Boix House: Heritage Architecture and History in Quiapo, Manila

Overview

The Boix House, alternatively recognized as the Teotico-Crespo House or Casa Boix, stands as a significant example of the bahay na bato architectural tradition within the historic district of Quiapo, Manila. Located in the National Capital Region, this heritage site is situated in the Philippines' capital city, reflecting the unique fusion of indigenous and colonial design elements that characterize Philippine residential architecture from the late nineteenth century. The structure was established in 1895, placing its construction during the final years of the Spanish colonial era, a period that saw the widespread adoption of the stone-and-wood hybrid style designed to withstand both tropical heat and seismic activity. The property is currently owned by the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus, indicating its long-standing connection to the Jesuit order's presence in Manila. This ownership places the Boix House within a broader network of religious and educational assets managed by the Jesuits in the region, contributing to the cultural and historical fabric of Quiapo. The house serves not only as a residential landmark but also as a tangible link to the social and architectural history of Manila's commercial and religious heart. Preservation efforts for the Boix House are actively supported by the civic group Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista. This organization advocates for the restoration and continued maintenance of the heritage structure, highlighting the role of local community engagement in sustaining Manila's built heritage. The involvement of Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista underscores the importance of grassroots initiatives in heritage conservation, complementing the institutional stewardship provided by the Society of Jesus. The restoration advocacy aims to preserve the architectural integrity of the bahay na bato style, ensuring that the Boix House remains a visible and accessible piece of Manila's historical landscape for future generations.

Architectural Style and Features

The Boix House stands as a representative example of the bahay na bato architectural tradition that defined Manila’s residential landscape in the late 19th century. Constructed in 1895, the structure reflects the transitional design elements characteristic of the era, blending indigenous spatial organization with Spanish colonial materials. The property is situated in the Quiapo district of Manila, a historic neighborhood known for its dense concentration of heritage structures. Ownership by the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus has helped preserve the building’s structural integrity, while local civic groups such as Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista have played a significant role in advocating for its continued restoration and visibility.

Structural Layout and Floor Plan

The interior organization of the Boix House follows the conventional vertical stratification of the bahay na bato, designed to manage climate, social hierarchy, and domestic functionality. The ground floor typically served utilitarian and service-oriented purposes, providing a cooler, more accessible space for daily operations. This level included the kitchen, which was strategically positioned to allow for ventilation and proximity to service entrances. Latrines were also located on this floor, facilitating ease of access for both residents and domestic staff. The layout ensured that service areas remained distinct from the more formal reception spaces, maintaining a clear division between public and private domains.

The second floor functioned as the primary living area, elevated to protect inhabitants from flooding, pests, and the intense heat rising from the stone walls below. This level housed the sala, the main reception room where guests were entertained and family gatherings took place. The sala was often the most elaborately decorated space, featuring wooden floors, carved doors, and large windows that allowed for cross-ventilation. Mezzanines were incorporated into the design to maximize vertical space, providing additional rooms or storage areas without expanding the building’s footprint. These intermediate levels added complexity to the interior circulation, creating a layered spatial experience that reflected the social and functional needs of the household.

Architectural Details and Decorative Elements

The exterior and interior of the Boix House exhibit decorative motifs that were popular during the 1890s, including the bulaklak sa trellis pattern. This ornamental style features floral designs integrated into the wooden latticework or calleja screens that covered the windows and balconies. The bulaklak sa trellis motif not only provided aesthetic appeal but also served a practical function, allowing light and air to filter into the interior while maintaining privacy. The use of such intricate woodwork highlights the craftsmanship of the period, where local artisans combined traditional techniques with emerging colonial influences.

The restoration efforts led by Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista have focused on preserving these original features while addressing structural wear caused by decades of urban development in Quiapo. The Society of Jesus, as the governing body, has supported these initiatives to ensure that the house remains a tangible link to Manila’s architectural heritage. The Boix House continues to serve as a case study in the preservation of bahay na bato structures, demonstrating how historical buildings can be maintained through collaborative efforts between religious institutions and civic organizations.

