To provide innovative design solutions and compassionate care, aspiring Filipino artists renovated the spaces of the Positive Action Foundation Philippines Inc. (PAFPI), a non-government organization that offers medication and more for people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Established in 1998 by Founding President Joshua Formentera, the HIV shelter, located in San Andres Bukid in Malate, Manila, grants free antiretroviral treatment and other support services to individuals with HIV and their concerned families.
Dubbed as Project Alpas, the rehabilitation initiative aims to restore the PAFPI facilities into a dedicated home with comfortable and secure furnishings to nurture better wellness and health.
The project was spearheaded by the students of the Interior Design Program from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) School of Environment and Design (SED).
To ensure the safety of its patients, the PAFPI’s testing and recuperating areas were integrated with acoustic padding, curtain screens, chairs, desks, and shelves. These are selected to uphold privacy during confidential conversations.
The working stations were likewise refurbished to accommodate additional storage for important files and documents. The layout of wooden partitions, with tables and cozy chairs was created to support flexible productivity.
The waiting lounge, on the other hand, was designed with accent seats to foster calmness and tranquility among guests.
The center was equipped with effective ventilation systems. It is also equipped with designated sanitary stations to enhance cleanliness and hygiene. To cultivate an eco-friendly experience, indoor plants were placed to stimulate a vibrant and sustainable environment.
The team of young creatives was comprised of Athina Ababafha, Kristel Azada, Lyka Bayoca, Kaia Mikaela Berena, Lord Andrei Colby Braga, Mary Margareth Calvo, Lianna Eunice Chua, Sophia Katrina Chua, Shanne Glyndel Dandan, Cheska Domingo, Hateya Christiane Damole, Lyra Gaye Dela Rosa, and Rhoda Lorie Dumaligan.
Completing the roster were Maria Rocio Gonzales, Bea Victoria Negre, Angela Palagnas, Miguel Angelo Palma, Edrian Glen Propalde, Frances Allysa Ramos, Aliya Josianne Raymundo, Adrian Kenneth Salazar, Krishaine Serrano, Manuel Sy IV, Derick Vigilla, Caitlin Villacruz, Alexandra Sophia Villanueva, and Melani Wang.
They facilitated educational campaigns to raise awareness about HIV and promote measures for its avoidance.
“Project Alpas envisioned a united society that is driven by panic prevention and social stigma mitigation through adequate awareness about HIV,” the group shared.
They likewise hoped to abolish discrimination among HIV-positive persons and encourage candid HIV screening in the community.
To strengthen community empowerment and fund their restoration strategies, they organized bazaars and merchandise sales of basic shirts, lanyards, tote bags, and stickers. They also mounted fundraising events such as gigs.
Under the guidance of industry practitioner and Benilde educator IDr. Randy Pabona, the students likewise held an exhibit to showcase their concepts, journey, and construction process at S Maison in Conrad Manila.
Learn more about Project Alpas at facebook.com/projectalpas.2024.