THE United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Australia 2nd Architecture Conference 2025, held in Auckland, New Zealand, from Sept. 27 to 29, 2025, offered a comprehensive three-day program combining professional development, cultural immersion, and networking opportunities. Designed to strengthen architectural knowledge and global collaboration, the conference grounded its activities in innovation, heritage, sustainability and community engagement.
Day 1 began with a technical tour of Red Stag TimberLab in East Tamaki, where delegates explored advancements in engineered timber and sustainable construction. Guided by Business Manager Andrew Fletcher, participants observed manufacturing processes, design applications, and the growing use of mass timber in contemporary projects. The tour highlighted how engineered timber systems contribute to resilient and environmentally responsible building outcomes.
Delegates then proceeded to Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Marae for a traditional pōwhiri, providing an immersive introduction to Māori cultural values and indigenous perspectives on the built environment. A guided walk through Ōrākei Marae, Takaparawhau, and Ōkahu Bay deepened their appreciation of heritage preservation, land stewardship, and revitalization initiatives led by local Kiwi.
This was followed by the Harbour Heritage & Arkitour in Devonport, where attendees explored historic architecture, naval sites, and coastal landscapes. A group lunch offered the chance to reflect on shared learning while strengthening professional rapport. The day concluded with a Mapei workshop centered on material performance, detailing, and practical project solutions, capped by a social gathering that promoted collaboration among delegates and sponsors.
Day 2 opened with a heritage tour of the Lady of the Assumption Church, which included a Eucharistic Mass recognizing the cultural and spiritual presence of the Filipino community. Next, the Building Materials Showcase allowed suppliers to present innovative products and systems relevant to evolving architectural practice. The Chapter Induction Ceremonies formally welcomed new members and officers, highlighted by Ar. Richard Gumabao taking his oath as the new chapter president.
Major site visits
The plenary sessions, themed “Dalumat: Critical Thinking in Practice,” featured keynote addresses from Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand H.E. Kira Christianne Azucena, New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) National President Huia Reriti, Ar. Michael Marmita, UAP National President Ar. Jonathan Manalad, NEVP Ar. Chona Ponce, NA Ar. Ramon Teruel, and IPSG Ar. Ma. Cecilia Viray. Their discussions emphasized leadership, ethics and the architects’ responsibilities in a rapidly changing global landscape. Speakers also highlighted opportunities for international collaboration and encouraged members to participate proactively in global architectural networks.
During the induction ceremonies, four Core Values Awards were presented based on votes from Australia Chapter members. The recipients were Ar. Richard Gumabao for Innovation, Ar. Romeo Vergara for Integrity, Ar. Dionne Pajares for Collaboration, and Ar. Emerald Ocampo for Excellence.
Day 3 featured two major site visits: a pioneering 3D-printed construction show home and the world-renowned Hobbiton Movie Set. Delegates observed digital fabrication technologies and their potential to transform construction sustainability and efficiency. At Hobbiton, participants learned about narrative-driven design, landscape integration, and the cultural impact of immersive environments. Aligning with World Architecture Day, these visits underscored architecture’s capacity to influence communities and shape meaningful experiences.
Over three days, UAP Australia ArchiCon25, sponsored by Davies Paint Philippines, successfully blended technical learning, cultural engagement and professional networking, broadening participants’ understanding of emerging technologies, sustainable practices, and heritage-informed design. The conference concluded with the announcement that the 2026 Australia Chapter Architecture Conference will be held in Brisbane, Queensland.
Ar. Romeo Vergara is a program director with the Department of Logistics and Infrastructure, Northern Territory Government of Australia. He is a certified practicing project director, a member of the Australian Institute of Project Management, an affiliate member of the Australian Institute of Architects, and the immediate past chapter president of the UAP Australia and New Zealand Chapter.