VISAYAS CONFERENCE OF ARCHITECTS 2009: SUCCESSFUL, FRUITFUL, COLORFUL & MEMORABLE.
By Archt. GUILLERMO H. HISANCHA, FUAP NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT FOR AREA C
The United Architects of Architects of the Philippines Area C comprising of 4 districts and 19 chapters in the Visayas region has just held the Visayas Conference of Architects with the theme “VISAYAN ARCHITECTS; Visionaries and Transformers of the Built-Environment” at Punta Villa Resort, Arevalo, Iloilo City last November 1315, 2009. It was a well attended conference by architects, sponsors and suppliers and graced by distinguished leaders in the city and province of Iloilo as well as of Western Visayas. It was a nonstop event which was so fruitful being educational, enjoyable, lots of fun and fellowships, which once again rekindled and renewed the unity and camaraderie of architects in the region. It was also a venue where we, the hosts, took opportunity to showcase the richness of our culture and tradition, well treasured architectural heritage structures, and to express the warmth of our welcome with the pure and genuine Ilonggo hospitality and pride to our colleagues in the whole Visayas region, as well as to members of the National Executive Committee, Jury and College of Fellows.Members of the National Executive Committee, Jury and College of Fellows, Delegates Arrival in Iloilo National Executive Committee, Jury and Members of the College of Fellows and Delegates Arrival in Iloilo The members of the National Executive Committee and College of Fellows arrived at the Iloilo Airport at around 6:00 a.m. of November 13, 2009. They were met at the airport by Vice President for
Area C Archt. Guillermo Hisancha, also vice mayor of the Municipality of Pavia and in a VIP treatment the visitors were convoyed by the Pavia Police Patrol, which led them to Cabugao Seafood Restaurant in the town for a breakfast respite and went straight to University of San Agustin Main Chapel to attend the celebrated Holy Mass. Some delegates from different areas in the Visayas also arrived separately via airplanes, boats and ferries and others by land. Others were a day ahead taking an early glimpse of what the City of Iloilo can offer, while some were even able to make it and attended the mass and motorcade. DAY 1 Holy Mass Day 1 on November 13 starts with a celebrated Holy Mass at 8:00 a.m. at the University of San Agustin here in Iloilo City, one of the two schools offering architecture in the City. The members of the UAP Execom and some members of the College of Fellows who just arrived from Manila, with the architects and students including faculties attended the solemn mass.
Motorcade After the mass, at around 9:30 a.m., a long queue and line of vehicles were ready to take off starting from University of San Agustin Main Chapel going into the main streets of the City taking a look of the old and new face of the City and proceed to SM City Iloilo for the Opening of VISCONEX (VISayas Conference of Architects CONstruction EXpo). The motorcade was joined by architects including members of the UAP National Execom and College of Fellows, architecture students, sponsors and suppliers with the loud beating of the drums.
Exhibits The VISCONEX opening at SM City Iloilo was participated by 35 sponsors led by Mega Sponsor Davies Paints started at 10:30 a.m. Distinguished guests who delivered inspirational messages and shared in the ribbon-cutting were Pavia, Iloilo Mayor Arcadio Gorriceta and Iloilo City Vice Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog.
It was a well participated and attended Construction Show designed not only for architects but to the general public as well, to be kept updated of the latest trends and technologies in the field of building construction. Lots of architects, students and curious interested general public viewed the 3-day successful VISCONEX to the delight of the sponsors. It was an architectural advocacy at the same time.
After the exhibit opening program and viewing of the exhibit booths, the motorcade continued from SM City to the conference site in Punta Villa Resort in Arevalo, Iloilo City.
Registrations Upon arrival, delegates lined up for registration at the venue. All were billeted at the rooms of Punta Villa Resort in Arevalo, one of the districts in the City and a secluded near-perfect area for the conference around 25 minutes ride from the city proper. An attendance of 270 architects flocked the venue with lots of guests and sponsors. Opening Ceremonies and Lunch The delegates gathered in a full packed Crown Ballroom for the Opening Ceremonies and Welcome Lunch with the young yet active Bacolod Chapter president Archt. Jude Patrick Tipon as emcee. Archt. Hisancha warmly welcomed all the delegates and expressed deep appreciation and thanks to all who came and helped in the preparation of this first once-a-year UAP event in the region. He was so elated with the overwhelming response and participation of Visayan architects. Region VI Dept. of Tourism Regional Director of Edwin Trompeta who was introduced by C2 District Director Archt. Jose Glenn De Guzman, was the keynote speaker who briefed delegates of the richness and vast potential tourist attractions especially the famous century old churches and old stately mansions of Iloilo’s rich and famous in the Province and City of Iloilo.
