Who was the first architect in the Philippines?

 The first architect in the Philippines is widely regarded to be Felix Roxas y Arroyo. He was a prominent Filipino architect during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Roxas y Arroyo was known for his works in the neoclassical style, and he played a significant role in shaping the architectural landscape of the Philippines during his time. One of his notable works is the Manila Cathedral, which stands as a testament to his architectural legacy.

Photos taken from manilacathedral.com.ph

Photos taken from manilacathedral.com.ph

Felix Roxas y Arroyo was born on November 28, 1851, in Manila, Philippines, during the Spanish colonial period. He hailed from a prominent family with roots in both politics and business. His father, Don Domingo Roxas, was a wealthy businessman and landowner, while his mother, Doña Teresa de Arroyo, came from a respected family in Cavite.

Roxas y Arroyo received his education in the Philippines and later traveled to Europe to further his studies in architecture. He studied in Spain and Italy, immersing himself in the architectural styles and techniques of the time.

Upon his return to the Philippines, Felix Roxas y Arroyo became one of the leading architects of his era. He was known for his mastery of the neoclassical style, which he applied to various projects across the country.

One of his most significant works is the reconstruction of the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, Manila. The cathedral, originally built in the late 16th century, was destroyed by an earthquake in 1863. Roxas y Arroyo led the efforts to rebuild the cathedral, giving it a grand neoclassical facade that still stands today as an iconic landmark of Manila.

Apart from the Manila Cathedral, Felix Roxas y Arroyo was involved in numerous other architectural projects, including government buildings, churches, and private residences. His works contributed to the development of Manila as a vibrant center of culture and architecture during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Felix Roxas y Arroyo passed away on February 14, 1928, leaving behind a rich architectural legacy that continues to be celebrated in the Philippines today. His contributions to Filipino architecture have earned him a lasting place in the country's history.