The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) hosted the AYDA (Asia Young Designer Awards) Philippines 2024 School Caravan on November 27, 2024, at Tadena Hall. The event was attended by 4th-year BS Architecture students from the College of Architecture and 3rd-year and 4th-year BS Interior Design students from the College of Fine Arts and Design. The event aimed to inspire future architects and interior designers as they prepare for one of the country’s most prestigious design competitions.

The program, hosted by Ar. Dempsey Jayson Paz, began with a warm welcome from Ar. Fatima Nicetas Rabang Alonzo, Dean of the College of Architecture, who encouraged students to embrace innovation and excellence through AYDA. “This platform allows us to nurture creativity while challenging the limits of sustainability and design,” she said.

A video message from Mr. Chen Lee Siong, General Manager of Nippon Paint Coatings Philippines, outlined the competition’s focus on sustainable and innovative design solutions. Attendees also watched thematic presentations from NIPSEA, showcasing AYDA’s mission and global impact.

One of the highlights of the event was the presentation by Ar. Derick Ramirez Dasugo, which revolved around creating impactful architectural projects aligned with AYDA’s theme. He discussed how designs should reflect the competition’s key criteria: scalability and replicability. These principles, he explained, are crucial for addressing real-world challenges and ensuring projects can be adapted for broader application.

Ar. Dasugo also emphasized the importance of integrating local trends and traditions into designs, ensuring they are contextually relevant and contribute to sustainability. He urged students to design with purpose. “Be bold, be intentional, and commit to making a difference,” he told the audience.

During the interactive Q&A session, Ar. Dasugo invited Ar. Charles Angelo T. Andrada, mentor of last year’s AYDA Philippines National Gold Award winner for Architecture, to address a question about the characteristics of a winning design. Ar. Andrada highlighted the importance of relatability, encouraging students to create designs that resonate with their audience while addressing contemporary challenges with creativity and purpose.

The event also featured a testimonial from Bnn Anjelo Tadeja, AYDA Philippines 2023 National Gold Award Winner for Architecture, who shared his journey to success. “Every design must tell a story,” Tadeja said, underscoring the value of perseverance and the role of revisions in achieving excellence.

Representatives Ms. Mary Jane Cenit of the Confluence Asia Marketing Team and Ms. Cyrene De Guzman of Nippon Paint Coatings Philippines also graced the event, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the competition’s mechanics and opportunities.

The program concluded with a video recap of AYDA 2023 finalists and a group photo session, leaving attendees motivated and better equipped to take on the challenges of AYDA 2024.

 Article by Charles Angelo Andrada.