Filinvest City’s Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel in Alabang has been named the sole Philippine winner at the 2025 Urban Land Institute (ULI) Asia Pacific Awards for Excellence, one of the region’s most prestigious honors recognizing outstanding achievements in real estate and land development.

Chosen as one of only 14 winners out of 43 entries from across Asia-Pacific, the chapel’s recognition underscores Filinvest City’s continued commitment to building spaces that merge architectural innovation, sustainability, and community purpose.

The ULI Awards for Excellence—established globally in 1979—honor projects that exemplify best practices in land use across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. As the Philippines’ lone awardee this year, Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel stood out for its biophilic design, environmental integration, and its role as a spiritual and civic landmark in the heart of Alabang.

“This recognition from ULI Asia Pacific means so much to us—not just for the beauty of the Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel, but for what it represents,” said Don Ubaldo, Head of Townships at Filinvest Alabang, Inc.

“More than a landmark, it stands as a space of service and community. It affirms that we’re on the right path—creating places that bring people together and serve a greater purpose.”

Architectural harmony with nature

Designed by Japan’s Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP Architects, the chapel is a minimalist and nature-embracing sanctuary nestled on a hill within Filinvest City’s extensive green network. It connects seamlessly to the township’s Green System, a network of parks and open spaces designed to promote walkability, reflection, and inclusivity.

Adding to its artistry, the chapel’s eaves feature stained glass windows created by Helen Whittaker, Creative Director of Barley Studios in the United Kingdom, and crafted locally by Kraut Art Glass, the country’s oldest stained-glass manufacturer. Its furniture was produced by Cebu-based Pacific Traders, while the altar’s sculptures and cross were designed by Filipino artist Daniel Dela Cruz—a fusion of global artistry and Filipino craftsmanship.

Faith as a cornerstone of community

Since its opening in 2023, the Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel has become more than a place of worship—it has evolved into a beacon of community life. Beyond its religious services, the chapel has engaged in charitable partnerships, including support for Elsie Gaches Village, the country’s largest residential facility for children with developmental disabilities.

This vision aligns with Filinvest City’s “Live-Work-Play” philosophy, emphasizing the creation of sustainable, inclusive, and people-centered urban environments.

As the only Philippine project to win at this year’s ULI Asia Pacific Awards, the chapel’s achievement reflects Filinvest City’s leadership in forward-thinking urban development, demonstrating how architectural excellence can coexist with faith, inclusivity, and civic pride.