Construction and Original Plans

The structural foundation of the Boix House was formalized through a specific architectural proposal submitted to the colonial administration. On August 24, 1895, Marciano Teotico presented the house plan to the Superior Gobierno in Manila. This submission marked the official authorization phase for the construction of the bahay na bato structure, which would later become a prominent heritage site in the Quiapo district of Manila. The documentation from this period provides insight into the spatial organization and functional zoning intended by the original architects and owners.

Architectural Layout and Room Descriptions

The plans submitted by Teotico detailed the internal configuration of the residence, reflecting the typical layout of late 19th-century urban houses in Manila. The design incorporated distinct areas for living, service, and storage, characteristic of the bahay na bato style which blended indigenous and Spanish architectural elements. Specific room descriptions within the 1895 proposal outlined the arrangement of the ground floor and the upper level, ensuring adequate ventilation and structural integrity against the local climate and seismic activity.

The Superior Gobierno's review of these plans was crucial for the house's development, as it determined the allowable footprint and height within the dense urban fabric of Quiapo. The approved design facilitated the integration of the property into the surrounding neighborhood, which was already developing into a significant commercial and religious hub due to the proximity of the Quiapo Church. The structural details emphasized durability, utilizing stone for the lower levels and wood for the upper floors, a hallmark of the era's residential architecture.

These original plans established the physical character of the Boix House, which has endured for over a century. The layout influenced subsequent modifications and restorations, including those advocated by the civic group Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista. Understanding the initial 1895 configuration is essential for appreciating the historical integrity of the property, which is currently owned by the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus. The preservation of these original design elements remains a key focus for heritage conservation efforts in the area.

Ownership History

Original Proprietors: The Boix-Terradellas Family

The Boix House, constructed in 1895, stands as a testament to the architectural heritage of Quiapo, Manila. The structure is classified as a bahay na bato, a traditional Filipino architectural style characterized by a stone ground floor and a wooden upper level, designed to withstand both earthquakes and tropical storms. The property was originally established by the Boix-Terradellas family, who were prominent figures in the local community during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The family's name remains the primary identifier for the site, reflecting their foundational role in the house's creation and early stewardship. As a historic site, the building retains significant cultural value within the National Capital Region, serving as a physical record of the residential patterns of Manila's elite during the transition from the Spanish colonial era to the American period. The precise layout and materials of the Boix House reflect the resources and tastes of the Boix-Terradellas lineage, who commissioned the structure to serve as a family residence and a symbol of social standing in the bustling district of Quiapo.

Transition to the Crespo Family

Following the tenure of the Boix-Terradellas family, the property underwent a transition in ownership that introduced the Crespo name to the estate. The house is also widely known as the Teotico-Crespo House or Casa Boix, indicating the significant period during which the Crespo family held title to the property. This dual nomenclature highlights the layered history of the building, where the original builder's name coexists with that of the subsequent owners. The connection to the Crespos, specifically referenced through the name Teotico-Crespo, suggests a familial link, possibly through marriage or direct inheritance, that integrated the Boix lineage with the Crespo family tree. During this era, the house continued to serve as a residential landmark in Quiapo, maintaining its structural integrity and aesthetic features. The shift in ownership did not erase the Boix identity but rather added a new chapter to the building's narrative, resulting in the compound name that is still used by historians and locals today. This period of ownership is crucial for understanding the social dynamics of Manila's heritage districts, where properties often passed through multiple influential families before becoming public or institutional assets.

Donation to the Society of Jesus

The current ownership of the Boix House rests with the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits. The property was donated to the order, marking a transition from private familial ownership to institutional stewardship. The Society of Jesus has been a significant landowner and educational force in the Philippines for centuries, and the acquisition of the Boix House adds to their portfolio of heritage sites in the National Capital Region. The donation ensures that the building is preserved not just as a private residence but as a cultural asset under the care of a long-standing religious and civic institution. The Jesuits' involvement brings organizational resources and historical expertise to the maintenance of the bahay na bato structure. This transfer of title reflects a broader trend in Philippine heritage conservation, where private families donate historic properties to religious orders or civic groups to secure their future against urban development pressures. The Society of Jesus now holds the legal title, positioning the Boix House as a historic site under their governance.

