UC Architecture students earned First Place and Second Place in the Kalinga Rotunda Design Competition, a conceptual design contest aimed at creating a culturally meaningful landmark for the Province of Kalinga.
The competition was conducted in November 2025, with the awarding ceremony held on January 12, 2026, at the Lower Kalinga District Engineering Office of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The event gathered government officials led by Engr. Ruby A. Uyan, District Engineer, together with design professionals and academic representatives. Representing the University of the Cordilleras were Dr. Irene G. Florendo, Dean of the College of Architecture and Fine Arts (CAFA), and Ar. Rojayne Q. Sibayan, mentor of the winning student teams, who attended in support of the awardees.
The First Place award, with a ₱30,000 cash prize, was won by Harriz Paddison Luyo, Rexted Kian Nicolas, and Lemuel Suyom. Their proposal reimagines the rotunda as a monument rooted in Kalinga’s heritage while expressed through a contemporary architectural language. At its core stands a towering Banga (earthen jar) symbolizing abundance, life, and cultural memory. The base references the rice terraces and the province’s geographic form, grounding the design in its agricultural landscape. Eight surrounding pillars represent Kalinga’s municipalities, expressing unity and shared identity. The concept also draws from the movement of the Banga Dance and the rhythm of the gong, turning the structure into a celebration of living tradition.
The Second Place award, with a ₱20,000 cash prize, was awarded to Ricson Moron and Lejuel Besa-ang. Their entry received recognition for its thoughtful interpretation of cultural heritage, contextual sensitivity, and clear architectural direction.
Securing both top awards highlights UC’s commitment to culture-based and community-responsive design education. The achievement reflects the University’s dedication to nurturing future architects who design with purpose, identity, and social responsibility.
The UC College of Architecture and Fine Arts extends its appreciation to the faculty mentors, industry partners, and students whose hard work and creativity made this success possible.
This achievement supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting excellence in design education and experiential learning, SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through culturally responsive and community-centered landmark design, and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by advancing innovative architectural solutions rooted in heritage and identity.
Source: (1) Kalinga, your voice matters! Cast your… – Province of Kalinga | Facebook
