Gerard Lico is a Professor in the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Architecture. He is a multi-awarded author of publications on Philippine architecture and cultural studies, designer and curator of pioneering exhibitions in architecture, and produced and directed film documentaries on Philippine architecture and allied arts. He is currently the Consulting Architect for the restoration of the Manila Metropolitan Theater. Gerard Lico introduces the idea of how Filipinos should take ownership of abandoned buildings, to be more proactive in understanding and shaping the Filipino culture and identity. Gerard Lico is a Professor in the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Architecture,. He is a multi-awarded author of publications on Philippine architecture and cultural studies, designer and curator of pioneering exhibitions in architecture, and produced and directed film documentaries on Philippine architecture and allied arts. He is currently the Consulting Architect for the restoration of the Manila Metropolitan Theater. Gerard Lico introduces the idea of how Filipinos should take ownership of abandoned buildings, to be more proactive in understanding and shaping the Filipino culture and identity. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx