Building Pride Council Launches to Promote Inclusive Leadership in the Philippine Built Environment

Building Pride Council launches as new professional association promoting inclusive leadership and collaboration in the Philippine built environment.

MANILA — A new era of inclusive leadership and industry collaboration begins with the official establishment of the Building Pride Council (BPC), a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)-registered, non-stock, non-profit professional association dedicated to advancing diversity, professionalism, innovation, and collaboration across the construction, building, engineering, architecture, and design sectors.

Founding officers of the Building Pride Council during the organization's official launch in the Philippines.

Founded by industry professionals who believe that the future of the built environment is shaped by diverse perspectives and shared purpose, the Building Pride Council serves as a platform where professionals, organizations, and allies can connect, collaborate, and lead meaningful change.

The Council brings together architects, engineers, interior designers, developers, contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, planners, project managers, consultants, and allied professionals committed to building a stronger, more inclusive, and future-ready industry.

More than an organization, the Building Pride Council is a movement that promotes ethical leadership, professional excellence, innovation, mentorship, and meaningful collaboration. It advocates for safe, respectful, and empowering professional environments while creating opportunities for networking, learning, leadership development, and industry partnerships.

"The strongest foundations are built not only with concrete and steel, but with integrity, collaboration, and people who are empowered to lead," said Karlo Calleja, Founder and Chairman of the Building Pride Council. "Our vision is to unite professionals across disciplines, celebrate diversity, strengthen industry partnerships, and create a built environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute."

Building Pride Council founding members engage with event participants to discuss the organization's mission, professional collaboration, and inclusive leadership initiatives.

The Building Pride Council was established by its founding leadership composed of:

Karlo Calleja – Founder and Chairman, Industry & Partnerships
Ar. Harvin Julius Lasquero – Founding Director, Research, Innovation & Knowledge
Ar. Bejay Florendo – Founding Director, Membership & Professional Development
Engr. John Carlo Lopez – Founding Director, Advocacy & Policy

Together, they envision an organization that not only supports LGBTQIA+ professionals and allies but also welcomes every industry professional who believes in diversity, ethical leadership, collaboration, and excellence regardless of background, identity, or discipline.

The Council will roll out professional networking events, industry forums, learning sessions, advocacy campaigns, and strategic partnerships that promote inclusive growth throughout the Philippine construction and building industry, with a long-term vision of expanding collaborations across the Asia-Pacific region.

Call for Founding Board Members, Members and Strategic Partners

As part of its inaugural launch, the Council is currently inviting visionaries and collaborators to join its Founding Board of Directors and help shape the future of the organization. Opportunities are available for:

(1) Mechanical Engineer (ME)
(1) Electrical Engineer (EE)
(1) Electronics and Communication Engineer (ECE)
(1) Interior Designer

In addition, membership is now open to licensed professionals, aspiring practitioners, and students across the built environment, including:

Architects
Interior Designers
Engineers
Developers
Contractors
Project and Construction Managers
Business Leaders and Executives
Manufacturers and Suppliers
Allied Professionals and Industry Advocates
Students and Emerging Professionals

Founding Board Members will play a pivotal role in shaping the Council's strategic direction, governance, programs, and industry initiatives. They will help establish a lasting legacy by advancing inclusive leadership, strengthening professional collaboration, and driving positive transformation across the construction, building, and design industry.

Professionals, organizations, institutions, and companies that share the Council's vision are likewise invited to become strategic partners and collaborate in building a more innovative, inclusive, ethical, and future-ready built environment for the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region.