Bulanao Rotunda eyed as Kalinga landmark; design contest launched

Tabuk City, Kalinga - A new cultural landmark is being envisioned in Kalinga as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) pushes forward with the plan to construct a structure at the Rotunda in Bulanao, Tabuk City, that will embody the rich identity and heritage of the province. 

Said plan was announced by DPWH-Lower Kalinga District Office District Engineer Ruby Uyam during the kickoff of the 125th Philippine Service Anniversary on Monday, September 1, at the Tabuk People’s Gymnasium.

To bring this vision to life, the agency launched the Kalinga Rotunda Design Contest during the event, inviting local professionals and stakeholders to create designs that integrate the province’s traditions into modern architecture. 

In her talk, Uyam said the design should prominently feature cultural elements such as traditional weaving, native houses, gongs and banga, tattoos, warriors, spears, shields, and rice terraces. 

It can be recalled that Kalinga claimed two Guinness World Records in 2023 for Largest Gong Ensemble and Largest Banga Dance, which, Uyam said, should be featured in the design. 

Contestants must submit front, side, and aerial views, along with a floor plan, color and scheme, and materials list of their design entry. They are also required to provide narratives of their design. Digital renderings and scale models are encouraged. 

The entries will be evaluated based on cultural relevance and symbolism (30%), creativity and originality (20%), aesthetic appeal (15%), structural feasibility (15%), sustainability and maintenance (10%), and presentation and clarity (10%). 

The DPWH official said the judging of the entries will be in November 2025, while the announcement of winners will take place in December.

Uyam said the first-place winner will be awarded P30,000, P20,000 for second place, and P10,000 for third place. All participants are set to receive a certificate of participation.