Darlene Regis
The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Qatar Chapter marked a historic occasion with its inaugural General Membership Meeting (GMM), coinciding with its 14th founding anniversary for fiscal year 2024-2025 on September 20, at Dusit D2 Salwa Hotel.
This milestone event, spearheaded by Chapter President Arch. Jayson Santos and the UAP Qatar Board of Directors, gathered more than 100 Filipino architects in Qatar, for an evening dedicated to professional development, unity, and celebration.
The organising team, which played a pivotal role in the event’s success, included Arch. Sunny Tuazon, Arch. Rouel Sulit, Arch. Joan De Guzman, Arch. Emmanuel Tiglao, Arch. Randee Boy De Guzman, Arch. Leah Dc Bianan, Arch. Dominique Pascual, Arch. Regina Armas, Arch. Adrian Elmer Bolalin, Arch. Neil Rutor, Arch. Hamza Rufil Eliseo, Arch. Abdul-aziz Abdurajak, Arch. Nidjnel Bakial, Arch. Rogelio Alaba Jr., Arch. Jimson Verdadero, Arch. Wilcelyn
Juan, Arch. Dawne Brown, Arch. Nikita Usual, and Immediate Past President Arch. Kriz Quiogue.
One of the programme’s highlights was a seminar titled, ‘Unifying Diverse Expertise: Filipino Architects on Shaping Qatar’s Future’. Esteemed speakers Arch. Miluna Alegada, Arch. Arecles Balde, and Arch. Lyndon Calibuso, led insightful talks about the significant contributions of Filipino architects in Qatar and the importance of unifying diverse expertise to influence the country’s architectural landscape.
Special guests extended congratulatory messages, including Philippine Embassy in Qatar’s Third Secretary and Vice-Consul Jeffrey Batac, PPOQ Chairman Engr. Teofilo Tongson, NAMPAP Chapter President Engr. Herlou Binghay,FPEA Chapter President Engr. Orlando Cortez, and Qabayan Radio Station Manager RJ Cody.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the acoustic duo Kristine and Jun, alongside RJ Francis of Cuecast and under the leadership of Israel ‘Sky’ Malabanan, serenaded attendees, setting the perfect tone for the evening with captivating music.
The event was a vibrant celebration of UAP Qatar’s continued success. United as one, the members of the organisation are dedicated to strengthening the bonds within their chapter and making significant strides in the architectural field.