Republic of the Philippines

Professional Regulation Commission

Manila

BOARD OF ARCHITECTURE
Resolution No. 02
Series of 2006

ADOPTION AND PROMULGATION OF THE CODE OF ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR

REGISTERED AND LICENSED ARCHITECTS AND FOR HOLDERS OF TEMPORARY/
SPECIAL PERMITS UNDER R.A. NO. 9266, KNOWN AS “THE ARCHITECTURE ACT OF
2004”

Pursuant to section 7 (g). Article II of R.A. No. 9266, known as the “Architecture Act of 2004”, cited
as IRR of the Architecture Act of 2004”, the Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture
(hereinafter- called Commission), resolves, as it is hereby resolved, to adopt and promulgate the
hereunder Code of Ethical Conduct for Registered and Licensed Architects and for holders of
temporary/special permits under the said R.A. No.9266 and Board Res. No. 07 as Prescribed and
issued by the United Architects of the Philippines, Inc. (UAP), the Integrated and Accredited
Professional Organization of Architects (IAPOA) in the Philippines by virtue of Board Res. No. 03,
Series of 2004 as approved by the Commission.

Article I – GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section 1 – Traits of Architects

The profession of Architecture calls for men and women of the highest, responsiveness, business
acumen, sensibility, as well as artistic and technical ability.

Section 2 – Duties and Responsibilities

The Architect’s honesty of purpose must be beyond reproach; he/she acts as professional adviser to
his/her advice must be unprejudiced; he/she is charge with the exercise of meditation and conciliation
functions between Client and Contractor and must act with entire impartiality; he/she has moral
responsibilities to his/her professional associates and subordinates; and he/she is engaged in a
profession which carries with it grave responsibilities to the public. These duties and responsibilities
cannot be properly discharged unless his/her motives, conduct, sense of moral values, sensitivity, and
ability are such as to command respect and confidence.

Article II – THE ARCHITECT’S RESPONSIBILITIES IN RELATION TO THE PEOPLE

Section 3 – Relations with the Public

The Architect is engaged in a profession which carries with it civic responsibilities towards the public,
whether such responsibilities are the natural outcome of good citizenship or of his/her professional
pursuit, or whether they partake of informative and educational matters or of his/her normal interest in
public welfare; and, accordingly, he or she

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3.1 shall respect and help conserve the system of values and the natural, historic, and cultural
heritage of the community in which he/she creates architecture. He/she shall strive to improve the
environment and the life and habitat within it in a sustainable manner, fully mindful of the effect of
his/her work on the widest interest of all those who may reasonably be expected to use the product of
his/her work.

3.2 shall promote the interest of his/her professional organization and do his/her full part of the
work to enhance the objectives and services of the organization. He/she should share in the
interchange of technical information and experience with the other design professions and the
construction industry.

3.3 as a good citizen shall abide by and observe the laws and regulations of the government and
comply with the Code of Ethical and the Standards of Professional Practice. He/she at all times
endeavor to properly observe the laws on the practice of architecture and on the planning and design
of buildings and their environs. He/she shall at no time act in a manner detrimental to the best interest
of the architectural profession.

3.4 shall not use paid advertisement, nor use self-laudatory, exaggerated, or misleading publicity.
However, he/she may, in the context of advancing public knowledge of the Architect’s function in
society, as well as of the architecture itself, opt to write books, be a regular columnist of a publication,
or be a contributor to the preparation of any other literature, or actively participate in any forum,
seminar, workshop, or similar assemblies through or visual presentations and in the process, show
his/her own true worth as a professional, in which case he/she may receive remuneration or
honorarium for such undertakings.

3.5 shall not solicit, nor permit to solicit, in his/her name advertisements or other support towards
the cost of any publication presenting his/her work. He/she shall refrain from taking part in paid
advertisement endorsing any materials of construction or building equipment.

3.6 shall not deceive the public as to his/her professional competence, nor claim any professional
specialization unless supported by the academic qualification, track record on relevant expertise,
professional resources available to him/her which will enable to handle the work particularly requiring
such specialization and sanction by his/her peers in the profession.

3.7 may exhibit his/her professional shingle outside his/her office, or display a project billboard
indicating relevant information, which may include pictorial reproduction thereof, in a modest
manner.

Article III - THE ARCHITECT’S RESPONSIBILITIES IN RELATION TO HIS/HER

CLIENT

Section 4 – Relations with the Client

The Architect’s relation to his/her Client is dependent upon good faith. To ensure the continued
existence of such state of good relationship, the Architect’s position carries with relationship, the
Architect’s position carries with it certain moral obligation to his/her Client and to himself/herself.
The Architect shall always endeavor to protect the Client interests but never at the expense of higher
public interests and public welfare; and, accordingly, he/she
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4.1 shall introduce to a prospective Client the professional services he/she is able to perform
provided it is limited to the presentation of example of his/her professional experience and does not
entail the offering of free preliminary sketches or other services without the benefit of an agreement
with the Client for legitimate compensation.

4.2 shall acquaint or ascertain from the Client, at the very inception of their business relationship,
the nature and scope of his/her services and properly inform the Client of the corresponding
professional fees.

4.3 shall advise a Client against proceeding with any project whose practicability may be
questionable due to financial or legal important and/or exigent conditions, even if such may mean the
loss of a prospective commission to the Architect.

4.4 shall explain the conditional character of estimates and in no case shall he/she guarantee any
estimates or cost of the work in order to secure a commission, unless provided for by law, as in certain
government projects.

4.5 shall consider the needs and stipulation of his/her Client and the effects of his/her work upon
the life and well-being of the public and the community as a whole, and shall endeavor to meet the
aesthetic and functional requirements of the project commensurate with the Client’s budget.

4.6 shall bill his/her Client for services rendered a professional fee commensurate with the work
involved and with his/her professional standing and experience based upon the Basic Minimum Fee
prescribed under the “Standards of Professional Practice”.

4.7 shall undertake the construction of a project even when plans were prepared by him/her it
conforms with pertinent sections of the “Standards of Professional Practice”.

4.8 shall be compensated for his/her services solely his/her professional fee billed directly to the
Client. He/she shall not ask for any other returns in whatever form from any interested source other
than the Client.

4.9 shall be free in his/her investment and business relations outside of his/her profession from
any financial or personal interest which tend to weaken his/her standing as an unprejudiced and honest
adviser, free to act in his/her Client’s best interests. If the Architect has any other business interest/s
which would relate to or affect the interest of the Client, he/she should inform the Client of such a
condition or situation.

4.10 shall include in his/her agreement with the Client a clause providing for negotiation,
mediation/conciliation and/or arbitration as alternative methods for the settlement of disputes.

4.11 shall carry out his/her professional work without undue delay and within an agreed reasonable
time limit.

4.12 shall keep the Client informed at all times of the progress of the work undertaken on the
Client’s behalf and of any issue that may affect project quality and cost.

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 Article IV - THE ARCHITECT’S RESPONSIBILITIES IN RELATION TO THE
CONTRACTOR

Section 5 – Relations with Contractor

The Contractor depends upon the Architect to safeguard fairly the Contractor’s interests as well as
those of the client; and, accordingly he or she

5.1 shall give the Contractor every reasonable assistance to enable him/her to fully understand
the contents of the Contract Documents by furnishing clear, definite, and consistent information on all
pertinent contract documents to avoid unnecessary mistakes that may involve extra costs to either the
Contractor or the Client.

5.2 shall not knowingly call upon the Contractor or remedy oversights or error in the Contract
Documents to the Contractor’s or the Owner’s financial disadvantage.

5.3 shall, immediately upon his/her personal knowledge and inspection, reject or condemn
material, equipment, or workmanship which is not in conformity with the Contract Documents in
order not to cause unnecessary delay and additional expense to the Contractor.

5.4 shall reject any offer of free professional engineering or allied design service/s, or receive any
substantial aid, gifts, commissions, or favors from any Contractor or Sub-contractor which will tend to
place him/her any kind of obligation to return such favors.

5.5 shall promptly inspect each phase of the work completed and if found according to the terms
of the Documents, issue the corresponding Certificates of Payment and the final Certificate of
Completion, respectively to the Contractor.

Article V - THE ARCHITECT’S RESPONSIBILITIES IN REALTION TO

MANUFACTURES, DEALERS, AND AGENTS

Section 6 – Relation with Manufactures, Dealers, and Agents

An exchange of technical information between the Architect and those who manufacture, supply, and
handle building materials or equipment is necessary and, therefore, encouraged and commended,
provided that: he/she

6.1 shall not solicit free professional engineering/allied design or other technical services from
manufactures or suppliers of building materials or equipment when these are accompanied by an
obligation detrimental to the best interest of the Client or which may adversely affect the Architect’s
professional opinion.

6.2 shall not seek commissions, discounts, fees, gifts, or favors from agents or firms handling
building materials or equipment which may place him/her in a reciprocal frame of mind. All market
discounts shall be credited to the Client.

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 Article VI - THE ARCHITECT’S RESPONSIBILITIES IN REALATION TO HIS/HER
COLLEAGUES AND SUBORDINATES

Section 7 – Relations with his/her colleagues and subordinates (his/her big and small brothers/sisters)

The Architect has moral responsibilities towards his/her profession, his/her colleagues, and his/her
subordinates; and, accordingly, he or she

7.1 shall not render professional services without a professional service agreement. He/she
neither offer nor provide preliminary services on a conditional basis prior to definite agreement with
the Client for the commission of the project.

