VISAYAS CONFERENCE OF ARCHITECTS 2009:

SUCCESSFUL, FRUITFUL, COLORFUL & MEMORABLE.

By Archt. GUILLERMO H. HISANCHA, FUAP

NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT FOR AREA C

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

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 13-

15, 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 non-

stop 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.

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

Exhibits

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.

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

Opening Ceremonies and Lunch

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.

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

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.

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.

Welcome Dinner

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.

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.

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.

National Executive Committee Meeting

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.

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

presence of Archt. Jose Duresa of Aklan

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.

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.

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.

Fellowship

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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...