The design and construction industry stands at a crossroads—fighting to remain a driver of progress while also being one of the most environmentally destructive forces on the planet.
“If we measure the success of construction purely in terms of developmental expansion through concrete and steel, we risk losing sight of environmental concerns and resource depletion. This could lead to the collapse of our natural resources and the degradation of the earth,” says Christine Almine Canarez-Ordiz, a respected registered and licensed architect, master plumber, and licensed contractor from Masbate.
Born on May 24, 1985, in the City of Masbate, Architect Christine is married to Francis Anthony D. Ordiz. They have two children: Francine Mia C. Ordiz and Dylan Francis C. Ordiz. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Bicol University in 2007, passed the Architecture Licensure Examination in 2010, the Master Plumber Licensure Examination in 2014, and later became a licensed contractor.
Christine built an impressive portfolio as a mall architect for LCC Malls in Legazpi City, Nabua (Camarines Sur), Iriga Centro, Albay, and Ligao, among others. These experiences prepared her for her transition from employee to entrepreneur as Principal Architect and Building Contractor of C. Canarez Design and Build Services, established in 2012. Her strong relationships with clients—many of whom have become repeat or referred clients—speak volumes about her professionalism and reliability.
As principal architect of her own firm, Christine’s integration of design and construction has pushed her to redefine her processes and embrace a deeper appreciation for both progress and sustainability. Her commitment to a thoughtful, sincere approach to architecture has earned the trust of clients, friends, and peers alike.
By focusing on quality and responsible waste management, Architect Christine has elevated her firm’s reputation in Masbate. Her projects—both residential and commercial—are known for trust, confidence, and client satisfaction. Her peers in architecture, engineering, and construction advocacy recognize her as a champion of sustainable practices, not only in the built environment but in personal and professional growth.
Friends and clients hold Architect Christine in high esteem. Her firm continues to address the challenges of a growing client base, proving her unwavering integrity, technical expertise, and commitment to excellence.
Christine’s environmental values are rooted in her upbringing. She believes construction materials and practices must be anchored in environmental awareness. “Ultimately, safeguarding our natural environment is a lifelong concern for every Filipino,” she says. “Balancing design and construction with the thoughtful use of our natural resources is a delicate but necessary journey.”
Despite her demanding profession, Christine makes family life her top priority. She ensures she is present for school activities, Sunday weekends, and family time with her children. This dedication to being a hands-on mother has shaped her both as a parent and as a leader. Her employees admire how she treats them with kindness and respect—values they return through their performance and loyalty.
“My Mama was strict. She taught me basic life survival skills at the age of six—to be independent and learn young. She emphasized that education is important, but so is being wise and street-smart. She taught me to be honest, to value people’s time, and to build meaningful relationships. These values help me connect with clients and create harmony with my team. Even though I’m busy, I always come home on time to talk, eat, play, and study with my kids. Their time is as valuable as mine. Being present means more than any gift.”
Architect Christine is a proud member of the United Architects of the Philippines. She served as Regional District Director of Region B5 (Bicol Region) and sat on the National Board of Directors in 2019–2020. Her outstanding leadership was recognized by UAP as she organized district assemblies, visited chapters and LGUs, and promoted the profession throughout her region.
She brought the national board to Masbate, inspiring her peers and proving that hope, commitment, and a sincere love for the craft can elevate the profession and protect the environment.
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Arch. Benjamin K. Panganiban, Jr. is a past national president of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) and the first national president from Mindanao. He has been in the private practice for more than 39 years and is a fellow of the UAP. He is also the first Asean and APEC architect from Davao City. He is a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Mindanao, a Doctor Fellow of the Royal Institute of Architects Singapore and a recipient of the European Business Assembly.
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