NP Archt. Ling delivered the national president’s message, who was also so impressed with the conference preparation stating it as one of the best. Dinagyang Tribe Warriors dazzled the delegates with their unique costumes and lively performance. Quite shy and silent type Archt. Paul Conde, District C3 District Director recapped with his closing remarks. Area C Chapter Presidents Assembly The Chapter Presidents Assembly was never left out. It was very well attended and in fact, with a perfect attendance of all chapter presidents. Also attended by members of the National Executive Committee led by National President Ana Mangalino Ling and some officers of the Jury and College of Fellows.
Vice President for Area C Archt. Hisancha presided the meeting and the body were able to come up with productive and worthy resolutions. Chapter presidents each reported the status of their respective areas, with activities like medical missions, construction shows, community outreach programs, partnerships with local government units, seminars and product presentations, reactivating inactive members and many others to the delight of NP Archt. Ling of their continued untiring efforts and support to the programs of her administration.
The long time conflict and argument regarding the area vice presidency position was settled and resolved by way of a resolution passed and unanimously approved by the chapter presidents and district directors. Agreed rotation will be as follows; District C1 will be having two successive terms, followed on the next year by District C3, then C2 and C4 with one term each. After the meeting, a final draft of the resolution was signed by Area VP Archt. Hisancha, all 4 district directors, all 19 chapter presidents and by NP Archt. Ling and Sec Gen Archt. Gil Evasco as witnesses. With this and at long last, there will be an understanding for a smooth and orderly transition of leadership in the area. Other agenda include encouraging the chapter’s contribution to the UAP Area C website and an advocacy on “Why You Should Hire an Architect”. A Resolution was also passed designating Archt. Kendel Esperas of Metro Tacloban Chapter to make representations with newly appointed DPWH Sec. Victor Domingo who hails from Tacloban City regarding the pushing of the implementation of R.A. 9266. The new PRBoa system in conducting board examinations was also discussed and was agreed to be discussed later in the General Assembly and Business Meeting on Day 2. Indeed, a productive chapter president’s assembly.
Seminars Two interesting seminars followed which were all well attended. Resource speaker Archt. Miguel Guerrero delivered a very informative topic entitled “Greenovation”, which stressed the different design approach and solutions in response to the current global warming problem brought about by the emission of gases and carbon dioxide in the earth’s atmosphere.
Past NP Archt. Medeliano “Boy” Roldan, Jr., chairman of Task Force 9266, articulately explained the detailed and salient provisions, including the latest updates on “R.A. 9266” in the next seminar. That was very informative as it deals with the practice of Architectural profession. Archt. Roldan, past two time outstanding national president has been actively fighting for the full nationwide implementation of the law in and out of court, stressing the law that the architectural profession shall be at the exclusive domain only of architects, and no other else. Product Presentations In order to update architects with some current trends and technology in the building construction industry, several product presentations of various companies were presented. Eurovek Building Solutions, Boral, Panasonic and Intellicad Phils. Inc. and Davies Paints presented and showcased their latest products.
Welcome Dinner Delegates and sponsors were in for a special treatment at the Welcome Dinner. District Director Archt. Ramon Francisco Teruel, who celebrated his grand birthday and blew candles later in the program, warmly welcomed everyone. Archt. Teruel graciously led C4 chapter presidents in hosting this conference.
Graced by no less than the gallant and brave Gov. Neil D. Tupas Sr. of the Province of Iloilo as the keynote speaker, who shared his past experiences both happy and sad especially the infamous and controversial “Capitol Siege” reflecting how he overcame crucial and nearly bloody encounter in an attempt to challenge his role, position and principles which made and identified him as one of Iloilo’s fearless leader.
Iloilo Paraw Dancers, Iloilo’s Paraw Regatta Festival pride entertained guests in their winning tribal dance along with a Dinagyang Tribe in an Ati-ati costume and dance presentation. Sumptuous and overflowing supply of local and sea foods, overflowing drinks were at the satisfaction of the delegates, which the ORCOM really intended to.
To end Day 1, late at night, a 15 minute fireworks on the venue’s ground was displayed highlighting the words, “WELCOME ARCHITECTS” to the delight and pleasure of the delegates.