7.2 shall abide by the Basic Minimum Fee prescribed under the “Standards of Professional
Practice”. He/she shall not use donation of professional services as a device for obtaining competitive
advantage except for worthy civic or religious projects. Neither shall he/she submit solicited or
unsolicited sketches or drawings in competition with other Architects unless such competitive
arrangements are conducted substantially under the terms of the Architectural Competition Code.

7.3 shall not, in any case, enter as competitor in any Architectural Competition when he/she has
direct involvement in the formulation of the Program thereof, or when he/she has been engaged to act
as Professional Adviser or Juror for such competition. Neither shall the Architect accept and act as
professional adviser or juror in any architectural competition when he/she has had information or has
reviewed or assisted in the preparation of such competition. Nor shall be retained as a professional
adviser in a competition, accept employment as an Architect for that competition project, except as
Consulting Architect.

7.4 shall not, under any circumstances or through any means, solicit any project already known to
him/her previously committed to another Architect, whether such a commitment is still in the process
of negotiation or has already been definitely agreed upon.

7.5 shall not undertake a commission for which he/she knows that another Architect has been
previously employed unless he/she notifies the other Architect of the fact in writing and has
conclusively determined that the original employment has been terminated and duly compensated for.

7.6 shall not undertake a commission for additions, rehabilitation, or remodeling of any erected
structure undertaken previously by another Architect without duly notifying him of the contemplated
project even when the Client/Owner is no longer the same. When the greater mass, area, or design of
the original structure is substantially maintained, the new Architect should limit his/her advertisement
or claim only to the extent of the specific work he/she has done to the structure. Whenever the nature
of work involved examples of our architectural heritage, the Architect must look at all possibilities of
restoration.

7.7 shall not maliciously or unfairly criticize, or discredit another Architect or the latter’s work.

7.8 shall refrain from associating himself/herself with, or allowing the use of his/ her name by
any enterprise that may negatively affect himself/herself or the architectural profession.

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7.9 shall not affix his/her signature and seal to any plans or professional documents prepared or
entities and not done under his/her direct personal supervision.

7.10 shall provide employees and subordinates with a suitable work environment, compensate
them fairly, and facilitate their professional advancement. He/she shall tutor and mentor the young
aspirants towards the ideals, functions, duties, and responsibilities leading to the ethical practice of the
architectural profession.

7.11 shall unselfishly give his/her share in the transfer of technical knowledge and experience to
his/her colleagues and young aspirants and do his/her part in fostering unity in the furtherance of the
profession.

7.12 shall unselfishly give his/her time and effort to the advancement of the profession thru his/her
active and personal commitment and involvement with the Integrated and Accredited Professional
Organization of Architects (IAPOA) and in undertaking specific advocacy work to ultimate benefit
the architectural profession.

7.13 shall ensure that the conduct of his/her professional practice abides by appropriate and
effective internal procedures, including monitoring and review processes, as well as sufficient
qualified and supervised staff to enable the firm to function efficiently.

7.14 shall neither appropriate the intellectual property of, nor unduly take advantage of the ideas of
another architect without express authority from the originating architect.

7.15 shall build his/her professional reputation on the merits of his/her own service and
performance and shall strive to continuously update his/her professional know how. He/she shall
recognize and give credit to others for professional work performed.

7.16 shall not, when offering services as an independent consultant, quote a fee without first
receiving an official invitation for him/her to do so. The Architect must have sufficient information on
the nature and scope of the project to enable him/her to prepare a fee proposal clearly indicating the
services covered by the fee in order to protect the Client and public from under-resourcing or
underpricing by some unscrupulous parties.

7.17 shall not undertake professional work unless the parties shall have clearly agreed in writing to
the terms of the architectural commission, to wit:

7.17.1 scope of work,

7.17.2 delineation of responsibilities,

7.17.3 any limitation of responsibilities,

7.17.4 fee or method of calculating it,

7.17.5 mode of alternative dispute resolution, and

7.17.6 any provision for termination.

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7.18 shall continue to raise the standards of aesthetic excellence, functional logic, architectural
education, research, training, and practice.

7.19 shall, as appropriate, promote the allied arts and contribute to the knowledge and capability of
the construction and industry.

7.20 if he/she possesses substantial information which leads to a reasonable belie that another
Architect has committed a violation of this code, shall file a formal complaint with the designed body.

7.21 if he/she is leaving his/her Architect-Employer shall not, without the permission of the latter,
take with him/her designs, drawings, data, or other relevant materials even if personally performed by
him/her. On the other hand, the Architect-Employer shall not unreasonably withhold such permission,
except when some confidentiality of any such documents must be reasonably protected.

7.22 shall not discriminate on grounds of race, national origin, age, gender, martial status,
religion, or any disability which would hinder the performance of his/her professional work.

Article VII - ARCHITECTS CREDO

Section 8 – Any registered and licensed architect shall recite with vigor, passion, and hope the
Architect’s Credo during special or important occasion, e.g., mass oath taking, IAPOA’s affairs,
PRBOA’s event. The Architect’s Credo shall be the following:

I shall work with this virtuous commitment: to exercise to the utmost my duty to myself, my country,
and my God.

I shall uphold the ideals, follow the norms of conduct of a noble profession, and endlessly endeavor to
protect and further its just ends.

I shall abide by the laws, rules, legal orders, statutory policies, and measures of my country; the Code
of Ethical Conduct and the Standards of Professional Practice; and the Articles of Incorporation and
By-Laws of the Integrated and Accredited Professional Organization of Architects (IAPOA).

I shall humbly seek success not through the measure of solicited personal publicity, but by
industrious, meaningful application to my work, and strive to merit a reputation for quality of service
and for equitable dealing.

I shall ask for fair remuneration for my professional services from my Client, and hold his/her interest
over and above my own.

I shall disclose, whenever required, any private business investments or ventures that may tend to
create a conflict of interest, and ensure that such conflict does neither compromise the legitimate
interests of my Clients nor interfere with my duty to render impartial judgment.

I shall exercise my professional prerogatives always with the highest level of integrity.

I shall inspire, by my behavior the loyalty of my associates and subordinates, and take upon me the
mentorship of the aspirants to the profession.
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I shall confine my criticisms and praises within constructive and inspirational limits, and never resort
to these means to promote any malicious motives.

I shall dedicate myself to the pursuit of creative endeavor towards the goal of enlightened Art and
Science, generously sharing the benefits of my research, experience, and expertise.

I shall treasure my being a holder of a valid certificate of registration and a valid professional
identification card as registered and licensed architect and of a valid membership card with the
IAPOA.

I shall consecrate myself to the highest standard of professionalism, integrity, and competence to the
public, to the Client, to the contractor, to the manufacturers, dealers, and agents, and to colleagues and
subordinates who are the direct and indirect users and beneficiaries of my architectural services.

Article VIII - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Section 9 – Liabilities and Penalties

Any registered and licensed architect or a grantee of a temporary/special permit who violates any
provision of this Code shall be liable under Sec.23(f), Art III and Sec.29, [Link] of R.A. No. 9266 and
under Sec.23 (f), Rule III and Sec. 29, Rule IV of Board Res. No. 07, Series of 2004; and accordingly,
shall be meted out with the penalty of suspension or revocation of the validity of certificate of
registration, or cancellation of special/temporary permit by the Board, and/or of a fine of not less that
One hundred thousand pesos (Php. 100,000.00) but not more than Five million pesos (Php.
[Link] or to suffer imprisonment for period of not less than six(6) months or not exceeding six
(6) years, or both, at the discretion of the court, respectively.

Section 10 – Separability Clause

If any section or part of the herein Resolution shall be declared unconstitutional or invalid, such
declaration or judgment shall not affect, invalidate, or impair the other sections or provisions thereof
or part thereof directly involved in which such judgment has been rendered.

Section 11 – Effectivity Clause

The herein Resolution shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following its full and complete
publication in the Official Gazette or any daily newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines.

UAP Document 200 : Code of Ethical Conduct 8

Done in the City of Manila, this 5th day of April, 2006

(Sgd) Eugene G. Gan

Chairman

(Sgd) Fernando L. Santos (Sgd) Miguel R. Caluza

Member Member

Attested to:

(Sgd) Carlos G. Almelor

Secretary, Professional Regulatory Boards

Approved:

(Sgd) Leonor Tripon-Rosero

Chairperson

(Sgd) Avelina A. De La Rea (Sgd) Renato B. Valdecantos

Commissioner Commisioner

UAP Document 200 : Code of Ethical Conduct 9

 STANDARDS OF PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE (SPP)
ON PRE-DESIGN SERVICES
(Part of the IRR of R.A. No. 9266)
SPP Document 201
(replacing the 1979 UAP Doc. 201)

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. The basic services provided by the Architect have remained relatively unchanged over the
years. However, the Architect must expand his services in response to the increasing demands
of his/her Clients, the evolution of new standards of regulated professional practice, the
advancement of technology and the enactment of new laws.

1.2. It will be most advantageous to the Client to involve the Architect in the earliest stages of the
project since the Architect, if suitably experienced, can provide the Client with objective project
analysis, establishing parameters to optimize building needs vis-à-vis available resources and
attendant constraints.

2. SCOPE OF PRE-DESIGN SERVICES

The Pre- Design Services cover a broad line of architectural services ranging from initial problem
identification to activities that would allow the Architect to initially conceptualize an array of
architectural and allied solutions. The Pre-Design Services nominally include consultation, pre-
feasibility studies, feasibility studies, site selection and analysis, site utilization and land-use studies,
architectural research, architectural programming, space planning, space management studies, value
management, design brief preparation, promotional services and other related activities.

