UAP (United Architects of the Philippines) Singapore launched “Artifice: Assemblies, Accolades and Affirmations of Asian Vernacular Architecture in Contemporary Context,” a program with three key segments.
The first part, “Assemblies,” was an inspiring architectural conference featuring a distinguished quartet: two renowned Filipino architects, Ar. Royal Pineda and Ar. Buck Richnold Sia, and two architects from prestigious Singaporean firms, Ar. Samuel David Ty of WOHA Architects and Mr. Joseph Mejia Fermanes of Ong & Ong Architects. The conference happened last Nov. 22, 2025 (12:30–5:00 p.m.) at the Orchid Ballroom, Level B1, Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre.
The program showcased the expertise and advocacies of these architects, emphasizing their contributions to the profession and their commitment to social, cultural and environmental concerns. By showing their work and sharing experiences, the program fostered a deeper appreciation of Filipino talent and inspired a strong sense of pride in our identity as Filipinos.
The second part, “Accolades,” was a multi-tiered competition honoring excellence across three categories, namely, the Professional Category, Academic Category, and Professional Practice Category.
The deliberation for the Architectural Firms and Thesis categories was held on Nov. 15, 2025, via Zoom, where the 11 participants — seven firms and four newly graduated architecture students — presented their impactful design proposals and articulated their concepts for thorough evaluation.
Finally, the last part, “Affirmation,” held a “Gabi ng Pasasalamat” on Nov. 22, 2025, (6:30–11:00 p.m.) at L2 Crystal Ballroom, Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre. It celebrated community and leadership through the recognition of the ten outstanding members of the Singapore Chapter and the induction of new officers and members. This milestone marked not only the chapter’s 16 years of existence but also honored the members and officers who worked together to shape its legacy and history.
As it concludes, “Artifice” stands not only as a celebration of architectural excellence but also as a testament to the UAP Singapore Chapter’s enduring spirit of community, innovation and cultural identity. The insights shared, connections forged, and accomplishments honored continue to inspire future generations of architects to shape spaces that reflect both our heritage and our aspirations.
Ar. Maria Louretta R. Nico is UAP-Singapore’s chapter president. She finished her BS Architecture degree at the University of Santo Tomas and is currently working as a BIM manager at Kwan Yong Construction Pte. Ltd. She has been a volunteer lecturer and active organizer of Free Review /Refresher Sessions for aspiring architects since 2017.
The article was originally published in The Manila Times and written by Ar. Maria Louretta R. Nico, UAP.
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