Addressing the state of Philippine architecture and concerns that architects all over the Philippines are facing, the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) recently held its first media forum dubbed, “Kapihan ng Arkitektura” at the UAP National headquarters in Quezon City. The forum will serve as a monthly gathering of UAP officers, members, and brand partners with members of the media in print, broadcast and digital media.
#GetAnArchitect Advocacy Explained
Among the topics discussed were UAP’s advocacy called #GetAnArchitect, wherein the organization aims to promote the architecture profession, highlight the spirit of the profession, and encourage the public to use the services of professionals for a safer, healthier and more accessible homes, businesses and communities.
“Many people think that being an architect is just about being good at drawing, but it’s more than that,” says architect Ronnie Yumang. “Most people ask an architecture student to draw for them, and then they build their homes using that drawing without seeking the professional expertise of a licensed architect and this puts the safety of people at risk.”
In relation, UAP national president architect Benjamin Panganiban Jr. stressed the importance of the role of an architect, “No other technical allied profession comes close to the learnings and knowledge of architects,” he shares. Stressing that by using the right professional services to do quality construction work, it will make the difference on people’s lives and properties.
UAP Construction Expo
Members of the UAP also discussed plans for the upcoming UAP Construction Expo 2020 (CONEX). The exposition is currently the Philippines’ premier building and construction expo that brings together all construction industry sectors to demonstrate state of the art products and to promote new technologies, equipment and materials to the Philippine market. CONEX 2020 will also play an integral part in fostering close alliances between architects and allied professionals such as contractors, interior designers, engineers, planners and more.
Hoping to celebrate the unity, ability and pro-action of Filipino architects, this year’s theme is “Fusion” and will be held on April 23 to 25 at the SMX Convention Center. Aside from the exhibition of products and new technologies, the three-day event will also feature seminars and a fun run called RUNkitek 2.
The UAP was established in 1974, born out of the vision of unifying three existing architectural associations at the time; the Philippines Institute of Architects, the League of Philippine Architects, and the Association of Philippine Government Architects. Since its establishment, UAP aims to become a prime organization of professional architects and to be responsive to the needs of its professionals, and the profession.
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To know more about UAP, visit www.united-architects.org.