Philippine Institute of Interior Designers ushers in the future of design

The newly-elected PIID Board of Trustees marks a new chapter where Filipino interior designers are empowered as cultural innovators, environmental stewards, and healers of space. 

As they step into their roles, the newly-elected Board of Trustees of the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID) is clear about their mission. They begin, “Ultimately, we are a service organization that exists to support Philippine interior designers, elevate the professions, and shape an ecosystem.” 

In previous years, the collective has successfully introduced programs and initiatives that support and empower Filipino interior designers. “Collectively, our immediate goal is to continue and strengthen these existing programs,” states PIID National President Cecil Ravelas. “We endeavor to bring this to the next level while integrating wellness and innerwork.” 

The new board is bonded by a deep sense of alignment and a shared vision for uniting, healing and leading with soul. “The PIID prepares its members for the future of design, grounded on our past but guided by our present realities and empowered by current and emerging technologies,” they share. “We respond to the evolving needs of our members and society through the lens of conscious leadership.” 

They are keen on evolving and expanding existing programs, while setting their roots firmly on integrity, intention, and impact. For the PIID, all efforts are also designed to “reaffirm our identity as cultural innovators, environmental stewards and healers of space–shaping environments that restore harmony between people and planet.” 

PIID PROGRAMS FOR 2026

  1. Tiered Training Modules. The PIID endeavors to develop three progressive tracks specifically designed for: emerging professionals, senior professions and masterclass levels. “This ensures that members are supported, empowered, and future-ready at every stage of their design journey.” 
  1. Hybrid Learning. Online and mobile access to training sessions and workshops will also be made available, making it easier for members from various regions to participate. Just recently, the PIID launched the Design Stories podcast type platform that creates space for meaningful exchange. The board elaborates, “Ideas, value, and the stories behind design are explored while connecting fellow creatives. We invite both on-site and online participants.” Just last February 12, Design Stories welcomed guest speaker Ar. Sebastiano Cattiodora, Managing Director (for APAC Shanghai) of Vudafier Saverino Partners.  
  1. Shaping Future Interior Designers. The PIID also believes that it is important to support aspiring interior designers through close collaborations with educational institutions. The organization endeavors to aid in professional review programs, mentorship programs, and apprenticeship opportunities, building the confidence of young designers as they transition into practice. “We look to give graduating students access to practicing professionals, and real-world experiences, which bridges education and industry.” 
  1. Wellness By Design. In reinforcing the role of designers as healers of space, the PIID is set to launch special programs that focus on Conscious Leadership, Wellbeing, and Mental Health. “This also helps in safeguarding the welfare, resilience, and holistic health of our members.” 
  1. Deeper Engagement with Provincial Chapters. By collaborating closely with chapters in Cebu, Iloilo, and Mindanao, PIID Manila hopes to rediscover and immerse in local heritage and artisan industries across the archipelago.
  1. Professionalization of Craft. The Board continues the world started by previous terms to promote licensure, strengthen professional practice, and champion awareness for the Interior Design Code. They add, “More importantly, we will continue to educate the public on the vital role of licensed interior designers as designer leaders who build spaces that improve the quality of life, support wellbeing, and shape healthier and more sustainable environments.”
  1. An Expanded Manila Interior Design Summit (MIDS). When it comes to engaging partners and collaborators,  the organization has its sights on a wider range of multidisciplinary fields. This allows them to shape new environments and strengthen dialogues across design, architecture, industry, technology and the wider built environment community. 
  1. Setting The Stage for Global Filipino Interior Designers. Engaging Philippine interior designers with active practices abroad is on the pipeline for PIID. Through collaborative projects, knowledge exchange, and mutual support, the organization hopes to foster deep connection and sense of community among all Filipino design leaders worldwide.