2.1 Consultation

When a Client calls upon the Architect to give oral or written advice and direction, to attend
conferences, to make evaluations and appraisals regarding a contemplated project and similar
activities, the Architect renders valuable inputs whether or not the Client pursues the project.

2.2 Pre-Feasibility Studies

These preliminary studies involve the procurement, analysis and use of secondary information
gathered for the project to aid the Client in early decision-making. They represent the Architect’s
initial assessment of a project’s soundness, allowing the Client to promptly explore available/
readily identifiable directions / options. Researched / processed / validated secondary data are
generally used for such studies e.g. electronic, print, etc.

2.3 Feasibility Studies

Detailed analysis of the project based on pre-feasibility studies will determine the viability of a
proposed development. The studies will set the project against present and future trends to
forecast how it will perform over time. This requires primary data gathering and analysis.

2.4 Site Selection and Analysis

This entails the formulation of site criteria, assistance to the Client in site evaluation as well as
analysis to determine the most appropriate site/s for a proposed project or building program.

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 2.5 Site Utilization and Land-Use Studies

The detailed analysis of the site involves the identification of a site’s development potentials
through the proper utilization of land. The analysis covers the context of the site as well as that
of its surrounding environment and the development controls that apply to the site and its
environs.

2.6 Architectural Research

Architectural research entails the conduct of primary and secondary researches and assembled
facts used as basis for conclusion.

2.7 Architectural Programming

This analytical problem-seeking process will lead to the statement and identification of both
horizontal and vertical requirements in offering a solution. It incorporates a space program with
characterizations of the envisioned spaces such as ambiance, cost range, etc.

2.8 Space Planning

The Architect determines the adequate size and appropriate configuration and assemblage for a
proposed project in consideration of the use, allocation and interface of spaces for given
activities. Space planning is done mainly through primary data gathering such as interviews,
consultations, interfaces, focus group discussions (FGDs), space planning surveys, space
audits, etc. and subsequent analyses i.e. spatial layouts with stacking concepts, particularly for
multi-storey structures.

2.9 Space Management Studies

An analysis of the space requirements of the project based on organizational structure and
functional set-up pinpoints linkages and interaction of spaces. The formulation of the space
program will serve as the basis for the development of the architectural plan / design.

2.10 Value Management

This technique is applied in the cost management process to minimize the negative effect of
simplified operations associated with many cost-reduction programs. The goal of value
management is to achieve an unimpaired program at minimum cost. Thus, a plan, design or
system that has been successfully value-managed will still satisfy the same performance criteria
as the costlier alternatives.

2.11 Design Brief Preparation

Under design brief preparation, the Architect states the project terms of reference (ToR)
including the concept, objectives and other necessary requirements to bid out architectural
services (whether public or private).

2.12 Promotional Services

Projects may require promotional activities in order to develop and generate financial support
and acceptance from governing agencies or from the general public. In such cases, the
Architect can act as the agent of the Owner by producing and coordinating the additional
activities necessary to complete the services. In all such activities, the Architect must maintain
his professional status as the representative of the Owner.

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3. MANNER OF PROVIDING SERVICES

3.1 After the initial meeting / conversation / correspondence with the Client, the Architect must
submit his proposal for pre-design services, stating the following:

3.1.1 Scope of Work

3.1.2 Manner of Payment
3.1.3 Owner’s Responsibilities
3.1.4 Other Conditions of Services

3.2 The Architect can render services in any of the following ways:

3.2.1 As an individual Architect he must have special training and be knowledgeable in

different fields to supplement his skills.

3.2.2 Architect’s Own Staff

It is possible for Architects (as natural persons) working in a single firm to specialize in a
variety of ways. Many Architects and firms (juridical persons) specialize without losing the
generalist approach of the Architect or firm.

3.2.3 By Association, Consultation or Networking

Another common practice is consultation between an Architect and a firm of other

disciplines, under the extended terms of the Owner-Architect Agreement.

4. METHOD OF COMPENSATION

The Architect’s compensation is based on the Architect’s / architectural firm’s talents, skill,
experience, imagination, and on the type and level of professional services provided. Compensation
for Pre-Design Services may be based on one or more of the following:

4.1 Multiple of Direct Personnel Expenses

This cost-based method of compensation is applicable only to non-creative work such as

accounting, secretarial, research, data gathering, preparation of reports and the like. This
method of compensation is based on technical hours spent and does not account for creative
work since the value of creative design cannot be measured by the length of time the designer
has spent on his work. The computation is made by adding all costs of technical services (man
hours x rate) and then multiplying it by a multiplier to cover overhead and profit.

The multiplier ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 depending on the office set-up, overhead and experience
of the Architect and the complexity of the Project.

Other items such as cost of transportation, living and housing allowances of foreign consultants,
out-of-town living and housing allowances of the local consultants and the like, are all to be
charged to the Client. At the start of the commission, the Architect shall make known to the
Client the rate of professionals and personnel who will be assigned to the Project and the
multiplier that has to be applied before agreeing on this method of compensation.

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FORMULA
Assume:

A= Architect’s rate / hour

C= Consultant’s rate / hour
T= Rate per hour of Technical Staff, Researchers and others involved in the Project

AN, CN, TN = No. of hours spent by Architect, Consultants and Technical Staff

M= Multiplier to account for overhead and reasonable profit. The value may range from 1.5 to 2.5
depending on the set-up of the Architect’s office and the complexity of the Project.

R= Reimbursable expenses such as transportation, housing and living allowance of Consultant,

transportation, per diem, housing and living allowance of local consultants and technical staff if
assigned to places over 100 km. from the area of operation of the Architect.

Cost of printing of extra set of drawings, reports, maps, contract documents, etc. over the five (5)
copies submitted to the Client, overseas and long distance calls, technical and laboratory tests,
licenses, fees, taxes and similar cost items needed by the Project.

Direct cost = AN + CN + TN
Fee = Direct Cost x M

Total Cost of Service charged to Client = Fee + R

4.2 Professional Fee Plus Expenses

This method of compensation is frequently used where there is continuing relationship involving
a series of projects. It establishes a fixed sum over and above the reimbursement for the
Architect’s technical time and overhead. An agreement on the general scope of the work is
necessary in order to set an equitable fee.

4.3 Lump Sum or Fixed Fee

This method may be applied to government projects since they entail more paper work and
time-consuming efforts.

4.4 Per Diem, Honorarium Plus Reimbursable Expenses

In some cases a Client may request an Architect to do work which will require his personal time
such as:

4.4.1 attending project-related meetings, conferences or trips;

4.4.2 conducting ocular inspection of possible project sites; and
4.4.3 conferring with others regarding prospective investments or ventures and the like.

For these particular activities, the Architect as agent of the Owner may be paid on a per diem
and honorarium basis plus out-of-pocket expenses such as but not limited to travel,
accommodations and subsistence.

4.5 Mixed Methods of Compensation

The SPP provides for more than one method of compensation on a project. Each project should
be examined to determine the most appropriate and equitable method of compensation.

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 STANDARDS OF PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE (SPP)
ON REGULAR DESIGN SERVICES
(Part of the IRR of R.A. No. 9266)
SPP Document 202
(replacing the 1979 UAP Doc. 202)

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Applicability of this Document

1.1.1 While these implementing rules and regulations specifically refer to the “individual”
professional practice of the Architect as a natural person, the same may also apply to the
Architect’s “group practice” as part of a juridical entity i.e. as a DTI-registered sole
proprietorship or as a SEC-registered partnership or corporation, subject to full
compliances with Sec. 37 of R.A. No. 9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and its
implementing rules and regulations and derivative regulations including resolutions of the
Board and the Commission.

1.1.2 Foreign Architects offering services under this service are subject to full compliances
with Sec. 38 of R.A. No. 9266 and its implementing rules and regulations (including
resolutions of the Board which calls for a “local counterpart Architect” for any foreign
architect) and other periodic issuances of the Board and the Commission as well as
procedures/requirements of the Department of Labor and Employment and the Bureau of
Immigration and Deportation governing such foreign architects. Therefore, a foreign
architect practicing architecture in the Philippines for projects on Philippine soil must first
secure a Temporary/ Special Permit (TSP) and a work permit from the Department of
Labor and Employment (DoLE) and must work in collaboration with a local counterpart
Architect who is a Registered and Licensed Architect (RLA) under Philippine law.

1.1.3 Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) firms
which have been DTI- or SEC-registered in the Philippines to provide services for
overseas clients are not authorized to provide architectural services for projects located
on Philippine soil unless they are PRC-registered architectural firms satisfying Sec. 37
of R.A. No. 9266 and its implementing rules and regulations (IRR) and its derivative
regulations including resolutions of the Board and other periodic issuances of the Board
and the Commission.

1.1.4 The Architect’s outputs described / listed under this SPP may be expanded or increased
depending on the requirements of the project or the Architect’s experience, capabilities
and specialization/s.

1.2 Regular Design Services of an Architect

1.2.1 In regular practice, the Architect acts as the Owner’s/ Client's/ Proponent’s Adviser and/or
Representative. He translates the Owner's needs and requirements to spaces and forms
in the best manner of professional service.

1.2.2 The Architect’s work starts at the inception of the project when the Owner outlines his
requirements to the Architect. The work covers the various aspects of the project, from
analysis and study of the needs and requirements, to the preparation of the necessary
instruments of service, and finally to the supervision during project implementation. It
ends only when the general contractor or builder turns over the completed project to the
Owner.

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2. SCOPE OF SERVICES

2.1 Project Definition Phase

This phase involves the definition of the requirements of the project by the Owner. The Architect
in turn informs the Owner of the technical requirements of the project and the concomitant
professional fees. In this phase, the Architect:

2.1.1. consults with the Owner to ascertain the conceptual framework and related requirements
of the project and confirms such requirements with him.

