Amid the grand setting at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino on June 20, 2025, the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) District C1 gathered to mark a significant milestone: its 50th founding anniversary. This golden jubilee celebration was highlighted by a special recognition event, aptly titled “50 Distinguished Architects of District C1,” honoring individuals who have profoundly shaped both the architectural landscape and the UAP organization.
The evening, conceptualized and organized by district director, architect Leartes Tabotabo Jr., along with assistance from the offices of architects James Jao and Rolan Paolo Alberto, served as a testament to the enduring legacy of architects in Central Visayas. The atmosphere was convivial, hosted by the “Voice of Dubai and Filipino Community Leader,” architect Jason Roi Bucton, alongside Katrina Sia. Attendees were serenaded by “Tawag ng Tanghalan” winner Barette Oliver Richards, adding a melodic backdrop to the dignified affair.
The core of the celebration was the acknowledgment of 50 architects who have exemplified excellence and commitment. These individuals were selected through a rigorous process, initiated in April 2025 by the District C1 management committee in consultation with UAP national officers. The initiative aimed to recognize architects for their contributions to society through their practice and their active participation within the UAP.
Chapter presidents across District C1 nominated members who embodied service, leadership and professional integrity. The recognition spanned five major categories: Design, Construction, Academe, Management and Government Service. From each of the five decades — 1975 to 2025 — 10 exemplary architects were chosen, representing the best of each era and category.
Criteria for selection extended beyond professional accomplishments to include sustained involvement in UAP initiatives, community engagement and efforts to raise public awareness of the architectural profession. Over 70 nominations were submitted by chapter leaders, district officers and members of the District C1 College of Fellows. A panel of past and present UAP national officers, including architect James Jao, immediate past chancellor, UAP College of Fellows; architect Benjamin Panganiban Jr., past national president, UAP; architect Catherine Carunungan, chancellor, UAP College of Fellows; architect Joel Jao, Area C vice president; and architect Rex Chua Tak, district director A5 and incoming UAP secretary general, rigorously evaluated and voted on the final list.
The diverse group of honorees included notable names from various chapters within District C1:
Bohol Chapter: German Torero, UAP; Eugenia Pinoliad, FUAP; Eufrasio Araneta, FUAP; Venerando Dumadag, FUAP; and German Janus Niño Guidaben, FUAP.
Bohol – Pres. Garcia Chapter: Socrates Fucanan, FUAP.
Cebu Chapter: Jose Mari A. Cañizares, LIKHA, FUAP; Fe Aurora Achas, FUAP; Benjamin John Aliño, FUAP; Benjamin Avila, FUAP; Ar. Bernadette Vallejos, UAP; Joseph Sy, UAP; Ma. Lourdes Onozawa, FUAP; Ma. Sarah Abadia, UAP; Melva Java, FUAP; Ramon Escario, FUAP; Roberto Rafanan, FUAP; Ma. Theresa Javier, UAP; Servillano Mapeso, FUAP; Edmundo Samson, UAP; and Eduardo Gerardo Gallego, UAP.
Datu Lapulapu Chapter: Priscillano T.C. Borromeo, FUAP; Jensen Racho, FUAP; Joseph Michael Espina, FUAP; Ma. Antonia Lizeta Uy, FUAP; Nestor Liston, FUAP; Omar Maxwell Espina, FUAP; Socorro Atega, FUAP; and Michael Torres, UAP.
Leon Kilat Chapter: Chris Cyril Abbu, UAP; Germain Maraya-Ang, UAP; and Edwin San Nicolas, UAP.
Rajah Humabon Chapter: Arsenio Abella, FUAP; Antonio Andres Flores, UAP; Arnulfo “Noly” Wong, UAP; Artemio Alcoseba, FUAP; Catalino Salazar, FUAP; Danilo Ravina, UAP; Manuel “Maning” Guanzon, FUAP; Maxcel P. Migallos, UAP; Richeto Alcordo, FUAP; Florante Catalan, UAP; and Allan Cuyos, UAP.
Sugbu Chapter: Carmencita Solis, UAP; Alexius Medalla, UAP; Karl Aries Emerson Cabilao, FUAP; Anthony Abelgas, FUAP; Eldred Caesar Tan, FUAP; and Jason Chua, UAP.
Dumaguete Chapter: Janice A. Garol, UAP.
Special Recognition: District C1 Lifetime Awardee – 2025, Ma. Jessica Banaag, UAP.
The collective effort behind this event not only recognized individual achievements but also paid tribute to the enduring legacy of District C1 within the UAP, celebrating a golden era of contributions to nation-building and community service through architecture.