The driving force of motivation and success lies at the heart of any profession.
Both of these elements are crucial for the progress and advancement of individuals in their specific areas of expertise. Recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of students is extremely important in the educational environment. The Architecture Department of Cebu Institute of Technology-University (CIT-U) finally unveiled its highly anticipated Year 3 exhibit, “Gambalay.” The exhibit had a heartening theme of “Framing the Future.”
The event aimed to showcase the multifaceted abilities of architecture students and exhibit their immense potential in their respective fields. It was a three-day exhibit on the ground level of Robinsons Galleria Cebu from May 19 to 21, 2023.
According to Abbie Paclepan, one of the event organizers, the planning and preparation took around four months.
”Due to the pandemic, the event was put on hold, and it was still being determined whether it would be pursued. However, we decided to do something this year instead of pursuing it next year.”
The students’ eagerness is the main distinction in this year’s exhibit.
“They were deprived of this exhibit for three years, and since this was their very first opportunity to participate in this event again, everyone was very excited, and everyone was looking forward to this event; it was the culmination of all of their efforts,” said event organizer Dexter John Perral.
“The primary objective of this event was to showcase the exceptional talents of our students and acknowledge their remarkable abilities. By recognizing and showcasing their skills, we aimed to inspire and motivate them to achieve greater heights,” said Perral.
“Gambalay” aimed to empower and recognize students as one of its primary goals. The highly anticipated exhibit kicked off with a bang as it showcased the cream of the crop from the graduating batch of graduates. The spotlight was on the top 10 thesis projects; each was a testament to the student’s hard work and dedication.
Taking home the desired top spot were Carlo Dave Narvasa, Clifford Morano and Regalado Indig, whose innovative project, “Solum: A Manobo Cultural Heritage Hub and Development Centre in Butuan City,” impressed the judges and left a lasting impact on the audience.
In a bid to affect societal change, the group of Morano came up with a concept that they believed would be of great help to others. The concept centered around vernacular architecture to draw attention to the conditions of the Manobo tribe.
“I lived in Butuan City for 11 years and witnessed their culture and traditions fade over time due to the influences of Western countries. We dedicate it to the Manobo tribe, and their beautiful and vibrant culture is a sight to behold, as I witnessed and can attest to,” Morano said.
The winning group’s unwavering dedication to honoring the cultural legacy of the Manobo tribe was a testament to the tribe’s significance and the value placed on it through the medium of architecture.
“Dalangpanan: A Proposed Shelter for Children Victims of Abuse,” crafted by Jewel May Fernandez, Mary Joyce Jacquez, and Sobrevilla DJ, secured the second spot in the project ranking.
“During the title hearing, we considered three studies focusing on children. As they say, choosing a study that connects with you is best, and we have a deep love for children. That is why we have chosen this design, where children can still feel at home but are protected from abuse,” Jacquez shared.
The second winning group highlighted the rise in child abuse cases, particularly during the pandemic. They pointed out that children have limited options to seek help or find a safe place. The initiative aims to create a safe and secure place for children who have been victims of abuse. It aims to provide a caring and supportive environment where abused children can heal and recover from their traumatic experiences.
“R.E.S.Q: A Quick Response Disaster C.A.R.E. Complex with Interim Housing” has secured the third spot in the list of noteworthy projects by Ed Cresant Ajero, Joshua Degamo and Jessa Faith Pepito. On the first day of the exhibit, the third-place group brought attention to the issue of disaster management: the lack of a specialized facility designed to manage such disasters. The study highlights the importance of having an entire facility that can efficiently handle and address disasters.
The future of architecture is in good hands. Through the guidance of their esteemed professors — who have played an instrumental role in shaping their academic and professional journeys — these students continue to embody an innovative vision.