𝐔𝐀𝐏 𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝟓𝟎 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩

𝐔𝐀𝐏 𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝟓𝟎 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩

The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Cebu Chapter officially launched its 50th Chapter Anniversary, celebrating five decades of shaping skylines, communities, and the architectural profession in the Philippines. As the nation’s pioneer chapter (Chapter 001), UAP Cebu commemorates this historic journey under the theme “Golden Legacy: Time Honored, Future Ready.”

Present at the media launch were leaders who represent the chapter’s enduring legacy and forward vision:

Ar. Jose Mari Cañizares, FUAP, 17th Likha Gold Medal Awardee and Past President;
Ar. Jehanne Frances Dy-Cruz, Past President and Chairperson of the Golden Anniversary Committee;
Ar. Melva Java, FUAP, Past President, former Dean of the University of San Carlos, Heritage Architect, and one of the pillars of the chapter; and
Ar. Zianne Nicah Amarga, UAP Cebu Chapter President for FY 2025–2026.

from left to right: Ar. Zianne Nicah Amarga, Ar.Melva Java, Ar. Jose Mari Cañizares, and Ar. Jehanne Frances Dy-Cruz.

Speakers highlighted the continuing challenge architects face as an often misunderstood—or “invisible”—profession. Ar. Cañizares addressed common misconceptions, emphasizing that architecture is not merely about drawings or aesthetics, but a collaborative profession that works hand in hand with engineers, planners, and other specialists to ensure safety, functionality, and sustainability.

Ar. Jose Mari Cañizares

Ar. Dy-Cruz reminded the public that everything we use is designed—from everyday objects to entire communities—underscoring the true value of architecture in shaping society, promoting wellness, and mitigating risks such as flooding through proper planning and housing solutions. She also stressed the chapter’s strong advocacy against illegal professional practice, urging the public to always engage licensed professionals.

Ar. Jehanne Frances Dy-Cruz

Environmental responsibility and heritage conservation were strongly emphasized by Ar. Melva Java, who spoke on the harmful effects of uncontrolled development, upland reshaping, and mining on communities and the environment. She called for sustainable construction practices, the use of nature-respecting materials, and the importance of repairing, restoring, recycling, and reusing meaningful structures instead of demolishing them—protecting both cultural memory and the planet.

Ar. Zianne Nicah Amarga

Ar. Amarga echoed the need for greater public understanding of the architect’s role, noting that architects interpret clients’ dreams while coordinating with multiple professionals to deliver safe and purposeful designs. The chapter also reaffirmed its support for the proper implementation of RA 9266, advocating for professional integrity, public safety, and environmental protection.

📍 50th Anniversary Highlights:
• Jan 20 – Thanksgiving Mass
• Jan 23 – Public Architectural Exhibit @ G Mall (10 AM–6 PM)
• Jan 24 – UAP Cebu Family Day @ G Mall
• Jan 25 – Golden Legacy Gala Night @ Marco Polo Plaza

From its chartering in 1976 to today, UAP Cebu Chapter remains a cornerstone of Cebuano architecture—honoring its past while designing a sustainable, resilient future for the next generation.

Cheers to 50 years of building dreams, protecting heritage, and leading the architectural profession forward.

#UAPCebu50 #GoldenLegacy #UAPCebuChapter #50thAnniversary #CONPC #CebuHappenings 

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