Written by Roselle Aniceto
From the rigorous classrooms of the University of Baguio Science High School to the top ranks of the professional architectural world, Ar. Hans Icasiano Gaviola’s journey is a masterclass in foundation, teamwork, and independent thinking. A proud graduate of the BS Architecture program, Hans recently achieved a monumental milestone, placing in the Top 10 of the June 2026 Licensure Examination for Architects. Today, he brings his vision to life as an Architect at Ninety Design Studio, demonstrating how the seeds planted during his time at Science High have grown into a thriving, impactful career.
Reflecting on his time at Science High, Hans points to the rich diversity of teaching styles as a major catalyst for his growth. “I appreciated how every teacher had their own individual approaches towards teaching; some were demonstrators, some were lecturers, some were delegators, and some were facilitators,” Hans shares. This pedagogical variety fostered a holistic development that he relies on heavily today. The learner-oriented approaches he experienced as a student have now transitioned into his own professional life, shaping how he guides and mentors design interns at his studio.
Architecture is rarely a solo endeavor; it requires seamless collaboration between designers, engineers, builders, and clients. Hans learned the essence of this dynamic early on during his first and only Survival Camp at Science High. “To be honest, the entire program felt like a game show, except that you were the contestant and not the viewer,” he recalls. The intense emphasis on communication to survive and accomplish tasks left a permanent mark. “This ‘all for one, one for all’ mindset has shaped my professional outlook by looking at accomplishments and setbacks alike as a team effort, and not the work of a single person.”
Though Hans joined the Science High community as a transferee student during Senior High, the core values of the school resonated deeply with him. He admired the tradition of using respectful terms like Manong, Manang, and Ading to bridge different batches. Today, Hans translates that innate courtesy into the construction site and the boardroom. In his workplace, he replaces rigid hierarchy with genuine connection, addressing older officemates as Kuya and Ate, site laborers as Boss and Fore, and clients as Sir and Ma’am. “Given all the titles and terms of endearment to which I could address others, I find that taking the time to remember people’s names is the best thing one could do to acknowledge another’s presence and make them feel important,” Hans emphasizes.
If there is one definitive toolkit Science High handed Hans, it is the ability to solve problems from multiple angles using reason, evidence, and experience rather than just following trends or public opinion. “My field in architectural design and construction has demanded of me a rigorous amount of strategic planning and iteration,” Hans says. He credits the school for giving him the mental agility required to navigate these complexities, ultimately paving the way for his recent board exam success and professional achievements. Through deep-rooted friendships that have turned into professional collaborations, and a sharp, analytical approach to design, Ar. Hans Gaviola continues to build a legacy that makes the University of Baguio Science High School immensely proud.
Ar. Hans Gaviola’s achievements demonstrate a powerful connection between Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education and Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By utilizing the diverse, critical-thinking foundation he received at the University of Baguio Science High School, Hans is actively contributing to the creation of safe, inclusive, and resilient environments through his work at Ninety Design Studio. In doing so, he ensures the cycle of learning continues, transforming the quality education of his youth into sustainable design solutions that build better communities for tomorrow.
