Three standout Carolinians鈥擬arben Claros, Lisa Marie Osme帽a, and Alexis Marie Alcantara鈥攕ecured their spots among the Top 11 finalists in the Interior Design category, distinguishing themselves in one of the region鈥檚 most prestigious design competitions. 

This year鈥檚 theme, 鈥淐ONVERGE: Crafting Cultural Legacies,鈥� asked participants to combine cultural heritage, traditional practices, and local knowledge with contemporary design and sustainability. It also emphasized community impact and the use of local materials in creating relevant and lasting spaces.

The students presented projects that highlight Philippine crafts and respond to present-day needs.

颁濒补谤辞蝉鈥檚 Balay sa Kalamay proposes a neo-vernacular facility in Bohol that supports local food production while improving working conditions and hygiene.

翱蝉尘别帽补鈥檚 Hibla sa Kabilin presents a cultural hub in Butuan focused on abaca weaving, combining spaces for preservation, learning, and community use.

础濒肠补苍迟补谤补鈥檚 Rhythms of Belonging proposes a bamboo-based dance studio in Balamban, Cebu, providing a permanent space for cultural activities and training.

The students were mentored by IDr. Bill Gerard Veraque and IDr. Hermie Ray Oplado, who attended the ceremony.

This shared win continues a legacy of excellence since the University’s dominant performance in AYDA 2024.

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Carolinian graduate Jan Marie Pepito Trocino topped the nationwide board examination, garnering an overall score of 89.70%. Joining her in the list of board placers are:聽

• 2nd Placer (87.70%) – Abigail Mae Yu Kintia 
• 6th Placer (85.30%) – Leighanne Gabrielle Gutual Bersabal 
• 7th Placer (83.60%) – Mathea Valdehueza Pugoy 
• 10th Placer (83.15%) – John Brix Tampus Cruza 

Overall, the 黑料社区 Department of Architecture Interior Design Program produced 25 passers, with a passing rate of 83.33% 鈥� well above the nationwide passing percentage (54.59%, or 226 out of 414 examinees).聽

CONGRATULATIONS to our passers!

1. Jrose Gonato Amar
2. Cristine Diputado Arellano
3. Alison Gonzales Aspacio
4. Leighanne Gabrielle Gutual Bersabal (6th Placer)
5. Ava Margarette Pastrano Bisnar
6. Aleah Kate Samson Booc
7. Alexandra Kaye Loreto Buenaventura 
8. Shaine Martell Pidor Cadungog
9. Jerico Charles Pentoy Caputol
10. James Marie Kyle Oreta Colina
11. Janna Mae Almonicar Colman
12. John Brix Tampus Cruza (10th Placer)
13. Janine Marifel Go Ganapin
14. Christine Faith Marie Wamar Hitutua
15. Abigail Mae Yu Kintia (2nd Placer)
16. Ferdine Loureese Malinao Mandawe
17. Rejene Arreglado Mangubat
18. Ella Catherine Palumar Mariano
19. Pia Mae Bejoc Ple帽os
20. Mathea Valdehueza Pugoy (7th Placer)
21. Farlene Mae Cuevas Quezon
22. Ernestine Faith Galvan Taleon
23. Diana Salibay Talite
24. Jan Marie Pepito Trocino (1st Placer)
25. Leeian Ashley Tee Yap

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The students partnered with licensed professionals and residents of Balay Samaritano, a daytime shelter for individuals experiencing street-based living in Cebu City. 

The inauguration was attended by its generous partners, Interior Design faculty members, Department of Architecture Chair Ar. Adrian Yap, School of Architecture, Fine Arts and Design (SAFAD) Dean Dr. Adrian Del Monte, Jovie Sabanal, Sr. Lina Budiningsih, Justice, Peace & Integrity of Creation-Integrated Development Center, Inc. (JPIC-IDC) Executive Director Carmencita Alviola, and SVD Provincial Supervisor, Fr. Rogelio Bag-ao, SVD.

In the spirit of service learning, from its conceptual and developmental stages with Batch 2023 and 2024, and now the graduating Batch 2025 of fourth-year, Interior Design students collaborated to improve key spaces within the facility, encompassing both common and wet areas.

Common areas鈥攊ncluding the entrance/foyer, hallway, storage room, clinic, and multipurpose area鈥攚ere refreshed through wall repainting that brightened and elevated the environment. Mural artworks also added vibrant storytelling to the space, while essential upgrades like improved lighting, additional electric fans, and safer electrical fixtures increased comfort and utility.