MEET THE PIID BOARD OF TRUSTEES


IDr. Cecil Ravelas, National President, Founder of Red Interior Design

Innerwork and conscious leadership are defining pillars of Cecil’s leadership at the PIID. She shares, “Conscious leadership is the integration of mind and heart in order to drive higher purpose, foster healing, and nurture a strong sense of service for others. Stepping into this role, I envision a design community that regards itself as cultural innovators, environmental stewards, and healers of space. Innerwork is the first step to fulfilling these roles and  navigating the profession in a healthy way. During my campaign, younger designers would often ask me about how to manage difficult clients, stress, and the pressures of deadlines. This tells me that there is a need for this kind of work.”

Cecil sees the role of  designers as a calling to lead. She expounds: “ To spark conversations on mindful thinking and design not just among us in the practice but also for our clients. Every space that we co-create with our client holds the potential to heal.“  

IDr. Lorenzo Valencia III, National Vice President, LQV Interior Design Studio

Lorenzo shares the Board’s overall vision for continuity and  building momentum. “Our core platform should be centered on the members,” he emphasizes. 

“As National Vice President, I will focus on internal organizational matters, including membership concerns, activity sponsorships, and strengthening communication between chapters. I aim to support PIID’s mission by helping move the profession forward through education, accreditation, legal recognition, and public engagement. I will also continue to enhance our hybrid  programs to ensure accessible and relevant learning opportunities for members. ” 

Lorenzo’s work as Vice President is anchored on three pillars: “To champion designers by empowering them through professional development programs. To prioritize the holistic wellbeing of members through educational talks. To promote Community in Action, leveraging interior design’s transformative power through outreach initiatives.”

IDr. Iris Ocampo, Corporate Secretary, IEO Studio Inc. 

Iris regards her role as Corporate Secretary as an opportunity to champion positive change and innovation. “Being the Secretary allows for  impactful contributions toward the growth and enhancement of the Interior Design community. Through effective communication, collaboration, and innovation, I can significantly influence the direction and success of the organization while supporting its members’ professional development.”

She is enthusiastic about various PIID programs and initiatives currently in the pipeline: “These were designed to support fellow designers and elevate the standards for interior design in the Philippines. These include: continuous educational workshops, certification programs, networking and collaboration, sustainability and innovation, market research initiatives as well as legislative advocacy.” 

IDr. Honey Mutia-Cervantes, Treasurer, Desaurum Design Studio

“Design is more than aesthetic,” Honey, the PIID’s Treasurer, begins. “It’s about creating meaningful spaces, elevating communities, and shaping the future with purpose. I’m excited to bring fresh ideas, advocate for sustainable and inclusive design, and work with an incredible team to move our industry forward.”

She believes that wellness is a key driver for personal and professional growth. “We also want to delve further into mentorship, focusing on more interpersonal connections among members and industry partners.” 

As Treasurer, Honey understands that the job goes beyond budgets and numbers. “It’s also to protect, grow, and align the resources with the mission. I am entrusted to help evaluate the feasibility of projects, events or programs by providing financial insights to guide board decisions.  I am also tasked to align our mission by making sure that every peso supports our purpose and encourages value-driven budgeting. I will weigh creativity against feasibility, supporting plans that are inspiring yet realistic.” 

IDr. Doris Dy, Director for Conventions and Events, Design Director at AllValue Holdings Corp. 

Doris’ platform is all about creation, connection, and continuity. As she leads Conventions and Events for the PIID, she details, “My focus is on anticipating GMMs and events that are significant and impactful, focused on members’ growth and consistent with the Board’s mission.” These include training sessions, workshops, and seminars that support and empower member designers of the organization. 

For Doris, this new role  as a Director of Conventions and Events of PIID is a full circle moment. “I”m thrilled to collaborate with my fellow Board of Trustees, and to reconnect with one of my design mentors, Ivy Almario,” she says. “This time around, we are coming together for a shared mission. There’s an abundance of energy and positive intentions, and I’m eager to channel these to uplift and support the design community.” 