While others were trying to get the much needed rest who immediately stumbled to bed late that night, not contended with, some music lovers and frustrated delegates singers returned to the venue hall and started the sing-along extension program, of course, coupled and not complete without cases of beer. That was lots of fun with Nat’l. Auditor Arch’t. Ernesto Tianco, a former Dean and a gifted comedian, in his usual antics, taking over and assumed as emcee until wee hours in the morning. Indeed, a forgettable program extension but a long and enjoyable day to remember. DAY 2
Sportsfest
Day 2 of the Conference was at the excitement and fun of the delegates. Sports events were competitive yet the spirit of sportsmanship was evident and impressive. Big, strong and athletic C1 Cebu architects proved so tough and champion once again in basketball besting C2 Bacolod in a thrilling game. C4 basketball team although well prepared but their best may not be enough to sustain the more athletic players from other districts. More practice please. C1’s dominance extended in badminton with C2 in second and C4 in third place. C4 bounced back with Archt. Michael Abanero saving the district from being winless in the games as champion in billiards. Also winners, at least.
Breakfast Meeting with the College of Fellows Some new, yet old faces appeared in this gathering. Simultaneously done with the sports fest was the traditional “Breakfast Meeting with the College of Fellows. With Chancellor Archt. Noralita Dumlao presiding, that was a once in a blue moon reunion with the presence of some long lost fellows. Indeed touching, especially when everyone introduced each other stating his/her whereabouts. Area C has the presence of fellows like Archt. Leopoldo Padlan and Archt. Tony Sangrador both of Marikudo Chapter, Archt. Silverio Ureta of Bacolod and the rare National Executive Committee presence of Archt. Jose Duresa of AklanMeeting Chapter.
Others in the meeting were fellows Arch’t. Bert Nuke, UAP National Charter President, Vice Chancellor Archt. Armin Sarthuo, Honorary AIA and past National President Archt. Yoly Reyes, Archt. Mael Cayanan, IPP Archt. Boy Roldan, past Area C VP Archt. Dan Fuentebella, NP Archt. Ana Mangalino-Ling, Archt. Miguel Guerrero and Archt. Guillermo Hisancha. It was discussed on how to find ways to reactivate other members especially in the area level.
National Executive Committee Meeting Members of the National Executive Committee held the regular meeting and was presided by Archt. Ana Ling. Present were NEVP Archt. Michael Ang, VP Area A Archt. Edith De Vera, VP Area C Guillermo Hisancha, VP Area D Archt. Jemma Semaña, Sec Gen Archt. Gil Evasco, National Treasurer Arch. Mads Tandoc, and Chancellor, College of Fellows Archt. Noralita Dumlao. Archt. Mael Cayanan, Executive Secretary to the Office of the President / NEVP. Many wondered where National Auditor Ernesto Tianco, Jr. was. (still very much asleep? Reliable sources said he went back to bed when the sun already started to shine in the east.) Discussed were various national organization’s concerns, area conferences, incoming NAW’s activities and coming NBD meeting. General Assembly and Business Meeting Lunch was served and followed by the Area C General Assembly and Business Meeting with VP Area C Archt. Hisancha presiding.
National Execom members rendered their respective reports for information of the general membership. NEVP report by Archt. Michael Ang, Treasurer’s report by Archt. Amado Tandoc, National President’s report by Archt. Ana Mangalino-Ling and VP Area C Archt. Hisancha also delivered his conference and area report. Discussions were actively participated and various important resolutions were passed and approved such as; A Resolution Defining the Rotation for the Position Area C Vice President, A
Resolution Strongly Opposing the Proposed PRBoa New System in Conducting the Architects Board Examination and a Resolution Endorsing “ARCHT” as the Official Title Abbreviation Before the Name of the Architect. The outcome has been so productive, and matters were agreeable and resolved by the general membership. Closing Ceremonies The Closing Ceremonies indeed is a fitting ceremony to cap the conference. Presidential Assistant for Western Visayas Hon. Raul Banias was the Keynote Speaker stressing the value of architecture and architects in nation building. He was accompanied by the ever UAP avid supporter Mayor Arcadio Gorriceta. The ever active and dynamic National President Archt. Ana Mangalino-Ling delivered and presented the Presidential Challenge”, the outline of her proposed programs, projects and activities under the acronym MERITORIOUS. R.A. 9266 Awardees One of the highlights of the program was the giving of a Plaque of a National Board Resolution of Appreciation to persons who have bravely and successfully implemented the provisions of the law, R.A. 9266 also known as “Architecture Law in the Philippines” in their respective local government Units. Iloilo City Building Official Archt. Eduardo Chu, Marikudo past chapter president who implemented the Act since 2005 and inspired architects in the Iloilo City received his much deserved award. He courageously imposed the law giving architects the sole right to seal and sign architectural plans, specification and other architectural documents. He also strictly required architects to acquire IAPOA certificate in their applications for building permits. Newly designated Roxas City Building Official Archt. Margarita Maestro represented by Archt. Jaybee Avelino, Capiz Chapter president got the award for her role and execution of the law in Roxas City late this year. Past Area C Vice President Archt. Danilo Fuentebella, a UAP fellow and newly designated City Architect and Building Official of Tacloban City was recognized for his untiring efforts in successfully pushing for the implementation of the Act.
