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CEP26-MODULE 1
CODE OF ETHICS
FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES
Civil Engineers uphold and advance the integrity, honor and dignity of the civil engineering profession by:
1. Using their knowledge and skill for the enhancement of human welfare and the environment;
2. Being honest and impartial and serving with fidelity the public, their employers/ employees and
clients;
3. Striving to increase the competence and prestige of the civil engineering profession; and
4. Supporting the professional and technical societies of their disciplines.
FUNDAMENTAL CANONS
1. Civil Engineers shall hold paramount the safety, health and welfare of the public and shall strive to
comply with the principles of sustainable development in the performance of their duties.
2. Civil Engineers shall perform services only in areas of their competence.
3. Civil Engineers shall issue public statements only in an objective and truthful manner.
4. Civil Engineers shall act in professional matters for each employer or client as faithful agents or
trustees, and shall avoid conflict of interest.
5. Civil Engineers shall build their professional reputation on the merit of their services and shall not
compete unfairly with others.
6. Civil Engineers shall act in such a manner as to uphold and enhance the honor, integrity, and dignity
of the civil engineering profession.
7. Civil Engineers shall continue their professional development throughout their careers, and shall
provide opportunities for the professional development of those Civil engineers under their
supervision.
GUIDELINES TO PRACTICE UNDER THE FUNDAMENTAL CANONS OF ETHICS
CANON 1. Civil Engineers shall hold paramount the safety, health and welfare of the public and shall strive
to comply with the principles of sustainable development in the performance of their duties.
a. Civil Engineers shall recognize that the lives, safety health and welfare of the general public are
dependent upon engineering judgments, decisions, and practices incorporated into structures,
machines, products, processes and devices.
b. Civil Engineers shall approve or seal only those design documents, reviewed or prepared by them,
which are determined to be safe for public health and welfare in conformity with accepted engineering
standards.
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c. Civil Engineers whose professional judgment is overruled under circumstances where the safety,
health and welfare of the public are endangered, or the principles of sustainable development
ignored, shall inform their clients or employers of the possible consequences.
d. Civil Engineers who have knowledge or reason to believe that another person or firm may be in
violation of any of the provisions of Canon 1 shall present such information to the proper authority in
writing and shall cooperate with the proper authority in furnishing such further information or
assistance as may be required.
e. Civil Engineers should seek opportunities to be of constructive service in civic affairs and work for
the advancement of the safety, health and well-being of their communities, and the protection of the
environment through the practice of sustainable development.
f. Civil Engineers should be committed to improving the environment by adherence to the principles of
sustainable development so as to enhance the quality of life of the general public.
CANON 2. Engineers shall perform services only in areas of their competence.
a. Civil Engineers shall undertake to perform engineering assignments only when qualified by education
or experience in the technical field of engineering involved.
b. Civil Engineers may accept an assignment requiring education or experience outside of their own fields
of competence, provided their services are restricted to those phases of the project in which they are
qualified. All other phases of such project shall be performed by qualified associates, consultants, or
employees.
c. Civil Engineers shall not affix their signatures or seals to any engineering plan or document dealing
with subject matter in which they lack competence by virtue of education or experience or to any such
plan or document not reviewed or prepared under their supervisory control.
d. Civil Engineers shall not use The Specialty Engineering title such as Structural Engineer,
Transportation Engineer, Water Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer, Construction Engineer etc. without
the PICE Specialist Accreditation.
CANON 3. Engineers shall issue public statements only in an objective and truthful manner.
a. Civil Engineers should endeavor to extend the public knowledge of engineering and sustainable
development, and shall not participate in the dissemination of untrue, unfair or exaggerated statements
regarding engineering.
b. Civil Engineers shall be objective and truthful in professional reports, statements, or testimony. They
shall include all relevant and pertinent information in such reports, statements, or testimony.
c. Civil Engineers, when serving as expert witnesses, shall express an engineering opinion only when
it is founded upon adequate knowledge of the facts, upon a background of technical competence, and
upon honest conviction.
d. Civil Engineers shall issue no statements, criticisms, or arguments on engineering matters which are
inspired or paid for by interested parties, unless they indicate on whose behalf the statements are made.
