THE UNITED ARCHITECTS OF THE PHILIPPINES GRADUATE AUXILIARY (UAPGA): BRIDGING THE GAP TO PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

By: Ar. Joan S. De Leon-Tabinas

The United Architects of the Philippines Graduate Auxiliary (UAPGA) was formally established in the early 2000s to support architecture graduates as they transitioned from academic life to professional practice. As a crucial part of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP), UAPAGA provides a platform for networking, leadership, and professional development, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for licensure and their architectural careers.
THE UNITED ARCHITECTS OF THE PHILIPPINES GRADUATE AUXILIARY (UAPGA): BRIDGING THE GAP TO PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

By: Ar. Joan S. De Leon-Tabinas

The idea for UAPGA was conceived in 1999 by former UAPSA leaders, led by Marc Anthony Razo (UAPSA National President. 1999-2000. Adamson University). During a meeting at Alps Restaurant, Quezon City, the group raised a critical question: "After UAPSA, what's next?" They sought to address the two-year gap before the licensure exam laying the groundwork for an organization that would guide graduates in their journey to becoming licensed architects.

Initial efforts to organize UAPGA spearheaded by Jefferson Sibug (PUP, UAPSA National President 2000-2001). While UAPGA had not yet gained national recognition under his leadership, he played a key role in engaging architecture graduates in local UAP chapter activities, planting the seed for its future development. A major breakthrough came during the tenure of Marian Eileen "Star" Florentino (UST). She formalized UAPGA's national structure, forming an interim National Board and drafting its Bylaws. On August 2,2004 UAPGA held its first official national meeting at the UAP National Headquarters, Quezon City, marking its official launch.

Key figures such as Ar. Robert Lee Guerrero and Ar. Alleen Dela Veza provided mentorship, helping UAPGA establish programs like seminars, conferences, and licensure review sessions. Their guidance reinforced UAPGA'S commitment to being an organization “by graduates, for graduates”, fostering a strong sense of ownership among members.

To expand its reach, UAPGA encouraged local chapters within UAP chapters, appointing graduate representatives to coordinate activities. An online Yahoo Groups platform was also created to keep members connected and informed. The organization has expanded its presence beyond the Philippines, with international chapters such as UAPGA Singapore, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi offering initiatives like free review classes for the Special Professional Licensure Examination (SPLE).

UAPGA remains a vital support system for architecture graduates, equipping them with mentorship, networking opportunities and career development programs. It continues to uphold its mission of guiding aspiring architects through the challenges of professional practice, ensuring a seamless transition from student life to licensure and beyond.


UAPGA NATIONAL PRESIDENTS 2004 - 2005 Ar. Marian Eileen Florentino-Marudo
2005 - 2006 Ar. Mark Jorell A. Patricio
2006 - 2007 Ar. Aikho Yarco Romualdo
2007 - 2008 Ar. Mary Grace S. Intal
2008 - 2009 Ar. Ritchel Oliver E. Calay
2009 - 2010 Ar. Joy Atutubo
2010 - 2011 Ar. Camille Chua-Deocareza
2011 - 2012 Ar. Angel Fagaragan
2012 - 2013 Ar. Ianna S. Duran
2013 - 2014 Ar. Marjorie Boris
2014 - 2015 Ar. Nikki Veronica M. Valdriz
2015 - 2016 Ar. Leih Winona T. Gonzales
2016 - 2017 Ar. Berlin John T. Tolentino
2017 - 2018 Ar. Carl Chester N. Peralta
2018 - 2019 Ar. Jensine Filio Dela Cruz
2019 - 2020 Ar. Jasmine Diao Pizarro
2020 - 2021 Ar. Royelle-Mae A. Gaa
2021 - 2022 Ar. Roseller P. Junsay, Jr.
2022 - 2023 Michael Edward Madriaga
2023 - 2024 Ar. Vince Allaine D. Villacorte
2024 - 2025 Ar. Michael Cydrick M. Sesaldo
THE UNITED ARCHITECTS OF THE PHILIPPINES GRADUATE AUXILIARY (UAPGA): MISSION

To ESTABLISH AND PROMOTE the highest standards, in preparation for professional excellence and ethical conduct for the practice and service of architecture; through strict adherence to the Architect’s National Code; Code of Ethical Conduct (UAP Doc. 200); and Standards of Professional Practice (SPP Docs. 201-209);

To ENCOURAGE ARCHITECTURE GRADUATES’ interests to pursue in the preparation for the practice of architecture and assimilate them with desirable motivations and values by supporting all the UAPGA activities as deemed necessary;

To RENDER APPROPRIATE ASSISTANCE to any member, particularly through diversified experience, filing of licensure exam application, architecture review, and other concerns related to the practice of the architectural profession;

To PARTICIPATE in matters concerning national and regional development of the country; and

To COOPERATE AND COORDINATE with international linkages in the field of architecture, environmental design, and other fields of arts. Science and technology.
THE UNITED ARCHITECTS OF THE PHILIPPINES GRADUATE AUXILIARY (UAPGA): VISION

The United Architects of the Philippines Graduate Auxiliary's prime purpose is to promote the significance of the role of an Architecture Graduate in nation building and public service.

