@ ESCOLTA: A 3D SIMULATION OF ESCOLTA STREET DURING THE EARLY TWENTIETH CENTURY

A Proposed Virtual Reality Simulation Aimed at Educating Filipinos Ages 16–25 about the Cultural Properties of Escolta Street in the Early Twentieth Century

Wolff Santos

Cultural properties are physical representations of a nation’s artistry, history, and identity, and as such must be protected in order to be passed down to succeeding generations. One such place which boasts a collection of these cultural properties is Binondo’s Escolta Street, the once vibrant financial district located by the banks of Pasig. The early twentieth century architecture of Escolta Street served as the setting for its patrons, reflecting the luxurious and ultramodern nature that Escolta was known for. Unfortunately, the years have not been kind to Escolta’s buildings, being greatly affected by Manila’s bombing during WWII and the rapid progression of urban development. Many of the historic buildings that lined Escolta Street no longer exist, and without intervention, their significance may ultimately be lost in the country’s collective memory.

One approach that can bring the Escolta of the past back to life is through virtual reality. Using VR technology, a simulated virtual environment of Escolta Street and its environs can be created, allowing Filipinos to transcend space and time and explore Escolta Street within its early twentieth century context. This immersive and interactive simulation aims to create a deeper appreciation of Escolta’s cultural properties in Filipinos through providing them with concrete experiences inside a digital space.

Wolff is a visual communication student with an interest in film and digital media. While he enjoys exploring new mediums for creativity, he has a particular knack for video editing and motion graphics. When he isn’t working on a project, Wolff likes to watch movies and movie critiques with his friends.

Email: jmwolffsantos@gmail.com

Instagram: @jmwolffsantos