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e. Civil Engineers shall be dignified and modest in explaining their work and merit, and will avoid any
act tending to promote their own interests at the expense of the integrity, honor, and dignity of the
profession.
CANON 4. Civil Engineers shall act in professional matters for each employer or client as faithful agents or
trustees, and shall avoid conflicts of interest.
a. Civil Engineers shall avoid all known or potential conflicts of interest with their employers or clients
and shall promptly inform their employers or clients of any business association, interests, or
circumstances which could influence their judgment or the quality of their services.
b. Civil Engineers shall not accept compensation from more than one party for services on the same
project, or for services pertaining to the same project, unless the circumstances are fully disclosed to
and agreed to, by all interested parties.
c. Civil Engineers shall not solicit or accept gratuities, directly or indirectly, from contractors, their agents,
or other parties dealing with their clients or employers in connection with work for which they are
responsible.
d. Civil Engineers in public service as members, advisors, or employees of a governmental body or
department shall not participate in considerations or actions with respect to services solicited or provided
by them or their organization in private or public engineering practice.
e. Civil Engineers shall advise their employers or clients when, as a result of their studies, they believe
a project will not be successful.
f. Civil Engineers shall not use confidential information coming to them in the course of their assignments
as a means of making personal profit if such action is adverse to the interests of their clients, employers
or the public.
g. Civil Engineers shall not accept professional employment outside of their regular work or interest
without the knowledge of their employers.
CANON 5. Civil Engineers shall build their professional reputation on the merit of their services and shall not
compete unfairly with others.
a. Civil Engineers shall not give, solicit or receive either directly or indirectly, any political contribution,
gratuity, or unlawful consideration in order to secure work, exclusive of securing salaried positions
through employment agencies.
b. Civil Engineers should negotiate contracts for professional services fairly and on the basis of
demonstrated competence and qualifications for the type of professional service required.
c. Civil Engineers may request, propose or accept professional commissions on a contingent basis only
under circumstances in which their professional judgments would not be compromised.
d. Civil Engineers shall not falsify or permit misrepresentation of their academic or professional
qualifications or experience.
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e. Civil Engineers shall give proper credit for engineering work to those to whom credit is due, and shall
recognize the proprietary interests of others. Whenever possible, they shall name the person or persons
who may be responsible for designs, inventions, writings or other accomplishments.
f. Civil Engineers may advertise professional services in a way that does not contain misleading
language or is in any other manner derogatory to the dignity of the profession. Examples of permissible
advertising are as follows:
(1) Professional cards in recognized, dignified publications, and listings in rosters or directories
published by responsible organizations, provided that the cards or listings are consistent in size
and content and are in a section of the publication regularly devoted to such professional cards.
(2) Brochures which factually describe experience, facilities, personnel and capacity to render
service, providing they are not misleading with respect to the engineer’s participation in projects
described.
(3) Display advertising in recognized dignified business and professional publications, providing it is
factual and is not misleading with respect to the engineer’s extent of participation in projects
described.
(4) A statement of the engineers’ names or the name of the firm and statement of the type of service
posted on projects for which they render services.
(5) Preparation or authorization of descriptive articles for the lay or technical press, which are factual
and dignified. Such articles shall not imply anything more than direct participation in the project
described.
(6) Permission by engineers for their names to be used in commercial advertisements, such as may
be published by contractors, material suppliers, etc., only by means of a modest, dignified notation
acknowledging the engineers’ participation in the project described. Such permission shall not
include public endorsement of proprietary products.
g. Civil Engineers shall not maliciously or falsely, directly or indirectly, injure the professional reputation,
prospects, practice or employment of another engineer or indiscriminately criticize another’s work.
h. Civil Engineers shall not use equipment, supplies, and laboratory or office facilities of their employers
to carry on outside private practice without the consent of their employers.
