Posted on: April 14, 2025 Posted by: Arch. Gloryrose Dy-Metilla Comments: 0

Women Who Build the Nation: Honoring the 10 Female Architects of the 50 Notable Awardees

As the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) marks its golden jubilee, it celebrates not just half a century of excellence in architecture, but the individuals who have helped define, shape, and transform the profession. Among the 50 Notable Architects Awardees recognized during this historic 50th anniversary, several visionary women stand out—not only for their technical brilliance but for their commitment to using architecture as a platform for advocacy, innovation,…

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Posted on: April 14, 2025 Posted by: Arch. Gloryrose Dy-Metilla Comments: 0

Sacred Pilgrimage: 10 Must-Visit Churches in the Philippines During Holy Week

Holy Week in the Philippines is a deeply revered tradition, blending centuries-old Catholic rituals with vibrant local customs. For many Filipinos, the season is not only a time of reflection and penance, but also an opportunity to go on a spiritual journey—most famously through the practice of Visita Iglesia, or the visiting of seven or more churches. Across the archipelago, grand cathedrals, historic basilicas, and quiet countryside chapels open their…

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Posted on: April 14, 2025 Posted by: Arch. Gloryrose Dy-Metilla Comments: 0

Borderless and Bold: UAP NATCON 50 Celebrates 50 Years of Transformative Architecture

In April 2025, the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) marked a golden milestone with its 50th National Convention—NATCON 50. Held from April 7 to 12 at the SMX Convention Center, the event gathered thousands of Filipino and international architects under the unifying theme: “Borderless.” More than a celebration, NATCON 50 was a call for global collaboration, redefined design frontiers, and architecture that resonates across boundaries—cultural, technological, and ideological. A…

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Posted on: April 2, 2025 Posted by: Filipina Architect Comments: 0

Featured Project: The Proposed Datu Lacsasa Masjid by Abdul Rafi Deron M. Pangandaman

In the heart of Marawi City, within the province of Lanao del Sur, an ambitious architectural endeavor is being envisioned—The Datu Lacsasa Masjid. Proposed as a legacy project for the descendants of Sultan H. Ibrahim “Lacsasa” Sango Deron, this mosque is designed to become a testament to faith, heritage, and unity. The vision behind this sacred structure, conceptualized by architect Abdul Rafi Deron M. Pangandaman, is deeply rooted in the…

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Posted on: April 2, 2025 Posted by: Arch. Gloryrose Dy-Metilla Comments: 0

Must-See Mosques in the Philippines: A Tour of Sacred Landmarks

List of Famous Mosques in the Philippines The Philippines, a predominantly Christian country, is also home to a significant Muslim population, primarily in Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago. As a result, several stunning mosques have been built across the country, each with its own cultural and historical significance. Here is a list of some of the most famous mosques in the Philippines: 1. Grand Mosque of Cotabato (Sultan Haji Hassanal…

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Why RA 10066 (The Heritage Law) Actually Makes Daily Life Better
Posted on: March 24, 2025 Posted by: Arch. Gloryrose Dy-Metilla Comments: 0

Why RA 10066 (The Heritage Law) Actually Makes Daily Life Better

Let’s be honest—when we hear the word “heritage,” most of us immediately think: old buildings, dusty museums, antique stuff only history nerds care about. But surprise! Our heritage isn’t just some throwback thing from the past—it’s something that makes our everyday lives a whole lot richer, cooler, and even more livable. Thanks to RA 10066, also known as the National Cultural Heritage Act, we’re starting to realize that preserving our…

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Why White is the “In” Thing for Restaurants and CafĂ©s Right Now
Posted on: March 24, 2025 Posted by: Arch. Gloryrose Dy-Metilla Comments: 0

Why White is the “In” Thing for Restaurants and CafĂ©s Right Now

If you’ve been cafĂ©-hopping or dining out lately, you’ve probably noticed a pattern—white is everywhere. White walls, white tiles, white tables, even white coffee cups. It’s not just a coincidence; it’s a design trend that’s taken over the restaurant and cafĂ© scene. But what’s the deal? Why is everyone obsessed with white these days? Let’s break it down. It’s a Blank Canvas (And That’s a Good Thing)One of the biggest…

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Posted on: March 19, 2025 Posted by: Arch. Gloryrose Dy-Metilla Comments: 0

Designing for the Future: A Sustainable Vision for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Tagum City

As environmental challenges continue to shape the way we live and build, the importance of aligning architecture with sustainability has never been more urgent. The proposed office design for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)Tagum City embodies this shift, representing a forward-thinking approach that blends architectural innovation with ecological responsibility. This design is more than just an office—it’s a statement of purpose. It reflects the agency’s core mission…

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Posted on: March 18, 2025 Posted by: Arch. Gloryrose Dy-Metilla Comments: 0

Of Love and Faith: Why “Gayuma” Are Sold Beside Catholic Churches in the Philippines

Walk around many Catholic churches in the Philippines, and you might notice something curious just outside the gates: vendors selling candles, amulets, herbal oils—and yes, even gayuma. These so-called love potions or charms are often tucked beside religious images of saints and rosaries, displayed as part of a marketplace that seems to blur the line between the sacred and the mystical. It’s a sight that raises eyebrows: How can love…

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Posted on: March 14, 2025 Posted by: Arch. Gloryrose Dy-Metilla Comments: 0

Comparative Insights: Sub-Saharan and Mindanao Architecture in Cultural Context

Comparative Insights: Sub-Saharan and Mindanao Architecture in Cultural Context Architecture is more than shelter—it is a physical expression of a people’s identity, values, and ways of life. Across the world, traditional architecture reflects environmental adaptation, social organization, spiritual belief systems, and cultural aesthetics. In this context, a comparative examination of Sub-Saharan African architecture and Mindanao architecture in the southern Philippines provides rich insights into how built environments serve as living…

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