The Beginning of an Era: UAP-UAE CHARTERING

by Arch. Yvette Marie Panlilio De Jesus, uap

The Charter Presentation Rites saw the induction of 52 architects from Abu Dhabi and 93 architects from Dubai. With the swearing-in rite presided over by Arch. Ramon S. Mendoza, fuap UAP National President. The presentation of the respective chapter banners numbered 123 and 124 to Abu Dhabi and Dubai by the UAP National Executive VP – Arch. Michael T. Ang, fuap. Immediately after the pinning ceremony the respective chapter presidents, Arch. Rico B. Ado, uap, Abu Dhabi Chapter Charter President and Arch. Arny Lana, uap, Dubai Chapter Charter President, delivered their inaugural messages to the new UAP members. Arch Rico B. Ado, stressed the vision of “UNA SA Lahat 2012, Empowering the Filipino Architects in the UAE” with emphasis of the 3 years progressive vision on Unity, Nurturing, and Advocacy. As for Arch Arny V. Lana, he spoke of the challenges and expectations that lay ahead of the respective
UAP chapters. Inspiring messages was also given by UAP’s immediate past president, Arch Ana S.
Mangalino-Ling, fuap, acknowledging the efforts and sacrifices of the Filipino professional. She also recounted that the drive to facilitate the immediate establishment of a UAP chapter here in the Middle East Region was inspired through a personal experience.

The event was graced by no less than the Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, Her Excellency Grace Princesa. During the speech, Her Excellency spoke of the Filipino’s inherent assets that all Filipinos should be aware and be proud of. Continuous support in the effort to uplift our profession and continue to strive for excellence for our profession and the country. Her Excellency has also called the Filipino Architects support in her advocacy with the welfare and protection of migrant workers herein the UAE. For his part, UAP President Ramon S. Mendoza spoke of the UAP’s plans and programs for the year ahead. On the same event number of design firms
and offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai were given special plaques of recognition for their
preferential employment of Filipino architects. These companies are Al Habtoor Leighton LLC, Teo A. Khing Design Consultants, Landmark Group, Aedas Middle East, and KEO International Consultants. A special citation was also made for Cadiz International - as being the only architectural firm owned by a Filipino. In the afternoon, the event continued with the
Induction Ceremonies for YAP’s (Young Architects of the Philippines) new set of Officers. Induction rites was presided by UAP UAE Abu Dhabi Chapter President Arch Rico B. Ado, uap. On the same account, UAP National has formally announced its recognition of YAP as UAP’s Graduate Auxilliary member, thus now called UAPGA-YAP.

Before the event concluded, Arch. Angeline Chua Chiaco, who is also a member of the Professional
Regulation Commission’s Board of Architecture, delivered her message by commending the SPLBEFLEA
examinees for their efforts in fulfilling their aspirations to become registered and licensed Filipino Architects. An inspiring closing remark was delivered by UAP and UAPGA-YAP’s founding Chairman Arch. Rico B. Ado, uap.

An approximate of 300 guests came to witness and to take part in this milestone event. A combination of Registered and License Architects and its Graduate Auxilliaries has been brought together in this event, pleasantly demonstrating the camaraderie amongst the Filipino Communities. Colleagues from UAP-KSA represented by Arch. Liyo Cefre have also graced the
event to show their support to our noble profession. Likewise, Representatives from the Filipino
Professional Groups, headed by Engr. Tony Morales, expressed their support in the Newly Chartered Chapter.