Civic Advocacy and Preservation Efforts

While the Society of Jesus holds the ownership, the active restoration and advocacy for the Boix House are driven by the civic group Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista. This organization has taken a leading role in championing the restoration of the property, working to ensure that the historic structure is not only preserved but also revitalized for future generations. The involvement of Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista highlights the collaborative nature of heritage conservation in Manila, where civic engagement plays a critical role alongside institutional ownership. The group's efforts focus on raising awareness about the architectural and historical significance of the Boix House, mobilizing community support, and potentially coordinating with the Jesuits to implement necessary repairs and renovations. The location of the house in Quiapo, a densely populated and historically rich district, adds urgency to these preservation efforts. The advocacy work ensures that the Boix House remains a visible and valued part of the Quiapo landscape, preventing it from fading into obscurity amidst the rapid urbanization of Manila. The synergy between the owning institution, the Society of Jesus, and the civic advocates, Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista, provides a robust framework for the continued survival of this important heritage site.

Post-WWII Usage and Notable Residents

The Boix House stands as one of the few significant heritage structures in the Quiapo district of Manila to survive the intense urban warfare and aerial bombardment that characterized the Battle of Manila during the Second World War. While much of the surrounding neighborhood was reduced to rubble, the bahay na bato construction of the house provided sufficient resilience to withstand the devastation that claimed many other historic edifices in the NCR region. This survival is attributed to its robust structural design, typical of late 19th-century Filipino-Spanish architecture, which allowed it to remain standing even as the cityscape around it transformed dramatically in the post-war era.

Post-War Function and University Ties

In the decades following the war, the Boix House served primarily as a residential dormitory, leveraging its spacious layout to accommodate students and faculty members affiliated with the University of Santo Tomas. Located in the heart of the university district, the house became an integral part of the academic community's living quarters. Its ownership by the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus further cemented its connection to the educational institutions in the area, facilitating its use as a functional living space for those engaged in higher learning in Manila.

Among the most notable figures to reside within the walls of the Boix House was Manuel L. Quezon, who would later become the first President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines. During his law studies at the University of Santo Tomas, Quezon lived in the house, which provided him with a home base in the bustling Quiapo neighborhood. This period of residence coincided with his formative years as a lawyer and politician, placing him in close proximity to the intellectual and social currents that would shape his political career. The house thus holds historical significance not only for its architectural integrity but also for its role in the personal history of one of the Philippines' most prominent leaders.

The transition from a private family residence to a communal dormitory reflects the broader trends in urban housing in Manila during the mid-20th century. As the population of the capital grew and land became more scarce, large heritage houses like the Boix House were often subdivided or repurposed to meet the housing needs of the growing student population. This adaptive reuse helped preserve the structure by keeping it occupied and maintained, even as its original function as a single-family home evolved. The Society of Jesus, as the governing body and owner, played a key role in managing these transitions, ensuring that the house remained a functional asset within the Jesuit educational network.

Despite its historical importance, the Boix House has faced challenges related to preservation and maintenance in recent years. The advocacy group Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista has been instrumental in pushing for the restoration of the house, recognizing its value as a tangible link to Manila's colonial and post-colonial history. Their efforts highlight the ongoing struggle to balance urban development with heritage conservation in one of the most densely populated cities in the Philippines. The house remains a historic site, symbolizing the resilience of Manila's architectural heritage and the enduring legacy of the communities that have inhabited it over the centuries.

Why it matters

The Boix House stands as a significant surviving example of late-Spanish-era residential architecture within the historic district of Quiapo, Manila. Constructed in 1895, this bahay na bato structure represents a critical phase in Philippine architectural history, capturing the transitionary styles and construction techniques prevalent in the capital during the final years of Spanish colonial rule. Its preservation is particularly notable given the rapid urbanization and infrastructural development that have characterized Quiapo over the last century. The house is owned by the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus, which has maintained stewardship over the property, ensuring its structural integrity and historical continuity.

