Making architecture relevant to Filipinos

The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP), an integrated and accredited professional organization of architects, opened this year’s Convention Exhibit (ConEx) with its theme “Innovative Architecture, Sustainable Future.” UAP, on its 40th anniversary, highlighted green architecture and groundbreaking design in its lively showcase of products, materials, technologies, and services for building and construction.

Unlike other construction expos in the country, the UAP ConEx is the only exhibition organized by the group of accredited architects showcasing the best from the country’s well-esteemed architects that include Raul Locsin, Meloy Casas, William Coscolluela, Ed Calma and Budji Layug. Another unique offering of this expo is the face-to-face interaction with professional architects about development and/or renovation of either a residence or office building.

UAP also hosted a series of seminars on ‘Business of Architecture’ and ‘Architecture for Nation-Building’ modules in which the public can get insightful tips and information from architects themselves. Not only do the seminars discuss technological design, UAP also offered architectural tours and talks on climate change and survival of architecture.

UAP ConEx 2014 was held from April 10-12 at the SMX Convention Center.

(In photo, from left) UAP executive director for convention Odet Bongato; UAP national president Sonny Rosal; UAP member Shamcey Supsup-Lee; and UAP ConEx director Topy Vasquez led the ribbon-cutting in the UAP ConEx 2014 opening ceremony.