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Cavite State University Graduates Shine at UAP Dubai Design Awards
Two architecture graduates from Cavite State University (CvSU)-CEIT, Maria Lucille Faustino and Jho-Ar Rupido, have made waves in the global architectural community by winning the Student Thesis Project Award of Merit at the prestigious 2025 UAP Dubai Design Awards. This accolade was announced by Willie Buclatin, the dean of the College of Engineering and Information Technology, underscoring a significant achievement for these young architects.
Innovative Thesis: “Unboxed 360”
The award-winning thesis, entitled “Unboxed 360: An Unenclosed Biocontainment Facility Design of the Philippine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (PH CDC) Integrated with Vertical Medical Park,” stands as a testament to creativity and forward-thinking in medical infrastructure. Faustino and Rupido’s design seamlessly integrates public health functionality with sustainable architectural practices—a vital combination, especially in the context of the ongoing global health scenarios.
This project is not just an architectural design; it represents a paradigm shift, envisioning a health-centric approach that prioritizes patient care, community interaction, and environmental stewardship. By bridging the gap between architecture and public health, the duo’s work exemplifies what future-ready healthcare facilities should aspire to be.
Visual Impact
Maria Lucille Faustino and Jho-Ar Rupido of the Cavite State University College of Engineering and Information Technology won the Student Thesis Project Award of Merit at the 2025 UAP Dubai Design Awards.
As the visual representation of their project indicates, the design philosophy employed in “Unboxed 360” revolves around creating open, adaptable spaces that foster healing and community engagement.
Growing Global Recognition
Winning at the UAP Dubai Design Awards is a significant milestone, not just for Faustino and Rupido, but also for CvSU. This award highlights the increasing global presence and influence of CvSU architecture alumni, showcasing how their innovative designs can directly impact community health and national development. Such recognition puts CvSU on the map, reinforcing its reputation as a breeding ground for talented and forward-thinking architects.
UAP Dubai Design Awards: More Than Just an Event
The UAP Design Awards 2025 is a sophisticated, black-tie gala organized by the United Architects of the Philippines-Dubai Chapter. Known for championing creativity and innovation, this event brings together over 200 architects, jurists, and special guests from the Middle East and beyond, aiming to foster networking and celebrate the best in architectural and creative design.
Beyond the awards, these events carry significant social responsibility; proceeds from the gala support educational initiatives back home in the Philippines, including projects for public schools. Notably, in its inaugural edition, the event donated funds to Barangay Tibag in Bulacan—further testament to the commitment of Filipino architects to give back to their community.
A Bright Future
The success of Maria Lucille Faustino and Jho-Ar Rupido is not just a personal achievement; it encapsulates a broader movement toward integrating innovative design with social responsibility. Their visionary approach could set a new standard for how architecture interacts with health care and public policy, ultimately contributing to a healthier environment for all. The future of architecture at CvSU looks promising, and as more minds like Faustino and Rupido emerge, the potential for impactful change in the built environment is limitless.
