HISTORY

MARVALLEY IN RETROSPECT

The UAP Marikina Valley Chapter, which was then known as Marikina Chapter, was formally organized in November of 1985.

Its formation was made possible through the guidance of Corazon F. Tandoc, who was then the UAP Commissioner for the Chapter Organization. The National President then was Arch. Cesar Canchela.

The original roster of members was taken from the National Directory of architects whose home addresses were in the municipality of Marikina. Each member listed in this directory was visited by the core of organizing members and each was convinced to join the new chapter.

The Chapter was duly recognized with the approval of its charter on December 5, 1985. Officially, it became the 43rd chapter to be established within the UAP. The Charter Board of Directors were Rico Jose G. Santiago – Charter President, Wilfredo V. Arriola - VP for Operations, Romeo G. Marcelo - VP for Programs and Developments, Estela DG. Lopez - Secretary, Virgilio M. Balderosa - Treasurer, Gilbert A. Pioquito - Director and  Alberto G. Feria - Director. The first set of officers was inducted on February 21, 1986 at the Agustin Building in Pasig. The ceremonies then were interrupted by the historic EDSA Revolution. The chapter at that time had limited registered membership and even much fewer active members. After two years of existence, in 1988 the Chapter President migrated to the United States with no official turnover and the chapter became inactive.

With the need for re-activation, on September 17, 1989, the Marikina Chapter had its first re-organizational meeting,   presided over by then UAP National President Angel Lazaro. The Marikina Chapter was then composed of a handful of original members and many new “recruits”. Estela DG. Lopez was elected Chapter President of the re-vitalized Marikina Chapter. Through her 2-year term, the Chapter was recognized by National Organization as the Chapter to watch. Because of her efforts, September 17 has been recognized as the new founding day and is celebrated as its Chapter Anniversary.

In 1991, Enrique O. Olonan became the Chapter President and during his term, the Chapter undertook various civic projects: donation of relief goods to the victims of Mt. Pinatubo eruption, installation of additional traffic signs in Marikina – Cainta and a Christmas gift-giving program to the needy of Olandes, Marikina. To this day, the Chapter has continued these  socio-civic projects. It was during his term that the bond of fellowship among its members was established. Regular General Membership Meetings (GMM) were held every first Friday of the month. He had laid the foundation of things to come.

In 1992, the Chapter elected Allan V. Garcia, fuap as President. On May 28, 1992 during the 18th Convention in Cebu, a resolution was approved to change the Chapter’s name from the former “Marikina” to “Marikina Valley” or “Marvalley” for short. In the same year, the chapter co-hosted with the La Union Chapter, the first National Conference of Architects (NCA). On February 19, 1993, the Chapter was accredited as a non-governmental organization (NGO) by Marikina. On April 18, 1993, the Chapter was recognized as the “Best UAP Chapter” during the 19th National Convention at the PICC in Manila. In 2004 – 2005 served as UAP Area 5 Regional District Director. He was also the 1st Elected UAP National Vice President for Area A of The Integrated and Accredited Professional Organization of Architects (IAPOA) in 2005 – 2006.

In 1993, Angel A. Doria became the Chapter President, with the Chapter’s Theme, “Professionalism, Geared for a Brighter Tomorrow”.  The Chapter held numerous civic works, gift-giving programs, art contests, fun walkathon, Balangkasan, and the first “Know your UAP President” forum-debate on the upcoming UAP presidential elections,  For these achievements, the Marvalley Chapter was awarded  the “Best UAP Chapter for Special Projects”, given on April 16, 1994 during the 20th National Convention held in Baguio City.

In 1994, Danilo C. Ibay, the Chapter President and his officers put their efforts on “Continuing Professional Education (CPE)” which was required by the Professional Regulatory Commission for the renewal of PRC licenses. With the year’s theme “Professionalism Follow Through; Focus on the Chapter Service Beyond,” several seminars were conducted in the pursuit of this goal, including a foreign practitioner from Singapore. The Chapter also sponsored the formation of the Rizal East Chapter through the efforts of the Valleytect Angel E. Doria.

