BUILDING BOND BEYOND PLATES: UAPSA-SSU Chapter celebrates World Architecture Day

In accordance with the global celebration of World Architecture Day, United Architects of the Philippines Student Auxiliary (UAPSA) Samar State University Chapter went above and beyond as they spearheaded the testimonial dinner and acquaintance party with the theme, “Nightecture: Diverging Stars Aligned in the Wondrous Twilight” at SSU Maceda Gymnasium, October 6.

To honor the recent SSU Architecture Licensure Exam passers, welcome the freshmen, and recognize the program’s outstanding students, the event unfolded with an air of prestige and elegance.

Present at the event were the Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Felisa E. Gomba, College of Industrial Technology Dean Dr. Ronie T. Velasco, College of Graduates Studies Dean Dr. Redentor Palencia, the newly registered Architects, CIT faculty, and staff.

In his welcome remarks, Dr. Velasco conveyed a profound message to both newly licensed and registered Architects and aspiring ones.

“To the new Architects, you have a story to tell. The reflections, aspirations, dreams, and values that you conceive in the same thing you embody the principles of creativity, resilience, and excellence. You have learned to design not just buildings, but spaces that inspire, comfort, and serve the needs of society,” Dr. Velasco said.

“To the would-be Architects, you need to move forward. You have every confidence to continue, to excel, innovate, and lead your mark on the built environment,” he added.

Testimonial dinner, Induction of officers

Moreover, Ar. Maricel L. Modesto, the Program Chair for Architecture, introduced the four successful board passers of Architecture, namely: Ar. Jhon Julius Labado Onrade, Ar. Geraldine Fajarado Tagaloy, Ar. Lhimarose Abalajen, and Ar. Francis William Agbon.

“In our program, we often say that Architects are the storytellers of the built environments; tonight, you, guys, are the embodiment of that statement,” Ar. Modesto affirmed as she presented the honorees and delivered her congratulatory message.

University President Marilyn D. Cardoso, despite her absence, also expressed her inspirational message through Dr. Palencia highlighting how it is their time to “show and prove to the world that you are a product of a higher learning institution that is a home of prestigious national and international awards.”

“It is with high hopes that you will endeavor in fulfilling the vision of the University— at being a transformative [institution] through our mantra, our belief, and our song: We innovate. We build. We serve… May you have the mind that innovates, a heart that builds progressive communities, and hands to serve for [the] community for [a] greater and grander purpose,” he uttered.

Correspondingly, the honorees also shared their heartfelt expressions of gratitude and inspiration. A ceremonial toast was raised afterward by Ar. Karen Mae G. Maravilla, joined by everyone in attendance to commemorate the success of the honorees and the occasion.

Further, Dr. Gomba presided over the induction of the newly elected officers of the UAPSA-SSU Chapter as they took their oath of office.

Acquaintance Party

Meanwhile, the exciting part of the night kicked off with a blend of fun and sophistication as the candidates for the search for the “Face of the Night” and “Best in Formal Attire” graced the red carpet, filling the gym with charm and loud cheers.

In relation to this, Mart Leanda and Maxine Tamor were proclaimed as Mr. and Ms. Face of the Night, while Kathleen Castillo and Kenthderek Opre received the title of Best in Formal Attire for female and male, respectively.

The event also showcased various performances from different batches such as dance productions and song presentations, adding to the overall spectacle of the night.