The 2026 Chapters Regional Conference (CRC) brought together ASHRAE members, chapter leaders, students, volunteers, and industry professionals from across Region XIII for two days of technical learning, leadership development, collaboration, and fellowship. Hosted by the ASHRAE Philippines Chapter on August 14–15, 2026, at the Marriott Manila Newport World Resorts in Pasay City, Philippines, the conference carried the theme “Resilient by Design: Technology-Driven Buildings for a Changing Climate.”
The conference provided a regional platform for chapters to exchange knowledge, share experiences, strengthen chapter operations, and build connections across borders. Participating chapters from across Region XIII contributed to a diverse gathering that reflected the breadth of ASHRAE's professional community in the region.
The CRC activities began on August 13 with the Region XIII Fun Golf, bringing together delegates for an afternoon of friendly competition and fellowship. With nine flights participating, the event offered an informal opportunity for members from different chapters to meet and reconnect before the formal conference.
Despite the rainy weather and muddy course conditions, participants continued to enjoy the game and camaraderie. The experience captured the relaxed and welcoming spirit of the CRC and provided an early opportunity for delegates to build friendships.
“Even though it is rainy, it is muddy, but it is fun.”
— Herlin Herlianika, ASHRAE Region XIII Electronic Communications Regional Chair
Congratulations to all the winners and participants of the Region XIII Fun Golf!
Following the golf activities, delegates gathered for the CRC Welcome Reception, officially welcoming participants from across Region XIII to the Philippines. The evening featured welcome messages from DRC Ong Ching Loon, CRC General Chair Edwin Raganit, ASHRAE Philippines Chapter President Mark Lester Salvador, and ASHRAE President Sarah E. Maston.
Birthday celebrants were also recognized during the evening, adding a personal and celebratory element to the gathering. Beyond welcoming delegates, the reception created an opportunity for members to meet, reconnect, and establish friendships before the formal conference began.
“This gives us the opportunity to connect, learn and build friendships before the conference starts.”
— Mark Lester Salvador, ASHRAE Philippines Chapter President
The warm reception was also reflected in the comments of Lucas Lam from the Macau Chapter, who shared that the experience was “much more than we ever expected,” particularly highlighting the hotel and venue.
The first official day of CRC 2026 brought together Society leadership, Region XIII officers, chapter delegates, students, and industry professionals for a full program of technical and leadership activities.
During the Presidential Luncheon, ASHRAE President Sarah E. Maston formally opened the CRC and shared her personal journey within ASHRAE and the inspiration behind the Society Year theme, “Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience.”
Drawing from her passion for sports, President Maston connected the spirit of sports with ASHRAE's work, emphasizing adaptability, teamwork, and the willingness to approach challenges differently. A symbolic soccer moment with VP Blake Ellis added an energetic touch to the opening and brought the sports-inspired theme to life.
Technical learning remained a central component of CRC 2026, with experts sharing perspectives on critical HVAC&R topics.
Cesar Luis dL. Lim, PME, MBA, FASHRAE
The session explored considerations in the design and application of refrigeration systems in tropical environments. The discussion provided delegates with technical perspectives relevant to the climatic conditions experienced across much of Region XIII.
Wei Sun, P.E.
The session examined HVAC design considerations for healthcare environments where airborne infection control is a priority. It highlighted the importance of appropriate ventilation and system design in supporting controlled indoor environments and safer healthcare facilities.
William P. Bahnfleth, Ph.D., P.E.
The session explored the role of thermal energy storage in sustainable building energy systems. The discussion highlighted opportunities to improve energy management and support more flexible and resilient building operations.
The CRC also provided a dedicated platform for students to engage with industry practitioners, Society leadership, and fellow ASHRAE members.
Arch. Alfredo “Freddy” Bautista, UAP, GREEEN ADP, GREEN AP presented Green Retrofit: How Existing Buildings Can Become Resilient, Efficient and Future-Ready, introducing students to approaches for improving existing buildings through green retrofitting.
Engr. Dennis Alejandro, PE, LEED AP discussed HVAC-R Challenges in the Era of Global Warming, highlighting the evolving challenges facing HVAC&R professionals and the need for efficient, sustainable, and resilient solutions.
ASHRAE President Sarah E. Maston also presented the Society's 2026–2027 theme, Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience, encouraging students to embrace adaptability and innovation.
The student program also featured Engr. Lyka Kryzjielle M. Mauban, who presented her ASHRAE Thesis Equipment Grant Report, and Dr. Manuel Belino, who discussed the K–12 Programs of the ASHRAE Philippines Chapter, highlighting opportunities to encourage younger generations to explore engineering and STEM.
Beyond the technical program, the CRC provided opportunities for chapter leaders and delegates to discuss regional initiatives and chapter development.
Business Session 1 featured regional updates, including an introduction to ASHRAE 360 by Blake Ellis and discussions on fundraising and Research Promotion led by Kirstin Pilot. Business Session 2 and the CRC Review Meeting later provided opportunities for delegates to reflect on the conference and discuss continued chapter development.
The second day featured committee workshops covering Research Promotion, CTTC, EC&W, YEA, Membership Promotion, Student Activities, Government Affairs, Refrigeration, Treasurer, and Chapter Operations and PAOE. These workshops encouraged representatives from different chapters to exchange experiences, share practices, and strengthen collaboration throughout Region XIII.
The Women in ASHRAE session provided a more informal setting for women members to meet, introduce themselves, and share experiences within the Society. The conversational format encouraged connection and relationship-building among women from different chapters and professional backgrounds, with support and participation from members across the organization.
The Industry Roundtable Discussion brought delegates and industry professionals together to exchange perspectives on current developments, challenges, and opportunities within the HVAC&R field.
The day concluded with the CRC Banquet Dinner, bringing together delegates, students, chapter leaders, and industry professionals for an evening of celebration and fellowship. Students from participating chapters took part in a friendly performance competition, with the South Korea Chapter students emerging as winners after presenting original ASHRAE-themed lyrics inspired by familiar songs and incorporating references to ASHRAE standards.
“We are not simply designing how buildings work; we are shaping how people will live, work and thrive. This is why gatherings like CRC matter.”
— Edwin Raganit, CRC General Chair
CRC 2026 concluded with the Host Chapter Luncheon, Chapter Operations and PAOE Workshop, Business Session 2, and the CRC Review Meeting. The closing activities provided an opportunity to reflect on the conference and recognize the dedication of ASHRAE members, officers, and volunteers.
DRC Ong Ching Loon emphasized the importance of recognizing members, officers, and volunteers who have upheld ASHRAE's core values and contributed to the Society over the years.
The symbolic signing and exchange of a soccer ball and shirt among chapter delegates served as a fitting representation of the friendships and connections formed throughout the conference.
CRC 2026 ultimately demonstrated that regional collaboration extends beyond technical knowledge. It is built through shared experiences, open exchange, friendship, and a collective commitment to advancing the HVAC&R profession and the built environment.
