By Cassandra Luis J. De Leon

Far Eastern University (FEU) alumnus Roy John De Guzman, who specializes in liturgical architecture and design, was among the 50 notable architects recognized by the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) for his contribution in the field of architecture, awarded at Solaire Resort and Casino last April 8.

Several factors considered for this grant include the architects’ design excellence, cultural impact, influence, professional recognition, and portfolio.

In an online interview with FEU Advocate, the notable architect shared that his works focused on basilica, cathedral, and other church-related projects all over the country is a huge factor that made him recognized.

“Sa pagkakaaalam ko, wala pa kami sa lima sa Pilipinas na nag-s-specialize sa simbahan… Ngayon pa lang nagkakaroon ng awareness about the architecture profession na mayroon na rin siyang specialization (Based on my knowledge, we are not even five in the Philippines that specialize in church [architecture]… It is only now that there is awareness about the architecture profession having specialization),” he said.

The recipients were also required to be endorsed, wherein 10 people, including Archbishop of Manila Jose Cardinal Advincula, endorsed De Guzman.

Additionally, the jury composed of UAP, landscape architects, engineers, and international architectural organizations were also part of the process of selecting the awardees.

Among the projects handled by De Guzman that he considers significant are the recently recreated pre-war retablo of Quiapo Church, the ongoing construction of Pandacan Church that was destroyed in a fire, and the San Agustin Church recognized by UNESCO.

Moreover, he also considers his early achievements during his college days at FEU to be a significant milestone in his career, including the Metrobank Art and Design Excellence, Best Thesis, and the invitation to work in the National Museum of the Philippines during his undergraduate years. 

He was also named by the UAP last 2017 as the Outstanding Young Architect.

Furthermore, the awardee emphasized how his education at FEU helped him both personally and professionally. 

De Guzman is a 2013 graduate of FEU Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts. 

“‘Yung nakita kong maganda sa (What I saw beautiful in) FEU… professors [is the] liberty of how they teach, the environment inside and outside the FEU… Outside of FEU, it’s chaotic, but ‘yung chaos na ‘yun nakatulong sa ating mga (that chaos helped out) Tamaraws how to survive the real world,” the architect explained.

The alumnus also highlighted the importance for the young generation of architects to discover their own path to gather skills and achievements.

“Lagi ko rin sinasabi sa iba pang mga young generation of architects, try niyong humanap ng niche or ng kung saan kayo magaling… Humanap tayo ng gusto nating gawin, ng passionate tayong gawin (I always say to the young generation of architects to try finding their niche or something they’re good at. Let us find what we want to do, something we are passionate about),” he added.

UAP is a government and internationally recognized architectural organization, and its Notable Architects grant with 50 recipients is a jubilee award for its 50th year celebration. 

(Photos courtesy of Roy John De Guzman)