A Glimpse from the Past
Then known as Mutya ng Pasig, this towering structure was built during the administration of former Mayor Emiliano Caruncho Jr. and was opened by Pasigueño Arch. Edward Medina. It was built near the public market of the same name, now called the Pasig Mega Market or Pasig Palengke. It soared up 11 floors into the sky and is one of the rarest examples of Brutalism architecture in Asia.
This mushroom-shaped building offered a panoramic view of the city with one revolution per hour, making it one of the most visited spots in Pasig.
During its peak, the tower primarily hosted a revolving restaurant and other concessionaires, according to Noel Rivera, a historian, and director of the Pasig City Museum.
Unfortunately, the national crisis during the 1980s caused its tenants to abandon the place as they were unable to pay the rent. For two decades, the tower was unmaintained and it started to deteriorate with only the first three floors occupied by the local government offices. The once-famed building also became a storage facility for the nearby market and even a detention center.
A Tower’s Resilience
Standing tall and proud amidst the urban hustle and bustle, the Pasig Revolving Tower is one of the structural marvels of Pasig City in Metro Manila.
This one-of-a-kind tower is a testament to innovative design and engineering that weathered the test of time. Back then, this tower held the title as one of only two revolving restaurants in the country, along with the Manila Royal Hotel in Quiapo. At present, unlike its counterpart, the Pasig Revolving Tower still stands resolute after its restoration in 2015.
The Rebirth
Behind today’s awe-inspiring Pasig Revolving Tower lies the collaboration and extensive efforts of visionary architects, engineering experts, and government leaders.
The restoration effort began in 2006 when former Mayor Robert Eusebio initiated an architectural and structural study of the tower which was completed by 2008. The project was then realized by 2015 and was spearheaded by then Mayor Maribel Eusebio, his wife, and like him, an architect by profession.
The restoration study underwent numerous revisions since the goal wasn’t solely focused on rebuilding the tower physically, but rather on converting it into a commercially successful venture, as explained by Engr. Ireneo Moralita, the project engineer in charge. He also observed that the initial construction, which took place over four decades ago that time, had maintained its strength due to the quality of materials employed, successfully enduring earthquakes over time. He noted that the partitions and flooring were the components demanding significant attention and improvement. In addition to addressing interior design and layout concerns, the restoration team went the extra mile by incorporating an entirely new floor and a viewing deck.
By November 28, 2016, the Pasig Revolving Tower was officially opened to the public once again.
Exploring the Pasig Revolving Tower
Stepping inside the tower, visitors will be greeted by a fusion of modern luxury and artistic elegance. The tower's interior has been meticulously crafted to ensure a seamless rotation. It now rotates for 1 hour and 15 minutes, allowing passengers to embark on a mesmerizing dining experience.
Aside from the revolving restaurant on the 11 th floor, the Pasig Revolving Tower now houses the Market Administration and Tourism offices, as well as the Museum of Local and Modern Art (MOLMA) and other tenants such as law firms and a coffee shop. The top floors can also be rented for parties and events.
With its graceful rotation, the tower unveils a dynamic tapestry of urban life. The observation deck offers breathtaking vistas of Pasig City's iconic landmarks, urban sprawl, and natural beauty. It also extends to the neighboring cities and the towns, lakes, and mountains of Rizal Province.
As day turn to night, the Pasig Revolving Tower gleams with its modern lighting systems. It becomes a beacon of light, a symbol of the city’s vision and ambition.
While time has passed since its inception, the Pasig Revolving Tower still stands firm. Its enduring design, now coupled with regular maintenance and care after its rebirth, allows the tower to maintain its structural integrity and visual appeal.
This testament to the tower’s enduring nature stands as a symbol of the Pasigueños’ resilience, representing their vibrant culture and heritage that will continue to be passed down through generations to come. (DJC/PIA-NCR)
