Located in Barangay Panungyanan, General Trias City, Cavite, the three-hectare Kaway'an EcoPark is the only Philippine destination named to TIME Magazine's World's Greatest Places of 2026 . It is celebrated for its sweeping bamboo architecture, including Luzon's largest bamboo pavilion, as well as community-led horseback riding and permaculture gardens.
A Global Recognition for Sustainable Architecture
Kaway'an EcoPark has earned its place alongside 99 other extraordinary destinations worldwide, chosen by TIME's international network of correspondents and contributors for offering new, exciting, and relevant experiences . General Manager Elizabeth T. Wang expressed that being the sole Philippine entry "comes with responsibility. We want to represent the best our country has to offer" .
At the heart of the eco-park stands the Marilag Grand Pavilion, an architectural centerpiece engineered through a collaboration between Filipino architect Christian Salandanan of Sangay Architects, Indonesia's IBUKU Studio, and London-based structural engineers Atelier One . The pavilion uses geometry and flexibility rather than mass to achieve wide spans, with bamboo working in compression to create a structure that is both resilient to tropical conditions and visually stunning . The design team also incorporated a pragmatic marriage of steel and bamboo to withstand wind speeds of up to 300 kph, making it an ideal model for climate-resilient design.
A Sanctuary for People, Animals, and the Planet
Beyond its architectural marvels, Kaway'an EcoPark is a working model of sustainable community development. One of its most heartwarming features is its horseback riding program, featuring horses rescued from the 2020 Taal Volcano eruption and cared for by local community handlers . Every ride helps provide sustainable livelihoods while supporting animal welfare .
The park operates as a family-friendly farm and learning center, offering workshops on sustainable bamboo farming and eco-consciousness . Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including nature hikes, boating on the man-made lagoon, fishing, bamboo bike rentals, and rabbit feeding . For those looking to host events, the eco-park also offers venue rentals for weddings, corporate gatherings, and cultural celebrations . With Phase 2 already in the works—featuring glamping huts, a treetop adventure, and a zip line —Kaway'an EcoPark invites visitors to experience the beauty, resilience, and endless potential of bamboo.
