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Monday, July 24, 2006
Empowering hand
By Arch’t. Karl A.E.F. Cabilao, UAP
To practice architecture, fatherhood and at the same time, actively give out pro bono service to one’s professional organization takes a lot of guts, patience and heart. I’m sure Arch’t. Edric Marco “Dinky” C. Florentino, the newly-inducted national president of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP), is too aware of this. Yet, the very charismatic Quezon City native and leader of over 16,000 member architects around the country is all pumped up for a fresh second term.
Prior to his visit to Cebu this Friday (July 28) for the annual UAP Regional District C-1’s joint induction and turnover, Sun.Star Live! had a lively and enlightening chat with him.
How does it feel to be serving as UAP national president for the second consecutive time?
I am humbled, honored and elated to serve the UAP as its 18th national president, much more as the first nationally-elected president of the United Architects of the Philippines as the Integrated and Accredited Professional Organization of Architects. I am honored and excited for the opportunity to serve this great institution and the community of architects for the second term.
What is the main goal/focus of your administration this year?
This administration is highlighted by the word "empowerment", which is the underlying force that gives deeper meaning and perspective to all our plans, programs, actions and decisions. This year, the UAP will play a pivotal and crucial role to reinforce the organization’s task in shaping a better and future for the architects under our corporate theme: Empowerment to Meet the Challenges of Filipino Architects. This fiscal year, the Administration Flagship Projects are based on the goals of our Ten Year Long Range Plan. Among them are the promotion and protection of our Architecture Act of 2004 (RA 9266), revising Standards of Professional Practice, propagating the significance of the Apec Architect Project, Continuing Professional Development as well as full implementation of plans by the National Executive vice president and the Area VP’s.
What can you say about the Cebuano architects’ contribution to the profession and the organization?
Cebuano architects are very active, dedicated and very passionate professionals especially in disseminating reliable and up-to-date information regarding the full implementation of Republic Act 9266 otherwise known as the Architecture Act of 2004.
In this, I would like to commend the Task Force RA 9266 for Central and Eastern Visayas under the leadership of our Deputy Project director, Archt. Jose Mari A. Cańizares, Fuap; and his members for their support for the plans and programs of my administration in relation to R.A. 9266.
What do you think is the most important service that only the architect can give to his client and the public?
The architect is an ambassador of creativity and beauty, making sure that everyone understands architecture. Frequently, he’s an evangelist for new and different technologies, processes or solutions responsible for defining and maintaining the structure of the solution. Lastly, an architect is an expert “visualizer”. He sees the bigger picture when it comes to building, and has the ability to view a system and its context as a set of interacting components to make the character of the built environment. He fits designs into the context of a given environment while preserving and enhancing its essential quality. An architect understands the limitations, constraints and processes of built environment.
What is the UAP’s most relevant role in society today?
Ever since, the UAP has played an important role in nation building, committed to safeguard life, health, property and public welfare consistent with sound environmental management and control. It was instrumental in the passage of the Architecture Act of 2004. In recognition of its exemplary volunteer work in addressing housing problems, urban degradation and environmental conservation and promotion of volunteerism for socio-economic development, the UAP was chosen as a Sole Regional Nominee (National Capital Region) to the Search for Outstanding Volunteers by the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) last December 2005. PNVSCA is under the administrative supervision of the National Economic and Development Authority. Under this administration, UAP is looking forward to promote a well-defined Filipino architecture, gain recognition for Filipino designs abroad, advocate environmental protection, among others.
What is your most memorable “learning experience” as an architect and as UAP national president?
As an architect and a son of an accomplished architect (Archt. Edilberto C. Florentino, Fuap, recently awarded the UAP Likha Gold Medal Award), it wasn’t easy for me to keep the faith without easily getting intimidated by the task at hand. But I succeeded because my father inspired me to pursue the field, sharing with me his ideas and drawings that no sooner became a reality. It’s my father’s dedication and competence that made me strive harder.
As UAP national president, I’ve learned the importance of a single individual and that every bit counts towards the greater good. I’ve also learned the importance of organization and of keeping people involved in the organization.
For Bisaya stories from Cebu. Click here. (July 24, 2006 issue)
Write letter to the editor.Click here.
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