The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Cebu Chapter, the first chapter ever organized under the UAP national body, continues to honor its pioneering legacy as it moves forward on its “Road to 50 Strong Years,” reaffirming its vital role in shaping the architectural profession in the country.
(L-R) Ar. Zianne Nicah Amarga, UAP Cebu Chapter President FY 25-26; Ar. Melva Java,FUAP. Past UAP Cebu Chapter President, Former Dean, Univ. of San Carlos, Heritage Architect and One of the pillars of the chapter; Ar. Jose Mari Cañizares,FUAP, 17th Likha Gold Medal Awardee and Past UAP Cebu President and Ar. Jehanne Frances Dy-Cruz, Past UAP Cebu President and Chairperson, Golden Anniversary Committee
The United Architects of the Philippines was formed following a Presidential Decree mandating the integration of various professional architectural organizations into a single national body. A major step toward this integration took place on December 10, 1973, with the passage of a joint board resolution creating an Ad-Hoc Commission. The UAP was subsequently incorporated and officially registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 26, 1975.
While the organization was conceived in Manila, a pivotal chapter in its history unfolded in Cebu. On June 7–8, 1975, Cebu City hosted the country’s first Area Conference and Symposium for the Visayas and Mindanao. The historic event was held under the leadership of Ar. Juan Maravillas Jr., with Ar. Servillano Mapeso serving as conference co-chairman. This milestone gathering directly led to the formation of the UAP Cebu Chapter, establishing Cebu as the birthplace of the first officially organized UAP chapter.
The UAP Cebu Chapter was formally chartered on January 20, 1976, earning the distinguished Chapter Registration No. 001. Its inaugural officers were led by Chapter President Ar. Gabriel Abear, together with Ar. Virgilio Asuncion, Ar. Fe Gaea, Ar. Cholie Chan, and Ar. Carlos Carbajal, setting a strong foundation of leadership, professionalism, and service.
Ar. Jose Mari Cañizares,FUAP, 17th Likha Gold Medal Awardee and Past UAP Cebu President
As part of its continuing legacy, the UAP Cebu Chapter also celebrates a major professional distinction within its ranks. The chapter takes pride in Ar. Jose Mari Canizares, who has been named the 17th recipient of the Likha Gold Medal Award—the highest individual honor conferred by the UAP. The award recognizes a lifetime of exceptional artistic and technical achievement, as well as unwavering adherence to the highest standards of professional ethics. Ar. Canizares is among the very few architects in Philippine history to receive this prestigious recognition, bringing honor not only to Chapter 001 but also to the entire Cebuano architectural community.
Ar. Zianne Nicah Amarga, UAP Cebu Chapter President FY 25-26
Today, the UAP Cebu Chapter remains steadfast in its mission under the guidance of its FY 2025–2026 Board of Directors. As it commemorates nearly five decades of leadership and service, the chapter continues to uphold the ideals of unity, excellence, and social responsibility in architecture, while contributing meaningfully to nation-building and community development.
The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Cebu Chapter is set to hold a series of activities this January, bringing together architects, families, industry partners, and the public for a week of fellowship, celebration, and professional engagement.
Ar. Jehanne Frances Dy-Cruz, Past UAP Cebu President and Chairperson, Golden Anniversary Committee
The lineup of events will begin on January 20 with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Redemptorist Church at 7:30 a.m., marking a moment of gratitude and reflection for the chapter. This will be followed by a Chapter Fellowship at 9:00 a.m. at the Century Plaza Hotel, providing members an opportunity to reconnect and strengthen professional ties.
On January 23, the UAP Cebu Chapter will formally open its Exhibit at G Mall, running from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The exhibit aims to showcase architectural works, ideas, and initiatives that highlight the role of architects in nation-building and community development.
Continuing the festivities, UAP Cebu Chapter Family Day will be held on January 24, also at G Mall, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event is designed to foster camaraderie among members and their families through fun and inclusive activities.
The week-long celebration will culminate in a Gala Night on January 25 at Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, starting at 5:00 p.m. The formal evening will gather members and distinguished guests for a night of recognition, fellowship, and celebration of the chapter’s achievements.
Ar. Melva Java,FUAP. Past UAP Cebu Chapter President, Former Dean, Univ. of San Carlos, Heritage Architect and One of the pillars of the chapter
These events reflect the UAP Cebu Chapter’s commitment to professional excellence, unity, and community engagement within the architectural profession.
For more information, interested parties may coordinate with the UAP Cebu Chapter through its official communication channels.