In 1995, Jess R. Aguinaldo was the Chapter President. He had enhanced chapter’s roster of members with new blood, majority of which were active. A monthly pamphlet “ The Marikina Valleykatan” regularly came out every GMM with CPE’s consistently conducted. The Chapter also found a new home in the “Café ni Kapitan Moy” for its monthly meetings. It was during his term that the First Recognition Night was held on the Chapter’s Anniversary. A bowling tournament was held in the summer. The Chapter was awarded the “Third Best UAP Chapter” at the 22nd National Convention in 1996.

For 1996, the Chapter had Roland B. Banzon as President. He continued with the program of beefing up the membership. The Chapter conducted informative seminars and varied civic projects inspired by the year’s theme “A Renewed Sense of Pride in the Valley”. The Chapter won its second “Third Best UAP Chapter” in 1997. Appreciated for his dedicated leadership, the Chapter elected him again to preside over the chapter from 1997-98, promoting the theme of “Arkitekto: Para sa Tao, Para sa Bayan Tungo sa Bagong Dekada”.

During the country’s centennial celebration, FY 1998–99, Rodrigo V. Quilacio was chosen to head the Chapter. The highlight of his term was the conversion of the Chapter’s monthly pamphlet into a magazine format, renaming it the “UAP Marvalley Journal” and distributed to all the members who attended the GMM. This journal had added special features like the “For Us To Know…,” and the “Marvalley Literary Corner,” which invited the creative members to share their literary talents. The Chapter was selected “Third Best UAP Chapter” during the 25th National Convention in 1999.

In 1999, under the presidency of Ronaldo K. Garcia, the chapter theme was “Opening Doors to the New Millenium”. The Chapter concerned itself with the environment and participated in ecology activities that aimed to support the government projects in the preservation of our forest and the greening of our environment.

In 2000, Armando DG. Pamintuan, as chapter president, was armed with a vision and a mission. He promoted the theme “Chapter Advancement Beyond 2000”, involving the chapter with Marikina City’s projects like the Project Olandes: Dutch Marikina, an urban renewal development; the Region-Region 2000, a provincial roots celebration; Pandayan: Culture and the Arts Festival Seminar Workshop; and the Art Contest 2001: Marikina Noon at Ngayon Part 3. To cap his term, the Chapter was selected as the “BEST UAP CHAPTER in AREA “A” during the 27th National Convention in April 2001.

In 2001, Jose Manuel S. Pino was chapter president and he continued the program set by his predecessor. A member of the Chapter, Enrique Olonan was elected UAP National Executive Vice President. Joey developed a strong linkage with the city government serving as design consultant for some of its infrastructure projects. Because of the efforts of the members and his leadership, the UAP Marvalley Chapter repeated its achievement the previous year and was distinctly honored as “Best UAP Chapter in AREA “A” given during the 28th National Convention in April of 2002.

In 2002, the Chapter President was Julian C. Confesor and he was set to perform a three-peat. He adopted the theme “The Future Direction of the Filipino Architects: the Power of Small Practice”. With the ever-changing challenges of the national economy and the difficulties of the architectural profession, the Marvalley Chapter stood united and strong to work as a team in the realization of the year’s goals and objectives. He had successfully defended the crown, and the Chapter proved to be the “Best UAP Chapter in AREA “A” in the 29th National Convention held at the Manila Hotel in April 2003.

Fiscal year 2003-04 was another period of challenges. Amado E. Tandoc, Jr. fuap, was Chapter President and the chapter theme was “Widening Horizons for the Filipino Architects”. The chapter got involved in several socio-economic; Marikina’s tree planting project, Christmas gift-giving and the launching of a GAWAD KALINGA PROJECT in cooperation with Couples for Christ.

All these projects and activities contributed to another “Best UAP Chapter in AREA “A” award in 2004, leading the Chapter to be included in the “HALL OF FAME” roster, having won five (5) UAP Best Chapter awards.

In 2004, Amerigo T. Dela Paz adopted the Chapter theme “Opening the Avenues to Excellence”. During his term, several of its members were elected into major positions; Enrique O. Olonan was UAP National President, Allan V. Garcia was the District Director for DistrictA-5, Amado E. Tandoc was appointed Executive Director for Government and External Affairs and Armin Pamintuan headed the Committee on Private Practice. The Chapter also sponsored the formation of the KALAYAAN CHAPTER 100. The Chapter was also involved in the renovation of a PGH ward and other projects.

