12/09/2026
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βBy Desiree Kyle Oliver
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βThe United Architects of the Philippines β Laguna Chapter conducted its 33rd Inaugural and Induction Ceremony with theme ALAB: Architects, Lead, Aspire, Build, on August 25, 2026, at The Palms Country Club, Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City, marking another significant milestone in the chapterβs continuing journey of leadership, service, and professional excellence.
βAmong the leaders who were present at the event were Ar. John Larry Osacdin, the Program Chair of the UPHSD-C College of Architecture, Ar. Gerelson Bernardino, the Immediate Past Director of UAP Area B District B4 and also an Architect Professor in UPHSD-C College of Architecture, and Ar. Kris Jon Jay Aranilla, the Chapter Adviser of UAPSA-UPHSD-C. Ms. Mara Laureen Brugada, the UAPSA-UPHSD-C chapter president, and Mr. Zildjian Villaflor, its Vice President for Operations were also present as they took part in the committee team of the which led by Ms. Joyce Paguio, the UAPGA Laguna Chapter President.
βCarrying the theme βALAB: Architects Lead. Aspire. Build.β, the ceremony symbolized the chapterβs renewed commitment to ignite leadership and build a stronger and more united community. The theme served as a guiding call for the chapter and its members to lead with purpose, aspire toward greater professional excellence, and build meaningful contributions to the society.
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βOne of the guests, Hon. Antonino Aurelio, Vice Mayor of Rizal, Laguna who is sent to deliver the warm greetings of Gov. Sol Aragones for the esteemed architects, "Ang mga arkitekto ang s'yang simula at 'yan ay pinatuyan ko; at sa aming bayan nagsimula ang isang pagbabago. Kayo ang nagtataka ng tamang proseso sa bawat gawain lalong-lalo na sa mga proyektong kaunlaran. Mula po sa gobernador ng lalawigan [ng Laguna], welcome po ang inyong samahan. Lagi pong handa ang pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Laguna nga makipagtulungan sa inyo para sa mas ligtas, maunlad, at magandang kinabukasan," he says.
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The celebration also featured the induction ceremony, formally ushering in the newly elected chapter officers as they took on their responsibilities to serve the organization and its members.
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β"Architect's responsibility extends beyond the building to our community, cities, municipalities, to the environment, and to the people that we serve," UAP National President Ar. Jonathan V. Manalad said in his speech. "This is a meaningful reminder that before we become better architects, we must first become rather better individuals," he added.
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βThe ceremony also awarded the outgoing chapter officers, recognizing their service and contributions throughout their term. β"Maaaring ang isang pangulo ay may hawak na titulo buhat ng organisasyon ay sumusulong dahil may mga taong pinipiling magkaisa at sama-samang kumilos,β the outgoing Chapter President Ar. Philip Reginald Lai said in his valedictory address. "Kaya naman pagkilala, tagumpay, [at] accomplishment na nakamit ng UAP Laguna sa panahon ng aking termino ay hindi ko maaaring angkinin bilang akin lamang. Tagumpay natin itong lahat,β the former UAP Laguna President Ar. Philip Reginald Lai added as the transition of leadership concluded marking the end of his tenure and the beginning of a new chapter for the organization.
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βThe ceremony also featured the recognition of the outgoing chapter officers and recipients of the Laguna Award, honoring individuals whose dedication and service have contributed to the continued growth and achievements of UAP Laguna. The formal turnover of the gavel signified the transition of leadership, followed by the inaugural address of the new Chapter President, Ar. Joy Barcelona-RaΓ±ola, UAP. The event also give a recognition to former Chapter President Ar. Philip Reginald A. Lai, UAP, for his service and leadership.
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βAnother significant moment of the ceremony was the Induction of New Members, formally welcoming newly registered architects into the UAP Laguna community. The occasion marked the beginning of their involvement in the organization while reaffirming their commitment to uphold the professionβs ideals, values, and responsibilities.
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βBefore the ceremony concluded, the new UAP Laguna President Ar. Joy Barcelona-RaΓ±ola delivered her closing words to her fellow architects. "Leadership is not about one person's journey. A chapter president cannot build a chapter alone; a board cannot build a chapter alone; a committee a chapter alone; it takes all of us, kaya po tayo ay importante," as she defined what leadership is. "We are not just simply to live as an organization, we are here to ignite people," she added.
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The program concluded with the presentation of tokens of appreciation to industry partners and individuals whose support contributed to the success of the ceremony and UAP Lagunaβs various programs and initiatives. Closing remarks and the formal adjournment followed, before attendees gathered for a photo opportunity that captured the spirit of unity and celebration shared throughout the event.
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βMore than a simple change in leadership, the 33rd Inaugural and Induction Ceremony served as a reaffirmation of UAP Lagunaβs mission and vision for the years ahead. The Chapter looks toward the future with a shared commitment to Lead with purpose, Aspire for excellence, and Build a stronger future for the architectural profession and the community it serves.
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βπΈ: Desiree Oliver and Zildjian Villaflor