2.1.2. gathers relevant information and data leading to the definition of the requirements of the
project, including the scope of the Architect’s services.

2.1.3. reviews and refines the owner’s space requirements and translates them into an
architectural program.

2.1.4. prepares an initial statement of probable construction cost.

2.2 Schematic Design Phase

This phase consists of the preparation of schematic design studies derived from the Project
Definition Phase, leading to conceptual plans. The Architect:

2.2.1 evaluates the Owner’s program, schedule, budget, project site and proposes methods of
project deliveries.

2.2.2 prepares the initial line drawings representing design studies leading to a recommended
solution, including a general description of the project for approval by the Owner.

2.2.3 submits to the Owner a Statement of the Probable Project Construction Cost (SPPCC)
based on current cost parameters.

2.3 Design Development Phase

Based on approved schematics and conceptual plans, the Architect prepares:

2.3.1 the Design Development documents consisting of plans, elevations, sections and other
drawings,

2.3.2 outline specifications to fix and illustrate the size and character of the entire project as to
type of materials, type of structural, electrical, mechanical, sanitary, electronic and
communications systems.

2.3.3 diagrammatic layout of construction systems, and

2.3.4 an updated SPPCC for submission to the Owner.

2.4 Contract Document Phase

Based on the approved Design Development Documents, the Architect:

2.4.1 prepares the complete Contract Documents consisting of detailed designs and

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 construction drawings, setting forth in detail the work required for the architectural,
structural, electrical, plumbing/ sanitary, mechanical, electronic and communication works
prepared by the Architect and the respective professionals involved.

2.4.2 prepares Technical Specifications describing type and quality of materials, finish, manner
of construction and the general conditions under which the project is to be constructed.

2.4.3 submits to the Owner seven (7) sets of all construction drawings and technical
specifications for purposes of obtaining a building permit.

2.4.4 updates the SPPCC based on changes in scope, requirements or market conditions.

2.4.5 assists the Owner in filing the required documents to secure approval of government
authorities having jurisdiction over the design of the Project.

2.5 Bidding or Negotiation Phase

2.5.1 In this phase, the Architect:

a. prepares the Bid Documents such as forms for contract letting, documents for
construction, forms for invitation and instruction to bidders, forms for bidders’
proposals, general / specific conditions of contract, etc.

b. assists the Owner from the early stage of establishing a list of prospective
Contractors to awarding of the construction contract.

2.5.2 For competitive bids / procurements, the Architect:

a. furnishes complete sets of the Bid Documents for purposes of bidding in as many
sets as may be required to conduct a successful bidding. The said documents are
loaned to bidders at an amount sufficient to cover direct and indirect costs attendant
to the preparation, packaging, reproduction and delivery of the said documents.

The Bid Documents are the intellectual property of the Architect (Sec. 33 of R.A. No.
9266), and must be returned by all entities acquiring bid documents. A bond may be
required to assure the return of the Bid Documents.

The Architect retains the sole ownership and copyright to the said documents (Sec.
33 of R.A. No. 9266). As such, bidders must not reproduce nor use the documents
for unauthorized purposes. The Owner also must not use the documents for any
other purpose other than the project for which the Owner and Architect signed an
agreement.

b. helps in organizing and conducting pre-bid conferences,

c. responds to questions from bidders,

d. assists the Owner in obtaining proposals from Contractors, analyzes bid results and
prepares abstract of bids, notice of award, notice to proceed and other construction
contracts.

2.5.3 For negotiated contracts, the Architect performs similar functions as in item 2.5.2 but
negotiates with one Contractor instead of many bidders.

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 2.6 Construction Phase

In this phase, the Architect performs the following:

2.6.1 makes decisions on all claims of the Owner and Contractors on all matters relating to the
execution and progress of work or the interpretation of the Contract Documents.

2.6.2 prepares change orders, gathers and turns over to the Owner written guarantees
required of the Contractor and Sub-Contractors.

2.6.3 makes periodic visits to the project site to familiarize himself with the general progress
and quality of work and to ascertain that the work is proceeding in accordance with the
Contract Documents. The Architect shall not be required to make exhaustive or
continuous 8-hour on-site supervision to check on the quality of the work involved and
shall not be held responsible for the Contractor's failure to carry out the Construction
work in accordance with the Contract Documents. During such project site visits and on
the basis of his observations, he shall report to the Client defects and deficiencies noted
in the work of Contractors, and shall condemn work found failing to conform to the
Contract Documents.

2.6.4 determines the amount owing and due to the Contractor and issues corresponding
Certificates for Payment for such amounts based on his observations and the
Contractor's Applications for Payment. These Certificates will constitute a certification to
the Client that the work has progressed to the state indicated and that to his best
knowledge, the quality of work performed by the Contractor is in accordance with the
Contract Documents. The Architect shall conduct the necessary inspection to determine
the date of substantial and final completion and issue the final Certificate of Payment to
the Contractor.

2.6.5 Should more extensive inspection or full-time (8-hour) construction supervision be

required by the Client, a separate full-time supervisor shall be hired and agreed upon by
the Owner and the Architect subject to the conditions provided in the SPP Document on
Full -Time Supervision. When the Architect is requested by the Owner to do the full time
supervision, his services and fees shall be covered separately in conformance with the
applicable and appropriate SPP Document.

3. MANNER OF PROVIDING SERVICES

There are two ways by which the Architect may enter into contract with the Owner as the Lead
Professional working with other professionals in the engineering and allied professions:

3.1 with a single contract between the Architect and Owner, and sub-consultancy contracts
between the Architect and the other professionals working with the Architect.

3.2 with the Architect and the engineering and allied professionals executing separate contracts
with the Owner.

In both cases, the professional responsibilities and civil liabilities of each State-regulated professional
remains separate. The Architect does not assume any of the responsibilities and liabilities of the other
professionals (RLPs).

4. PROJECT CLASSIFICATION

Professional architectural work is classified in accordance with the degree of complexity and the

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 creative skill required to meet the requirements of the Client within technical, functional, economic
and aesthetic constraints. Based on these groupings, the corresponding scale of charges shall be
prescribed in the Architect’s Guidelines to determine the fair remuneration to the Architect.

4.1 Group 1

Buildings of the simplest utilization and character which shall include but not be limited to the
following:

Armories Packaging and Processing Plants

Bakeries Parking Structures
Habitable Agricultural Buildings Printing Plants
Freight Facilities Public Markets
Hangars Service Garages
Industrial Buildings Simple Loft-Type Buildings
Manufacturing / Industrial Plants Warehouses
Other similar utilization type buildings

4.2 Group 2

Buildings of moderate complexity of plan / design which shall include but not be limited to the
following:

Art Galleries Office Buildings / Office Condominium

Banks, Exchange and other Buildings Park, Playground and Open-Air
Financial Institutions Recreational Facilities
Bowlodromes Residential Condominiums
Call Centers Police Stations
Churches and Religious Facilities Postal Facilities
City/Town Halls & Civic Centers Private Clubs
College Buildings Publishing Plants
Convents, Monasteries & Seminaries Race Tracks
Correctional & Detention Facilities Restaurants / Fastfood Stores
Court Houses/Halls of Justice Retail / Wholesale Stores
Dormitories Schools
Exhibition Halls & Display Structures Serviced Apartments
Fire Stations Shopping Centers
Laundries & Cleaning Facilities Showrooms / Service Centers
Libraries Specialty Shops
Malls / Mall Complexes Supermarkets / Hyper-marts
Motels & Apartels Welfare Buildings
Multi-storey Apartments Mixed Use Buildings
Nursing Homes Other buildings of similar nature or use

4.3 Group 3

Buildings of exceptional character and complexity of plan / design which shall include but not be
limited to the following:

Airports / Wet & Dry Ports & Terminals Mental Institutions

Aquariums Mortuaries
Auditoriums Nuclear Facilities
Breweries Observatories
Cold Storage Facilities Public Health Centers

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 Convention Facilities Research Facilities
Gymnasiums Stadia
Hospitals & Medical Buildings Telecommunication Buildings
Hotels Theaters & Similar Facilities
Laboratories/ Testing Facilities Transportation Facilities & Systems
Marinas and Resort Complexes Veterinary Hospitals
Medical Arts Offices & Clinics Other buildings of similar nature or use

4.4 Group 4

Residences (single-detached, single-attached or duplex; row-houses or shop-houses), small

apartment houses and townhouses

4.5 Group 5

Monumental buildings and other facilities

Exposition & Fair Buildings Museums

Mausoleums, Memorials, Specialized decorative buildings
& Monuments Buildings of similar nature or use

4.6 Group 6

Projects where the plan / design and related Contract Documents are re-used for the repetitive
construction of similar buildings without amending the drawing and the specifications

4.7 Group 7

Housing Project involving the construction of several residential units on a single site with the
use of one (1) set of plans / design, specifications and related documents

4.8 Group 8

Projects involving extensive detail such as designs for built-in components or elements, built-in
equipment, special fittings, screens, counters, architectural interiors (AI), and development
planning and/or design

4.9 Group 9

Alterations, renovations, rehabilitations, retrofit and expansion / additions to existing buildings

belonging to Groups 1 to 5

4.10 Group 10

The Architect is engaged to render opinion or give advice, clarifications or explanation on

technical matters pertaining to architectural works.