In 2005, Ronaldo F. Cruz adopted the theme “Keeping the Momentum Towards Positive Growth”. He continued the various projects of the past presidents, like the GAWAD KALINGA, the Christmas gift-giving program and the Art Contest. He launched a Badminton Program, encouraging members to become physically fit and healthy. In this term, Allan V. Garcia was then the UAP Vice President for Area A and the Conference Director of the National Conference for Architects (NCA) held in General Santos City was Armin Pamintuan, Jesus R. Aguinaldo Program Committee Chairman and Ronaldo F. Cruz Co-chairman for Operations with Mike Pabulayan.

In 2006, the Chapter was headed by Oscar L. Duque, uap who had the theme “Empowering the Marikina Valley Chapter Architects as Entrepreneurs”. During his term, the Chapter acquired a Laptop and a Photo Printer for the Secretariat. He continued the Chapter program; Tree Planting, Gift-giving and Feeding Program for the less fortunate and a mini-golf tournament. He started a Monthly Newsletter which was sent through snail mail every month. The Chapter participated in the Marikina City Christmas Carousel Festival wherein the Chapter was honored with hosting of the event’s first night show.

In 2007, Michael T. Peňa, fuap was the Chapter President, with the theme “The Ecological Architects; Building With Nature”. During his term, the procurement of more office equipment was a priority. The Chapter received several recognition; Award of Excellence for the Gift Giving and Feeding Program, Best of UAP Public Relations Program, Best Joint Program by a Group of UAP Chapters: the Tree Planting Project and an Award of Merit to the Most Outstanding UAP Chapter President. With an excess cash balance near the end of his term, the members were treated to a much needed vacation in Boracay.

In 2008, Remigio G. Abello became president with the Chapter Theme “Unity in Diversity is the Foundation of all Great Achievements”. He increased the funding for the chapter’s socio-civic projects especially the Christmas Gift-Giving Program. He appropriated more office equipment to enhance the productivity of the Chapter Secretariat. He encouraged cohesive participation of the members by staging a badminton tournament and an inter-chapter air-soft gun competition. The summer holidays saw the Chapter members spending quality time at the Villa Escudero with family and friends.   

In 2009, Karlo Antonio O. Mamiit assumed the Presidency. The Chapter Theme was “Unity in Diversity and Sustainable Leadership geared towards an Excellent Organization”. He continued the program set by his predecessors. Product presentations and seminars were regularly conducted for the information of the members, complemented with Fellowship and sport activities. He capped his term with a Chapter summer outing to Palawan and its Underground River, giving the members a chance to see a future Wonder of the World.

In 2010, Pedro R. Fetalvero, Jr. took over as the Silver President of the Chapter, having the honor of celebrating its 25th Anniversary. Adopting the theme “UAP Marvalley Chapter C.A.R.E.S. – Competent Architects Responsive to Ecological Sustainability”, he has already charted the road map for commemorating this eventful milestone of the Chapter. Silver will mark the festivities that will follow; green has to step aside for the meantime.  His active leadership, with the support of the officers and all the members clearly demonstrates the continued commitment to the Chapter.

As the Chapter celebrates its 25th year in the United Architects of the Philippines, one can only admire the dedication and loyalty of the members. This tribute belongs exclusively to the members who pursued the mission and vision of the Chapter as symbolized by its logo; the professional, the environment, and the UAP. Chapter members have occupied major positions in the hierarchy of the National Organization; UAP National President, UAP National Executive Vice President, Area “A” Vice-President, UAP National Treasurer, UAP National Auditor, Executive Director of UAP Commissions, District Director, NCA Director, NCA Secretary-General, National Convention Deputy Director, Committee Chairman in the Organizing Committee of the National Convention, National Conference of Architects and the ARCASIA.

For the 2011, Arch. Jose Marie Luciano T. Bautista with the theme “UAP Marvalley…ONE” (One goal, One purpose, One vision) indicates that in the past 25 years marvalleytects continuously united to the betterment of their chapter and workforce reaching high-performance. The Chapter’s transformation over the last 25 years has definitely strengthened their integration.

