race in Actionrace in ActionGGegacy in Motionegacy in Motion LLanila aharlika hapteranila aharlika hapteranila aharlika hapterMMMMMMCCCnited rchitects of the hilippinesnited rchitects of the hilippinesnited rchitects of the hilippinesUUUAAAPPPTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMESTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMESTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMES With Thanks to Our Sponsors:With Thanks to Our Sponsors:With Thanks to Our Sponsors:With Thanks to Our Sponsors:INTERIORS POINT AUGUST 2026INSIDE :Meet the New Board of Directors • Past Term Legacy Highlights Turnover & Induction Ceremonies • Chapter Committees Between the Lines • What’s Next for Maharlika?
Welcome to this year’s edition of our chapter newsletter! It is both an honor and a privilege to share this message as we begin another promising chapter year, guided by our theme, “Grace in Action, A Legacy in Motion.” I am truly excited for the meaningful activities and worthwhile projects ahead—initiatives that will enrich our professional practice, strengthen fellowship, serve our communities, and uphold the ideals of architecture. I extend my sincere gratitude to our Board of Directors and Committee Chairpersons for their dedication, leadership, and invaluable service. Their tireless efforts and collaborative spirit make each event and undertaking possible, transforming our shared vision into meaningful action. I also offer my heartfelt appreciation to our esteemed Past Presidents, whose vision, leadership, and devoted service helped build the strong foundation upon which our chapter stands today. Their lasting contributions have shaped our identity, strengthened our traditions, and inspired succeeding generations of architects to lead with integrity, excellence, and purpose. We honor their legacy with profound gratitude as we continue the work they so faithfully advanced. As we move forward, I warmly invite every member to support and actively participate in the chapter’s programs throughout the year. Your ideas, presence, and professional commitment are the foundation of our success. Together, we can create lasting value for our organization, our profession, and the communities we are privileged to serve. May this newsletter keep us informed, connected, and inspired as it celebrates our achievements and the people behind them. I look forward with confidence and enthusiasm to all that we will accomplish—united in purpose, strengthened by fellowship, and inspired to leave a legacy of excellence and service. With gratitude and warm regards, The Chapter President United Architects of the Philippines Manila Maharlika Chapternited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMESAr. Dona C. Del Mundo UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026Chapter PresidentelcomeW Messagefrom our
nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMES UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026Ar. Dona C. Del MundoPresidentVP - OperationsSecretaryAr. Christine Angela O. CruzAsst. VP - ProgramsG e lAr. Roberto A. Rigor Jr.Asst. VP - OperationsB e r tAr. Dulce Corazon T. VillanuevaAsst. SecretaryD u l c eAr. Carl Jonnel G. ElipaneTreasurerC JAr. Arjay A. PasiaAuditorP e e jAr. Rolando R. ReformadoA n d yAr. Rhymond R. BagusDirectorR h y mAr. Mon Jekris E. ServiñoImmediate Past PresidentM o nPublic Relations OfficerVP - ProgramsD o n aAr. Lia M. OngL i aAr. Raldie I. RosalesR a l d zAr. Laurent V. RelovaA i n aoard ofoard ofBBirectorsirectors DDFY 2026-2027FY 2026-2027
nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMES Armand Louie Allanan CHAIRPERSON Nerissa Angeles MEMBER PP Armando Tantoco CHAIRPERSON PNP Mediliano Roldan CHAIRPERSON EXTERNAL AFFIARS & RA9266 PROTOCOLSCOF & EMERITUS PP Edgar Calma CHAIR PERSON PP Ma. Teresa Amabelle Ticsay CHAIRPERSON PP Jill Rochelle Sevilla CHAIRPERSON PP Erico Coronel MEMBER PP John Noel Cano MEMBER COMELECWAYS & MEANS Anna Ruth Villareal CHAIR PERSON Kristine Angela Calma MENTEE Rolando Reformado CHAIRPERSON Ram Michael Morales MENTEE Denise Velasco MENTEE GREEN ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE DESIGNCPD, BIDS & AWARDS The Committees in Maharlika UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026
nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMES Nerissa Angeles MEMBER Mark Dave Gubatan MENTEE Armand Louie Allanan CHAIRPERSON MEMBERSHIP & INTERNAL AFFAIRS Charleigh Calma CHAIRPERSON Kristine Angela Calma MENTEE Carl jonnel Elipane CHAIRPERSON Borberto Parto, III MENTEE COMMITTEE ON YOUNG ARCHITECTSUAP STUDENT AUXILLARY (UAPSA) Mackoy Salioa CHAIRPERSON Jhanielle Patrizhia Jove MENTEE Nerissa Angeles CHAIRPERSON John Paul Llanes MENTEE COMMISSION ON PROFESSIONAL PRIVATE PRACTICEWORLD ARCHITECTURE DAY (WAD) Rhymond Bagus CHAIRPERSON Kristine Anne Laraya MENTEE Gabriel Solano CHAIRPERSON Regine Pabellano MENTEE RESILIENCE & EMERGENCY ARCHITECTSBALANGKASAN The Committees in Maharlika
nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMES Nerissa Angeles CHAIRPERSON Mikaella Dianne Bernardo MENTEE Sean Dagle CHAIRPERSON Ramon Allyster Rosales MENTEE PHILIPPINE ARCHITECTURE FESTIVAL (PAFNAM)MULTI-MEDIA & VISUAL ARTS Noel De la Cruz CHAIRPERSON Almira De la Cruz MENTEE Virgilio Vallarta CHAIRPERSON Duanne Russel Veluz MENTEE EDUCATIONSUMMER TREK Mark Joseph Bania MEMBER Rhea Rigor CHAIRPERSON Aldrich John Pascua CHAIRPERSON Audreylene Casing MENTEE PP Ronald Angeles CHAIRPERSON PUBLICATIONSEVENT & PROGRAM PHOTOSSPORTS & RECREATION Jocelyn Capistrano CHAIRPERSON Evelyn Manuguid- Villa MEMBER CSR - BAYANIHANG ARKITEKTURA The Committees in Maharlika
nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMES Inspiring the Future:C elebrating Last Term’s Legacy By: Ar. Aldrich John Pascua Every chapter has a story to tell, and FY 2025-2026 gave the UAP Manila Maharlika Chapter many moments worth celebrating. As we turn the page toward a new chapter, we pause to recognize the dedication, leadership, and accomplishments of our outgoing Board of Directors. Through their collective efforts, the Chapter continued to grow in service, strengthen its connection with the community, and foster a deeper sense of unity among its members. Their contributions have shaped a meaningful legacy—one that will continue to inspire the Chapter in the journey ahead. UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026 Board of Director’s FY 2025-2026 Ar. Mon Jekris E. Serviño - Chapter President Ar. Nerissa F. Acelar - Woo - Vice President for Programs Ar. Armand Louie A. Alianan - Vice President for Operations Ar. Kriegel Maruska M. Valdez - Secretary Ar. Rolando R. Reformado - Treasurer Ar. Nadine Joy S. Padilla - Auditor Ar. Rafael M. Geronimo - Public Relations Officer Ar. Aldrich John B. Pascua - Assistant Vice President for Programs Ar. Anthony Renel D. Reoner - Assistant Vice President for Operations Ar. Sean Ryan R. Dagle - Assistant Secretary Ar. Mary Kayo Oshin Gonzales-Paguirigan - Assistant Treasurer Ar. Ma. Teresa Amabelle E. Ticsay - Immediate Past President continue to next page...
nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMES UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026The Maharlikan Forum One of the Chapter’s exciting initiatives this year, The Maharlikan Forum, is a podcast that brings together architects, experts, thought leaders, and community voices for meaningful conversations on Architecture, Culture, History, and Identity. Looking be- yond buildings and the built environment, the Forum explores the people, stories, and cultures that give architecture its deeper meaning, while creating a space for sharing perspectives, learning from one another, and connecting with the wider community. Behind this initiative is a creative team whose dedication brought the concept to life: Aldrich John Pascua for scriptwriting, Sean Ryan for videography and video editing, Mon Jekris E. Serviño as host, Kriegel Maruska Valdez as director, and Dustin Chan Cheng of Tinybunker Audio for audio mixing. Throughout its episodes, the podcast welcomed guests with expertise and experience spanning history, sustainability, business, life outside practice, and public speaking. Among its distinguished guests we-re Ar. Narciso Manuel San Juan II (Knowell San Juan) of UAP Malolos Republika, Ar. Oliver So Sia of UAP Manila Politan, Ar. Michaela Rosette M. Santos-Tayag, Ar. Mary Kayo Oshin Gonzalez-Paguirigan, Ar. Armando Tantoco, UAP, and IDr. Mary Ann Venturina Bulanadi, Ph.D. “Why an Architect”: A Collaborative Conversation The Maharlikan Forum further expanded its reach through a collaboration with UAP Area B, produced by Vanessa Lagman Ledesma, resulting in the special episode “Why an Architect.” The episode explored the many ways architects contribute to the lives and communities they serve—from ensuring that clients receive the homes they deserve, to explaining why architectural documents are more than legal requirements and serve as protection for a client’s assets. It also examined how design decisions rooted in local context can contribute to the development and preservation of our cul- tural identity. continue to next page...
nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMESThe conversation featured distinguished guests Don De Guzman, Richard Garcia, Jorge Yulo, Dan Lichauco, and Royal Pineda, with Ar. Jonathan Manalad, National President of the United Architects of the Philippines, joining as special guest. Through these conversations, “Why an Architect” reinforced an important message: archi- tecture is not simply about designing buil- dings. It is about responsibility, protection, culture, identity, and the people whose lives are shaped by the spaces we create. A Year of Recognition and Excellence The accomplishments of the UAP Manila Maharlika Chapter were further highlighted during NATCON51, where the Chapter received several honors reflecting its shared dedication, unity, and passion for excellence. Among these recognitions were: UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026Adding to these milestones, the Chapter was also recognized with the Ruby Award, com- memorating its 44 years since being chartered in 1981. These achievements are more than awards. They are a reflection of the collective efforts of the Chapter’s leaders, members, partners, and supporters who continue to believe in the value of service and the strength of working together. As FY 2025–2026 comes to a close, the UAP Manila Maharlika Chapter looks back with gratitude and pride. The year brought new initiatives, meaningful conver- sations, collaborations, and milestones that strengthened the Chapter’s identity and connection with the profession and the community.⭐ Outstanding Chapter | Hall of Fame ⭐ Balangkasan Award | Top 3 ⭐ Outstanding Chapter President | Group 1, Top 3
nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMES A New Chapter of Leadership:G race in Action, Legacy in Motion UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026 Architecture is never just about designing buildings, planning, and construction—it is also about the people who shape communities and the enduring legacies they build. This profound truth resonated deeply as the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Manila Maharlika Chapter gathered for its Induction and Turnover Ceremonies on July 14, 2026. Commencing at 6:00 PM at Citadines Bay City Manila, members, industry partners, and national officers converged for the Maharlika Chapter's induction and turnover ceremo- nies. True to their identity as "Movers of Progress", the chapter gathered under the theme "Grace in Action, a Legacy in Motion" to celebrate continuity, camaraderie, and professional excellence. Transitioning to the program's emotional core, outgoing Chapter President Ar. Mon Jerkis Servino delivered a virtual valedictory address celebrating past milestones. This paved the way for the symbolic Turnover of Gavel, led by Incoming District Director for B2 Ar. Joe Larano Jr.,honoring achievements while embracing new horizons. Introduced by Ar. Amabelle E. Ticsay, newly minted Chapter President Ar. Dona C. Del Mundo delivered her inaugural address.Embodying the evening's ethos, she outlined a strategic roadmap for the upcoming term, inspiring unity and collaborative practice. The momentous evening rounded out with the formal oath-taking of incoming officers administered by 30th UAP National President Jonathan V. Manalad, PhD, FUAP, alongside the induction of new members and committees and heartfelt acknowledgments of CSR donors and partners led by Ar. Laurent V. Relova. Skillfully steered by Masters of Ceremonies Ar. Anna Ruth Villareal and Ar. Armand Louie A. Alianan, and concluded with remarks from Ar. Rolando R. Reformado, the event stood as a powerful recommitment to excellence, community, and the lasting impact of shared purpose. By: Ar. Audreylene Casing
Between the Lines
nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMESThe Future of Filipino Architecture Belongs in the Water Stop Fighting the Flood. Every monsoon season, Metro Manila replays the same costly ritual. The skies open, the rivers swell, and our planning response relies on the same rigid solution, more concrete. We build higher sea walls, pour thicker dikes, and elevate highways, clinging to a dry-land bias in a country made of over 7,000 islands. We are fighting an uphill battle against water, and our traditional approaches are reaching their limit. It is time to address a fundamental flaw in our urban development. The Western model of the static, land- bound megacity simply does not fit the Philippine context. For decades, our skylines have adopted the glass-and-steel language of temperate climates with structures designed to block nature out. By treating water strictly as a hazard to be drained, diverted, or walled off, we have built vulnerability instead of resilience. Our coastal and low-lying cities are constantly put to the test with every major storm surge. If Philippine architecture is to adapt to rising sea levels and intensifying typhoons, we need to shift from defensive barriers to active coexistence. Looking back, our