Right at the heart of the City of Tanauan where one of the Philippine revolutionary heroes was born, Apolinario Mabini, lies the historical Plaza Mabini. It is intended to be improved into a vibrant and multi-purpose plaza highlighting the heroism of Apolinario Mabini.
The plaza is currently used as an open parking space bounded by the old municipal hall, which was converted into a museum. Adjacent the plaza are heritage-themed spaces such as the St. John the Evangelist Parish Church, and various commercial buildings.
As part of the Heritage District Zone in the city, the redevelopment of Plaza Mabini aims to incorporate a contemporary Spanish-Filipino art deco landscape design that blends with the existing architectural style of its adjacent spaces.
With this theme, the city being the birthplace of Apolinario Mabini, the City Government of Tanauan envisions redesigning the dilapidated Plaza Mabini into a welcoming space that commemorates Mabini as the “Brain of the Revolution.” The plaza aims to provide innovative and flexible space for various civic events and festivities. The central plaza will feature an interactive and musical dry fountain which will also serve as a multi-purpose event space with an outdoor LED screen for the city’s announcement. Also, a central lawn bordered with structural native trees is integrated near the entrance of the museum to soften the landscape and act as a picnic area, at the same time encouraging direct natural rainwater percolation. Moreover, the existing trellis will be improved by incorporating native flowering climbers, such as Thunbergia grandiflora, to provide natural shade and aesthetics. Further, a mini-play area is also integrated to provide leisure and recreational amenities for kids and toddlers.
The Plaza Mabini exemplifies a major transformation that honors the heritage identity and bravery of Apolinario Mabini while providing innovative and flexible public open spaces responsive to the contemporary needs of the people and the environment.
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