A remarkable milestone has been achieved by the fourth-year Architecture students of the University of the Cordilleras–College of Architecture and Fine Arts (UC–CAFA), as they were officially selected to receive ₱1,000,000 in seed funding under the Liwliwa Ya Sursuro (LYS) 2.0 Youth Innovation Incubation Program.

Their project, “Play It Forward: Redesigning a Community Park at Engineer’s Hill,” was proposed by the SalinTanglaw Team, composed of Kzy C. Ayan, Jushual Johann A. Cariño, Hannah Shane O. Kiyawan, Russel C. Omolida, and Wade Frenzel K. Torcuan. The initiative aims to transform community spaces through thoughtful and sustainable design while fostering inclusivity and social interaction.

From the initial screening to being shortlisted as one of the Top 7 finalists, the team underwent intensive mentorship and training with field experts before successfully pitching their project at the LYS 2.0 Baguio Youth Innovation Challenge Pitch Competition held on November 22, 2025, at the Baguio Multipurpose Hall, City Hall Compound.

Guided by mentors Ar. Rojayne Sibayan (CAFA Mentor), Belle Mila (CYC Mentor), and Ar. Krsh (SIGLAT – Baguio Youth Innovation Hub), the team demonstrated innovation, resilience, and a strong commitment to community-driven design. Their success reflects UC–CAFA’s continuous mission to develop architects who design not only for form and function but also for social good and community empowerment.

This achievement supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting experiential and innovative learning, SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through community-centered urban design, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by fostering sustainable design innovation, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration among educational institutions, local government, and youth organizations.