LELA: A Proposed Empowerment and Recovery Shelter for Abused Women

BS Architecture

John Rodney is an Architecture graduate of Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology recognized for his commitment to design excellence, research, and leadership. During his academic journey, he earned the Top 1 Best Thesis award alongside distinctions for Best Oral Presentation, Best in Visual Presentation, Best in Scale Model, and Leadership Awardee, reflecting his strong foundation in architectural communication and design innovation. Driven by an interest in conceptual design, visual storytelling, and sustainable architecture, he continues to explore design approaches that emphasize creativity, technical precision, and meaningful spatial experiences within the built environment.

Thesis Adviser

Ar. Richelle Joy is a highly versatile professional who uniquely integrates her dual expertise as a licensed Nurse and a licensed Architect, complemented by a Master of Business Administration. Her extensive background features contributions to landmark commercial projects, including the City of Dreams and Manila’s 5-Ecom Center, alongside advanced academic pursuits in Construction Technology and Management at TUP. Today, she balances her practice as a freelance architect with her role as an impactful faculty member at the NEUST College of Architecture, where she shapes the next generation of design professionals.

Thesis Adviser

Ar. Roxanne is an architect and educator whose work reflects a thoughtful balance of technical precision, contemporary design, and academic inquiry. With more than seven years of professional experience, her practice spans residential, commercial, hospitality, healthcare, and mixed-use developments, where she has contributed extensively in architectural drafting, construction documentation, and project coordination. Her approach to design is grounded in clarity, functionality, and refined spatial experience. A graduate of NEUST she is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Architecture major in Urban Design at the University of the Philippines.

Thesis Adviser

Ar. Mark Kenly is a Filipino architect, educator, and researcher whose work centers on sustainable urban design and architectural education. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Architecture from NEUST and completed his Master of Science in Architecture major in Urban Design and Urban Planning at the University of the Cordilleras. He currently serves as Instructor I at the NEUST College of Architecture and as Director for Education of the United Architects of the Philippines, Nueva Ecija Cabanatuan Chapter. With over seven years of professional experience, he has worked across architectural design, construction, and academic practice, previously serving as Junior Architect at Man + Arch and Site Architect at RPB Construction.

College Dean

“In a time when our country faces rapid urban change, environmental challenges, and the growing need for humane and sustainable spaces, architecture must become a catalyst for hope, resilience, and national transformation. As educators, designers, and builders of the future, let us continue to dream boldly, innovate fearlessly, and dedicate our craft to creating communities that inspire dignity, culture, and progress for every Filipino. Together, NEUST College of Architecture envisions to build not only structures, but a generation of architects who will lead with vision, compassion, and the courage to shape a better nation.’’

In a society where many women continue to suffer in silence, this study envisions a trauma-informed shelter facility in San Fernando that serves as a place of safety, healing, and renewed hope. Through thoughtful architectural planning, the design integrates therapeutic spaces, natural lighting, secure circulation, and calming environments that nurture emotional recovery and restore dignity among survivors and their children. More than a protective structure, the proposed shelter stands as a symbol of empowerment and resilience, highlighting the transformative role of architecture in rebuilding lives and fostering community reintegration.