5. METHOD OF COMPENSATION

The Architect’s compensation is based on the Architect’s / architectural firm’s talents, skill,
experience, imagination, and on the type and level of professional services provided. Compensation
for Regular Design Services may be based on one or more of the following:

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 5.1 Percentage (%) of Project Construction Cost (PCC)

The Architect’s Fee based on the PPC shall be detailed in the Architect’s Guidelines.

5.2 Multiple of Direct Personnel Expenses

This cost-based method of compensation is applicable only to non-creative work such as

accounting, secretarial, research, data gathering, preparation of reports and the like. This
method of compensation is based on technical hours spent and does not account for creative
work since the value of creative design cannot be measured by the length of time the designer
has spent on his work. The computation is made by adding all costs of technical services (man
hours x rate) and then multiplying it by a multiplier to cover overhead and profit.

The multiplier ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 depending on the office set-up, overhead and experience
of the Architect and the complexity of the Project.

Other items such as cost of transportation, living and housing allowances of foreign consultants,
out-of-town living and housing allowances of the local consultants and the like, are all to be
charged to the Client. At the start of the commission, the Architect shall make known to the
Client the rate of professionals and personnel who will be assigned to the Project and the
multiplier that has to be applied before agreeing on this method of compensation.

FORMULA

Assume:

A= Architect’s rate / hour

C= Consultant’s rate / hour

T= Rate per hour of Technical Staff, Researchers and others involved in the Project

AN, CN, TN = No. of hours spent by Architect, Consultants and Technical Staff

M= Multiplier to account for overhead and reasonable profit. The value may range from 1.5 to 2.5
depending on the set-up of the Architect’s office and the complexity of the Project.

R= Reimbursable expenses such as transportation, housing and living allowance of Consultant,

transportation, per diem, housing and living allowance of local consultants and technical staff if
assigned to places over 100km. from area of operation of the Architect.

Cost of printing of extra set of drawings, reports, maps, contract documents, etc. over the seven
(7) copies submitted to the Client, overseas and long distance calls, technical and laboratory
tests, licenses, fees, taxes and similar cost items needed by the Project.

Direct cost = AN + CN + TN

Fee = Direct Cost x M

Total Cost of Service charged to Client = Fee + R

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 5.3 Professional Fee Plus Expenses

This method of compensation is frequently used where there is continuing relationship involving
a series of Projects. It establishes a fixed sum over and above the reimbursement for the
Architect’s technical time and overhead. An agreement on the general scope of the work is
necessary in order to set an equitable fee.

5.4 Lump Sum or Fixed Fee

This method may be applied to government projects since they entail more paper work and
time-consuming efforts.

5.5 Per Diem, Honorarium Plus Reimbursable Expenses

In some cases a Client may request an Architect to do work which will require his personal time
such as:

5.5.1 attending project-related meetings, conferences or trips;

5.5.2 conducting ocular inspection of possible project sites; and
5.5.3 conferring with others regarding prospective investments or ventures and the like.

For these particular activities, the Architect as agent of the Owner may be paid on a per diem
and honorarium basis plus out-of-pocket expenses such as but not limited to travel,
accommodations and subsistence.

5.6 Mixed Methods of Compensation

The SPP provides for more than one method of compensation on a project. Each project should
be examined to determine the most appropriate method of compensation.

6. OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITIES

6.1 Provide full information as to his requirements for the Project.

6.2 When necessary, designate a representative authorized to act on his behalf.

6.3 Promptly examine and render decisions pertaining to documents submitted by the Architect to
avoid unreasonable delay in the progress of the Architect’s work. The Owner should issue
orders to the General Contractor only through the Architect.

6.4 Furnish or direct the Architect to obtain at his expense, a certified survey of the site, giving, as
may be required, topographical and/or relocation surveys covering grades and lines of streets,
alleys, easements, encroachments and related information, boundaries, with dimensions and
complete data pertaining to existing buildings, structures, trees, plants, water bodies, wells,
excavations / pits, etc. and other improvements and full information as to the available utility /
service lines both public and private; zoning compliances, clearances, deed/s of restrictions,
encumbrances and annotations to titles, association guidelines and standards, and soil
investigations / tests, borings and test pits necessary for determining soil and sub-soil
conditions.

6.5 Promptly pay for architectural and all other engineering and allied services required for the
project.

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 6.6 Pay for the design and consulting services on acoustic, communication, electronic, and other
specialty systems which may be required for the project.

6.7 Arrange and pay for such legal, auditing, insurance, counseling and other services as may be
required for the project.

6.8 Pay for all reimbursable expenses incurred in the project as called for in Section 7: “Other
Conditions on Services” and all taxes including VAT (but not including income tax) that the
government may impose on the Architect as a result of the services rendered by the Architect
on the project, whether the services were performed as a natural person i.e. an individual
practitioner or as a juridical entity i.e. as a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation.

6.9 If the Owner observes or otherwise becomes aware of anything that may impair the successful
implementation of the project, he shall give prompt written notice to the Architect.

7. OTHER CONDITIONS ON SERVICES

7.1 Conditions for the Architect’s Fee

The Architect’s Fee is based on the Project Construction Cost. Where the Architect has to
render additional services, additional compensation shall be required.

7.2 Other Services

Other services that may be needed in order to complete the project such as services of acoustic
and illumination engineers / specialists, mural painters, sculptors, and other service providers
are to be recommended by the Architect for the Owner’s approval. Costs for these services are
to be paid for separately by the Owner and shall be subject to a coordination fee payable to the
Architect.

7.3 Scale Models, 3D Models and Walk-Thru Presentations

Should a scale model, 3D models and/or walk-thru presentation of the architect’s design be
necessary, they are to be recommended by the Architect for the Owner’s approval. Costs for
these services are to be paid for separately by the Owner and shall be subject to a coordination
fee payable to the Architect.

7.4 Per Diem and Traveling Expenses

A per diem plus traveling and living expenses shall be chargeable to the Owner whenever the
Architect or his duly authorized representative is required to perform services at a locality
beyond 50.0 kilometers (air, straight line or radial distance) from his established office as it
appears in the Architect’s letterhead.

7.5 Extra Sets of Contract Documents

The Owner shall pay the Architect for additional sets of Contract Documents.

7.6 Change/s Ordered by the Owner

If the Architect renders additional professional services due to changes ordered by the Owner
after approval of the Architect’s outputs, the Owner shall pay the Architect for extra time,
resources/ drafting, or other office expenses.

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 7.7 Work Suspended or Abandoned

If the work of the Architect is abandoned or suspended in whole or in part, the Owner shall pay
the Architect for the services rendered corresponding to the amount due at the stage of
suspension or abandonment of the work.

The primary service of the Architect is the preparation of architectural plans/designs,

specifications and other building construction documents. These are sets of detailed instructions
that shall serve as the basis for the General Contractor to implement the project. Once the
Architect has prepared all these documents, the Architect has completed the Detailed Design
and Contract Documents Phase of his services, which is equivalent to Ninety percent (90%) of
his work.

When the Owner therefore fails to implement the plans and documents for construction as
prepared by the Architect, the Architect is entitled to receive as compensation the sum
corresponding to ninety percent (90%) of the Architect’s fee.

7.8 Different Periods of Construction

If portions of the building/s are erected at different periods of time, thus increasing the
construction period and Architect’s burden of services, charges pertaining to services rendered
during the Construction Phase shall be adjusted proportionately. When the suspension of
construction exceeds a period of six (6) months, the fee for the remaining works shall be
doubled.

7.9 Services of Specialist Consultants

If the Owner requires the services of specialist consultants, they shall be engaged with the
consent of the Architect. The cost of their services shall be paid for separately by the Owner and
shall not be deducted from the Architect’s fee.

7.10 Separate Services

Should the Owner require the Architect to design movable or fixed pieces of cabinets and other
architectural interior (AI) elements, site development plan (SDP) components, urban design
elements, and other items of similar nature, the Owner shall pay the Architect in addition to the
Architect’s fee. The compensation shall be based on the Project Construction Cost as provided
for under SPP Document 203.

7.11 Fulltime Construction Supervision

Upon recommendation of the Architect and with the approval of the Owner, full-time construction
supervisors as will be deemed necessary shall be engaged and paid by the Owner. If no Project
/ Construction Manager is present, the full-time construction supervisor shall be under the
technical control and supervision of the Architect and shall make periodic reports to the Owner
and to the Architect regarding the progress and quality of the work done.

7.12 Estimates

Any SPPCC or any Cost Estimate submitted by the Architect can attain only a certain degree of
accuracy. As the Architect has no control over the cost of labor and materials, or the many
factors that go into competitive bidding, he does not assume any professional responsibility for
such cost estimates, unless glaring errors or discrepancies are clearly evident.

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 7.13 Government Taxes and Services

The Architect’s Fee is a net amount. Any tax (exclusive of income tax) that the national and/or
local government/s may impose on the Architect as a consequence of the services performed
for the project shall be paid by the Owner.

7.14 Ownership of Documents

All designs, drawings, models, specifications and other contract documents and copies thereof,
prepared, duly signed, stamped and sealed and furnished as instruments of service, are the
intellectual property and documents of the Architect, whether the work for which they were made
is executed or not, and are not to be reproduced or used on other work except with a written
agreement with the Architect (Sec. 33 of R.A. No. 9266).

7.15 Cost Records

During the progress of work, the Owner shall furnish the Architect a copy of the records of
expenses being incurred on the construction. Upon completion of the project, the Owner shall
furnish the Architect a copy of the summary of all cost of labor, services, materials, equipment,
fixtures and all items used at and for the completion of the construction.

