NCCA seeks public awareness on landmark architecture

MANILA, Philippines - Learning about historical buildings in the country need not be boring.

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has thought of an interesting way to generate public awareness, especially from today’s youth, on some of the country’s landmark architecture.

The NCCA came up with a variety of cutout paper architectural models that could be downloaded from the agency’s website https://ncca.gov.ph/childrens-corner/ncca-paper-craft-series/.

NCCA consulting architect Gerard Lico said so far, they have produced eight different paper structures – the Rizal Monument, Manila Metropolitan Theater, Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras, Aguinaldo Shrine, Malacañan Palace, Sultan Hassal Bolkiah Masjid (Grand Mosque) in Cotabato City, Quezon Memorial Shrine and Barasoain Church.

Lico, who once headed the NCCA committee on architectural and allied arts, said they hope to raise awareness among children and those young at heart to engage in paper craft.

He added that since it can be accessed on their website, even children of Filipino parents who migrated abroad could learn about these historical landmarks.

Lico said putting up the 10-inch  miniature architectural pieces could be done even by a 10-year-old.

The activity only requires glue, scissors, patience and interest to get it done, he said.

“This is to raise public awareness that these buildings are not just structures. They are repositories of our identity as a people. They document who we are as Filipinos and what we can be,” said Lico.

“These miniature paper models help build people’s appreciation of the heritage structure better. They enhance the public’s curiosity to visit the actual site,” he said.