State of the UAP...from Page 22
but by the choices we make in the days and
weeks ahead. And may almighty God
grant us the wisdom to always make the
right choices for the Filipino architects.
In closing, I must say that success fol-
lows those who aim high and never stop
reaching. Let us go forward, together, in a
spirit of boldness, a spirit that has defined
the many generations of UAP leaders and
members, past and present, a spirit that will
once again lead us to a better tomorrow and
to that far journey.
Allow me to illustrate to you that each
one of us is like a single piece of a jigsaw
puzzle – we are unique, distinct, diverse,
colorful, and valuable because we have
been created this way. However, like a
jigsaw puzzle piece, we are designed to be
connected to other pieces, to fit together
into a larger UAP Community. And while
we have value individually, we find even
greater importance, meaning, and purpose
when joined together.
Imagine, then, UAP as a landscape
painting. We, members of the UAP com-
munity, are the artists, some of the best
artists available! Our task is to build on the
parts of UAP that are already excellent,
while remaining bold and creative as we
transform the wonderful painting that is our
beloved organization.
Some of you may ask: Is it really possible
for us to create a masterpiece? Do we have
the wherewithal to make UAP a great insti-
tution? It is indeed true that UAP faces many
challenges. The landscape is fiercely com-
petitive. We have to balance many compet-
ing demands for our resources. We do have
to make difficult choices and trade-offs. This
is particularly so as the challenges continues
to unfold.
But inspite of every challenges, the UAP
can be a leading professional organization if
we put our hearts and minds fully into it – if
we, as a community, wholeheartedly com-
mit to a vision that stretches us to surpass
ourselves. This will provide the impetus to
find new solutions, and the strength and
resources to address our challenges. Other-
wise, we would not do full justice to our true
potential. Otherwise, our painting would fall
short of what it could have become.
My dear colleagues, these were not my
accomplishments, these were not my mas-
terpieces. These are the achievements of
every UAP member who provide the same
passion for our organization and dedication
to the architecture profession that has made
UAP the wonderful place we know and
love.
Maraming salamat at hanggang sa ating
mahaba pang paglalakbay!
God bless us all!
UNITED ARCHITECTS OF THE PHILIPPINES
The Integrated and Accredited Professional Organization of Architects
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