CANON 6. Civil Engineers shall act in such a manner as to uphold and enhance the honor, integrity, and
dignity of the civil engineering profession.
a. Civil Engineers shall not knowingly act in a manner which will be derogatory to the honor, integrity or
dignity of the civil engineering profession or knowingly engage in business or professional practices of
a fraudulent, dishonest or unethical nature.
CANON 7. Civil Engineers shall continue their professional development throughout their careers, and shall
provide opportunities for the professional development of those Civil engineers under their supervision.
a. Civil Engineers should keep current in their specialty fields by engaging in professional practice,
participating in continuing education courses, reading in the technical literature, and attending
professional meetings and seminars.
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b. Civil Engineers should encourage their engineering employees to become registered at the earliest
possible date.
c. Civil Engineers should encourage engineering employees to attend and present papers at
professional and technical society meetings.
d. Civil Engineers shall uphold the principle of mutually satisfying relationships between employers and
employees with respect to terms of employment including professional grade descriptions, salary
ranges, and fringe benefits.

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CEP26- MODULE 2
THE PRACTICE OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
A. PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY
The standard of practice is for Civil Engineers to be given responsibility for studying, conceiving,
designing observing construction, and assisting in the programming for operating and maintaining
engineering works. Other services that are unforeseen initially may be required of the Civil Engineer during
the evolution of a project. The health, safety, well-being and comfort of the public in using a facility, and the
ultimate facility cost, all depend to a considerable extent on how well members of the project team fulfill their
professional and contractual responsibilities. The Civil Engineer, therefore, has obligations as trustee to the
public interest as well as faithful to the private interests of clients. Successfully fulfilling these responsibilities
require candor, mutual trust, and effective communication and understanding between the Civil Engineer and
the client. Only in this way can a professional relationship be established and a successful project
implemented.
Civil Engineers shall conduct themselves in a highly Professional Manner and Serve as Faithful
Trustees or agents of their client or employers.
Civil Engineers are therefore bound by the Fundamental Canons of Ethics.
Care and protection of the environment is paramount in the Civil Engineer's work engagement.
Civil Engineers must always strive to maintain the highest standard of Ethical Professional Practice
in their dealing with Client employers, employees, competitors and the community.
B. CLIENT-CIVIL ENGINEER RELATIONSHIPS
Many engineering works are conceived, designed, and constructed through the efforts of Civil
Engineers employed in governmental agencies or in industry. Other engineering projects come to fruition
through the efforts of civil engineering firms engaged for a specific project or program by public agencies or
private clients. Many public and private entities, of necessity rely on Civil Engineers as their employees.
Independent civil engineering firms are also relied upon to accomplish projects which require special
expertise beyond the normal capabilities of the client. More recently clients have been utilizing new concepts,
such as program management and design-build, to implement projects. Definition and explanation of proper
relationships between Civil Engineers and their public and private clients are important objectives of this
manual.
B.1 OBLIGATIONS OF THE CIVIL ENGINEER
The Obligations of the Civil Engineer include:
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1. The Civil Engineer shall perform Scope of the Services as stated in SECTION 2.
2. The Civil Engineer shall exercise reasonable skill, care and diligence in the performance of his obligations.
3. The Civil Engineer shall act independently and, as required by the contract, perform with the necessary
skills and professional judgment, when required to certify, decide or exercise discretion between the Client
and a Third party with whom the Client has a contract.
4. The Civil Engineer is authorized to act as the Client's faithful agent when required but only as implied in
SECTION 2 or implied in the contract adopted for the Project.
5. When aware of any matters which will change or has changed the scope of the services, the Civil Engineer
shall give written notice to the Client containing particulars of the change.