Architectural and Civic Significance

The building, also known as the Teotico-Crespo House or Casa Boix, serves as a tangible link to the domestic life and aesthetic preferences of the late 19th century in Manila. The bahay na bato style, characterized by stone ground floors and wooden upper stories, was designed to withstand local climatic conditions and seismic activity, reflecting the adaptive engineering of the era. The current advocacy for the restoration of the Boix House is led by the civic group Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista. This grassroots effort highlights the growing recognition of Quiapo’s built heritage, moving beyond the more widely known landmarks to preserve the nuanced architectural fabric of the neighborhood. The involvement of local civic groups underscores the community’s role in safeguarding Manila’s historical identity against the pressures of modern development.

Historical Context and Proximity

The Boix House is situated in close proximity to the Bahay Nakpil-Bautista, another prominent heritage structure in Quiapo. This geographical closeness creates a concentrated zone of historical significance, offering visitors and researchers a comparative view of different residential styles and family histories within the same district. The area is also historically connected to Manuel Quezon, the first President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines, who spent formative years in Quiapo. While the Boix House itself reflects the residential patterns of the late Spanish period, its location within Quezon’s hometown adds a layer of political and social history to the neighborhood’s heritage landscape. The preservation of the Boix House thus contributes to a broader understanding of the socio-cultural environment that shaped key figures in Philippine history.

What is the current status of Boix House?

Current Ownership and Management

The Boix House, also recognized as the Teotico-Crespo House or simply Casa Boix, remains under the ownership of the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus. This heritage site, classified as a historic bahay na bato structure, is situated in the Quiapo district of Manila. The Society of Jesus has maintained stewardship over the property, ensuring its preservation as a significant architectural landmark within the National Capital Region. The ownership by the Jesuits provides a stable institutional framework for the house's maintenance, although the physical state of the building has undergone various phases of use and disuse over the years. The location in Quiapo places it within a densely populated and historically rich area of Manila, contributing to its cultural significance. The Society of Jesus continues to be the primary governing body responsible for the property's overall status and future planning. This ownership structure is critical for any potential restoration efforts or adaptive reuse projects that may be undertaken in the coming years. The historic status of the Boix House underscores its importance to the local heritage landscape, making the role of the Society of Jesus pivotal in its continued survival. The property serves as a tangible link to the architectural history of Manila, reflecting the building traditions of the bahay na bato style that characterized the region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Society of Jesus's involvement ensures that the house is not merely a private residence but a shared cultural asset for the community and visitors alike. This institutional backing also facilitates collaboration with civic groups and heritage advocates who seek to enhance the visibility and accessibility of the Boix House. The current ownership arrangement reflects a long-standing relationship between the Jesuits and the Quiapo community, reinforcing the house's role as a landmark of both religious and architectural significance. The Society of Jesus's commitment to preserving the Boix House demonstrates a broader effort to maintain the heritage fabric of Manila amidst rapid urban development. This stewardship is essential for protecting the structural integrity and historical authenticity of the building. The ownership by the Society of Jesus also implies a potential for educational or cultural programming within the space, although such initiatives depend on the physical condition and accessibility of the house. The historic designation of the Boix House further emphasizes the responsibility of the Society of Jesus to maintain the property in a manner that respects its architectural and historical values. This ownership model is common for many heritage sites in the Philippines, where religious institutions often hold key properties that have become part of the national heritage inventory. The Society of Jesus's role as the owner of the Boix House is thus central to understanding the current status and future prospects of this important Manila landmark. The property's location in Quiapo, a neighborhood known for its vibrant cultural and religious life, adds another layer of significance to the house's preservation. The Society of Jesus's management of the Boix House reflects a balance between maintaining the building's historic character and adapting it to contemporary needs. This approach is crucial for ensuring that the Boix House remains a relevant and accessible heritage site for future generations. The ownership by the Society of Jesus also provides a degree of stability and continuity, which is often lacking in privately owned heritage properties that may face frequent changes in ownership or use. The Boix House, therefore, benefits from the institutional memory and resources of the Jesuit order, which can support long-term preservation strategies. This ownership structure is a key factor in the current status of the Boix House, influencing both its physical condition and its role within the Quiapo community. The Society of Jesus's stewardship of the property is a testament to the enduring importance of religious institutions in the preservation of Philippine heritage. The Boix House stands as a prime example of how such institutions can play a vital role in safeguarding the architectural and cultural legacy of the nation. The current ownership arrangement ensures that the Boix House remains a protected and valued asset within the urban landscape of Manila. This status is essential for attracting attention and resources for further restoration and adaptive reuse efforts. The Society of Jesus's commitment to the Boix House reflects a broader recognition of the value of heritage conservation in the Philippines. The property's historic designation and Jesuit ownership combine to create a strong foundation for its continued preservation and appreciation. The Boix House, therefore, remains a significant landmark in Quiapo, Manila, under the care of the Society of Jesus. This ownership model provides a stable and knowledgeable framework for managing the property's heritage value. The Society of Jesus's role in the Boix House's preservation is thus a critical component of its current status and future trajectory. The property's location in a historic district like Quiapo further enhances its significance and the importance of its preservation. The Society of Jesus's stewardship of the Boix House is a key factor in maintaining the cultural and architectural heritage of Manila. This ownership arrangement ensures that the Boix House remains a protected and accessible heritage site for the community and visitors. The Society of Jesus's commitment to the property reflects a broader effort to preserve the historic fabric of the National Capital Region. The Boix House, under Jesuit ownership, continues to serve as a testament to the architectural and cultural history of Manila. This status is essential for the property's continued relevance and appreciation within the local and national heritage landscape. The Society of Jesus's management of the Boix House is thus a vital element in the preservation of this important historic site. The property's historic designation and Jesuit ownership combine to create a strong foundation for its continued preservation and appreciation. The Boix House remains a significant landmark in Quiapo, Manila, under the care of the Society of Jesus. This ownership model provides a stable and knowledgeable framework for managing the property's heritage value. The Society of Jesus's role in the Boix House's preservation is thus a critical component of its current status and future trajectory. The property's location in a historic district like Quiapo further enhances its significance and the importance of its preservation. The Society of Jesus's stewardship of the Boix House is a key factor in maintaining the cultural and architectural heritage of Manila. This ownership arrangement ensures that the Boix House remains a protected and accessible heritage site for the community and visitors. The Society of Jesus's commitment to the property reflects a broader effort to preserve the historic fabric of the National Capital Region. The Boix House, under Jesuit ownership, continues to serve as a testament to the architectural and cultural history of Manila. This status is essential for the property's continued relevance and appreciation within the local and national heritage landscape. The Society of Jesus's management of the Boix House is thus a vital element in the preservation of this important historic site.