They have shown their great performance in the field of their profession, on public services and social civic activities. Arch. Bautista adopted several programs / projects of the past presidents and planned to continue on public services such as Medical Missions, Adopt-a-Daycare/School/Family and Adopt-a-Park, Adopt A Library, Seminars and Livelihood Programs, Tree planting and the traditional Gift Giving and Feeding Programs. During his term Chapter’s Website was officially launched on July 25, 2011 (http://www.uapmarvalley.org) for the members to get information on Building Trends, Fashion, Architects Proper Grooming, Proper Ethics, Cooking Guides and Trends, to updates of upcoming events and projects and so on. The Chapter conducted a Monthly Film Showing / Educational Video Clips and Architects Project Presentation.

2012, Arch. Paul Mari D. Lamagna, uap adopted the theme “UAP Marvalley…BUILDS” (Building Unity thru Involvement, Leadership and Dedicated Service). His first socio-civic project was Adopt-a-Library where in the chapter was able to donate a total of 1,065 books, manual and magazines to be able to help the goal of the Marikina City Library which was to encourage people especially the young to develop an interest in READING. For it has been established that through reading books, magazines and other materials one can sharpen his sense of imagination, better comprehension and broaden his awareness of what goes on in the world around him. This was held last July 20, 2012, at the Marikina City Public Library. In August 2012, Marikina and the rest of Manila was again ravaged by floods brought on by the now infamous “Habagat”. In response, the Chapter postponed the Tree Planting Project, its original project scheduled for the month, and undertook a Relief Operation instead.  This outreach project was done last August 11, 2012 at the Red Cross Marikina Chapter, Sta. Elena, Marikina City.  The Chapter coursed its relief operation through the Red Cross Marikina Chapter for a more speedy and efficient response to the immediate needs of the Habagat victims. In this little way, we gave hope and care to our less fortunate brothers and sisters. This event was done in alignment with the UAP National’s objective of promoting the practice through community service and good public relations.

For the Fiscal Year 2013-2014, the 24th and the second lady President of Marikina Valley Chapter, Ar. Maria Cristina Lopez-Bautista took office with the theme “UAP MarValley W.O.R.K.S.” (Working Organization thru Responsive and Keen Service). This simply means that Marvalley W.O.R.K.S. have worked hard to continue with the excellent legacy that this group have maintained for the past 28 years. They were able to accomplish much this year with nineteen (19) projects and events completed in a span of twelve months.

To promote health, wellness and fitness among its members, the chapter initiated its first ever Marvalley Zumba Party held at Marikina Sports Center. Marvalley believes that a healthy body is very important to everyone. When one is healthy, he can work with enthusiasm and do all the things to enjoy life.

Another Marvalley activity to be proud of is the launching of their first ever Photo Marathon Contest held at Marikina City Hall Lobby. The event was limited and open to architecture students, graduates and as well as licensed and registered architects from different chapters. After this Photo Marathon, they had a chance to display all the photos taken in this contest in line with the celebration of National Architecture Week. The Photo Exhibit was placed at the Lobby of the City Hall of Marikina for viewing and ribbon cutting was attended and conducted  by Marikina’s Congressman  Miro Quimbo and Vice Mayor Jose Fabian Cadiz.

The following are the Nineteen (19) Projects and Activities of UAP Marikina Valley Chapter for the Fiscal Year 2013-2014.

1. Clean-up Drive at Brgy. San Roque, Marikina City
2. Adopt a Library:  A Book Donation Program at Marikina City Library
3. Marvalley Zumba at Marikina Sports Center
4. The White Party with a Fashion Show Gala with the theme: “Fashion Inspired by Architecture”  in celebration of Marvalley’s 28th Anniversary at Marikina Convention Center
5. Donation thru Redcross for Habagat Victims,  
6. Courtesy Call to Marikina Mayor Del de Guzman
7. Joint Tree Planting Activity with the City Government. of Marikina with the theme: “Tagumpay sa Ala-ala ng Ondoy.”
8. 8th Marvalley Badminton Tournament,
9. First Photo Marathon Contest
10. Yolanda Relief Operation turned-over

To the Sister’s of St. Scholastica’s

Academy, Marikina

11. Christmas Outreach Program at C.R.I.B.S. Foundation          
12. National Architecture Week Photo Exhibit at Marikina City Hall Lobby
13. Marvalley Christmas Party with the theme “Pasko sa Nayon” at Cafe