IDr. Mary Ann Venturina Bulanadi, Phd
Director for Professional Practice and Ethics, Faculty at the Interior Design Department of the University of Santo Tomas–College of Fine Arts and Design, Director for Research and Publication at the Council of Interior Design Educators

Mary Ann Venturina-Bulanadi, Ph.D. is a licensed Interior Designer, curator, academic, and heritage advocate. As the incoming Director for Professional Practice and  Ethics, she brings with her three decades of experience in interior design, curatorial practice, and cultural heritage conservation. 

She steps into her role as Director for Professional Practice and Ethics with a clear vision for Designing Forward. Maryann shares, “My role is to help ensure that our professional standards, ethical guidelines, and best practices reflect not only global excellence but also our distinct

Filipino identity. Professional practice and ethics form the foundation of a credible and respected profession, and it is through these that we express our values as designers and as Filipinos.” 

Maryann is eager and enthusiastic about working with a board that is shaped by healing, mutual trust, alignment, and collaboration. She adds, “I’m eager to work with the board to ensure that ethical standards, professional conduct, and best practices are not just guidelines, but lived principles that inform every aspect of design practice in the Philippines. I’m equally excited about the chance to bridge the gap between heritage and innovation–to honor our Filipino identity in design while equipping our professions to respond to contemporary challenges and global trends.” 

IDr. Joy Ejercito, Director for Finance, President of Legacy by Ejercito 

For the newly-elected Director of Finance, leadership is all about shaping systems that allow others to thrive. Joy begins, “Design is not only about creativity. It requires structure, accountability, ethics, and collaboration to succeed. Over the years, working across different scales of practice, I’ve learned that strong ideas need equally strong frameworks to turn vision into impact.”

She applies this system-oriented mindset to the Board especially where governance and policy-making are concerned.  “Having experienced the profession from the ground up, working closely with clients, consultants, suppliers, and young designers, I understand both the aspirations and the challenges faced by our members. This allows me to lead with clarity and empathy, and to help build initiatives that elevate professional standards while supporting designers at every stage of their journey.”  

She has her sights set on helping shape an intentional, empowering, and nurturing pathway for the next generation of interior designers. Joy concludes, “Mentorship and professional development are critical in ensuring that young designers don’t just enter the industry, but grow with confidence, competence, and a clear sense of purpose. I believe PIID can be a powerful guide in that journey. 

IDr. Nina Santamaria, Director for Professional Development, Principal Designer at Grupo Santamaria

Nina has always found joy in sharing her experiences and industry wisdom with other interior designers. As such, she regards her new role as the PIID’s Director for Professional Development a blessing. “I think my 22 years of design thinking, professional practice, and mentoring can contribute to the vision and mission of the PIID.” 

She is especially excited about the opportunity to connect and help mentor young, emerging interior designers. Nina ponders, “When I was a fresh graduate, I didn’t know where to ask for guidance, mentorship, or learn about contracts and business models in design firms. Imagine if we could come up with programs that could give IDr’s the confidence to design with excellence, coupled with knowledge on legal protection,  and the business skills to uphold the integrity of their practice? That would be my dream.” 

IDr. Ivy Almario, Director for Public Relations, President of Atelier Almario

Ivy is a key player in ensuring a smooth transition for the PIID’s incoming Board of Trustees. She is a presence that lends experience, wisdom, and context as a new chapter in the organization’s journey is being written. “We simply cannot go back or do a rest,” she intimates. “The last two boards were successful in establishing these programs and creating momentum for the organization. Our job now is to sustain this and take it to an even higher level.” 

Just the same, Ivy’s role as the new Director for Public relations, sets the tone for how the PIID will connect and communicate with its audiences both within and beyond the institution. “There is a holistic approach to how we want to continue what was started,” Ivy explains. “But more than continuity, our mandate is to ensure that we level up the professional standards and skills of our interior designers. This can be done through mentorship, guiding them as they navigate the many nuances of servicing clients or setting healthy boundaries. At the end of the day, it’s all about taking all of our members forward and upward.”  

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