7.16 Design and Placement of Signs

All signboards of the General Contractor, sub-contractors, jobbers and dealers that shall be
placed at the project site during the progress of construction shall be approved by the Architect
as to size, design and contents. After the completion of the project, the Owner or his building
lessee shall consult the Architect for the design, size of all signboards, letterings, directories and
display boards that will be placed on the exterior or public areas attached to the building project
in order to safeguard the Owner’s interest. Nothing should be installed inside or outside of the
building that would compromise its safety and aesthetics.

7.17 Project Construction Cost (PCC)

Project Construction Cost (PCC) as herein referred to, means the cost of the completed building
to the Owner, including the structure, plumbing/sanitary and electrical fixtures, mechanical
equipment, elevators, escalators, air-conditioning system, fire protection system, alarm and
clock system, communications and electronic system, elements attached to the building and all
items indicated in the plans, designs, drawings and specifications prepared by the Architect and
his consultants. The construction cost of other items planned and designed by the Architect,
such as architectural interiors (AI) and site development plan elements and other items of
similar nature, additionally planned / designed by the Architect are also part of the PCC.

The cost of materials used and the labor for their installation are part of the PCC. If these items
are furnished by the Owner below its market cost, the cost of the material and labor shall
nonetheless be computed on the basis of the current (and fair market value) costs.

The PCC does not include any of the fees for the Architect, the Engineer, the Specialist
Consultants or the salaries of the construction inspectors.

7.18 Project Development Cost

Project Development Cost shall include cost of the construction as well as all professional fees,
permits, clearances and utilities and cost of acquiring the project site / lot, cost of money, etc.

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Doc 202 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) 11 of 11
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

STANDARD OF PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE (SPP)

ON SPECIALIZED ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
(Part of the IRR of R.A. No. 9266)
SPP Document 203
(replacing the 1979 UAP Doc. 203)

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Time and technology have evolved to a level where specialized architectural services are
needed to complete, complement or supplement the necessary work for the totality of a project.

1.2 Apart from the legal definition/s supplied under R.A. No. 9266, Architecture may also be defined
as the blending of aesthetics, functions, space, materials and its environment resulting from the
application of various technologies and skills in different fields.

1.3 Specialized Architectural Services deals with specific expertise for further enhancement of the
architectural interior and exterior components of a project.

1.4 The Architect’s responsibility to man and society is to make sure that both the building and its
physical environment enhance the lives of people by strictly adhering to national and
international standards with regard to public health, safety and welfare.

1.5 The architectural plan and design of the building properly falls under the Architect’s Regular
Design Services (SPP Document No. 202).

1.6 Design services needed within and outside the building which fall under Specialized
Architectural Services as listed under the pertinent provisions of R.A. No. 9266 and its 2004
IRR, include but are not limited to the following:

1.6.1 Architectural Interiors (AI)

1.6.2 Acoustic Design

1.6.3 Architectural Lighting Layout and Design

1.6.4 Site Development Planning (SDP)

1.6.5 Site and Physical Planning Services (including Master Development Planning,
Subdivision Planning and Urban Design)

1.6.6 Comprehensive Development Planning

1.6.7 Historic and Cultural Heritage Conservation and Planning

1.6.8 Security Evaluation and Planning

1.6.9 Building Systems Design

1.6.10 Facilities Maintenance Support

1.6.11 Building Testing and Commissioning

1.6.12 Building Environmental Certification

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The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
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 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

1.6.13 Forensic Architecture

1.6.14 Building Appraisal

1.6.15 Structural Conceptualization

1.6.16 Preliminary Services

1.6.17 Contract Documentation and Review

1.6.18 Post-Design Services (including Construction Management Services)

1.6.19 Dispute Avoidance and Resolution

1.6.20 Architectural Research Methods

1.6.21 Special Building / Facility Planning and Design

1.6.22 Building Components

1.6.23 Management of Architectural Practices

1.7 The term Consulting Architect (CA) shall refer only to a RLA who may also be a separately
Registered and Licensed Professional (RLP) i.e. a natural person under Philippine law and
jurisprudence with a valid certificate of registration and a valid professional identification card
(representing the renewable license) for the lawful practice of one or more State-regulated
profession other than architecture.

1.8 For this SPP, the term Architect refers to the Consulting Architect (CA) who may be the holder
of a valid Specialist Certificate that may be issued by the Board and/or the Commission, upon
due qualification or accreditation by the IAPoA.

203.1 ARCHITECTURAL INTERIOR (AI) SERVICES

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Architectural Interiors (AI), specifically mentioned under Secs. 3 (4) (g) and 14 (3) of R.A. No.
9266, involves the detailed planning and design of the indoor / enclosed areas of any proposed
building / structure, including retrofit, renovation, rehabilitation or expansion work which shall
cover all architectural and utility aspects, including the architectural lay-outing of all building
engineering systems found therein.

1.2 Depending on the complexity of the Project, the Architect undertaking professional AI services
must be sufficiently experienced in the planning, design and detailing of AI elements.

2. SCOPE OF SERVICES

2.1 In the design of a building, the Architect works on a development concept. To realize this, the
Architect develops the design by determining the size and interrelationship of interior spaces,
laying out the furniture, movables, equipment, built-ins and fixtures to support the required
activities, thus making both the exterior and interior spaces contribute to the total concept.

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The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 25 of 69
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

2.2 The Architect plans and designs the architectural interiors (AI) of buildings such that they
contribute to the physical, visual, intellectual and emotional comforts of the intended end-users.

2.3 As such a specialist, the Architect:

2.3.1 prescribes space plans, stacking diagrams / sections and computations of areas for the
different activities and spaces to be integrated in a building Project.

2.3.2 lays out and prescribes furniture / built-ins / equipment for the project and prepares
specifications of AI components including all floor / wall / ceiling finishes, doors and
partition systems, hardware, modular or ready-assembled furniture pieces/ systems,
equipment, furnishings, built-ins, fixtures, signages and graphic devices, etc.

2.3.3 assists the Client in conducting bids or negotiations with General Contractors, sub-
contractors and suppliers of building materials, furniture, equipment, fixtures, etc.

2.3.4 checks and approves samples of materials and shop drawings of AI components.

2.3.5 reviews and approves billings of AI components.

2.3.6 conducts final inspection and approves installed AI components and related items.

3. MANNER OF PROVIDING SERVICES

The Architect may enter into contract with the Owner in two possible ways:

3.1 Working in a dual capacity as Architect-of-record and as Consulting Architect for AI services.

3.2 Working as Consulting Architect for AI services only.

4. METHOD OF COMPENSATION

4.1 For projects involving extensive detailing of AI components such as custom floor, wall, ceiling
construction and finishes, cabinet design, built-in components, equipment and special fittings,
the Architect’s Fee shall be a percentage of the cost of the AI work. This excludes the fee of any
Engineering and / or Specialist Consultants (SCs) working with the Architect.

4.2 Should the Client separately hire the services of Specialist Consultants (SCs), their professional
fee shall be for the account of the Client.

4.3 For this Specialized Service, the payment of the Architect’s services shall be as stated in the
Architect’s Guidelines.

203.2 ACOUSTIC DESIGN SERVICES

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Acoustic design services involves the detailed planning and design to control sound
transmission for compatibility with the architectural design concept.

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The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 26 of 69
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

1.2 Throughout architectural history, one of the limiting criteria in building design has been the need
to control sound in an enclosed space. The continuing evolution of products and techniques in
sound management and control has provided a wider flexibility in the design of the interior
environment. This allows the Architect to build an environment that answers the acoustical
demands of varied activities within an enclosed space.

2. SCOPE OF SERVICES

2.1 The Architect is the prime professional commissioned by the Owner/Client to plan and design
the building/structure and all its utilities and to coordinate the works of all allied design
professionals involved in the project including all inter-disciplinary and specialized works. He
shall make certain that these inputs comply with the requirements of the project and are
compatible with the architectural design concept.

2.2 As a specialist for acoustic design, the Architect:

2.2.1 prepares the drawings and specifications for acoustic design and treatment, sound
control and reinforcement, sound absorption, reflectance, insulation, etc.

2.2.2 assists the Owner/ Client in bidding out the work or in negotiating with a specialty sub-
contractor

2.2.3 checks and approves samples of materials and equipment

2.2.4 conducts final inspection of work and equipment

2.2.5 assists Owner/ Client in evaluating the amount due the sub-contractor.

3. MANNER OF PROVIDING SERVICES

The Architect may enter into contract with the Owner in two possible ways:

3.1 Working in a dual capacity as Architect-of-record and as Consulting Architect for acoustic
design services.

3.2 Working as Consulting Architect for acoustic design services only.

4. METHOD OF COMPENSATION

4.1 The Architect’s Fee for acoustic design services shall depend on the complexity of the works to
be undertaken.

4.2 Should the Owner/Client hire separately the services of other Specialist Consultants (SCs), their
fee shall be for the account of the Owner/ Client and shall be paid directly to the SC.

4.3 For this Specialized Service, the payment of the Architect’s services shall be as stated in the
Architect’s Guidelines.

_____________________________________________________________________________
The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 27 of 69
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

203.3 ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING LAYOUT AND DESIGN

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Architectural Lighting Layout and Design Services involves the detailed planning and design of
light transmission, timing and control for compatibility with the architectural design concept.

1.2 One of the limiting criteria in building design has been the need to control light in an enclosed or
defined space. The continuing evolution of products and techniques in lighting has provided a
wider flexibility in the design of the building’s interior and exterior environments. This allows the
Architect to build an environment that answers the lighting demands of varied activities within
and outside a building.

