Kilyawan Farm Resort in Batangas Earns National Architecture Honor at Haligi ng Dangal Awards 2026

Kilyawan Farm Resort in Ibaan, Batangas, has received national recognition for its innovative architectural design, earning the title of Architecture Honoree in the Professional Category at the Haligi ng Dangal Awards 2026.

Conferred by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) through its National Committee on Architecture and the Allied Arts, the biennial awards recognize completed projects that contribute to the quality of the Filipino built environment.

Located on an 8.5-hectare working farm, the family-run resort combines sustainable architecture, agricultural heritage, and nature-based experiences. About a 90-minute drive from Manila, it offers travelers an opportunity to slow down and reconnect with the countryside.

Transforming Old Chicken Coops Into Sustainable Accommodations

Designed by Dominic Galicia Architects, Kilyawan Farm Resort shows how existing agricultural structures can become welcoming hospitality spaces.

The property was formerly an agro-industrial chicken farm. Rather than erase its history, the design transformed two former chicken coops into a reception building and a structure housing guest cabins. The approach preserves the site’s agricultural character while retaining the surrounding trees.

Natural, locally sourced materials define the resort’s architectural identity. Woven split-bamboo ceilings, clay-tile floors, clay-brick walls, and reclaimed wood create warm, understated interiors. Local craftsmanship also features in the accommodations, with cushions and pillowcases handwoven by artisans in Ibaan.

The result is a resort that draws much of its character from the existing landscape, traditional materials, and the farm’s original structures.

International Recognition for Philippine Architecture

The Haligi ng Dangal Awards 2026 adds to the resort’s growing list of international architectural and design distinctions.

In 2023, Kilyawan Farm Resort received a Highly Commended distinction in the Hotel and Leisure category at the World Architecture Festival. It was also shortlisted for the festival’s Best Use of Natural Light prize, marking the first Philippine entry shortlisted for that award.

The project later earned a shortlist placement at the 2024 Brick Award and became a finalist in the Spatial Design category of the 2025 Golden Pin Design Award.

These recognitions highlight the project’s approach to adaptive reuse, material selection, and the relationship between architecture and its natural surroundings.

“Our family rediscovered farm life during the pandemic, and Kilyawan grew out of wanting to share that experience with others,” said Tina Ganzon-Ozaeta, Chief Resort Steward of Kilyawan Farm Resort.

She added that the national recognition mattered because the design was meant to respect the farm’s existing structures, trees, and slower pace of life while letting guests experience them.

A Working Farm With Produce From the Land

Beyond its architecture, Kilyawan Farm Resort operates as a working farm managed by the Ganzon family.

The name comes from the kilyawan, or black-naped oriole, a bird visitors may spot around the property in the early morning and late afternoon.

The farm grows cacao, which is processed into tablea, along with Golden Queen mangoes, bamboo, and vegetables from its organic garden. It also raises native black pigs and free-range chickens that provide organic eggs.

Farm produce finds its way into the dishes served at The Courtyard Farm Kitchen, connecting the property’s agricultural activities with its dining experience.

For travelers interested in farm tourism, the resort offers a chance to see how agriculture, food, and hospitality can come together in one destination.

Things to Do at Kilyawan Farm Resort

Visitors can explore the property with activities designed for families, groups, and travelers seeking a countryside retreat.

Join a farm tour. Learn more about the working farm, its crops, and its agricultural activities. Animal-feeding sessions also let guests get up close to farm life.

Explore the nature trail and bamboo orchard. Walk through the property’s green spaces and enjoy a slower outdoor experience away from the city.

Enjoy the swimming pool and outdoor facilities. Guests can spend time at the pool, forest playground, and rope course, or play pickleball and basketball.

Stay in sustainably designed cabins. The accommodations showcase the property’s architectural approach, incorporating natural materials and repurposed farm structures.

Dine at The Courtyard Farm Kitchen. Sample dishes that incorporate produce from the working farm.

Plan a group retreat or celebration. The resort accommodates team-building activities, planning sessions, and special events using its indoor and outdoor venues.

Kilyawan Farm Resort is also pet-friendly, making it an option for travelers who want to bring their companions on a countryside getaway.

A Countryside Escape Near Metro Manila

Located in Ibaan, Batangas, Kilyawan Farm Resort is approximately a 90-minute drive from Manila via the South Luzon Expressway, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Its mix of farm activities, outdoor recreation, and thoughtfully designed accommodations makes it a great option for families, couples, corporate groups, and travelers seeking a break from urban routines.

The resort’s recent national architecture recognition also highlights how adaptive reuse and locally rooted design can support the development of Philippine farm tourism.

Reservations and Inquiries

Travelers can reserve through the official Kilyawan Farm Resort website at www.kilyawanfarmresort.com or contact the property via its Facebook and Instagram accounts, @kilyawanfarmresort.

For team-building activities and event inquiries, email events.kilyawan@gmail.com.

Whether visiting for a weekend escape, a family outing, or a corporate retreat, guests can experience a side of Batangas where agricultural heritage, sustainable design, and countryside recreation come together.

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