Meanwhile, wet areas鈥攕uch as the male and female comfort rooms, PWD toilet and bath, classroom A CR, kitchen, pantry, and washing area鈥攗nderwent enhancements that prioritized hygiene and accessibility. These included retiling, repainting, fixture installation, and layout adjustments to support daily use and maintenance.

The project showed community-centered design practices, where participatory planning and reflective dialogue shaped the outcome. Every decision aimed to affirm the dignity of the shelter鈥檚 users and support their everyday experience.

For our Interior Design students, the Dayon Kamo Project was more than an academic undertaking鈥攊t was an experience of collaborative and in-service learning. It deepened their capacity for empathy-driven design, critical thinking, and professional growth alongside the community they served.

With reporting from the Interior Design Program

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On its fourth iteration, KIDLAT 4.0, held in partnership with the Council of Interior Design Educators (CIDE) and the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID), brought together interior design educators, students, and professionals for three days of impactful academic exchange and collaborative innovation. This marked the first time KIDLAT was held outside the NCR.

Under the theme, “Beyond Boundaries: A Fresh Perspective in Innovation,” KIDLAT 4.0 kicked off with a joint CIDE and PIID General Assembly, where representatives from design schools and professional organizations aligned efforts in advancing design education in the Philippines.

On the second day, six professors and 13 students conducted lightning talks, showcasing practice-based studies and research on interior environments, sustainability, and social impact. A student exhibit at the SAFAD Lobby also highlighted exceptional undergraduate design research and creative outputs. 

Meanwhile, 黑料社区 Vice President for Academics (VPAA) Fr. Jesuraj Anthoniappen, SVD, Ph.D., welcomed hybrid participants. Patrick John Lim, Ph.D., Director of the 黑料社区 Research Development Extension and Publication Office (RDEPO), delivered the keynote on the second day and emphasized the critical role of nurturing research collaborations in the next generation of designers.

The three-day conference concluded with off-campus activities and tours (see below) to various furniture manufacturing plants and heritage centers, bridging academic learning with industry practices and local traditions. KIDLAT 4.0 reaffirmed 黑料社区’s leadership in interior design education and its unwavering commitment to driving design-driven innovation.

With reporting from the Department of Architecture, Interior Design Program

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Their project, Neuro-Inclusive Harmony: A Sensory-Smart and Adaptive Learning Environment, bested over 60 national submissions. Specifically designed for Special Education (SPED), this visionary concept will be realized as the WORLDBEX Passion Project, benefiting a SPED center in Manila. The initiative aims to create a safe and supportive learning environment for students with special needs.

Guided by IDr. Hermie Ray Oplado, Team JST crafted a design that exemplifies 黑料社区鈥檚 dedication to social responsibility and transformative spaces. Breaking away from traditional, clinical SPED environments, they introduced a dynamic yet calming design rooted in meticulous research and sustainability. 

Their innovative approach includes modular furniture fostering interaction, acoustic solutions accommodating sensory sensitivities, and thoughtfully curated lighting and color schemes to create a serene atmosphere.This evidence-based and sustainably crafted design promises to enrich the educational experience for SPED students in Manila. 

Team JST鈥檚 achievement not only highlights their extraordinary creativity but also reinforces 黑料社区鈥檚 mission to deliver community-driven, life-changing designs that leave a lasting impact on special needs education.

With reporting from IDr. Hermie Ray Oplado, Department of Architecture

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Yee鈥檚 project, 鈥�,鈥� stands as a powerful biophilic fusion of luxury and nature. He integrated bamboo columns, vibrant green walls, and mindfully sourced local and natural materials such as wood and stone, the design not only highlights sustainability but also creates an immersive experience that blurs the boundaries between the interior and the outdoors. 

Under the full mentorship of IDr. Hermie Ray O. Oplado, Manuel鈥檚 innovative spatial design concepts were further recognized at the Spatial Design Awards (SPADE). Earlier this year, he also placed third in the American Standard Design Award 2024 (ASDA)聽 for his work 鈥溾�� in the Philippine region, further solidifying his talent and vision.

These prestigious awards not only showcase Manuel鈥檚 outstanding abilities but also emphasize the excellence of our Interior Design program, which continues to nurture some of the brightest talents in the field. 

