This year marks the grandest National Convention of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) as the organization celebrates its 50th year — its Golden Anniversary — as the premier professional organization of architects in the Philippines.
The week-long celebration will take place from April 7 to 12, 2025, with most of the events to be held at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, in Pasay City.
UAP National President Arch. Donato Magcale will welcome delegates from around the world, including international personalities from the global architecture profession. Over 200 UAP chapters, both local and international, will be represented by their chapter presidents and members, who will be honored during the formal opening of the national convention.
This will be the largest gathering of architects in the country, with more than 8,000 delegates expected to attend in person at the SMX Convention Center, and over 3,000 more joining virtually via Zoom — all to witness this historic golden celebration.
A major highlight of the event is the Construction Exhibit (CONEX) at the ground floor of the SMX Convention Center, showcasing cutting-edge design and construction innovations by both local and international suppliers and manufacturers. Open to the public for free, CONEX invites clients, architects, developers, contractors, engineers, and technical professionals to explore modern technologies at their finest.
Another significant event is the International Leaders Conference of Architects, featuring foreign dignitaries and experts from the architectural and construction sectors who will engage in insightful discussions, knowledge exchange, and fellowship. Delegates from ARCASIA, APEC, and ASEAN architects are also invited to participate in this prestigious gathering.
A Gala Night will commemorate the UAP’s 50 years as the Integrated and Accredited Professional Organization (IAPOA) of architects. The evening will include the launch of the UAP history book and recognition of 50 notable Filipino architects. Distinguished guests — including representatives from the PRC Board of Architecture, government officials, former UAP national presidents, and other prominent personalities — will also be in attendance.
The convention’s second-floor activities will include the election of new national officers, setting the direction for the next 50 years. Other highlights are the Convocation of Fellows, which honors newly elevated fellows of the UAP; continuing professional development (CPD) seminars; and the general business meeting of the organization.
Notably, UAP will also honor the largest batch of new Emeritus members — nearly 200 architects who have served the organization for more than 35 years.
This celebration comes at a most meaningful time for the architectural profession in the Philippines, especially after the Supreme Court’s final ruling affirming that only architects are authorized to prepare, sign, and seal architectural documents — a victory aligned with the full implementation of the Architectural Permit.
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