6. For Specified Staged Services, the Civil Engineer shall not initiate or proceed with any subsequent stage
of the Services without the approval of the Client
7. When required, the Civil Engineer shall direct and co-operate with all other professionals and integrate
their work where applicable into that being undertaken by the Civil Engineer and other professionals, but shall
not be professionally liable for their work,
8. The Civil Engineer may recommend specialist suppliers and/or contractors to design and execute certain
parts of the Works, in which case the Civil Engineer shall co-ordinate the design of such part or parts with
the overall design of the Works but he shall be relieved of all responsibility for the design, manufacture,
installation and performance of any such part or parts of the Works. The Civil Engineer shall not be liable for
acts of negligence, default or omission by such person or persons.
9. The Civil Engineer shall notify the Client of any interest the Civil Engineer has which may significantly
conflict with the interests of the Client under their Contract.
B.2 OBLIGATIONS OF THE CLIENT
The Client has the following obligations.
1. The Client shall pay the Civil Engineer for his Services, the amount of fees and expenses set out in or
determined in their Agreement.
2. The Client shall provide the Civil Engineer within reasonable time (that does not result in delay to the
provision of the Services), all information required by the Civil Engineer in the performance of his services
and a decision in writing on all matters properly referred to the Client in writing.
3. The Client shall cooperate with the Civil Engineer and shall not interfere with or obstruct the proper
performance of the Services.
4. The Client shall, as soon as practicable, make arrangements to enable the Civil Engineer to enter the site
and inspect facilities needed in the performance of his services
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5. The Client shall arrange for the provision of services from other professionals or others as may be required
and bear all costs.
6. When the Civil Engineer is required to administer the work of other professionals or other third parties who
are directly contracted by the Client or when the Civil Engineer is required to act as Engineer-to-the-Contract
for any contract on behalf of the Client then all instructions by the Client shall be given through the Civil
Engineer.
7. When aware of any matter which will change or has changed the scope of the Civil Engineer's Services,
the Client shall notify in writing within 7 days the Civil Engineer containing, as far as is practicable, the
particulars of the change.
B.3 LIABILITY OF THE CIVIL ENGINEER AND THE CLIENT
The Civil Engineer shall only be liable to pay damages to the Client arising out of or in connection
with their Agreement it a breach of duty of care is established against the Civil Engineer.
The Client shall only be liable to pay damages to the Civil Engineer if a breach of the Client's duty to
the Civil Engineer is established against the Client.
Resolution of any conflict arising from the Agreement between the Civil Engineer and the Client shall
be done by giving preference to the process of arbitration.
Establishment of the breach of duty on the part of the Civil Engineer and that of the breach of the
Client's duty to the Civil Engineer shall be undertaken by a third party arbitrator mutually acceptable to the
Client and the Civil Engineer.
a. Limitation or Civil Engineer's Responsibility
1. The Civil Engineer shall have no responsibility or liability for costs, loss or damage of whatsoever nature
arising from any errors in or omission from data, documents, plans, design or specifications not
prepared by the Civil Engineer, or other personnel under the direct control of the Civi Engineer, and
arising from any act or omission or lack of performance or any negligent or fraudulent act or omission
by the Client or any Other Consultant, Contractor or supplier to the Client or any employee or agent of
the Client, Other Consultants, Contractors or suppliers.
2. Notwithstanding any recommendation or lack of recommendation made by the Civil Engineer to the Client,
the Civil Engineer shall not be held to have made any warranty or promise as to the suitability,
competence or performance of any Other Consultant, Contractor, supplier, or other third party.
3. The Civil Engineer shall not be responsible for the techniques, method, programmes, sequences or
procedures adopted by any Contractor or other third party responsible for executing any aspects of the
Project, nor for their performance on time, their tailure to carry out the work in accordance with any
contract documents or for any other acts or omissions.
