, with lower values (around 2700K) producing warm, yellow light and higher values (5000K and above) delivering cool, bluish-white light. Our new solar flood lights have high values of around 6000-6500K to deliver clear visibility.

SELECT MOTION SENSOR DESIGNS FOR ENHANCED SECURITY

Many high-quality solar flood lights come equipped with motion sensors, enhancing security and energy efficiency. Motion sensor lights activate when movement is detected, providing an added layer of safety, and discouraging potential intruders. When purchasing solar flood lights, consider models with adjustable sensitivity and duration settings to tailor them to your specific requirements.

CHECK FOR ROBUST MATERIALS

Outdoor lighting faces exposure to various weather conditions, so it’s important to choose solar flood lights designed for durability and weather resistance. Look for lights with an IP65 or higher rating, indicating protection against dust and water ingress. Additionally, consider the build quality, materials used, and any certifications for durability in challenging outdoor environments. The newest solar floods are crafted from ABS, PC, metal and anti-UV materials.

UNDERSTAND THE ADVANTAGES OF LIFEPO4 BATTERIES

The type of battery technology used in any solar flood light has a huge impact on the fixture’s performance and lifespan. LiFePO4 batteries (lithium iron phosphate) are gaining prominence for their superior characteristics. These batteries offer a longer cycle life and can endure more charge-discharge cycles. They’re also known for their impressive thermal stability and safety profile, reducing the risk of overheating or thermal runaway. The LiFePO4 batteries found the newest solar flood lights are one of their major selling points with homeowners, architects and project managers alike, recognizing their superiority.

OPT FOR MONOCRYSTALLINE SILICON PANELS

Another standout feature of these fixtures is their monocrystalline silicon panels. Their benefits are numerous, ranging from high efficiency because of their single-crystal structure to their compact size. They also perform superiorly in low-light conditions. With a longer lifespan, exceptional durability, and the ability to harness energy even in less-than-ideal weather conditions, monocrystalline silicon panels make flood lights a robust and efficient outdoor lighting solution.

THINK ABOUT ADJUSTABLE MOUNTING

Consider the flexibility of mounting options when selecting solar flood lights. Lights with adjustable brackets or flexible mounting arms allow you to direct the light exactly where it’s needed. This adaptability ensures optimal coverage and illumination of specific areas within your outdoor space.

So, while there may be a great many flood lights on the market, these handy tips will help you make a wise selection, to ensure both longevity and performance. Happy buying!

Source: Leading Architecture