NAS 2026: Conversations in Space, Rooted in the Philippines

Celebrating 20 years of legacy and distinction, this year ARCHINET holds its 15th National Architecture Symposium. The NAS 2026  symposium will be held on May 2, 2026 at the Buenaventura Garcia Paredes O.P.  Building in the campus of the University of Santo Tomas, Manila. Many renowned professionals will converge into the Philippine scene this coming NAS 2026. The symposium features an exceptional lineup of distinguished architects and design professionals, including Ar. Abelardo Tolentino (Aidea Inc.), Ar. Saul Kim (Saul Kim Studio), Ar. Fumihiko Sano (Fumihiko Sano Studio), and Ar. Hua Li (Trace Architecture Office).

The speakers bring diverse expertise across multiple disciplines, offering fresh and inventive approaches that continue to push the boundaries of the architectural industry, with visionary designers such as Saul Kim exploring forms that challenge perception and construct speculative environments, and Fumihiko Sano reinterpreting the essence of place through craft-based design, exemplifying how architecture is continually reimagined.

Alongside them are vanguards and established figures who have shaped lasting legacies in the field, including Abelardo M. Tolentino Jr., founder of Aidea Inc. and a key force in advancing the Philippine architectural industry through BIM-driven design, and Hua Li, founder of Trace Architecture Office, known for a design philosophy that respects spatial and cultural context while producing refined forms.

As NAS progresses, it acknowledges its legacy in recognizing its previously featured and critically acclaimed guests, including Kengo Kuma, Takaharu Tezuka, Ken Yeang, Francine Houben, and Riken Yamamoto. The Symposium recognizes that continuing the architectural discourse is an important component in the development of the industry.

The Architecture Network (ARCHINET) is a non-profit student organization recognized by the College of Architecture of the University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines. Every year, Archinet plans events to bring outside ideas in and network students and professionals with the various avant-garde concepts of architecture. The culminating event is the annual National Architecture Symposium, where students and professionals from around the country participate and meet at this remarkable event to gain a novel perspective on the profession.