2. SCOPE OF SERVICES

2.1 The Architect is the prime professional commissioned by the Owner/Client to plan and design
the building / structure and all its utilities and to coordinate the works of all allied design
professionals involved in the project including all inter-disciplinary and specialized works. He
shall make certain that these inputs comply with the requirements of the project and are
compatible with the architectural design concept.

2.2 As a specialist for lighting layout and design, the Architect :

2.2.1 prepares the drawings and specifications for lighting design, illumination, fixture
placement, efficiency, energy considerations, etc.

2.2.2 assists the Owner/ Client in bidding out the work or in negotiating with a specialty sub-
contractor

2.2.3 checks and approve samples of materials and fixtures

2.2.4 conducts final inspection of work and fixtures

2.2.5 assists Owner/ Client to evaluate the amount due the sub-contractor

3. MANNER OF PROVIDING SERVICES

The Architect may enter into contract with the Owner in two possible ways:

3.1 Working in a dual capacity as Architect-of-record and as Consulting Architect for architectural
lighting and layout design services.

3.2 Working as Consulting Architect for architectural lighting and layout design services only.

4. METHOD OF COMPENSATION

4.1 The Architect’s Fee for lighting layout and design services shall depend on the complexity of the
works to be undertaken.

4.2 Should the Owner/Client hire separately the services of Specialist Consultants, the fee shall be
for the account of the Owner/Client and shall be paid directly to the Consultant.

_____________________________________________________________________________
The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 28 of 69
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

4.3 “Cost of the Work” means the total cost of all fixtures and accessories, which were either
designed, specified or procured by the Specialist Architect and/or his Specialist Consultants
(SCs) for the Owner/ Client, and that were used or installed in the project.

4.4 For this Special Service, the payment of the Architect’s services shall be as stated in the
Architect’s Guidelines

203.4 SITE DEVELOPMENT PLANNING (SDP) SERVICES

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 The space planning, architectural lay-outing and utilization of spaces within and surrounding a
specific building / structure in relation with the existing natural and/or built environments have to
be a well-coordinated effort so that both the building / structure and the host environment shall
act as one. Arising from his concept of the total environment, the Architect is not merely
concerned with the building / structure he creates but with the grounds and surrounding space
as well. He studies the existing environment in relation to the building / structure and
consequently lays out the areas / grounds immediately surrounding the building / structure.

1.2 Ordinarily, the landscaping layout of small building projects could be done by the Architect as
part of the site development planning (SDP) effort. However, if the project is large in scale, the
Architect must hire other State-regulated professionals (RLPs) as qualified Specialist
Consultants (SCs).

2. SCOPE OF SERVICES

2.1 The Architect, upon designing a building / structure, complements this with the design of the
surroundings that will make the space fit for a specific mood and for the required activities. He
lays out the open spaces in and around the structure such that they contribute to the totality of
the project.

2.2 In order to achieve a well-balanced design of the environment enveloping a specific building /
structure, the Specialist Architect:

2.2.1 conceptualizes the entire site development plan (SDP) including the generic scope of civil
works and the general scope of softscape and hardscape requirements.

2.2.2 conceptualizes the specifications for the needed civil works and utility lines.

2.2.3 assists the Owner/Client in bidding out the work or negotiating with landscape,
waterscape, rock formation contractors, etc., but mainly when no SC is available.

3. MANNER OF PROVIDING SERVICES

The Architect may enter into contract with the Owner in two possible ways:

3.1 Working in a dual capacity as Architect-of-record and as Consulting Architect for site
development planning services.

3.2 Working as Consulting Architect for site development services only.

_____________________________________________________________________________
The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 29 of 69
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

4. MANNER OF COMPENSATION

4.1 The Architect’s Fee for site development planning (SDP) services shall depend on the estimated
cost of the civil works and landscaping works i.e. hardscape and softscape, depending on the
magnitude and complexity of the work required by the project. If the Architect is also certified
and licensed as a separate RLP e.g. a Landscape Architect, and is suitably experienced, the
Architect’s fee shall increase correspondingly, depending on the magnitude and complexity of
the work required by the project.

4.2 Should the Owner/ Client separately engage the services of a Landscape Architect, the fee of
the said Specialist Consultant shall be for the account of the Owner/Client and paid directly to
the SC.

4.3 For this Specialized Service, the payment of the Architect’s services shall be as stated in the
Architect’s Guidelines.

203.5 SITE AND PHYSICAL PLANNING (INCLUDING MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLANNING,

SUBDIVISION PLANNING AND URBAN DESIGN) SERVICES

1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Physical planning refers to the orderly arrangement within a piece of land or property on which
vertical structures such as buildings, monuments and the like, as well as horizontal
developments such as rights-of-way (ROWs), open spaces and activity spaces are to be
proposed.

1.2 Planning, as we know it today, started with physical planning, with Architects performing the
lead role. The great cities of the world have taken shape mainly through the activities of
visionary Architects who actively engaged in physical planning.

1.3 The Architect is concerned not merely with a building / structure but with its immediate
surroundings as well. In planning for a building, he studies its interrelationship with other
structures, the surrounding environment, and their effect and impact on the neighboring areas.

1.4 If the Architect is commissioned to do physical plans for specific site, he has to go beyond the
study of human behavior and activities and must undertake an in-depth study of the host site’s
economic systems, its laws and regulations, tax structure, infrastructure, utilities, and all other
components that will have a bearing on the project.

2. SCOPE OF SERVICES

2.1 All ideas and concepts have to be translated into physical plans before they can be
implemented. It is the Specialist Architect who provides a multi-dimensional point-of-view to a 2-
dimensional physical plan. By virtue of the Architect’s training and experience in coordinating
the works of a multi-disciplinary team, the Architect becomes the logical Prime Professional
responsible for directing team efforts to deal with the required physical planning work.

2.2 Physical planning is concerned with the general quality of the settings for people and their
activities, buildings and other natural and man-made phenomenon.

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The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 30 of 69
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

2.3 The Architect undertakes the site planning of a project that requires a composite arrangement of
several buildings/ structures and their requisite amenities, facilities, services and utilities within a
natural or built setting.

2.4 Should other services be required by the project, such as environmental studies, feasibility
studies, market analysis, access / movement systems, impact analysis and others, said services
should be performed by duly-qualified professionals with the Architect acting as the Lead
Professional of the physical planning team.

2.5 Depending on the complexity of the project, the Architect may hire additional Specialist
Consultants (SCs) whose expert advice may be needed to validate certain features of the
physical plan. The fee of any additional SC needed in the project must be paid separately by the
Owner/Client.

2.6 When the Architect is commissioned to do physical planning for building sites such as Industrial
Estates, Commercial, Religious, Institutional and Government / Civic Centers, Sports
Complexes, Tourist Centers / Tourism Estates / Resorts, Amusement Parks, Educational
Facilities, Residential and Housing Subdivisions and the like, the Architect:

2.6.1 confers with the Owner/ Client on project requirements, secures sufficient primary and
secondary data to generate reliable projections and analyses which are to be used as
basis for the preparation of physical plans/designs.

2.6.2 examines laws, ordinances, rules and regulations affecting the project i.e. code searches,
and considers the best industry practices applicable.

2.6.3 prepares framework and conceptual master development plans (FRDPs and CMDPs)
and report/s from relevant information gathered by other disciplines.

2.6.4 prepares Preliminary up to Detailed Master Development Plans (PMDPs/ DMDPs)

showing the physical layout / distribution of areas, road network/s, vehicular and
pedestrian movement / access systems, legal easements, basic utility layouts / corridors,
landscape layouts, lot pad elevations, lot primacy matrices, deed of restrictions (DoR),
development standards and guidelines (DSG), lot counts and typology, land use
tabulations, building footprints, roof-prints, basement level-prints, view corridors, building
cast shadow projections and/or reflected light / heat projections from buildings, etc., and
presents the same to the Owner/Client, the Government and at public consultations as
needed.

2.6.5 prepares the SPPCC for the total physical development.

2.6.6 undertakes modifications, revisions and changes as may be required by the Owner/
Client and the project within the engagement period.

2.6.7 prepares the finalized plans, reports and specifications needed for approval by Owner/
Client or proper government agencies concerned.

2.6.8 prepares the phasing of the construction with the concurrence of the Owner/Client.

2.6.9 prepares Project Cost Estimates (PCE) based on current cost parameters.

_____________________________________________________________________________
The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 31 of 69
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

1. MANNER OF PROVIDING SERVICES

The Architect may enter into contract with the Owner in two possible ways:

1.1 Working in a dual capacity as Architect-of-record and as Consulting Architect for site and
physical planning services.

1.2 Working as Consulting Architect for site and physical planning services only.

2. MANNER OF COMPENSATION

The fee structure for Site and Physical Planning Services by the Architect shall be as stated in the
Architect’s Guidelines.

203.6 COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT PLANNING (CDP) SERVICES

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Comprehensive Development Planning (CDP) Services are based on the concept of expanded
physical planning services to include other activities necessary for the proper handling of the
numerous components considered in the formulation, implementation and realization of a
Master Development Plan (MDP). Comprehensive Development Planning (CDP) covers the
range of all services from primary data gathering through the formulation of the MDP and the
parallel preparation of the environmental impact assessment / statement (EIA/S).

1.2 While the planning team is multi-disciplinary, the CDP Services may place heavy emphasis on
the non-physical / non-engineering components of the development plan i.e. financial, economic
/ market demand / forecast, administrative-political-institutional-legal, socio-cultural,
environmental, and the like. In contrast, MDP Services puts a premium on the physical planning
and engineering components of the development plan, which are the direct or sequential
physical translations of the inputs from the initial stages of the CDP effort.

