Rcbc Plaza

RCBC Plaza Metro Manila: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Visitor Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located in Makati’s Central Business District, RCBC Plaza is a symbol of modern Filipino architecture, economic ambition, and cultural vibrancy. Established as the flagship headquarters of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) and completed in 2001, this twin-tower complex at 6819 Ayala Avenue is much more than a business hub. It seamlessly integrates commercial offices, the Yuchengco Museum, Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, and educational institutions, reflecting the Philippines’ commitment to progress and community engagement (DCCD Project Description; Skyscraper Center).

This guide provides a detailed overview of RCBC Plaza’s history, architecture, cultural highlights, visiting hours, ticketing, amenities, accessibility, transportation options, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re a professional, culture enthusiast, or traveler, this resource will help you maximize your visit to one of Makati’s most iconic landmarks (EAA 10 Best Architectural Buildings; Touristlink).

Historical Background
Architectural Significance
Cultural, Social, and Educational Importance
Visiting Information
Amenities and Accessibility
Transportation and Getting There
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips
FAQ
References

Historical Background

Origins and Development

RCBC Plaza was envisioned in the late 1990s as a flagship headquarters for RCBC and a catalyst for Makati’s growth as the country’s premier financial district (DCCD Project Description). Bringing together the expertise of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) and W.V. Coscolluela & Associates, the project broke ground in the late 1990s and was completed in 2001. Its opening marked a new era for mixed-use urban development in Metro Manila (Skyscraper Center).

Makati’s Urban Evolution

The creation of RCBC Plaza paralleled Makati’s evolution into a global business and cultural center. By hosting corporate headquarters, arts institutions, and educational facilities, the complex set a new benchmark for integrated urban design, supporting Makati’s global status and economic dynamism (DCCD Project Description).

Architectural Significance

Design and Structure

Designed by SOM and W.V. Coscolluela & Associates, RCBC Plaza consists of two towers: the 46-story Yuchengco Tower (192 meters) and the 41-story Tower 2 (170 meters) (Skyscraper Center; EAA 10 Best Architectural Buildings). The towers exemplify modernist design, with glass curtain walls, geometric forms, and a focus on sustainability.

The buildings feature a three-level podium housing shared amenities and retail spaces, and a seven-level basement parking structure for up to 1,670 vehicles (RCBC Plaza Official). State-of-the-art engineering includes a Building Automation System (BAS), advanced fire safety, and earthquake-resistant design (DCCD Project Description).

Urban and Cultural Impact

RCBC Plaza established a precedent for integrating business, culture, and education in one complex. Its influence can be seen in the design of future developments in Makati and other Philippine cities, and it is regularly cited among Manila’s architectural landmarks (EAA 10 Best Architectural Buildings; BluPrint Perspective).

Yuchengco Museum

Located within the complex, the Yuchengco Museum is a cultural hub showcasing Filipino art, history, and heritage. Its rotating exhibitions, workshops, and lectures promote cultural appreciation and lifelong learning (RCBC Plaza; The Tourist Checklist).

Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium

The Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium is a 450-seat venue for concerts, theater, and lectures. It is home to Repertory Philippines and hosts diverse performances that nurture the local arts scene (Wikipedia; The Tourist Checklist).

Religious and Spiritual Spaces

A Roman Catholic chapel in the podium level offers regular masses and quiet reflection, serving employees and visitors alike (RCBC Plaza Overview).

Educational Institutions

RCBC Plaza houses the Yuchengco Institute for Advanced Studies and a De La Salle University satellite campus, offering graduate and professional programs. Its proximity to leading institutions like AIM and Ateneo Graduate School of Business creates a vibrant academic environment (Touristlink).

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours

RCBC Plaza (General Access): Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Yuchengco Museum: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium: Event-based; check the official website for schedules
Chapel: Open daily with posted mass schedules

Tickets and Entry

RCBC Plaza: Free public entry; valid ID required at reception
Yuchengco Museum: Free general admission; special exhibitions may require PHP 100–150 tickets
Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium: Tickets required for performances (PHP 300–1,000, event-dependent)

Tours

Guided tours of the Yuchengco Museum are available by appointment. Tours of the complex for groups or prospective tenants can be arranged with building management or coworking operators (Coworking Cafe).

Amenities and Accessibility

Building Features

Workspace Options: Day passes, dedicated desks, private offices, and event spaces
Amenities: Fitness center, wellness and mother’s rooms, lounges, pantries, game room
Parking: Seven-level basement parking for 1,670 vehicles
Security: 24/7 surveillance, security staff, controlled access, fire detection systems

Accessibility

Barrier-free entrances, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms
Designated parking for persons with disabilities
Orientation signage and visitor assistance available

Transportation and Getting There

Location: 6819 Ayala Avenue, corner Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave, Makati
MRT: Ayala Station (5-minute walk or short taxi/jeepney ride)
Public Buses & Jeepneys: Stops along Ayala and Gil Puyat Avenues
P2P Buses/UV Express: Available at One Ayala Terminal
Taxis & Ride-hailing: Readily accessible (Grab, taxis)
Private Vehicles: Entrance via Sen. Gil Puyat; parking available
Bike Storage: Facilities for cyclists

Tip: Avoid rush hour (7:00–10:00 AM, 5:00–8:00 PM) for less traffic congestion.

Nearby Attractions

Yuchengco Museum: On-site
Ayala Triangle Gardens: Urban park, 10 minutes’ walk
Greenbelt Park and Chapel: Dining, shopping, and green space
Salcedo Weekend Market: Saturday food and crafts market
Museo ng Makati: Showcasing local history
Circuit Makati: Lifestyle and entertainment district
Power Plant Mall: Upscale shopping in Rockwell Center
Guadalupe Church: Historic religious site

Visitor Tips

Bring valid ID for building entry
Arrive early for parking, especially on weekdays
Use public transport for convenience during peak hours
Smart casual or business attire is recommended
Check museum and event schedules online before visiting

FAQ

Q: What are RCBC Plaza’s visiting hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM for general access; Yuchengco Museum is open Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Entry to RCBC Plaza is free. The Yuchengco Museum is free except for some exhibitions (PHP 100–150). Auditorium events require tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, the Yuchengco Museum and building management offer tours by appointment.

Q: How accessible is RCBC Plaza?
A: The building is fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: What is the best way to get there?
A: Use the MRT to Ayala Station or P2P bus to One Ayala, then walk or take a short ride to RCBC Plaza.

References

Plan Your Visit

RCBC Plaza merges modern business, culture, and education within Makati’s vibrant CBD. Visit for its architectural marvels, explore Filipino art at the Yuchengco Museum, attend performances at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, and enjoy the accessible amenities and excellent location. For up-to-date visiting hours, event schedules, and guided tour details, check the official RCBC Plaza website and institution pages.