The Philippine Arena is considered as the world’s biggest indoor arena. But it wasn't built by the government. Rather, it’s a source of pride of INC members.
It’s situated in a 75-hectare enterprise zone in Bulacan, Philippines. Although it’s a Filipino pride, it’s designed by Populous, an Australian company.
But the construction was done by Hanwha Engineering and Construction Corp. The structural engineering was managed by Buro Happold, a London-based company. The audio and video design is provided by a Canadian company known as the Engineering Harmonics.
Opened on July 27, 2014, the Philippine Arena is so significant that the construction cost around $200 million. It took three years to build it. Touted as the biggest arena in the world, it has a seating capacity of 55,000.
How does it compare with Singapore’s National Stadium?
The Philippine Arena and Singapore’s National Stadium are categorised differently. Both has 55,000 seats. But the Philippine Arena is an arena as it’s used for indoor activities. The National Stadium, on the other hand, is a stadium that accommodates outdoor activities.
Furthermore, the Singapore’s stadium has a retractable roof. Ours has a fully air-conditioned structure.
Not for profit
Built by Iglesia ni Cristo, the Philippine Arena was designed and constructed not to make a profit. Its intention is to be a place where people can gather for religious, cultural and sporting events.
Did you know that it’s made from voluntary offerings?
Yes, the biggest arena in the world has become possible through the voluntary offerings of the INC members. For the INC, giving offerings is a duty and not as a donation.
The Landscape Artist
The Philippine Arena’s landscape was designed by the same firm that landscaped the National September 11 Memorial and Museum — the PWP Landscape Architecture. It’s a world-renowned firm that also designed Jamison Square, Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and several others.
Up to 100,000 People
The master plan was for the arena to accommodate 100,000 people. That is it has a seating capacity of 50,000 and another 50,000 at a live site, which is outside to share in an important event. The overall masterplan was to include shopping centers, residential developments, and hospital.
The arena is built as a multi-use sports and concert venue. From boxing to basketball to musical performances, the Philippine Arena can handle them.
Can other religious groups use it?
According to the INC spokesperson, the rule is that the event must not offend the teachings of the Bible. That means other religious organisations can use it as long as they oblige with the rules and regulations of the Philippine Arena.
Unique Layout
Unlike other arenas in the Philippines, it’s divided into three sections. Each section has a seat color based on the INC flag, i.e. green, white and red.
It’s also ready for potential disasters. In a Discovery Channel documentary, the arena was highlighted to be quake-proof. That is, it’s built with flexibility and strength. It can also survive seismic forces that might occur in the Philippines. Plus, there are enough exits. When a disaster strikes, people in the arena can escape within four to six minutes.
Image Source: Philippine Arena