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b. Damages
If found that the Civil Engineer undertaking Services is liable to the Client, damages shall be payable
on the following terms:
1. Damages payable shall be limited to the amount of reasonably foreseeable loss and damage suffered as
a direct result of such breach;
2. The maximum amount of damages payable in respect of liability, whether under the law or contract, or
otherwise, is limited to the amount specified in the Specific Provision or, if no such amount or provision
is specified, to the lesser of P300,000 or 10% of the total amount of damages of the portion of the work
attributable to the Civil Engineers breach of duty or twenty five percent of the total of fees payable
under their Agreement;
3. If found to be liable, in circumstances where the acts or omissions of a third party have contributed to the
loss or damage, the proportion of damages payable by the party found liable shall be limited to that
proportion which is attributable to that party's breach of duty, whether the claims are made under
contract or otherwise.
B.4 SUSPENSION OR TERMINATION OF SERVICES
If circumstances arise for which the Civil Engineer is not responsible and which make it impractical
or impossible for the Civil Engineer to perform in whole or in part the Services in accordance with their
Agreement then the Civil Engineer shall promptly notify the Client of the same.
If by reason of the abovementioned circumstances certain Services had been suspended, the time
for their completion shall be extended by the extent of the delay plus a reasonable period for their resumption,
or if the speed of performing certain Services has to be reduced, the time for their completion shall be
extended as is necessary by reason of the circumstances.
The Client may suspend all or part of the Services or terminate the Agreement by written notice of
not less than 30 days to the Civil Engineer who shall immediately make arrangements to stop the Services
and minimize further expenditure.
The Civil Engineer by written notice of no less than 30 days may terminate the Agreement or at his
and or her discretion without prejudice to the right to terminate, suspend the performance of the whole or part
or the Services under the following conditions:
1. When 30 days after the due date or payment of any account the Civil Engineer has not received
payment of that part of it which has not by that time been contested in writing, or
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2. When Services have been suspended for a period exceeding 6 calendar months, or if it is clear to
the Civil Engineer that it will be impossible or impractical to resume the suspended Services before
the period of suspension has exceeded six months.
When the Services are suspended or terminated the Civil Engineer shall be entitled to payment for
the Services carried out including consequential costs, expenses and disruption fees incurred as a result of
the suspension or termination, and remobilization fees on resumption. 'Suspension or termination of the
Agreement shall not prejudice or affect accrued rights or claims and liabilities of the parties.
B.5 SETTLEMENT OF DISPUTES
If a dispute arises on either party, then that party shall by notice in writing served on the other party
of the details of the dispute and request that the dispute be resolved by conciliation. If the matter in dispute
is not resolved in conciliation between the parties within the prescribed time then the matter in dispute shall
be referred to arbitration.
B.6 OWNERSHIP OF DATA, DESIGNS AND DOCUMENTS
The design analyses, drawings specifications and reproductions thereof are instruments of service
owned by the Professional Engineer and shall be used only for the specific project covered by the agreement
between the Client and Engineer.
C. CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES
Civil Engineers and civil engineering firms, whether they serve public or private employers (clients) can
provide a variety of important services which are described in Section 2. Typical services may include:
• Design, consultations and advice
• Feasibility studies
• Field investigations and engineering data collection
• Environmental assessments, impact statements or Engineering reports
• Opinions of probable construction cost
• Preliminary and final designs, drawings, specifications and construction bidding documents
• Assistance in securing construction bids and in awarding contracts
• Construction administration and observation
• Arrangements for or performance of testing of materials and equipment
• Assistance in start-up, assessment of capacity, and operation of facilities
• Preparation of operation and maintenance manuals
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• Appraisals and rate studies
• Value engineering
• Expert testimony
• Assessment of risks
• Structural remediation or rehabilitation
• Project Management and controls
• Provision of supplemental temporary staff
• Teaching
Civil Engineers may also serve as construction managers or program managers and may employ other
sub-consultants and subcontractors as part of their services.
