A new design era unfolds for the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers, marked by its oath-taking ceremony for the 2024-2025 Board of Trustees on Feb. 6, 2024, at the historic Goldenberg Mansion in Malacañan grounds, Manila.
The ceremony, graced by First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos as the guest of honor, commenced with a valedictory speech by Maria Victoria Almario and a keynote address from Hon. Congressman Michael Romero, delivered by Sheila Romero.
"We are thrilled to welcome our new Board of Trustees, whose collective vision and passion for design will guide our organization into the future," said Almario. "As we confront pressing global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and environmental degradation, the PIID remains steadfast in its commitment to leveraging design as a force for positive change."
“The importance of the work of interior designers is to take full responsibility for the durability and safety of all the furniture and fixtures that are put into designs, especially in times of natural disasters,” Romero said. “With this threat at hand, it is high time that everyone be proactive in ensuring that the country’s infrastructures will be well equipped to deal with such a scenario.”
The oath-taking was administered by Philippine Regulation Commission Chairperson Sonia Santiago Olivares. She praised the newly appointed Board of Trustees for embracing their roles, signifying their dedication to excellence, creativity, and ongoing advancement in the realm of interior design.
“Together, we have the opportunity to shape a more sustainable, equitable, and beautiful world through the transformative power of design. With unity of purpose and unwavering determination, we will chart a course towards a brighter future for generations to come," Olivares said.
The PIID 2024 to 2025 Board of Trustees, recognized as the youngest in the organization’s illustrious 60-year history, epitomizes an ethos of innovation and progressive leadership. The newly-inducted board includes John Paolo Castro as president, Cynthia Marie Fernandez-Beltran as vice president, Jose Enrico Santiago as corporate secretary, Lorenzo Valencia III as treasurer, Rossy Anne Rojales as executive director for professional development, Carla Mae Leonor as executive director for public relations, Katherine Anne Correa as executive director for events, Christine Villamora as executive director for finance, and Ma. Carmen Lim-Regala as executive director for practice and ethics.
PIID President John Paolo Castro acknowledged the need to create environments that not only inspire and uplift but also withstand the test of time. “The world's eyes are upon the Philippines, anticipating what our creative talents can produce that will draw attention to our capabilities as a nation,” he said. “It is our mission to harness the boundless potential of Philippine interior design to not only captivate the world but also to inspire meaningful change and leave an enduring legacy for generations to come."
Castro continued, “As interior designers, it is time that we embrace inclusivity and foster collaboration. Let us take the lead in driving innovation by forging partnerships with various industries, including architects, furniture manufacturers, artisans, industrial designers, and all allied trades. Our expertise is a valuable resource that can enrich other sectors. Through these collaborations, we can cultivate fresh concepts and contribute substantially to society.”
During the momentous event, a special recognition was also bestowed upon Architect and Interior Designer Ed Calma, naming him as the Outstanding Professional of the Year. Renowned for crafting opulent residences in upscale Philippine communities, Calma has left a lasting impact through his invaluable contributions to Contemporary Philippine Architecture.