Date 1.11.2023

Location Aklan Province, Philippines

Prof. Francesco Rossini recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the construction of the INFO-LAB, a prototype building designed to benefit the local Ati (Aeta) Community. The INFO-LAB will be a multifunctional three-story space that will host a range of educational and social activities for Aeta and Malay students, as well as residents of Brgy. Balusbos. This project represents a collaborative effort in applied design research, involving academia, professional institutes, the local government, and the local community. The construction of the INFO-LAB will incorporate energy-efficient technologies and locally available materials, further emphasising its sustainable approach.

INFO-LAB team consists of:

CUHK – Funding and design (Prof. Francesco Rossini)

POLIMI – Structure and material technology (Prof. Giuliana Iannaccone)

USJ / CURB – International applied research and implementation (Prof. Nuno Soares)

UAP – Project management and implementation (Architect Richard M. Garcia)

Municipality of Malay – Construction site (Mayor Floribal Bautista)

Malay College – Space management and maintenance (Dr. Jimmy Maming)

This prototype building aims to inspire and streamline the development and implementation of similar projects in the Asian region and globally. It is closely connected to the Master Architectural Design Studio led by Professor Rossini. Under his guidance, students will spend two semesters conceptualizing a series of projects aimed at enhancing the conditions of local communities in the Aklan Province, with a specific focus on the island of Boracay.

A special thanks goes to Prof. Edward Ng, whose contributions were instrumental in making this project possible. Without the funds provided by 1U1V, this initiative could not have been realised.