JOS Mundo, known for their Instagram series ‘Coming to Our Senses,’ is taking their guests on expeditions around the city and beyond. Their latest initiative, ‘Senses in the City,’ is a series of field trips designed to immerse participants in the rich tapestry of local culture and architecture. The first installment of this series took place at the Ramon Magsaysay Center (RMC), a remarkable building in Manila that is both visually stunning and culturally significant.
The RMC, established in 1967, is a testament to the architectural vision of Alfredo Luz and Associates. Its unique design, often described as a ‘travertine tree,’ features an 18-story Commercial Tower and a two-story L-shaped Foundation Building. According to Marie Perez, the RMC’s chief librarian and archivist, the tower’s large pillars are designed to function like deeply-rooted tree trunks, ensuring the structure’s stability by allowing it to sway with the wind and withstand earthquakes.
The JOS Mundo team carefully curated a group of guests for this exclusive tour, seeking individuals with a keen eye for design and an appreciation for architectural history. The tour commenced with a visit to the Foundation Building, where participants explored its storied hallways and rooms. Guided by Marie and other RMC staff, the group learned about the building’s rich history and its ongoing role as a cultural hub in Manila.
The main hall of the Foundation Building is an impressive space, measuring 367.35 square meters. Its walls are adorned with original narra wood paneling, while the waffle ceiling, designed to conceal built-in audio systems, is perfectly symmetrical with the patterned floor. Marie shared fascinating details about the hidden cabinets within the walls, once used to store the personal belongings of the late President Magsaysay.
As the tour progressed, participants encountered vintage drinking fountains, elevators, and dumb waiters, remnants of a bygone era. They also visited various conference rooms, still in use today for meetings and events. Of particular interest was the Hall of Fame, which honors Ramon Magsaysay Awardees. From national artist Ryan Cayabyab to former president Corazon Aquino, and even Mother Teresa, the Hall of Fame showcases individuals who have made significant contributions to society. Established in 1958, the Ramon Magsaysay Award is widely recognized as one of Asia’s most prestigious awards and a symbol of excellence.
The tour concluded at the Laureate Library and Museum, housed within the Foundation Building. The library boasts a vast collection of reference materials on the Magsaysay Laureates and their advocacies. Visitors are welcome to browse the library’s resources on the second floor for a small fee, while the ground floor features The Library Cafe by Gourmet Farms, a public space that provides refreshments and a welcoming ambiance.
Karen Bolilia, creative director of JOS Mundo, remarked on the irony that many residents of Manila might be unaware of the RMC’s existence and the wealth of resources it offers. This realization sparked the inspiration for the ‘Senses in the City’ series, which aims to connect the brand and its supporters with the rich history and cultural offerings of the city, extending beyond the confines of their showroom. The tour of the RMC, with its unique design, captivating history, and accessible resources, serves as a reminder that even in a bustling city like Manila, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
As Karen Bolilia aptly stated, the RMC, with its towering pillars that resemble tree trunks, is a testament to the city’s history and a source of pride for its residents. The ‘Senses in the City’ series, through its exploration of local cultural landmarks like the RMC, invites us to look beyond the ordinary and appreciate the beauty and significance that often goes unnoticed.