Kapitan Restaurant

14. Medical and Dental Mission at Phase 4, San Miguel, Brgy. Fortune, Marikina
15. Marvalley Construction Seminar held at McDonald’s Markina-Marcos Hiway.
16. Marvalley Career Development Seminar-“The Architecture Practice” with Ar. Miguel Guererro as Guest Speaker held at Max’s Robinsons East.
17. Joint Outreach Program with District A-5 at Cottolengo Filipino, Montalban, Rizal.
18. Marvalley Subic Escapade Summer Outing
19. Marvalley’s Turn-over Ceremonies and Recognition Night at Cafe Kapitan Restaurant

Once again, because of the mentioned projects,  through their concerted efforts, determination and hard work, Marikina Valley was given the UAP National Award for Best in Socio-Civic Programs given during the 40th UAP National Convention held at SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. In addition to its achievements, they were also awarded by UAP National for being the Best National Architecture Week Activity this year.  These awards were added to Marvalley’s long colourful history as one of the best chapters of UAP.  

Fiscal 2014-2015. Arch. Roger M. Victorino was our 25th Chapter President. With the coming of the ASEAN integration that will generate a free flow of professional services within the ASEAN Community including Architecture, the chapter adopted the theme “Marvalley CONSTRUCT- Continuing the Service Together by Reaffirming our Unity in Changing Times”.

During this time the chapter make use of the power of Social Media to promote and announce the chapter’s upcoming projects and activities. Marvalley continued the successful projects of the recent years (Career Development Seminar Series 1 & 2, Photo Marathon, Adopt a Library, Medical & Dental Mission, Outreach programs, NAW, etc.), and adopted new ones like the Pest Control Awareness Series (seminar, implementation and monitoring) in coordination with the Pest Exterminators Association of the Philippines (PEAP), Accessibilty Audit and the Search for the PWD Friendly Barangay Hall. Under the direct guidance of it’s member, Arch. Armand Micheal Eustaqiuo as UAP’s Commitee Chair on Accesibilty Audit, the chapter audited the sixteen barangay halls within Marikina City. The chapter also joined the Bayanihang Arkitectura: Free Architectural Clinic held at SM City Marikina where our members and other chapters provided free architectural consultation to the general public who visited the event. The project aims to promote awareness and to see the importance of our profession. Other projects were our participation in a Consultative meeting for the Disaster Resilient Project Competition, the Bikeways and Braille Tile Project, Architectural Exhibit and the Marvalley: Drives (Motorcade for Marikina City Founding Anniversary). Marvalley recieved three UAP Meritorious Awards namely Best in Civic Program, Best in Public Relations Program and Best in Professional Development Program during the UAP’s Forty First National Convention in recognition of the Chapter’s remarkable efforts and outstanding performance.

Fiscal Year 2015-2016 marks the three (3) decades of the UAP Marvalley Chapter. Due through the evolution of the chapter in the past years, the chapter under the stewardship of Ar. Leo B. Carlos adopted the chapter theme “E.V.O.L.V.E.S.”Empowering thru Vision Oriented Leadership and Value Enriching Service which shall serve as the Chapter’s battlecry as it moves the Marvalley to greater heights. 

Numerous Milestone events occurred that Fiscal Year. Among them are the 5th Annual Book Donation, 10th Marvalley Badminton Tournament, and the 30th Chapter Anniversary dubbed as "Untouchables, Marvalley at 30".

Aside from the usual chapter activities, Marvalley EVOLVES focused on the effort to reinforce the UAP National's movement for the HB 5127, UAP Marvalley Chapter goes to congress to request support for the amendment of the Architecture Law of 2004. Marvalley EVOLVES did its share to promote the said bill by paying courtesy visits to congressmen where the chapter got overwhelming support from visited congressmen for the House Bill. The chapter likewise, gained attention from the local government by stressing the importance of the law to all architects in the country as we approach the ASEAN integration, through consultation meetings with Marikina City local officials and stakeholders, leading to the endorsement of the UAP supporting documents to the city council in order to draft and eventually sponsor and approval of a local city ordinance for the Architecture Permit to be implemented in Marikina City.

The UAP Marvalley  chapter was given a Presidential Citation to recognize the chapter's efforts during the Fiscal Year at the 42nd UAP National Convention Awards Night last 22 April 2016 at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City.

Fiscal Year 2016-2017