The College of Architecture and Fine Arts (CAFA) at Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (EARIST) is carving its place as a hub of innovation, thanks to a string of initiatives under Dean and architect Diane A. Jose.
Jose, who also heads the United Architects of the Philippines Manila Metro Chapter’s executive officers and board (2024–2026), has laid out plans that combine technology with traditional design, push sustainability, and expand outreach to give students real-world exposure.
“We want to build a place where creativity can grow,” Jose said, citing inspiration from her mentor and former CAFA dean, architect Fernando “Nanding” Pamintuan, who coined the slogan “Let Talents Thrive!”
EARIST CAFA students have consistently made their mark in major competitions, including Shell’s National Students Art Competition, Petron’s Vision National Student Art tilt, Metrobank’s MADE, ArchiNEXT, AYDA, Graphika Manila, UST’s On-the-Spot Painting contests, Manila Bulletin Sketchfest, and PASUC-NCR Festival.
The college has also showcased interior design excellence through the Estilo de Vida and American Standard contests, while thesis exhibits such as “Panday Diwa,” “Lipad,” and “Yugto” have highlighted its creative depth. Its annual “Likha ni Amang,” staged with SM City Sta. Mesa, further raised the profile of its young talents.
Behind the wins is a powerhouse faculty that includes NCCA executive committee member Dr. Esmeralda W. Ayag, ArcHive founder and award-winning coach Ar. Gerald Allan P. Adane, and artists-educators Prof. Wendel J. Candawan and Prof. Michael Jay Ramos. The roster also counts accomplished leaders such as Dr. Mary Ann B. Capilitan, Ar. Maundelito S. Florendo, Ar. Maria Lourdes de Vera-Francisco, top board passers Ar. Ulysses Eduardo B. de Guia Jr. and Ar. John Vincent Lopez, as well as art mentors Prof. Teresa J. Herrera and Prof. Rowena Jasmin-Macahiya.
CAFA’s push for growth has been matched by institutional milestones. The college secured Certificates of Program Compliance for BS Architecture, BS Interior Design, and BFA Painting & Visual Communication, became a founding member of the Philippine Architecture Schools Association (PhilASA), joined the Council of Interior Design Educators (CIDE), and launched Project HULMA with alumni and industry partners to upgrade its facilities.
CAFA’s creative output has also reached international stages, with interior design thesis projects showcased in Vietnam as part of its Asia-Pacific exposure.
Jose summed it up: “Our goal is to graduate not only skilled professionals but also responsible stewards of culture and the environment.”