MANAGING COMMITTEE

Emmanuel Joshua D. De Luna

National President

Kim Russel M. Manjares

National Executive Vice President

Jessica Marie D. Dela Rosa

Secretary General

Mark Anthony M. Gallego

National Treasurer

Airis Danielle M. Mabini

National Editor

Emmanuel Joshua D. De Luna
National President

Kim Russel M. Manjares
National Executive Vice President

Jessica Marie D. Dela Rosa
Secretary General

Mark Anthony M. Gallego
National Treasurer

Airis Danielle M. Mabini
National Editor

To the young leaders of this generation and to my fellow aspiring architects, UAPGA RISE is established to value the principles of service leadership while elevating the architecture profession to its highest standards. While these have been the primary advocacy of the UAPGA throughout the years, this term aspires to uplift the organization’s morale and standards that shall leave a mark and shall be continued to the succeeding terms.

This term, or even every fiscal year, has never been always easy. With every challenge that the term encountered, the leaders of UAPGA remained dignified and consistent to its values and goals they aspired to achieve for the progress of the organization.
As part of the progressive vision of UAPGA, we continue to advance and innovate ideas and programs, ensuring that the best service is laid out to its members and its community. Part of these is a more comprehensive and interactive tool which can guide the members to fully understand “what is UAPGA?”, and the potential and benefits it offers to the architecture community–this is the UAPGA Website.
May this tool serve as our legacy gift to the members and officers, as we have poured much effort into developing a more sustainable and reliable manual which is envisioned to carry out the vision and mission of the organization for this fiscal year and for the succeeding term. Together, through collective effort and shared aspirations, let us radiate new horizons, and RISE.
Mabuhay, United Architects of the Philippines Graduate Auxiliary!

It is with great pride and heartfelt warmth that I welcome you to a community shaped by passion, purpose, and a shared vision. As members of the UAPGA, you are at a meaningful point in your journey—where academic learning meets real-world practice, and individual aspirations begin to align with collective responsibility.

This organization exists for you. It serves as a strong foundation as you transition into professional practice—a space where you can grow, ask questions, build confidence, and find support among peers who share the same hopes, challenges, and dedication to the architectural profession. Here, you are encouraged to keep learning, to lead with integrity, and to contribute meaningfully not only to the profession but also to the communities we serve.

As your National Executive Vice President, I want you to know that you are valued, heard, and supported. We stand as advocates for the welfare and development of architecture graduates across the country. The future of architecture is being shaped by individuals like you—driven, thoughtful, and committed to excellence. May this organization inspire you to engage, collaborate, and believe in your ability to make a difference.

Welcome to UAPGA. Welcome to a community that builds, bridges, and blooms together.

We RISE as ONE.
Welcome to the enhanced digital platform of the United Architects of the Philippines–Graduate Auxiliary (UAPGA). This evolution of our online home honors the long-standing foundations of our organization, expanding upon the work of those before us with new features designed to further your success. It is an opportunity to celebrate our shared history while introducing new tools that better support us as architecture graduates navigating growth, responsibility, and the pivotal transition toward earning our professional licenses.

UAPGA exists because of and for its members. As a Graduate Auxiliary, we understand the challenges that come with bridging academic foundations and professional realities. Through our programs, initiatives, and collective efforts, we aim to foster leadership that is thoughtful, service-driven, and grounded in integrity.

This enriched space serves as a central hub for staying informed and remaining engaged. Beyond community updates, it provides a comprehensive resource center to guide you through your apprenticeship, offering the tools and information you need to navigate your diversified experience with confidence. It also serves as your definitive guide to everything UAPGA, ensuring you are fully aware of the programs and opportunities available to help you thrive.

We encourage you to explore these added resources and engage with this platform as a reflection of your own professional journey. May it be a space where ideas are shared, confidence is built, and purpose is renewed. Together, we move forward with intention and unity—radiating new horizons and shaping a stronger future for UAPGA and its members.
It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of pride to welcome all UAPGA members and officers.

As the National Auditor, I am honored to serve alongside a leadership team and membership body that consistently demonstrate commitment, professionalism, and integrity. UAPGA is more than an organization; it is a community of dedicated individuals working together to promote excellence, accountability, and sustainable growth across all levels of our association.

To our officers, thank you for your leadership, dedication, and service. To our members, thank you for your loyalty, engagement, and belief in the mission of this association. Your contributions—big or small—are what keep UAPGA moving forward.

As we continue this journey together, let us remain united, transparent, and focused on our shared vision. With open communication, responsible leadership, and active participation, I am confident that UAPGA will continue to grow stronger and achieve even greater milestones.
I look forward to working with all of you and contributing to a future marked by trust, progress, and success.

Once again, welcome to UAPGA RISE and Mabuhay ang UAPGA!