Construction has commenced on the world’s largest indoor arena in Manila, Philippines, designed by the Populous.

The ground breaking ceremony was held last week for the 50,000 seat indoor stadium at Ciudad de Victoria.

With a construction value of AUD $200M, the arena has been commissioned by the Philippine religion, Iglesia Ni Cristo (the Church of Christ) and will be complete in time for the Church’s Centennial Celebration in 2014.

Populous has designed the arena with engineers Buro Happold, and construction will be carried out by Hanwha Engineering and Construction Corp.

Project Director, Populous senior principal Andrew James, said:“The building’s capacity pushes the boundary of Arena design and will eventually establish itself as the world’s largest indoor arena. The form uses simple geometry to create an elegant appearance, while also giving the venue a powerful presence within its setting.”

The arena has been master planned to enable a further 50,000 people to gather at a “live site” outside the arena, to share in major events.

While the arena will hold major church gatherings, it will also operate as a multi-use sports and concert venue, capable of holding a range of events, from boxing and basketball, to live music performances.

ImagesL Populous