IN a historic move for the Philippine architecture sector, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. officially declared December as the Philippine Architecture Festival-National Architecture Month (PAF-NAM). This proclamation, made on Oct. 28, 2024, marks a major evolution of National Architecture Week, established in 1971 through Presidential Proclamation 934.
Now extended into a monthlong celebration, this expansion coincides with the 53rd year of Philippine architecture, underscoring its growing importance in shaping Filipino culture, fostering sustainable development, and driving urban innovation.
In his proclamation, President Marcos said that architecture is central to our national identity and nation-building efforts. He described the festival as “an expansive platform for Filipinos to celebrate the art and science of architecture, promoting its importance in enhancing our quality of life, preserving heritage, and constructing resilient, sustainable communities.”
The United Architects of the Philippines’ (UAP) Manifesto of Support has expressed great enthusiasm for this extended format. The weeklong observance has blossomed into an inclusive monthlong festival that offers a more comprehensive exploration of architecture’s ability to tackle pressing issues while encouraging public appreciation of the profession.
This year’s celebration kicked off with an opening ceremony on Dec. 7, 2024, at Estancia Mall in Pasig City with the theme, “Sinag ng Bahaghari: Fostering Nation-Building, Hope, and Inclusivity Through Architecture.”
The PAF-NAM will hold notable Filipino architectural works and UIA Friendly and Inclusive Spaces Awards, speeches by distinguished industry leaders, design competitions, symposia, workshops, heritage tours, parades, seminars, architectural clinics and interactive displays.
These events will cover a broad spectrum of topics, from sustainable design and urban planning to the preservation of architectural heritage. They will foster deeper discussions on architecture’s role in addressing global challenges like climate change and urbanization while inspiring innovation for sustainable growth.
To ensure PAF-NAM’s lasting impact, the UAP, through its Commission on Governmental and External Affairs, has institutionalized the celebration’s theme through 2030. All subevents, programs and initiatives aligned with PAF-NAM will now be guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that the celebration contributes to global efforts in sustainable development, climate action and resilient urbanization. This approach anchors the festival globally and ensures the celebration’s relevance in shaping the future of architecture while fostering a culture of sustainability and inclusivity.
Global positioning
The PAF-NAM expansion positions the Philippines, now more prominent in global architectural conversations, alongside leading countries that host internationally recognized architectural festivals. Through it, the country reinforces its commitment to advancing architectural practice worldwide, showcasing Filipino creativity and aligning with global trends in sustainable urban planning and design.
PAF-NAM’s core objectives include raising awareness of Philippine architecture, inspiring the next generation of architects, and fostering collaboration among architects, policymakers and the public.
The festival has received strong support from government agencies like the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), the Department of Trade and Industries (DTI), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Department of Tourism (DOT), as well as educational institutions and other architectural organizations.
In particular, UAP’s strategic partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) will showcase innovative design solutions and highlight the interactive exhibits and tours.
We encourage the public to join in this exciting celebration, which will run throughout December. It’s a unique opportunity to witness how architecture continues to evolve in the Philippines, contributing to sustainable communities and the nation’s cultural identity.
With PAF-NAM, the Philippines reaffirms its commitment to recognizing architecture as a powerful force shaping society and enhancing the built environment. As the country celebrates over five decades of architectural achievements, this expanded festival will continue to inspire future generations of architects, designers and urban planners to shape the nation’s future through innovative, sustainable practices.
The author is a project and safety architect at the Early Childhood Care and Development Council, an attached agency to the Department of Education, where she previously worked, overseeing heritage school buildings, water and sanitation programs, and safe school buildings. She served as the OIC for DepEd’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operation Center. She is the executive director of the UAP-Commission on Governmental and External Affairs and a committee member of the Union for International Architects.
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