Thesis (BS Architecture) -- University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2013

Ports act primarily as gateways and as nodes within international transport networks (Bird, 1980 and 1983). However, one of the most apparent functions of seaports that many people may easily miss is their strong capability of acting as the landmark or cultural symbol for the cities they represent, given their usually strategic locations and the wide variety of people traveling in and out of its premises. In this study, the researcher tried to justify the implications of losing the identity of a certain city in the process of the current developments that were made. Analyzing the importance of seaports not merely as a gateway for water transportation but seeing its potential as a city's landmark once its historical significance is established. Moreover, the goal of this study is to examine the ways in which the seaport does not only serve as a point of destination of shipping vessel, but also serves as a multifunctional building or structure reflecting the city's local culture. Specifically, it aims to preserve historic resources of the seaport that link to the local culture of the city. At the same time, it aims to create seaport complex that is not only pleasant to work in for the staff and employees, but also efficient in traffic circulation, serves efficient utilities and facilities, comfortable and convenient to the passengers and non-passengers, and aesthetically presentable in relation to the renewal and conservation of the historical impact of the said study. This study was based on a qualitative methodology for gathering and analyzing data. The proponent of the study explored the relationship among the local culture of the city, the barter trade industry and assessment of the spatial needs of the passenger port. The respondents were stratified into four (4) groups; the Barter Trades, Local Tribes, Passengers, and Non-Passengers. Given the existing port as something which local and foreign people regard as the city's most prominent landmark, the proponent of this research saw the need to bridge the gap between modernity and culture through the revitalization of the port with a set of design guidelines. It was concluded that a seaport complex that will integrate its identified assets will not only enhance the seaport's image but will also contribute to the resources of the seaport.