ancestors already knew how to live with water. Long before colonization imposed its stone walls and rigid property lines, indigenous communities thrived in rhythm with the tides. The Bahay Kubo stood on stilts not just for ventilation, but to let floodwaters pass freely beneath its bamboo floorboards. The Badjao built floating homes that moved with the sea instead of resisting it. Today’s flood control projects are band‑aids on a broken philosophy. Concrete dikes don’t dissolve water; they simply push it into some-one else’s living room downstream. What if, instead of building higher walls to keep the water out, we designed our cities to rise with it? This is the core premise of “Amphibious Urbanism,” a frame-work where structures rest firmly on land during dry periods, but seamlessly rise and float on the surface of incoming floodwaters during an inundation. Rather than viewing a flood as a structural failure that halts economic life, amphibious design treats water as a natural, temporary elevation of the urban plane. It bridges the gap between static dryland architecture and permanent marine structures, offering a dynamic middle ground tailored specifically for river deltas, coastal plains, and flood-prone metropolitan regions. The water is coming regardless of how much concrete we pour. The fundamental question for the next generation of Filipino architects and planners is simple: will we continue to drown trying to stand our ground, or will we finally learn how to float? Filipino architecture has always been more than shelter, it is indeed a mirror of our relationship with nature. The next generation of architects must reclaim that dialogue, not by romanticizing the past, but by reimagining it for the future. Water has always been part of our landscape and our task as architects is to design built environments that can safely accom- modate it. Because the truth is simple yet haunting, the water is not our nemesis. It is our inheritance!Source: TED ALJIBE / AFP via Getty ImagesSource: news.cgtn.comSource: news.cgtn.com By: Ar. Arjay Alcantara PasiaSource: ResearchGateUAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026 AI-assisted editorial support for clarity and efficiency; content curated by author.
UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026
UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026 WORD SEARCH TOPIC: MMC CHAPTER PAST PRESIDENTS A tribute to our chapter’s history! This puzzle invites members to remember and celebrate the distinguished architects who have led Maharlika through the years.
Announcement
nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMES UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026 CALENDAR OF ACTIVITIES AUGUSTAUGUSTAUGUSTAUGUST The Leadership Edge: A CPD Seminar Blueprints and Brew: Young Architects Connect SEPTEMBERSEPTEMBERSEPTEMBERSEPTEMBER Arkitulong: CSR Project Koten Facility Plant Tour Chapter 45th Anniversary OCTOBEROCTOBEROCTOBEROCTOBER World Architecture Day Ed Yambao’s Cup: Fishing Tournament PAMIAGUM : The National Conference for Architects Halloween Special: Intramuros Night Tour Chapter Sportsfest - Bowling, Darts, & Billiards NOVEMBERNOVEMBERNOVEMBERNOVEMBER BALANGKASAN Pickleball Clinic and Tournament 22 20 12 * 19 25 05 10 15-17 14 21 * DECEMBERDECEMBERDECEMBERDECEMBER Chapter Christmas Party: “Havana- Cuban”11 JANUARYJANUARYJANUARYJANUARY Arkitulong: CSR Project16 Chapter Socials: Glamping30 FEBRUARYFEBRUARYFEBRUARYFEBRUARY * Chapter Elections MARCHMARCHMARCHMARCH Green Architecture - CPD Seminar UAP Area-B Assembly 19 Chapter Sportfest: Basketball Tournament APRILAPRILAPRILAPRIL Chapter Sportfest: Basketball Tournament * * Heritage Conservation Tour and Seminar 23 MAYMAYMAYMAY Acoustics and Lighting CPD Seminar Chapter Summertrek * * * - TBA FY 2026-2027 29 Philippine Architecture Festival National Architecture Month*
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nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMES UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026 EVENT SPONSORS of JULY 2026 We extend our deepest gratitude to our event sponsors for their unwavering support of Sponsor’s Night. Your generosity and commitment turned this gathering into a reality, allowing us to celebrate with purpose and pride. Because of your partnership, the evening was not only possible but truly memorable. Definitely an occasion that reflects the strength of collaboration and the spirit of community.Alum & Glass Contractor Corp
nited rchitects of the hilippinesUAPanila aharlika hapterMMCTHE MAHARLIKAN TIMESINTERIORS POINT UAP MMC - THE MAHARLIKAN TIMES | NEW SERIES . ISSUE 07 | AUGUST 2026 SPONSORS Thank you to the generous sponsors who supported the 2025-2026 term. Your contributions played a vital role in the success of our chapter’s initiatives andevents. We deeply appreciate your continued trust and partnership. Special thanks to Pao Larawan Studio for capturing our event photos and helpingpreserve the memorable moments of our chapter.
