The University of Northern Philippines – College of Architecture, in collaboration with Politecnico di Milano, successfully concluded a two-day international online seminar on May 29–30, 2025, focused on the conservation and adaptive re-use of cultural heritage structures. The event, titled “Methodological Approach for the Study of Building Structures: Conservation and Re-use of Cultural Heritage in the City of Vigan,” brought together experts from both institutions to exchange knowledge and methodologies in preserving historic architecture, especially in seismic-prone areas.
The first session, led by Politecnico di Milano on May 29, featured presentations from leading faculty members who shared European frameworks and scientific approaches to conservation. Prof. Stefano Della Torre opened the session by introducing the university’s UNESCO Chair in Architectural Preservation, followed by Prof. Nora Lombardini who discussed international laws and strategies for enhancing masonry structures. Prof. Lorenzo Cantini presented diagnostic methods for evaluating the condition of historical buildings, and Prof. Elisabetta Rosina demonstrated the application of non-destructive techniques (NDT) in monitoring heritage structures.
The second session, hosted by the University of Northern Philippines on May 30, highlighted the local context, with a particular focus on the historic city of Vigan. Prof. Fatima Nicetas Alonzo gave a historical overview of conservation efforts in the Philippines and the city’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ar. Julius Artates elaborated on the role of national and international institutions in heritage preservation. Ar. Giuseppe Fidel Noe R. Alonzo presented traditional building materials and construction techniques used in Vigan, while Ar. Christian Nico Pilotin discussed post-earthquake assessments conducted following the July 27, 2022 tremor. The sessions were moderated by Prof. Miriam Terzoni and Ar. Precious Beulah Gascon.
This seminar is part of an ongoing academic engagement between the Politecnico di Milano’s Department of Architecture, Built Environment, and Construction Engineering, and the University of Northern Philippines – College of Architecture, with support from UNESCO and the Erasmus+ program. Both institutions are dedicated to advancing architectural conservation through interdisciplinary research, academic exchange, and global cooperation. The event was attended by students, professionals, and scholars around the world via Zoom, emphasizing the shared global responsibility of preserving cultural and architectural heritage.
