HISTORY OF PLUMBING PRACTICE

17th Century – birth of the plumbing profession in the Philippines

Friar Engineers – built the government buildings, residential and other structures,
incorporated European standards in their plumbing installations
18th and 19th Centuries – Filipino plumbers were assigned the task of maintaining,
repairing and/or remodeling plumbing systems in all “pueblos” or towns
Ilustrados – recognized plumbers, the elite group to act as consultants of plumber
journeymen on matters pertaining to plumbing installations in villas and mansions
20th Century – plumbing took a great leap with the arrival of the American soldiers,
engineers, Thomasite teachers, doctors and evangelists
Harrison – Governor General, issued a letter of instruction on proper waste disposal in all
municipalities; health and hygiene became priority when epidemics including cholera,
leprosy, schistosomiasis and other contagious disease engulfed the Philippines