Cuneta Astrodome

What Does Cuneta Astrodome Mean?

What Does Cuneta Astrodome Mean?

What is the meaning of Cuneta Astrodome?

Cuneta Astrodome means a multi-purpose indoor arena named after the Cuneta family in Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines. The term combines a local surname and a word modeled after the Houston Astrodome, emphasizing its dome-shaped architecture and public function.

Where does the name “Cuneta” come from?

“Cuneta” refers to the Cuneta political family, who held influence in Pasay City politics during the late 20th century. The name honors Mayor Pablo Cuneta, the longest-serving mayor in Philippine history (1947–1998, with interruptions).

Attribute Value
Name Origin Cuneta family of Pasay
Historical Figure Pablo Cuneta
Political Role Mayor of Pasay
Duration Served ~40 years

What does “Astrodome” mean?

The word “Astrodome” refers to a large, dome-roofed sports or event arena. It originates from the Houston Astrodome in Texas, USA — the first domed stadium in the world, built in 1965.

The Cuneta Astrodome adopted this term to denote its enclosed structure and multipurpose design, suitable for basketball games, concerts, and events.

Key Features of the Astrodome Concept:

  • Uses a dome structure for weather protection.

  • Designed for sports and mass events.

  • Popularized in North American stadium architecture.

When was Cuneta Astrodome built?

The Cuneta Astrodome was constructed in 1993 and officially opened in 1994 in Pasay City, a key urban zone within Metro Manila. It was among the earliest modern indoor arenas in the Philippines.

Timeline:

  1. 1993 – Construction started under Pasay City Government

  2. 1994 – Official opening

  3. 1990s–2000s – Hosted major PBA games and concerts

Astrodome term origin
Astrodome term origin

Why is Cuneta Astrodome significant in Philippine sports?

The arena served as a primary venue for Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) games during the 1990s and early 2000s. It supported local sports development, cultural events, and election canvassing.

Events held:

  • PBA games

  • Concerts by Filipino artists

  • Political rallies and assemblies

  • Graduation ceremonies and local expos

How is the name “Cuneta Astrodome” linked to local identity?

The Cuneta Astrodome meaning reflects both Pasay’s political legacy and its ambition to modernize urban infrastructure. The name strengthens cultural identity by merging local lineage (Cuneta) and global architecture trends (Astrodome).

Local Identity Markers:

  • Surname “Cuneta” ties to Pasay governance.

  • “Astrodome” mirrors global venue naming.

  • Location: strategically near Roxas Boulevard, MOA Complex, and Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Astrodome event crowd
Astrodome event crowd

What are examples of other venues with similar naming patterns?

  • Smart Araneta Coliseum: Named after Araneta family.

  • PhilSports Arena: Government-linked naming.

  • SM Mall of Asia Arena: Corporate + location hybrid.

These naming styles follow similar patterns — combining entity (person/corporation) and function (arena/stadium) for recognition.

Is Cuneta Astrodome still in use?

Yes. As of 2024, Cuneta Astrodome remains a functional public venue. It supports local government events, religious gatherings, and sports tournaments. Renovations have preserved its utility while maintaining the historical name.

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