Photos courtesy of Citihomes Builder & Development Inc.
Proving that bamboo is no longer just the “poor man’s lumber,” Kaway’an EcoPark is the only Philippine destination to earn a spot in this year’s prestigious global curation.
We always knew our local destinations were world-class, but a hidden gem in Cavite just solidifies it on the global map.
Kaway’an EcoPark, a groundbreaking bamboo eco-tourism sanctuary nestled in Barangay Panungyanan, General Trias City, has officially been named one of TIME Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places of 2026. Out of hundreds of global nominations, TIME’s international network of correspondents selects only 100 extraordinary destinations to visit and stay. This year, Kaway’an EcoPark stands proud as the sole representative from the Philippines.
This breathtaking aerial view of Kaway’an EcoPark in General Trias City, Cavite highlights the organic, master-planned layout of the tourist attraction. The bird’s-eye perspective shows how seamlessly the iconic Marilag Grand Pavilion, the winding Marahuyo Bridge, and the serene lagoon integrate with the surrounding open farms, greenhouses, and lush bamboo groves
The Marilag Grand Pavilion at Kaway’an EcoPark showcases the stunning scale and intricate engineering of the massive bamboo sanctuary.
What makes it a ‘Greatest Place’?
Developed by Citihomes Builder & Development Inc., the EcoPark isn’t your typical weekend playground. It was envisioned as a direct response to our need for sustainable spaces that let both people and the land breathe. Instead of forcing heavy concrete structures onto the landscape, the park’s pathways, gardens, and lagoons flow organically around nature.
“To be the only destination in the Philippines on this list is a matter we take as a commitment and responsibility to ensure we represent the best our country has to offer,” says Elizabeth Wang, General Manager of Kaway’an Eco Development, Inc.
During the official press tour, Wang broke down exactly what this global milestone means for local tourism. “From the strength of our creativity through community and collaboration, to the richness of our resources and heritage, and of course, the unrivaled warmth of our hospitality, the story Kaway’an EcoPark wishes to share with the world is one still in growth and progress—one we invite visitors to take part in writing.”
A triumph of bamboo architecture
If you appreciate design, the park’s main architectural centerpieces will take your breath away. The Marilag Grand Pavilion and the Marahuyo Bridge are masterclasses in sustainable engineering.
Built through an international collaboration between homegrown Filipino architects, Indonesia’s renowned IBUKU Studio, and London’s Atelier One structural engineers, these structures push the boundaries of what kawayan can do. Instead of using heavy materials, the Pavilion achieves its massive, wide spans through pure geometry. The bamboo works in compression and flexibility, making it incredibly resilient to unpredictable tropical weather while keeping the spaces open, airy, and stunningly lightweight.
The striking wide-span bamboo Marahuyo Bridge is the perfect blend of modern engineering and traditional Filipino material, sharing the same structural philosophy as the Marilag Grand Pavilion.What you can do there
Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend escape or a picturesque backdrop for life’s milestones, the park is calibrated for mindful connection rather than flashy spectacle:
- Explore the Lagoon: Rent a boat and glide across the man-made waters.
- Go Horseback Riding: Take a slow trot through the lush, verdant grounds.
- Farm-to-Table Experience: Visit the open farms and greenhouses to see fresh produce growing firsthand.
- Unwind: Wander through peaceful bamboo groves or rest inside the cozy Marikit Gazebo and Guest Lounge.
Majestic horses (rescued from Taal) await visitors in the quieter side of the property.
Mirroring the park’s award-winning sustainable design, the expansive fish pond flows organically alongside lush greenery and striking wide-span bamboo structures
Because of its open-air design and natural structural warmth, the eco-park has also become a premier sustainable venue for weddings, cultural events, and photo shoots—offering an intimate atmosphere that standard concrete halls simply cannot replicate.
“Kaway’an EcoPark stands as a testament to what becomes possible when a remarkable team of experts dares to come together to share one vision and goal—to bring a sustainable sanctuary to life,” said Rosie Tsai, President of Citihomes Builder & Development Inc.
The milestone has earned praise from the national government as well, with Department of Tourism (DOT) CALABARZON Regional Director Marites T. Castro joining the tour to celebrate the destination as a flagship asset for Philippine eco-tourism.
How to get there
Ready to plan your visit? Kaway’an EcoPark is located at Sabella Village, Crisanto M. De Los Reyes Avenue, Barangay Panungyanan, General Trias City, Cavite.
It’s incredibly accessible for a quick day trip from Metro Manila via the CALAX expressway, or through a straightforward public commute via the PITX (Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange).
References:
GMA Network