The fifth leg of the biggest architecture festival in Southeast Asia will be held in the Philippines to promote collaboration and dialogue among architects from 150 nations on Feb. 7 to 9 in Intramuros, in Manila.
Titled "Anthology Architecture and Design Festival," the event will revolve on the theme 'Think Architecture'.
Four executives from Plaza + Partners, WTA Anthology Architecture and Design Festival, VisionArch and ARCO group are inviting full-fledged architects, budding architects, students, and guests to attend the festival.
“We have very different stages of involvement. From the very popular architect to the young and budding architect. So, all are welcome. That’s I think, what makes Anthology unique,” Managing Director ARCO Group, Cathy Saldana said.
The country’s architectural level, when combined with the use of technology, is still lagging behind, said VisionArch founder Terrence Yu.
To address this issue, the festival’s main priority is the country’s future architects, who it expects will help the country transition into a new era.
“The Philippines is still lagging behind when it comes to technology. But when it comes to technology, it has allowed architects to do designs that we’ve never done before,” said Yu. “It kind of helps to show and inspire. The Philippines right now is moving towards a different era.”
The three-day festival will highlight different talks from renowned architects, anthology sessions, exhibits, competitions and workshops. Attendees have the freedom to choose where to participate or attend.
Two representatives from highly acclaimed architecture companies, including one award-winning architect are the keynote speakers. The company representatives are from Woha based in Singapore, Urbanus in China, and award-winning architect, Ricardo Bofill from Spain.
The festival’s director is optimistic that the festival will attract 5,000 to 6,000 attendees this year.
Prices for the festival are offered in two different passes. The all-access pass, which includes three-day access to the festival, merchandise, workshops, and competitions. Student pass is offered at P1,500, non-professional at P3,000, and the professional at P4,500.
The VIP access pass is a special package that adds further benefits, such as VIP tents, Gala Night Dinner, including scheduled tours around Manila. The price for VIP access is P18,000.