Kilyawan Farm Resort, a family-run farm resort in Ibaan, Batangas, has received national recognition for its architecture, earning an Architecture Honoree distinction in the Professional Category of 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 and improve the Filipino built environment.
Set on an 8.5-hectare working farm, Kilyawan Farm Resort combines thoughtfully designed guest accommodations with agricultural heritage, nature, and farm-based experiences. Located about a 90-minute drive from Manila via the South Luzon Expressway, it offers a countryside retreat for families, couples, groups, and travelers looking to experience farm life in Batangas.
Award-winning architecture that preserves the farm’s history
Designed by Dominic Galicia Architects, Kilyawan Farm Resort transformed two former chicken coops on the property into a reception building and a structure housing guest cabins.
Rather than erase the site’s agricultural past, the design preserves elements of the original farm while working around the existing trees and natural setting.
The cabins feature woven split bamboo ceilings, clay tile floors, clay brick walls, and reclaimed wood. Locally made details add to the resort’s character, including handwoven cushions and pillowcases produced by weavers in Ibaan, Batangas.
The result is a design approach that connects architecture with its surroundings and local craftsmanship while retaining the property’s history as an agricultural site.
For the Ganzon family, the resort grew out of a renewed appreciation for farm life during the pandemic.
“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.
“This recognition means a lot to us, because the design was always about respecting what the farm already was – its old coops, its trees and its pace of life – and letting our guests slow down with it,” she added.
Kilyawan Farm Resort’s international architecture recognition
The Haligi ng Dangal Awards recognition adds to a growing list of distinctions for the Batangas property.
In 2023, Kilyawan Farm Resort received a Highly Commended distinction at the World Architecture Festival in the Hotel and Leisure category. It was also shortlisted for the festival’s Best Use of Natural Light prize, becoming the first Philippine entry shortlisted for that award.
The resort was subsequently shortlisted for the 2024 Brick Award and named a finalist in the Spatial Design category of the 2025 Golden Pin Design Award.
These distinctions highlight the project’s architectural approach, which brings together adaptive reuse, natural materials, local craftsmanship, and the preservation of the farm’s existing character.
A working farm with fresh produce and local flavors
Beyond its architecture, Kilyawan Farm Resort remains a working farm operated by the Ganzon family.
Its agricultural activities include growing cacao, which is processed into tablea, as well as golden queen mangoes, bamboo, and vegetables in an organic garden. The farm also raises native black pigs and free-range chickens for organic eggs.
Produce from the property is used in dishes served at The Courtyard Farm Kitchen, giving guests another way to experience the farm beyond its accommodations and outdoor attractions.
The resort takes its name from the kilyawan, or black-naped oriole, a bird that visitors may spot around the property during the early morning and late afternoon.
Things to do at Kilyawan Farm Resort in Ibaan, Batangas
Kilyawan Farm Resort offers activities for guests who want to enjoy the outdoors, learn about farm life, or spend time with family and friends.
Experiences and facilities include:
- Farm tours and animal feeding: Discover the working farm and get a closer look at its agricultural activities and animals.
- Nature trail and bamboo orchard: Explore the property’s natural surroundings on foot.
- Swimming pool: Enjoy a refreshing break during a countryside stay.
- Forest playground and rope course: Give children and adventure-seeking guests opportunities for outdoor play.
- Sports facilities: Play pickleball or basketball during a group visit.
- The Courtyard Farm Kitchen: Enjoy dishes prepared using produce from the farm.
- Farm cabins: Stay overnight in accommodations designed to reflect the site’s agricultural history and natural setting.
The resort is also pet-friendly and has indoor and outdoor spaces for team-building activities, planning retreats, and celebrations.
With its mix of farm experiences, recreational facilities, and nature-oriented accommodations, Kilyawan Farm Resort offers options for both overnight stays and group gatherings.
How to get to Kilyawan Farm Resort from Manila
Kilyawan Farm Resort is located in Ibaan, Batangas, approximately a 90-minute drive from Manila via the South Luzon Expressway. Actual travel time may vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
Travelers planning a visit can check the resort’s website or social media pages for current room availability, rates, booking requirements, and activity arrangements.
For reservations and inquiries, visit their website or message Kilyawan Farm Resort on Facebook or Instagram at @kilyawanfarmresort.
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