For four years in a row, 黑料社区 has produced winners in the same international competition. In 2023, John Brix Cruza secured the Silver Award; Basil Rico Gahi won Silver and Bronze medals in two different categories in 2022, and four Carolinians bagged the Silver Award in 2021.  

by IDr. Hermie Ray O. Oplado, Department of Architecture

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The competition’s theme, 鈥淓mbracing Memories, Embracing Lives: A Sanctuary for Seniors鈥�, challenged participants to design a specialized Dementia Day Care facility for seniors with mild to moderate dementia. The goal was to create an innovative, supportive space enhanced by Augmented Reality (AR) technology, where seniors could feel safe, engaged, and empowered.

Elizaga鈥檚 work, 鈥淐asa Berde鈥� (above) was chosen as the best design, standing out among 200 entries, as a sanctuary of comfort, designed to feel like the home of a dear friend. With its inviting spaces, natural elements, and personalized touches, it creates a warm and welcoming environment that fosters safety, companionship, and well-being, allowing seniors to truly thrive.

The award was presented at Philconstruct Manila 2024 and Elizaga received PHP150,000, while her mentor, IDr. Hermie Ray Oplado was awarded PHP50,000.

The 21st Estilo De Vida Interschool Interior Design Competition was organized by the Philippine Constructors Association (PCA). It is considered one of the country鈥檚 biggest inter-school interior design competitions and has become 鈥� and is a formidable platform for young designers to test out their skills.鈥�

With reporting from IDr. Hermie Ray Oplado, Department of Architecture

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The Carolinian team, known as ABAKA Designs, was chosen as the winner for their outstanding design proposal which set them apart from all other entries. 

As champions, each team member will receive a tablet valued at Php 30,000 and the honor of having their design brought to life. 

The Solid Surface Innovation Quest, organized by SEA Olympus Marketing Inc., invited architecture and interior design students from all over the Philippines to explore the theme, 鈥淯sability and Aesthetics: Can Beautiful Be Usable?鈥�

With reporting from IDr. Hermie Ray Oplado, Department of Architecture

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Overall, 黑料社区 has a passing rate of 70.83% in the LALE, compared to the national average of 64.08%. Meanwhile, it has a 29.75% passing rate for the IDLE, which is higher than the national average of 16.67%. 

To our newly licensed Carolinian landscape architects and interior designers, CONGRATULATIONS! 

Landscape Architects 

1. Alvarez, Rexam Dominic Amistoso
2. Antonio, Frances Monique Broce
3. Ascariz, Ghystel Marie Dela Rama
4. Catipay, Leehan Surban
5. Cosep, Julie Mae Amores
6. Judilla, Janine Angela Gupana
7. Lavapiz, Angela Kate Manlunas
8. Lim, Justin Andre Quimiguing
9. Mangubat, Geueleh Marr Plarisan
10. Mercado, Marie Catherine Lim
11. Petracorta, James Ryan Conde
12. Prado, Doreen Galeos
13. Sabang, Martha Maquilan
14. Suric, Thea Sofia Evangelista
15. Tabada, Mary Therese Polestico
16. Tanoy, Edi Mikayla Kuan
17. Tribucio, Lorenz L.

Interior Designers 

1. Gahi, Basil Rico Ravelo
2. Mahinay, Gerard Anton Logro帽o
3. Semilla, Franie Deveroe Villafuerte
4. Vernaiz, Naomi Ann Gecain

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The MOA formalized the partnership for the interior renovation of Balay Samaritano sa Sugbo (Samaritan House of Cebu), a 鈥渄rop-in shelter for the homeless people living in the streets of Cebu City,鈥� providing temporary shelter, food assistance, medical care, and educational support to children and elderly. 

The interior renovation project entitled 鈥�Dayon Kamo: A Proposed Interior Renovation for Balay Samaritano in Cebu City supported by Third Place Theory鈥� started with the creation of a research-based approach in design of the Balay Samaritano which was initiated by a batch of graduating students of Bachelor of Science in Interior Design last May 2023. Damon Kamo is a common Cebuano greeting roughly translated as, 鈥渨elcome, come in.鈥�

This year, Phase 1 construction includes the renovation of two classrooms and two offices which is made possible through the initiative and team effort of 19 fourth-year students with the guidance of their mentors in the Interior Design Program under the course IN4200 Special Projects.

The MOA signing was led by Bachelor of Science in Interior Design students and hosted by the Dayon Kamo project managers, John Brix Cruza and Jan Marie Trocino. The Dayon Kamo project is an embodiment of the Carolinian core value, Devotio. 

By extending a helping hand through partnership and commitment, the students of the University of San Carlos are able to manifest the Carolinian devotion.

by Juliene Lim

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