CEBU CITY — The next generation of visionary architects and real estate developers was in the spotlight, June 4-7, 2026, at the 31st CebuCon Build Expo. Architectural students from four Cebu universities received top honors for their groundbreaking thesis projects during the CebuCon Pasidungog Architecture Awards Year 3 at SM Seaside City Cebu Skyhall. The ceremony celebrated designs that directly address critical environmental issues, highlighting the vital link between innovative design and the future of sustainable real estate.
Students from the University of San Carlos, Cebu Institute of Technology‑University, Southwestern University PHINMA, and the University of Southern Philippines Foundation competed for the coveted awards. The top three thesis projects from each institution were honored, with the young designers receiving Gold, Silver, and Bronze trophies. They were accompanied by proud family members and school officials as they accepted their accolades.
Designs That Solve Environmental Challenges
The Pasidungog is a key highlight of CebuCon, Southern Philippines' longest‑running construction expo. Lilibeth Abais of LA Ducut Abais Innovations Inc and founder of CebuCon, emphasized the award's purpose. She noted it was conceived to recognize outstanding students who craft designs capable of solving pressing environmental challenges. This focus on sustainability is a core principle for the modern real estate industry.
The award‑winning theses are more than academic exercises; they are blueprints for a more resilient and eco‑friendly property sector. By tackling issues like climate adaptation and resource efficiency, the students' work directly informs the future of green building. This aligns with a growing demand in the real estate market for developments that minimize environmental impact while maximizing livability.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Builders
Dr. Jensen M. Racho, principal architect and CEO of Racho Architects, served as the event's inspirational speaker. His presence, along with other industry figures like Architect Paul Mikko Palacio of USPF, underscored the professional community's support for these emerging talents. They represent the innovative thinking required to push the real estate and construction industries forward.
Tristan JL Abais, President of LA Ducut Abais Innovations Inc, expressed his hope that the Pasidungog will ignite a passion for success in other architecture students. This encouragement is vital for cultivating a robust pipeline of talent ready to contribute to the Philippines' fast‑growing property landscape. By celebrating these students, CebuCon is investing in the future of Cebu's skyline and its sustainable, livable communities.
