EVERY year, Bedok Reservoir comes alive with the energy of Isang Bangkang Malaya (IBM), a dragon boat race that celebrates Philippine independence in Singapore. Organized by the Filipino Dragons (Singapore), IBM is more than just a race. It’s a celebration of freedom, unity, and the Filipino spirit. The event brings together Filipino groups, local teams, and international paddlers in a fun and meaningful show of strength, pride and community.
Held at Bedok Reservoir, the IBM 2025 edition welcomed the participation of the United Architects of the Philippines Singapore Chapter (UAPSG), who proudly paddled not just as professionals but as patriots.
The team underwent several focused training sessions leading up to the big day, balancing their demanding schedules while staying committed to representing the chapter in this event.
“Isang Bangkang Malaya,” which translates to “One Boat of Freedom,” captures the essence of this annual race. For UAPSG, joining IBM was more than just a sporting event — it was an expression of unity, discipline, and national pride. Each stroke they paddled symbolized the values they hold dear: teamwork, resilience and a shared love for country.
Team UAP Singapore (Boat No. 3) during the 200-meter race. PHOTO BY AR. ROGER RIGONAN.
The UAPSG team extends its heartfelt gratitude to the UAP Singapore Chapter Board of Directors, led by our Chapter president, Ar. Rommel Agno, for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout the race preparations. Special thanks go to Ar. Roger Santos and Ar. Jake Santiago, head of the Sports Committee, whose leadership and coordination made the team’s participation possible.
Beyond the paddles and race day efforts, the team is grateful for the simple yet meaningful contributions, like preparing eggs, bananas, bread, buns, and even Jollibee, that kept everyone fueled and energized.
Over the years, UAPSG has grown not just as a team of architects but as a true family. This year’s race was made even more special with the participation of families and friends, who have been warmly welcomed as part of the team. Together, we celebrated not only the sport but also the strong bonds of camaraderie and community that continue to define UAPSG.
Racing alongside fellow kababayans, the team embodied the Filipino value of bayanihan. They proved that even in a foreign land, the Filipino spirit remains strong, collaborative, competitive, and full of heart. Win or lose, they paddled with purpose, pride and passion.
In true architectural fashion, they built more than just momentum on the water: they built bridges of connection within the Filipino community and reinforced the foundations of unity and cultural pride.
Ar. Hannah Dalida is a BS Architecture graduate from the University of Santo Tomas and currently works at Berjaya Buildcon Pte. Ltd. in Singapore. She serves as the committee head for Young Architects (FY 2024–2025) and was recently appointed as committee head for both UAP Publications and the Committee on Competitions and Awards for FY 2025–2026 under the UAP Singapore Chapter.