Many Civil Engineers and civil engineering firms specialize in specific areas of engineering. such as:
structural and foundation geotechnical and environmental, water resources and hydraulics transportation,
and construction management and engineering.
D. SPECIALIZATION IN CIVIL ENGINEERING
Within the practice of civil engineering, the PICE recognizes the initial five areas of specialization. A
Civil Engineer who has demonstrated his knowledge, experience, education and training in accordance with
the requirements of the concerned Specialty Committee of the PICE is awarded a certificate of specialization
by PICE. Those awarded with the certificates are considered qualified for positions in the respective areas of
specialization.
The PICE recognizes specializations in the fields of structural engineering geotechnical engineering,
water engineering transportation engineering, and construction management and engineering. A Civil
Engineer who has specialized in any area of civil engineering may be considered as a specialist in the
appropriate field as enumerated.
E. SELECTION OF A CIVIL ENGINEER
The engagement of a Civil Engineer is one of the most important decisions to be made during the
development of an engineering project. The accomplishment of the client's objectives and commitment of
financial resources, soundness of design, and suitability of the proposed project for its intended function rest
upon the experience, organization, skill, integrity, and judgment of the Civil Engineer. The Civil Engineer's
recommendations based on these factors, affect life-cycle costs and thereby influence the economic
feasibility of the undertaking.
The cost of the full range of engineering services typically amounts to not less than 1 to 2% of the
life-cycle cost of most construction projects. It is, therefore in the client's best interest to engage the most
qualified and reputable Civil Engineers or Civil Engineering firm available. It is usually advantageous for the
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client to select a Civil Engineer who can support the project from conception through design, construction
and project start-up. Continuity of service aids in developing a relationship between the Civil Engineer and
the client, which will add to the success of the project.
F. PRIME PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE
The guidelines in this manual refer specifically to the engagement of engineering services where the
consulting Civil Engineers serve as the client directly as a prime professional, and where the client is
usually also the owner of the project. Some information in this manual is also applicable when the Civil
Engineer serves the client indirectly as a sub-consultant through another engineer or architect who serves
as the prime professional. These services may also be performed through another entity on a design-build
construction management, or turnkey project.
G. EMPLOYMENT
The guidelines in this manual also refer to Civil Engineers employed by professional consulting
firms, government agencies, educational institutions, construction firms, manufacturing and commercial
entities and other entities.
H. DESIGN COMPETITION
Design competition is a process through which a Civil Engineer is selected above other
competitors based on proposal or an innovative approach to solving a client's needs. Competing firms are
normally shortlisted from a number or engineers responding to a client, solicitation either directly, by a letter
request or indirectly through a newspaper or other form or publication. The civil engineer should be
awarded a stipend to participate in the competition.
I. CONTINGENCY BASIS OF EMPLOYMENT
Canon 5c or the PICE Code or Ethics provides that "Engineers may request, propose or accept
professional commissions on a contingency basis only under circumstances in which their professional
judgments would not be compromised." Although contingent commissions are permissible, it is the general
view of PICE that it is not in the best interest of the client or the public for the Civil Engineer to provide
professional services on a contingency basis
J. PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE OF FOREIGN CIVIL ENGINEERS
Foreign Civil Engineers are allowed by law (See RA 8981) to practice civil engineering in the
Philippines under the following instances.
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1. The laws of the foreigner's state or country allow the citizens of the Philippines to practice civil engineering
on the same basis and grant the same privileges as those enjoyed by the subjects or citizens of such foreign
state or country.
2. Allowed under international agreement.
3 Consultants to be engaged in foreign-funded, joint venture or foreign-assisted projects of the government.
4. Employees of Philippine or foreign private institutions pursuant to law.
5. Civil Engineers who were former citizens of the Philippines, who had been registered and issued a
certificate of registration and a professional identification card prior to their naturalization as foreign citizens,
and who, while in the country on a visit, sojourn or permanent residence, desire to practice their profession.
