The University of the East College of Fine Arts, Architecture, and Design (UE CFAD) marked another milestone as its students made outstanding feats at the 20th Philippine Fine Jewelry Design Competition (PFJDC)!
Held last December 4 at Tanghalang Meycauañeo in the New Municipal Building of Meycauayan City, Bulacan, this prestigious event celebrated Filipino creativity and craftsmanship in jewelry design.
Second-year Visual Communication student Bridget D. Blas emerged as the Grand Winner in the Plain Gold/Silver Category for her uniquely designed “Golden Chirps” earrings (shown here). She was awarded a trophy, a certificate, and a ₱20,000 cash prize for her winning design, further solidifying UE CFAD’s reputation for excellence in design education.
Out of 25 preliminary winners, 13 talented UE CFAD students received recognition across various categories of the competition, and their exceptional designs were expertly prototyped and proudly displayed at the Meycauayan New City Hall Museum. This accomplishment highlights the College’s collective excellence, with three of its distinguished programs—Bachelor of Fine Arts major in Visual Communication, Bachelor in Multimedia Arts, and Bachelor of Science in Interior Design—represented among the elite circle of finalists.
The UE CFAD finalists at the 20th Philippine Fine Jewelry Design Competition (PFJDC) are as follows…
Formal Category: Samantha Denise D. Daluz (Visual Communication, 2nd yr.), Lois Andrea F. Galapia (Visual Communication, 3rd yr.) and Mailene L. Sta. Juana (Multimedia Arts, 3rd yr.).
Chic Category: Alliah Rachelle E. Millare (Multimedia Arts, 3rd yr.), Julianne Lynn R. Medecielo (Multimedia Arts, 3rd yr.), and Leniel Ashley S. Alvarez (Interior Design, 3rd yr.).
Wedding Category: Marinelle L. Bico and Uriel Allan Raphael D. Lazaro (both Visual Communication, 2nd yr.).
Plain Gold/Silver Category: Bridget D. Blas (Grand Winner; Visual Communication, 2nd yr.) and Edems Michael Daniel M. Templo (Multimedia, 3rd yr.).
Ethnic Category: Katherine B. Cenal (3rd yr.), Caryll Melody M. Flores (4th yr.), and Rustin Miel B. Delas Armas (3rd yr., all Interior Design).
These UE CFAD students’ competition journey began with an orientation on the contest mechanics held on September 13 at the UE Caloocan’s Chua King Ha Galleries, led by Prof. Ruby G. Sapaula, the College’s Department Chair for Fine Arts. Students were introduced to the competition guidelines by organizers Ms. Ricel Ramos and Ms. Rowena Rodriguez, with the support of Associate Dean Ronwell Jason L. Bacani and College Secretary Jan Michael H. De Olazo.
On November 6, the finalists participated in key events at the Meycauayan Jewelry Hub. During the Manufacturer Meeting, students collaborated with jewelry makers to transform their designs into stunning prototypes. Later that day, the Preliminary Winners Briefing prepared them for the final stages of the competition.
On December 4, the atmosphere was electric as UE CFAD representatives proudly claimed the grand prize in the Plain Gold/Silver Category. This remarkable feat was made possible through the unwavering dedication of the College’s esteemed faculty members, who provided steadfast guidance to the students throughout the competition. Key mentors included Prof. Ruby G. Sapaula, Fine Arts Department Chair and Competition Coordinator; IDr. Brigid A. Sarmiento, Department Chair for Interior Design; IDr. Angelo Cortes; Ar. William Cayanan Jr. for Interior Design; Prof. Rachel Ann Valbuena for Multimedia Arts; and Prof. Ellen D. Villanueva for Visual Communication. Their collective support exemplified the spirit of collaboration and excellence that defines UE CFAD.
During the awarding ceremony, Prof. Sapaula proudly accepted the certificate as participating university on behalf of UE CFAD, a moment that underscored the institution’s commitment to nurturing artistic excellence and empowering its students to shine on prestigious platforms.
Organized by the Meycauayan Jewelry Industry Association, Inc. (MJIA), the PFJDC highlights the rich tradition of Filipino artistry in jewelry. Featuring five categories, the competition rewards grand winners with not just a cash prize and a trophy but also the honor of having their designs displayed in MJIA exhibits.
This remarkable achievement by UE CFAD students and faculty reflects the College’s dedication to cultivating innovation, creativity, and collaboration.
Congratulations to all the winners and participants for bringing pride to the UE community and for showcasing Filipino talent on a grand stage!
Report by Assistant Professor Sapaula; portrait photo by AJ Balgos
#UniversityoftheEast
#UECFAD#UEFineArts#HomeofAchievers
#VisualCommunication#MultimediaArts#InteriorDesign
#WarriorWinners
#WarriorAchievers
#fUElingBrightFutures
#SaUEKaNa
#LetYourTomorrowBeginintheEast