Freedom Memorial Museum

Human Rights Violations Victims' Memorial Museum Commission - Competition Entry - Collaboration with Architect Ygy Gemanil

"Bigkis" is about the united effort of enlightened individuals to stand up against tyranny, and defend freedom with bravery and sacrifice.

The museum is composed of two buildings, a translucent polycarbonate “Norte” building, highlighting the propaganda and fabrication required to conceal the truth, and an enclosed weathered steel “Sur” building, focusing on the oppressions during the martial law period.

The contemplation area is located below ground. A space for reflection on the sacrifices of our people. It is an extension of the memorial. The area will exhibit the timeline of events of the martial law period. The design of the space aims to imbue an eerie atmosphere that instills sympathy to the victims.

The memorial is an upright and unyielding monument, a collective symbol of the heroism of those who fought for our freedom and democracy. It is composed of 11,228 reflective stainless steel members, symbolizing both the victims and the “moto proprio”.

The memorial acts as a candle illuminating the site at night. It is also a symbol of “kapit-bisig”, representing the collective act, uniting against oppression. The weave pattern shows that strength can only be achieved by unity and solidarity.