The Immaculate Conception School of Theology (ICST) held a groundbreaking ceremony on May 28, 2025, marking the official start of construction for a new chapel dedicated to the Saint Joseph Formation Community. The chapel, designed by architects from the University of Northern Philippines (UNP) – College of Architecture, forms part of the college’s extension initiatives and is intended to provide seminarians from Northern Luzon with a dedicated space for prayer and reflection.
Archbishop Marlo Peralta of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia led the ceremony and blessed the construction site. The event was attended by clergy, seminarians, faculty members, donors, and university officials.
The UNP design team was headed by Assistant Dean Ar. Monserrat Stevens Pescador. The team included Ar. Mon-Cres Toje, Head of the BS Architecture Program; Ar. Ludivina Lozano, Head of the BS Environmental Planning Program; and Engr. Maila Ragasa, Unit Extension Coordinator. UNP Board Secretary Atty. Jonalyn Almachar, Rev. Fr. Nick Vaquilar, ICST Rector, and Rev. Fr. Aristotle Miguel Maggay, Spiritual Formator for seminarians from the Cagayan Region were also in attendance.
In a speech delivered by Ar. Toje on behalf of the College of Architecture Dean, Ar. Fatima Nicetas Rabang-Alonzo, the chapel was described as a meaningful contribution to faith and education, “As the College of Architecture, we believe that spaces shape experiences. This chapel is designed to embody both beauty and purpose—a sacred place where future Church leaders can pray, reflect, and deepen their faith.” Ar. Toje also acknowledged the generosity of benefactors and the collaborative nature of the project, “This is more than architecture; it is an offering of skill, knowledge, and dedication to a cause greater than ourselves.”
Article by Charles Angelo Andrada, Photos by Engr. Maila Ragasa