1.3 If suitably trained and experienced, the Architect’s ability to synthesize and organize into a
whole (the various information relating to the user’s needs, perception and expectations, site
and climatic conditions, construction technology, materials, cost and other information) qualifies
him to take the lead role in an undertaking that cuts across various disciplines.

1.4 The Consulting Architect is concerned with the management and use of land as well as the
conservation, preservation and upgrading of the human environment. Since the Architect,
particularly if a separate RLP i.e. Environmental Planner (EnP) with suitable training and
experience in physical and land use planning, has the social commitment and technical
experience as coordinator of several disciplines, he is qualified to lead the multi-disciplinary
team in offering Comprehensive Development Planning (CDP) Services.

1. SCOPE OF SERVICES

1.1 If the Architect (an RLA) is separately qualified and suitably experienced as an Environmental
Planner, the range of all services offered by the Architect from data base gathering, to the
preparation of environmental impact assessments/statements (EIA/S), up to the formulation of
the Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP), may include the following components:

_____________________________________________________________________________
The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 32 of 69
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

1.1.1 Physical Component - land use and the changes which occur within the physical
environment (within the space where such activities take place), represented mainly by
the MDP.

1.1.2 Economic Component - the nation’s assets and its management.

1.1.3 Socio-Cultural Component - the people, their living conditions and the seeking of ways to
ameliorate it.

1.1.4 Transport Component - road and transit networks, land-sea-air linkages, the movement
of people and goods from one place to another.

1.1.5 Legal and Administrative Component - the relationship of adopted development

proposals and policies to existing laws.

1.2 Comprehensive Development Planning (CDP) calls for the detailed study of physical, social,
economic and administrative components and as such requires the expertise and knowledge of
Specialist Consultants (SCs).

1.3 When the Consulting Architect is commissioned to do a Comprehensive Development Planning

effort, he performs the following:

1.3.1 identifies existing land use, resources, social behavior and interaction;

1.3.2 undertakes environmental analysis, demographic analysis and feasibility studies;

1.3.3 examines existing laws, ordinances, political/ social constraints;

1.3.4 prepares the conceptual development plans, policies, implementing strategies to arrive at
the desired comprehensive and/or master planning solution/s.

2. MANNER OF PROVIDING SERVICES

The Architect may enter into contract with the Owner in two possible ways:

2.1 Working in a dual capacity as Architect-of-record and as Consulting Architect for comprehensive
development planning services.

2.2 Working as Consulting Architect for comprehensive development planning services only.

3. MANNER OF COMPENSATION

Compensation for the foregoing specialized architectural service shall be through man-months i.e. 22
man-days multiplied by 8 man-hours, and multiplied by a factor to cover other direct and indirect costs
e.g. overhead, etc. or as prescribed by the Architect’s Guidelines.

203.7 HISTORIC AND HERITAGE CONSERVATION AND PLANNING

The suitably trained and experienced Consulting Architect in this area of architectural practice
provides research, assessment, recording, management, interpretation and conservation of
historical heritage.

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The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 33 of 69
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

203.8 SECURITY EVALUATION AND PLANNING

The Consulting Architect in this area of practice arranges and formulates methods of rating and
ascertaining the value of structures or facilities which must be fully secured, kept safe,
protected, assured, guaranteed and provided sufficient safeguards for the conduct of any work
or activity.

203.9 BUILDING SYSTEMS DESIGN

The Architect in this area of practice engages in methods of producing building components in a
highly engineered, efficient and cost-effective manner, particularly for residential and
commercial applications.

203.10 FACILITIES MAINTENANCE SUPPORT

The Consulting Architect in this area of practice provides the Owner/Client with means and
measures to ensure the proper function and maintenance of the building / structure and site
after final inspection.

203.11 BUILDING TESTING AND COMMISSIONING

The Architect in this area of practice recommends the systematic process of ensuring that a
building / structure’s array of systems is planned, designed, installed and tested to perform
according to the design intent and the building’s operational needs. If the building materials,
equipment and systems are not installed properly or are not operating as intended, the
effectiveness, efficiency, productivity and other benefits of high performance plans/designs will
not be achieved.

203.12 BUILDING ENVIRONMENT CERTIFICATION

A building environment rating system is needed to evaluate the environmental performance of a

building and to encourage market migration towards sustainable design. The rating system must
be:

 credit-based, allowing projects to earn points for environment-friendly use of the building /
structure and actions taken during planning, design, construction and occupancy.

 flexible, such that projects need not meet identical requirements to qualify.

 consensus-based and market-driven in order to accelerate the development and

implementation of green building practices.

The Consulting Architect in this area of practice must have much more than the basic
knowledge of Green Architecture and Environmental and/or Sustainable Design and sufficient
knowledge of the governing environmental laws and environmental investigation processes and
procedures under international protocols such as the Philippine Solid Waste, Clean Air and
Clean Water Acts, DENR administrative issuances and the like.

_____________________________________________________________________________
The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 34 of 69
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

203.13 FORENSIC ARCHITECTURE

The Architect in this area of practice undertakes a scientific study on the built environment’s
well-being, which allows the Architect to focus on the ways in which the building/structure can
best maintain itself and prolong its life in a cost-efficient manner, and finally provide
recommendations to the Owner/ Client. The forensic study may include:

 determination as to the causes of building, building component and/or building material

deterioration
 the causes of observed building deficiencies e.g., non-compliance with planning and
building laws, deviations from original use or function of spaces
 research on possible faulty activities and operations during the project implementation
phase
 determination of faulty plan/ design and/or construction methodology.

203.14 BUILDING APPRAISAL

Appraisal is defined as an act or process of estimating value. The Consulting Architect in this
area of practice places value on the building / structure condition and defects, and on its repair
and maintenance, including the required improvements.

203.15 STRUCTURAL CONCEPTUALIZATION

The Architect in this area of practice conceives, chooses and develops the type, disposition,
arrangement and proportioning of the structural elements of an architectural work, giving due
considerations to safety, cost-effectiveness, functionality and aesthetics.

203.16 PRELIMINARY SERVICES

The Consulting Architect in this area of practice must have much more than the basic
knowledge of Site Analysis, Space Planning and Management, Architectural Programming, and
the other services under SPP Document 201.

203.17 CONTRACT DOCUMENTATION AND REVIEW SERVICES

The Architect in this area of practice must have much more than the basic knowledge of
Specification Writing, Estimation and Quantity Survey, Architectural Production, Architectural
Software, Architectural Support Services and Contract Document Review.

203.18 POST-DESIGN SERVICES (INCLUDING CONSTRUCTION SERVICES)

The Consulting Architect in this area of practice must have much more than the basic
knowledge of Pre-Construction, Construction, Post-Construction and the other services under
SPP Documents 204, 206 and 207.

Included under this specialized practice is the preparation of the Fire Safety and Life
Assessment Report (FALAR) required by R.A. No. 9514, the 2008 Fire Code of the Philippines
and its 2009 IRR.

_____________________________________________________________________________
The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 35 of 69
 The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) URL/ website: [Link]

203.19 DISPUTE AVOIDANCE AND RESOLUTION

The Architect in this area of practice must have much more than the basic knowledge of the
various modes of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) prescribed under R.A. No. 9285, the
ADR Act of 2004 and its IRR i.e. Construction Arbitration, Mediation and Conciliation,
Negotiation and of Contract Administration, Quality Surveys, Appraisals and Adjustments and
Expert Testimony. An Architect specializing in ADR must preferably be State-accredited.

203.20 ARCHITECTURAL RESEARCH METHODS

The Consulting Architect in this area of practice must have much more than the basic
knowledge of Research Methods, Philippine Architecture and its History, Architectural Materials
and Finishes, Building Types and Standards, Architectural Design Trends, Architectural Writing
and Architectural Photography.

203.21 SPECIAL BUILDING/ FACILITY PLANNING AND DESIGN

The Architect in this area of practice must have much more than the basic knowledge of the
Planning and Design Processes required for Housing Developments, Recreational and Tourism
Estates, Health Care and Hospitality Facilities, Transportation and Telecommunications
Facilities, Production and Extractive Facilities, Utility-related Developments, Secure Facilities,
Business and Industrial Parks, Economic Zones and Community Architecture and the like.

203.22 BUILDING COMPONENTS

The Consulting Architect in this area of practice must have much more than the basic
knowledge of Building Materials and Finishes, Construction Methodologies, Building Envelopes
including cladding and roofing systems, Architectural Fenestrations and Architectural Hardware,
Fixtures and Fittings.

203.23 MANAGEMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICES

The Architect in this area of practice must have much more than the basic knowledge of the
Types of Architectural Office Operations, Architectural Office Management, Accounting /
Finance / Taxation / Audit, Labor Code, Architectural Marketing and Project Development,
Proposals / Negotiations / Contracts, Contract Administration, File Management and Limitations
of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO)
Operations.

General Notes:

METHOD OF COMPENSATION FOR SPECIALIZED ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES

Compensation for the foregoing specialized architectural services, all of which may be classified as
additional or extra services, shall be through man-months i.e. 22 man-days multiplied by 8 man-hours,
and multiplied by a factor to cover other direct and indirect costs e.g. overhead, etc. or any other
applicable mode of determination of the Architect’s fee as stated in Doc. 201, Doc. 202 and the
Architect’s Guidelines.

_____________________________________________________________________________
The 2010 Standards of Professional Practice (SPP) for PH Registered and Licensed Architects (RLAs) is Part of the IRR of R.A. No.
9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and was Published 21 February 2011 in the Official Gazette (taking effect on 09 March 2011) 36 of 69