Last awardee was the dynamic and dedicated mayor of Pavia, Iloilo, Mayor Arcadio Gorriceta, a loyal and ardent supporter of UAP who calls himself a “frustrated architect” because of his strong and deep passion for architecture, who with a Sangguniang Bayan Resolution endorsed by the council led by Vice Mayor Hisancha in 2005 was cited for the law’s adoption in the municipality by issuing a memorandum order to Municipal Building Official implementing the same. That was indeed an inspiring and motivating moment lifting the hearts, hopes and spirits of the architects.
Fellowship As usual, limitless foods and overflowing drinks were served to the delight of all the delegates and sponsors. Delegates wore colourful tribal ethnic costumes designed and patterned from the famous “Dinagyang Festival” here in Iloilo City. Delegates were entertained by the Paraw Regatta Dancers and Dinagyang Tribe warriors showcasing why Dinagyang Festival was many times the country’s “Tourism Event of the Year”. Members of the National Board with some delegates enjoyed dancing to the beat of the drums with the warriors.
Late in the program, Archt. Boy Roldan and Archt. Gil Evasco took over the microphone and made everybody laugh on their seats with their antics and natural humour and wit as they assumed the fellowship program with various contests, such as “best costume for male” and “best costume for female” for the night. Lots of raffle prizes were given to lucky architects. Archt. Gloria Anino of Rajah Humabon Chapter was fortunate having picked as winner of 3-days and 2-nights accommodation at La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel for two.
Fireworks were lighted later on and expired but the memories of a conference so memorable will always be recalled and remembered. Acknowledgments As your Area C Vice President, and in behalf of the C4 Organizing Committee as host, I would like to express our sincerest thanks and gratitude to everyone who in one way or another has helped and contributed to make this conference an astounding success.
The presence and untiring support of architects in the Visayas area who came in full force were unexpected. Thanks to District C1 chapter presidents and members led by District Director Archt. Alan Chuachoy, Past VP Area C Archt. Butch Alisbo, District C2 chapter presidents and members led by District Director Archt. Jose Glenn De Guzman, District Director Archt. Paul Conde leading District C3 chapter presidents and members, and of course the host District C4 chapter presidents and members led by the birthday boy District Director Archt. Ramon Francisco Teruel. Members of the National Executive Committee led by our beloved Archt. Ana Ling, NEVP Archt. Michael Ang, VP Area A Archt. Edith De Vera, VP Area D Archt. Jemma Semaña, Sec Gen Archt. Gil Evasco, National Treasurer Arch. Mads Tandoc, National Auditor Ernesto Tianco, Jr. for taking their precious time and providing inspiration. Also to illustrious fellows Chancellor Archt. Noralita Dumlao, respected Arch’t. Bert Nuke UAP National Charter President, Vice Chancellor Archt. Armin Sarthuo, Honorary AIA and past National President Archt. Yoly Reyes for gracing in spite of heavy hectic schedule and expressed giving her special support, Archt. Mael Cayanan, my good friend IPP Archt. Boy Roldan and R.A. 9266 speaker, Mr. “Green” Archt. Miguel Guerrero and past Area C VP Archt. Dan Fuentebella.
Our distinguished invited guests and keynote speakers, Iloilo City Vice Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, Pavia Mayor Arcadio Gorriceta, Iloilo Governor Neil Tupas, Sr., Western Visayas Dept. of Tourism Reg’l. Director Edwin Trompeta and Presidential Assistant for Western Visayas Raul Banias who provided us with high hopes and aspirations. We can never forget the ever loyal and usual support of our valued sponsors led by Davies Paints. Lastly, to the Father Almighty for making all these things possible. So long...