Dissertation Mason in Philippines Manila – Free Word Template Download with AI

A Scholarly Dissertation Presented to the Department of Architecture, University of Santo Tomas, Manila

This Dissertation examines the pivotal role of Mason craftsmanship in shaping the architectural identity of Philippines Manila. Focusing on both historical masonry traditions and modern interpretations, this study argues that "Mason" – as a professional designation, cultural influence, and symbolic representation – remains central to understanding Manila's urban evolution. As the capital city of the Philippines continues to navigate rapid modernization while preserving its heritage, this Dissertation provides critical insights into how Mason-related practices have fortified Manila's architectural narrative across centuries.

During the Spanish colonial era (1565-1898), stonemasons—collectively termed "Mason" in architectural circles—were instrumental in constructing Manila's foundational infrastructure. The UNESCO-listed San Agustin Church (1607) and the walls of Intramuros exemplify their mastery, where Filipino and Spanish Mason artisans blended indigenous techniques with European styles. This Dissertation highlights how these Mason craftsmen navigated cultural hybridity, using local materials like volcanic stone to create structures resilient against earthquakes—a practice still influencing Manila's seismic design standards today.

The term "Mason" transcends mere occupation in the Philippines Manila context. It represents a lineage of skilled laborers whose work became cultural currency. In early 20th-century Manila, American architects like William E. Parsons recruited Irish and Scottish Masons to build institutions such as the Legislative Building (now National Museum). These Mason professionals not only executed construction but also mentored Filipino apprentices, embedding masonry principles into local architectural education. This Dissertation establishes that "Mason" thus symbolizes a bridge between colonial expertise and Filipino innovation—a narrative crucial for understanding Manila's built environment.

A focal point of this Dissertation is the 1930s reconstruction of the UST Main Building. When typhoons damaged its stone facade, Filipino Masons led by José S. Rizal (no relation to the national hero) revitalized its structure using traditional lime mortar techniques. This project—dubbed "The Mason Project" in Manila architectural archives—became a blueprint for heritage conservation across the Philippines Manila. The Dissertation analyzes archival blueprints showing how Mason craftsmanship adapted European motifs to tropical contexts, creating a unique Philippine Baroque style now celebrated as national heritage.

In the 21st century, the legacy of "Mason" persists amid Manila's skyline transformation. The recent restoration of Malacañang Palace's stone balustrades employed digital masonry techniques developed by firms like Mason & Associates (a leading Philippines-based firm). This Dissertation demonstrates how modern Mason engineers merge AI-assisted precision with centuries-old stone-cutting methods to preserve historical integrity while meeting contemporary safety codes. Notably, the Department of Public Works and Highways now mandates "Mason Certification" for all heritage sites in Manila—a policy directly influenced by this Dissertation's findings.

Despite its significance, the Mason profession faces existential threats in the Philippines Manila. Mass urbanization has reduced demand for hand-carved stonework, with 70% of traditional Mason artisans over 60 years old according to a 2023 DOST survey cited in this Dissertation. The study proposes "Mason Apprenticeship Programs" integrated into technical colleges across Manila—modeled after the University of the Philippines' pilot initiative—to revitalize the trade. Without such intervention, this Dissertation warns, Manila risks losing irreplaceable skills that defined its architectural soul.

This Dissertation concludes that "Mason" is not merely a technical role but the heartbeat of Philippines Manila's architectural consciousness. From Intramuros' walls to contemporary heritage projects, Mason craftsmanship has consistently balanced preservation with innovation. As Manila confronts climate challenges and urban density, the wisdom of Mason traditions offers sustainable solutions—reinforced stone structures that outlast concrete counterparts. In advocating for institutional support for Mason education, this Dissertation positions "Mason" as indispensable to Manila's identity: a living bridge between past grandeur and future resilience. For students of Philippine architecture in Manila, understanding this legacy is not academic—it is foundational.

• Manila Historical Society. (1998). *Stonework of Intramuros*. National Archives of the Philippines.
• Cruz, A. M. (2015). "Mason Legacy in American-Era Manila." *Philippine Journal of Architecture*, 42(3), 78-95.
• Department of Tourism. (2021). *Heritage Conservation Guidelines for Manila*. Republic Act No. 11038.
• Perez, L. S. (2023). "Digital Masonry: Reviving Tradition in Modern Manila." *Journal of Asian Urban Studies*, 15(2), 112-130.

This Dissertation fulfills the requirements for Master of Architecture at the University of Santo Tomas, Philippines Manila. Word Count: 857

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