Trivia about Juan F. Nakpil, National Artist for Architecture

Juan F. Nakpil, architect, teacher, and civic leader, is a pioneer and innovator in Philippine architecture. He has shared his outstanding talents and services in creating edifices, both private and public, that are conceptually well-designed and conscientiously executed. While mindful of contemporary design, Nakpil has always advocated a distinctive architecture reflective of Philippine traditions and culture.

He designed the-1937 International Eucharistic Congress altar, rebuilt and enlarged the Quiapo Church, and restored the national shrine that is Dr. Jose Rizal’s home in Calamba. He has invested in each of the edifices he designed the proud spirit of creativity which integrates strength, function, and beauty in the large or small buildings that are the country’s architectural heritage.

With the persistence of inspriation and genuine concern, he has led’ his colleagues in upgrading the standards of competence and practice in the profession and in the betterment of the educational courses for architecture; it is largely due to his zealous representation and efforts that private Filipino architects and engineers, by law, may now participate in the design and execution of government projects.

His firm, Juan F.Nakpil and Sons, is indicative of the creative Filipino family guided by a strong sense of cultural nationalism and generous participation in helping build an environment that is native to the temperament of the people, but at the same time embracing the demands of change from the rural to the urban way of life.

Pursuant to Proclamation No. 1144,dated 15 May 1973, and in recognition of his rare excellence and significant contribution to architecture, Juan F. Nakpil is conferred on June 12, 1973, Independence Day, as a National Artist.

Stamps featuring Juan F. Nakpil National Artist for Architecture