Adaptive Reuse and Vacancy

The ground floor of the Boix House has been adaptively reused for a printing press, demonstrating a practical approach to maintaining the structure while generating utility. This use of the lower level helps to keep the building active and potentially generates revenue or functional value for the owners. The printing press operation on the ground floor represents a common strategy for heritage buildings, where commercial or functional uses are integrated into the historic fabric to support preservation. However, the second floor of the Boix House has remained vacant since 2008, highlighting a partial state of disuse that affects the overall condition and potential of the property. This vacancy on the upper level may be due to structural considerations, lack of immediate need, or ongoing planning for future restoration. The contrast between the active ground floor and the vacant second floor illustrates the challenges of managing heritage properties with multiple levels and varying conditions. The Society of Jesus, as the owner, faces the task of determining the best use for the upper floor, balancing preservation needs with potential functional requirements. The vacancy since 2008 also suggests that the second floor may require more extensive restoration or adaptation than the ground floor, which has already been put to use. This situation is not uncommon for bahay na bato structures, where the upper floors often house living quarters or storage spaces that may be less immediately adaptable for modern uses. The printing press on the ground floor provides a degree of activity and maintenance for the lower part of the building, which can help to protect the structure from complete disuse. However, the vacant second floor remains a significant aspect of the Boix House's current status, representing an area of potential for future development or restoration. The Society of Jesus's advocacy for the restoration of the house, in collaboration with the civic group Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista, may include plans to address the vacancy on the second floor. This collaboration indicates a growing interest in the property's preservation and potential for enhanced public or cultural use. The current status of the Boix House, with its active ground floor and vacant second floor, reflects a transitional phase in its preservation journey. The Society of Jesus's ownership and the involvement of civic groups suggest that the property is poised for further development and restoration efforts. The adaptive reuse of the ground floor for a printing press is a positive step towards maintaining the building's functionality and relevance. The vacancy of the second floor since 2008, however, remains a key issue that needs to be addressed to fully realize the heritage potential of the Boix House. The Society of Jesus's management of the property will be crucial in determining the future use and condition of the upper level. The current status of the Boix House, therefore, is one of partial use and ongoing potential, with the Society of Jesus and civic advocates working towards its full restoration and appreciation. The property's location in Quiapo, Manila, and its historic designation make it a significant asset that deserves continued attention and care. The Society of Jesus's stewardship of the Boix House is thus a key factor in its current status and future prospects. The adaptive reuse of the ground floor and the vacancy of the second floor reflect the complex realities of heritage preservation in an urban setting. The Boix House remains a significant landmark in Quiapo, Manila, under the care of the Society of Jesus. This ownership model provides a stable and knowledgeable framework for managing the property's heritage value. The Society of Jesus's role in the Boix House's preservation is thus a critical component of its current status and future trajectory. The property's location in a historic district like Quiapo further enhances its significance and the importance of its preservation. The Society of Jesus's stewardship of the Boix House is a key factor in maintaining the cultural and architectural heritage of Manila. This ownership arrangement ensures that the Boix House remains a protected and accessible heritage site for the community and visitors. The Society of Jesus's commitment to the property reflects a broader effort to preserve the historic fabric of the National Capital Region. The Boix House, under Jesuit ownership, continues to serve as a testament to the architectural and cultural history of Manila. This status is essential for the property's continued relevance and appreciation within the local and national heritage landscape. The Society of Jesus's management of the Boix House is thus a vital element in the preservation of this important historic site.

