The first modern skyscraper of Manila was the Picache Building located in Quiapo’s Plaza Miranda. It was builtin 1962.
Designed by the architect Angel Nakpil, the building rose to 12 stories rising high over the Manila skyline, paving the way for taller constructions in the city (for better or worse).
The Picache Building was built in the International Style, following the principle of “form follows function.” This meant lesser ornamentations in the classical sense. The building utilized aluminum, steel, and glass.
The building was home to the Philippine Savings Bank and was an important mid-century landmark in the city. The building is still standing today, albeit surrounded by more chaos.
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