Elevation to UAP College of Fellows; Alegria’s dedication and legacy
City Architect Marvin V. Alegria has been hailed as one of the top architects in the country as he was recognized as one of the newest member of the College of Fellows by the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP). The UAP College of Fellows is an elite circle that recognizes architects who have shown exemplary professionalism, leadership and have distinguished contributions in the fields of academe, government service, science and technology, all other fields under the architectural paradigm. The induction ceremony was conducted last April 2024, in Metro Manila.
Architect Alegria’s elevation to the UAP College of Fellows demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the principles and practice of architecture and the role it plays in the development of the city. His dedication as public servant became the primary factor to his selection over the other 280 participants from all over the country. Algeria who has been serving as the City Architect for 17 years, continuously work as one of the master planners behind the structural and economic progress of our developing city.
In an interview during the program “Tingog sang Pagsanyog”, Algeria dedicated the said prestigious recognition to his family who has been very supportive since the beginning of his career. Just like any other pathfinder, Arch. Alegria also rose from humble beginning. Youngest in the family with 6 other siblings, son to a carpenter and a house keeper, poverty has been his early life adversary. Despite the financial insufficiency, Arch. Alegria worked his way to the top. Equipped with talent, hard work and dedication, he was able to finish architecture at Rizal Technological University in Mandaluyong City. After working in various private architectural and academic institutions, in 2007, Architect Alegria was hired as the City Architect.
For 17 years, with the help of other government officials and employees, Architect Alegria has cemented his legacy through the creation of major architectural projects in the city. Some of the notable projects he and the other technical- workers have co-crafted include the City of Koronadal Integrated Transport Terminal Complex, the design of the ongoing construction of the new city’s two separate three-story buildings of Koronadal Supermarket Complex, the creation of transport route plan, urban landscaping and many other significant projects. In the future, Architect Alegria also gave a heads up about the future establishment of the City Museum and Convention Center.
Throughout his career, the architect has been driven by a strong desire to transform the city’s imagery into a perfect architectural masterpiece. Despite the unavoidable setbacks and challenges, this drive has pushed him to persevere in his field of practice. He also advised the next generation of architects to be bold in pursuing their dreams. That way, they may also be able to reach the pedestal of architectural excellence.
“Ang oportunidad nga ginatawag, kung maningkamot ka maabot lang gid na sya,” Architect Alegria said.