BOHOLANO architects joined the prestigious UIA (Union Internationale des Architectes) 2024 International Forum which took place from Nov. 15–19, 2024. The delegates representing Bohol’s architectural community include architects Benito Dote, Bernard Pahang, Ronie Malanog, Victor Galab Jr., German Janus Niño Guidaben, Ariel Angalot, Maria Eulamy Raya, Joseph Hector Balonda, Chrysler Gudito, Melvan Barimbao, and this writer.
The Boholano architects during the UIA International Forum 2024, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. PHOTO FROM AR. PERPETUO ARAMBALA
The forum, organized by the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) in collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), gathered architects, urban planners, policymakers, and the public to address the challenges of modern cities through strategies that prioritize humanity and environmental sustainability.
Under the theme “Diversecity” — a combination of the words “diverse” and “city” — the event highlighted Kuala Lumpur’s multicultural identity as a case study for balancing diversity and sustainable urban development. It promoted understanding and collaboration while exploring solutions that address the cultural, social and ecological complexities of urban environments.
The discussions focused on three critical areas: culture and heritage, emphasizing cultural identity as a foundation for urban settings; density and sustainable growth, envisioning the sustainable future of megacities; and equity and ecology, addressing equity and ecological priorities in urbanism.
The forum featured renowned speakers like Kai-Uwe Bergmann (Bjarke Ingels Group), Karl Fender (Fender Katsalidis Architects), Lee Polisano (PLP Architecture), Wang Shu & Lu Wenyu (Amateur Architecture Studio), Roland Schinzer (Foster + Partners), and Muyiwa Oki (president, RIBA). Participants, including architects worldwide, engaged in guided city tours, technical visits to architectural landmarks such as Merdeka 118 — the second-tallest building in the world — and exhibitions showcasing innovative architectural solutions.
This forum provided a significant platform for professionals to collaborate on shaping inclusive and sustainable urban futures. It served as an enriching learning opportunity for the participating architects, who said they hoped to apply their insights locally. They aim to contribute to Bohol’s urban and architectural development through their participation.
The writer is a past president of the UAP Bohol Chapter. He finished his BS Architecture degree at the University of Bohol in Tagbilaran City. He is connected with the Bohol-based Alturas Group of Companies as a corporate architect.
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