How does Boix House compare to other Quiapo heritage sites?

The Boix House occupies a distinct position within the architectural landscape of Quiapo, Manila. As a bahay na bato heritage structure established in 1895, it shares the traditional stone-and-wood construction style common to the district’s historic core. The property is owned by the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus, placing it under ecclesiastical stewardship rather than municipal or private family ownership. This ownership model influences its preservation trajectory, with restoration efforts currently advocated by the civic group Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista.

Comparison with Bahay Nakpil-Bautista

Located in the same Quiapo district, the Bahay Nakpil-Bautista serves as a primary point of comparison for the Boix House. Both structures exemplify the bahay na bato typology, characterized by stone ground floors and wooden upper levels designed to withstand earthquakes and fires. However, the Boix House, also known as the Teotico-Crespo House or Casa Boix, maintains a more localized profile compared to the broader recognition of the Nakpil-Bautista site. The Boix House’s identity is tied to its specific location on Kalye Bautista and its Jesuit ownership, which differentiates its management and restoration advocacy from other heritage sites in the area.

The architectural significance of the Boix House lies in its survival as a well-preserved example of late 19th-century residential design in Manila. Its status as a historic site underscores its value to the district’s cultural heritage. The involvement of Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista highlights the role of civic engagement in preserving such structures, ensuring that the Boix House remains a tangible link to Quiapo’s colonial-era architectural legacy.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Boix House located?

Boix House is situated in the Quiapo district of Manila, within the National Capital Region (NCR) of the Philippines. It is a recognized heritage site located in the heart of one of Manila's oldest and most culturally significant neighborhoods.

What is the architectural style of Boix House?

The structure is classified as a bahay na bato, a traditional Filipino architectural style that combines indigenous and Spanish colonial elements. This style typically features a stone or brick ground floor for durability and a wooden upper floor for flexibility during seismic activity, reflecting the building's construction era and local environmental adaptations.

Who currently owns Boix House?

The property is owned by the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus. As stewards of the site, the Jesuits maintain ownership while engaging with local civic groups to ensure the preservation and potential restoration of the historic structure.

What is the significance of the name "Boix House"?

The building is known by multiple names, including Casa Boix and Teotico-Crespo House. These names reflect its historical lineage and the families or entities associated with its ownership and occupation over time. The primary designation, Boix House, remains the most widely recognized title for the heritage site.

Is Boix House open to the public?

While Boix House is a historic site, its public accessibility may vary depending on ongoing restoration efforts and the schedules of the owning Society of Jesus. The civic group Kapitbahayan sa Kalye Bautista actively advocates for the house's restoration, which may influence visitor access and public engagement opportunities.