From September 25 to 27, 2024, the 1st Philippine Architecture and Allied Arts Festival will take center stage at the City Hall of Tagum, uniting the country’s top architects, interior designers, landscape architects, and environmental planners in a vibrant celebration of Filipino architecture. Organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in collaboration with the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) North Davao Chapter, the festival aims to spotlight the rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit of Filipino architectural practices.
With the theme “Kabatiran: Fostering Design Innovations Rooted in Filipino Culture and Tradition,” the festival will showcase 368 projects and 1,104 boards from local professionals, providing a platform to recognize and celebrate the diverse contributions of architecture and its allied arts in the Philippines.
A Grand Celebration of Architectural Excellence
The festival coincides with the 4th ArchXpo, where a grand exhibition will highlight the creative achievements of Filipino architects and allied professionals. Visitors will be treated to a wide array of architectural and design innovations, showcasing the country’s top talents in crafting spaces that reflect Filipino values, culture, and aspirations. The exhibitions are designed to promote greater understanding of the architectural profession while showcasing projects that push the boundaries of design and sustainability.
Speaking at the PepTalks event on September 24, Architect Gloryrose Dy emphasized that this year’s theme draws attention to the importance of design innovations rooted in Filipino tradition. “We want to debunk misconceptions about architecture and the allied arts while providing a venue for emerging young designers to learn from industry leaders,” Dy said. The three-day event will offer an immersive experience through interactive exhibits, competitions, lectures, and workshops that encourage creativity, collaboration, and deeper appreciation for Filipino architectural heritage.
Empowering Young Designers and Fostering Collaboration
A core focus of the festival is to nurture the next generation of architects and designers. Participants, particularly students and young professionals, will have the opportunity to attend lectures and workshops that will enrich their understanding of sustainable design, urban planning, and cultural preservation. Competitions will also allow emerging talents to demonstrate their skills and ingenuity, inspiring them to push the boundaries of what is possible in architecture and allied arts.
The festival will foster collaboration among various design disciplines. Partners such as the National Committee for Architecture and the Allied Arts (NCAAA), Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID), Philippine Association of Landscape Architects (PALA), and the Philippine Institute of Environmental Planners (PIEP) have contributed to creating a diverse, multidisciplinary event that highlights the interconnectedness of architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, and environmental planning.
Promoting Livable, Sustainable Communities
The festival’s theme of “Kabatiran” reflects the commitment of Filipino architects to design innovations that not only meet modern standards but also stay true to the country’s rich cultural traditions. As noted by Arch. Cathe Nadal, Chair of the NCAAA, the festival advocates for architecture that goes beyond aesthetics and construction—it is about creating safe, livable, and sustainable communities.
“The festival is an invitation for everyone to see that architecture is not just about drawing structures into reality. It’s about planning for people, ensuring that spaces are not only functional but also culturally enriching, and always mindful of sustainability,” Nadal explained.
Through the collective efforts of festival partners such as the City Government of Tagum, Tagum Tourism and Cultural Office, and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Davao del Norte, the event will emphasize the value of architecture in shaping the future of Filipino cities and communities. The participation of local government and cultural organizations underscores the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors in fostering a sustainable and progressive urban landscape.
A New Vision for Philippine Architecture
The 1st Philippine Architecture and Allied Arts Festival serves as a milestone for the profession, offering a unique opportunity to recognize and celebrate the innovations of Filipino architects while honoring the deep-rooted traditions that have shaped the nation’s built environment. By bringing together the country’s leading practitioners and aspiring designers, the festival offers a platform for dialogue, education, and inspiration. It aims to create lasting impact by promoting the idea that architecture and allied arts play a pivotal role in the development of communities that are not only modern and functional but also culturally resonant and sustainable.
As the festival opens its doors in Tagum City, it marks the beginning of a transformative movement that will inspire architects, designers, and the public to embrace a future where tradition and innovation go hand in hand.
