Witness design rooted in empathy and empowerment with APOH (Awakening the Pride of the Olden Hope), a student-led Service-Learning Project by the Interior Design Students of De La Salle College of Saint Benilde Batch 2024. APOH’s week-long culminating exhibit of this journey entitled, KALINGA: Community Ties, was held last August 5 to August 11 at Building A, 4/F Activity Center Railings Ayala Mall Manila Bay! In partnership with their main beneficiary from the Magsilay Community in Kalinga Province, they aim to nurture pride and care among the elderly residents through a designated
Senior Citizen Center.
Mirroring the Filipino term of “Kalinga” which means “to care”, while “Community Ties” celebrates the deep connections and relationships forged between APOH and the Magsilay Community. Serving as a testament to the successes, opportunities and challenges the team has knotted together, Team APOH shares this celebration with the De La Salle Brothers Inc. – Social Unit, Benilde Service Learning Unit, the Magsilay Community, sponsors, media partners and supportive families who have been instrumental in championing this project into success.
The official commencement of the culminating exhibit took place last Monday (August 5, 2024) and was open to the public from August 6 until August 11. Visitors were welcomed to explore the journey of APOH’s successes and efforts, while encouraged to engage in various interactive mural activities.
The culminating event began with a warm welcome and an acknowledgment speech led by APOH’s Program Committee Members, Coleen Dualan and Gabie Ebdane. Opening remarks were delivered by Ar. Harvey A. Vasquez, Dean of the School of Environment and Design (SED), alongside other Benildean administrators such as Mr. Andyo R. Abusmas, Deputy Director of De La Salle Philippines (DLSP) Social Action Unit; Ms. Joyce Camille Dominguez, Service Learning Unit Head; and Ms. Katherine Anne Correa, Interior Design Program Chairperson.
The formal introduction of the APOH 2024 Project followed, presented by Project Managers Donna B. Bihasa (BS-IND, ID120) and Jasmine B. Tan (BS-IND, ID118), who elaborated on the exhibit’s purpose, advocacy, and the community it has profoundly touched. Representing the Magsilay Community, Mr. Walter Jensen delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech on behalf of his region. Certificates of appreciation were then presented to the Magsilay Community, De La Salle Philippines, the Service Learning Unit, as well as notable partners, sponsors, and media partners.
The event proceeded with the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the official opening of the exhibition to the public. Following this, Team APOH’s Project Advisers, IDr. Karol Antonio and IDr. Randy Pabona, delivered the closing remarks. The inaugural program wrapped up with a performance by a guest artist, which was succeeded by an exhibit viewing and a cocktail dinner for students and performers. The first day of the Culminating Exhibit concluded with a group photo session to celebrate the event.
As guests wandered through the exhibit, they engaged with various interactive booths. Activities included painting on canvases, jotting down memories of their grandparents in an open forum notepad, writing letters to their lolos and lolas, and using colored ties to rate the exhibit. Throughout the evening, invited performers entertained the crowd with live music, adding to the ambiance as attendees explored the installations and enjoyed the food and drinks. The culinary experience featured an open buffet by Chef Lorenzo, offering an array of finger foods and a street-food style ‘Tusok-tusok’ bar.
Rooted in their mission to work forward through compassion and creative collaboration, the exhibit proudly presented the journey of APOH, the stories and culture they’ve honored from their elders – all through the pursuit of design and collaboration.
Join Team APOH in promoting Magsilay’s culture and revitalizing community pride! Your support and donations are appreciated.
APOH 2024’s Project Primer: https://bit.ly/3Wcl7kV
DONATE HERE: http://bit.ly/DonateToAPOH
CARRD WEBSITE: APOH 2024
FACEBOOK: INTDXHI APOH 2024
INSTAGRAM: apoh.2024
TIKTOK: @apoh.2024
