By: Ar. Aiza A. Fernandez-Gawisan
Tuba, Benguet – On September 20, 2023, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between the Local Government of Tuba, Benguet, and the University of the Cordilleras (UC) at the Tuba Municipal Conference Hall. The agreement was formalized by UC College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) Dean, Engr. Dexter Hansel C. Apnoyan, and Tuba Mayor, Hon. Clarita P. Sal-ongan, with Arch. Jerico Jordan A. Bernardo and Tuba Vice-Mayor, Hon. Maria L. Carantes, as witnesses. Under this partnership, UC’s College of Engineering and Architecture has been commissioned to develop a comprehensive Master Development Plan for the Tuba Government Center in Barangay Poblacion and Tuba Public Market, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11): Sustainable Cities and Communities.
As part of this SDG 11 initiative, Dean Apnoyan, along with members of UC’s Architecture Department led by Arch. Jerico Jordan A. Bernardo and Arch. Aiza A. Fernandez, presented an initial project proposal to both municipal and barangay council members at the Barangay Hall of Poblacion, Tuba, Benguet. The proposal, discussed in detail during the meeting, emphasized how the project could strengthen local infrastructure, foster sustainable growth, and improve quality of life in the community.
This initial presentation featured the work of thesis candidate Mr. Richard Bryan Juan, who proposed a “Revitalization of Tuba Public Market.” Mr. Juan’s project aims to rejuvenate the public market to enhance economic activity and improve the overall experience for residents and visitors alike.
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), the Master Development Plan for the Government Center of Tuba, Benguet supports SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by promoting sustainable urban growth, resilient infrastructure, and improved quality of life through a comprehensive planning framework for the Tuba Government Center and Public Market. It advances SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by introducing innovative and inclusive design strategies that strengthen local infrastructure and ensure long-term functionality and sustainability. The project also reflects SDG 4 (Quality Education) as it provides a meaningful platform for UC’s Architecture students to apply academic learning to real-world urban planning and design challenges. Lastly, it reinforces SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through the collaboration between the University of the Cordilleras and the Local Government of Tuba, exemplifying how partnerships between educational institutions and government can drive sustainable community development.
