Thesis (BS Architecture) -- University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2010

The Maranao and Maguindanao tribes dominate Central Mindanao. They are the perfect epitome of Central Mindanao. Their architecture reflects central Mindanao's culture, tradition, environment and way of living. However, their vernacular architecture has lost gradually due to globalization. Thus, this study investigated the reasons behind the transformations in the Central Mindanao architecture. The Maranao and Maguindanao houses were evaluated using the modified version of Rapoport's polyethic theory, a method on assessing vernacular characteristics. The houses were evaluated by setting(i.e. Urban and semi-urban) and tribe. Results have shown that regardless of the tribe they belong, the houses in the semi-urban areas are more vernacular than the houses in the urban areas. Also, the transformations were brought about by economic, social and environmental factors. In relation to this, a project was proposed to create a sustainable and efficient community deriving solutions from the vernacular architecture of the Maranao and Maguindanaon in Central Mindanao. This project will be located in riverside of Pulangi River in Cotabato City. The location of the project is the most suitable site for the project considering that Maranaos and Maguindanaons are rivers and lake dwellers. The proposed community will also provide these tribes with the necessities they need as a community. These amenities will help the community grow as an individual and promote the well-being of the neighborhood.