A Civic Space For A Municipality’s Pride and Identity
Salcedo, Ilocos Sur, Philippines
BANAT, SALCEDO! This is the battle cry of the people of Salcedo, Ilocos Sur, Philippines towards a new future forward city. Through the leadership of its Mayor, a hidden gem in Northern Philippines is headed towards a bright future. the AJM community has begun the designs of the first phase of the Salcedo development plan. Known as the “Gateway to Tirad Pass” this town boasts of a treasure trove of natural tourist destinations. And to prepare for the influx of visitors designs for the new Plaza Salcedo were drawn up. Inclusive, people-centric and environmentally sensitive, the open spaces aim to transform peoples’ sense of pride, place and identity. We at Team AJM celebrate our journey with the people of this beautiful town. Banat, Salcedo!
This one is close to our hearts. Working with Mayor Ninya and her Team for Plaza Salcedo, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. It is a joy and privilege to work with visionaries and leaders who have the best interest of their constituents in mind.
This is what designing for people is all about.
PROGRESS IMAGES OF THE SITE
Construction works to turn Salcedo’s dreams and aspirations through their own public park at the heart of their government center is underway. When Phase 01 is fully complete Plaza Salcedo will become a symbol of progress and prosperity for the Municipality of Salcedo.
The ongoing construction includes a children’s playground and a memorial plaza where the statue of the hero Gregorio H. Del Pilar looks out to the historic Tirad Pass. Designing and building over existing conditions and structures is a challenge. But through the colaborative work between AJM and the Local Government Unit (LGU) the challenges are overcome to be able to create a plaza that can be used by people from all walks of life and physical abilities.
The old site of the Plaza Salcedo Quadrangle was once an unusable piece of land that can be used for multiple activities the citizens can benefit from. During the course of the pre-design process AJM recognized the potentials of the site. Reenvisioning this space as a vibrant civic space for everyone the Quadrangle can have a major impact on the economic, political and social fabric of Salcedo.
The new Plaza Salcedo Quadrangle is envisioned to be the centerpiece in the LGU’s central civic space. The space is designed to host political, social and economic activities that will galvanize the sense of community and identity of the people of Salcedo. The Quadrangle is a statement that landscape architecture is instrumental in creating landscapes that are symbols of freedom and democracy.
The Children’s Playground is a must for Mayor Ninya Grazielle Gironela-Itchon as she gives value to the next generation of citizens. AJM Planning And Design upholds this ideal and designed playscapes that are not only safe for kids but also will help in the development of mental and physical skills of the young citizens of Salcedo.
Back To Salcedo: A Journey of Design and Development | Since 2017, AJM Planning and Design has been collaborating with the leaders and residents of Salcedo, Ilocos Sur. Their rallying cry, “Banat Salcedo” has inspired the design and development of their town plaza. Construction of Plaza Salcedo commenced in 2024 and two years later, we have witnessed the ongoing transformation of Salcedo’s primary public space.
The Plaza is gradually taking shape as construction progresses and resources become available. The project requires unwavering determination and resolve from the town’s leaders to ensure its completion. Mayor Ninya Gironella-Itchon and her team spearhead this journey, and we at AJM Community proudly join in carrying out this earnest endeavor.
The Plaza opens up the Children’s Park section of the one-hectare complex, fulfilling Mayor Ninya’s promise to provide Salcedo’s young citizens with their own public play space. This demonstrates long-term civic investment, fostering community pride from an early age. Creating this child-friendly play space communicates to residents that the local government prioritizes early development and the children’s sense of belonging to their neighborhood.
Hardscapes and softscapes: a work in progress – the salcedo marker has been installed, welcoming visitors to the gateway to tirad pass. the structure serves a dual purpose beyond its function as a sign. it stands as a landscape feature that fosters a sense of identity and belonging among the people.
softscapes establishing on site: carefully selected shrub species are well-suited to the hot environment of salcedo. these plants not only thrive in the challenging conditions of the site but also have a high rate of propagation. since maintenance can be a challenge for some clients, we make sure that our plant palette has a high survival rate and long-term aesthetic appeal to alleviate the burden of caring for the softscapes.
