Description

The City of Balanga is the capital province of Bataan. At its heart is the Provincial Capital Complex. This complex of buildings neighbors two educational facilities with the Bataan Peninsula State University at the North side, and the University IT Town Center at the South. 

The Provincial Capitol Complex is currently home to an Auditorium and Convention Center, the Capitol Building, the Justice Hall, and a community park. 

Currently, all of these buildings are not legibly connected other than by road networks, denying locals of a functional and pedestrian-friendly connection. 

The development is envisioned to be a place where the government meets the people. The current pathways disconnect the two areas of development. By reinvigorating the landscape, our proposal aims to emphasize informal circulations and encourage direct interaction between the provincial government and the Bataeños. The complex aims to be a center where culture, commerce and community come together. 

Cities are defined by the quality of their public spaces therefore, the multipurpose building - Mediatheque - would be an essential addition to the Barangay, programmed to accommodate the needs of the people, while fostering ties in the neighborhood. 

The Mediatheque will feature a two-storey library, outdoor and indoor coffee shops, and public assistance offices. The building aims to encourage interaction amongst peers, creating a balance between leisure and work. It aims to fulfill an essential need of the people of Bataan, providing versatile spaces for different activities.