Demonstrating design excellence on the national stage, the University of Northern Philippines College of Architecture and Built Environment (UNP–CArBE) clinched the Silver Award at the prestigious Asia’s Young Designers Awards (AYDA) 2026, held on March 19 in Pasay City—marking a significant achievement for the university in one of the country’s premier student design competitions.
Raising the bar for emerging design excellence, the AYDA competition once again brought student innovation to the forefront by recognizing proposals that respond to pressing cultural and spatial realities. Guided by the 2026 theme, “CONVERGE: Crafting Cultural Legacies,” participants were challenged to develop forward-thinking solutions that unite differences while preserving identity and continuity.
Richmond Valdez earned the Silver distinction in the Architectural Category for his compelling entry, “Interwoven Ground: Reconnecting Divided Heritage Through a Cross-Border Handloom Stop.” The project reimagines the provincial boundary between Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte, transforming it from a line of division into a dynamic civic interface that fosters connection and exchange.
Rooted in the rich tradition of Abel Iloko weaving, Valdez’s design takes inspiration from the concept of a “living loom,” where architecture becomes both symbol and function. Two distinct structural forms—each representing one province—extend toward one another and interlace at a shared central hub, embodying unity through design. The proposal seamlessly integrates weaving workshops, communal gathering spaces, and a transit stop, creating an environment where everyday movement is elevated into a meaningful cultural experience. In doing so, the project not only celebrates and revitalizes local craftsmanship but also reinforces a shared regional identity grounded in heritage and continuity.
The entry was developed under the mentorship of Ar. Derick Dasugo.
UNP–CArBE further asserted its strong presence in the competition, with Venisse Daniella Tilan, Stephen Cacas, and Jake Jadormio advancing to the finals and presenting their respective design proposals before the panel of judges.
The achievement reinforces UNP–CArBE’s growing presence in competitive design platforms, reflecting a culture of innovation, contextual responsiveness, and excellence among its architecture students.