The application of the law is however not automatic. Foreign civil engineers must still secure a
certificate of registration/license or special permit from the Professional Regulation Commission. Agencies,
organizations or individuals, whether public or private, who secure the services of a foreign Civil Engineer,
are made responsible by law (RA. 8981) for securing a special permit from the PRC and the Department of
Labor and Employment pursuant to their respective rules.

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CEP26- MODULE 3
CLASSIFICATION OF ENGINEERING SERVICES
The needs for professional civil engineering services vary, and the civil engineering firms that meet
these needs vary in organizational structure, size, and capability. Many civil engineering firms provide
comprehensive services to the client, while other firms specialize in areas of engineering. such as
geotechnical or structural, and transportation, water and construction management, and provide their
services to a prime engineer, architect, or owner, Few civil engineering firms are qualified to provide complete
service for all projects, and the use of associate professionals to provide specialized services is common.
Services provided by Civil Engineers can be grouped into five broad categories:
1. Consultations, research, investigations, and reports.
2. Design services for construction projects
3. Construction services
4. A Special services for construction projects
5. Engineering support services
6. Academic services
7. Services as Employee
The types of infrastructure under the domain of civil engineering, pursuant to RA 544, as amended, include:
1. Streets, bridges, highways and railroads
2. Airports and hangars
3. Port works, canals, river and shore improvements, light houses and dry docks
4 Buildings
5. Fixed structures for irrigation, flood protection, drainage, water supply and sewerage works
6. Tunnels
The coverage of civil engineering has not been changed nor diminished by subsequent laws.
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A. CONSULTATIONS, RESEARCH, INVESTIGATIONS AND REPORTS
These services deal primarily with collecting, interpreting, and reporting information, together with formulating
conclusions and making recommendations. Typical services in this category are:
A.1. Preliminary and Feasibility Investigations and Reports
These services usually precede the authorization of a capital project and may involve extensive
investigations, analyses of conditions, and comparison of several possible plans. These studies may include
the impact of a project upon the environment, sustainable development, operating costs, life-cycle costs,
financing considerations, and expected revenues as bases for conclusions and recommendations regarding
the advisability of undertaking a project
A.2. Planning Studies
These services may include the broad areas of developing the engineering requirements of master plans for
long-range capital improvement programs; preparation of preliminary engineering of land development plans,
urban plans, and regional plans; and the investigation of environmental conditions and preparation of
environmental impact studies with subsequent engineering planning to improve or maintain existing
conditions. Such planning often requires coordination of the work of many engineering and other disciplines.
A.3. Appraisals, Valuations and Rate Studies
These services may include investigations and analyses of existing conditions; capital and operating costs;
overhead costs and costs of financing: and revenues as needed to evaluate a property or to recommend
establishment of prospective rates.
A.4. Assistance in Financial Matters
The Civil Engineer may be engaged by a client who is planning to issue bonds, particularly revenue bonds,
to finance a capital project. The scope of services may include an evaluation of capabilities of existing or
proposed facilities to meet present and projected future needs, statements of probable construction costs,
and an estimate of annual revenue requirements, with a determination of appropriate rates to provide this
income.
A.5. Materials Engineering and Equipment Tests
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These services include tests of materials and equipment under established codes and standards specialized
examination of equipment and materials used in construction and industry, and other inspections and
monitoring required by a client.
A.6. Direct Personal Services
This includes services such as assistance in preparation for legal proceedings. Appearances before courts
or commissions to render expert opinions and conclusions, and investigations of technical matters where
specialized civil engineering knowledge, experience, and judgment is required.
A.7. Research and Development
Research is a specialized investigation and gathering of data from existing resources or through laboratory
works and processes related to the purpose and object of the research.
Research and development may cover the following:
(a) Development of new construction materials and methods from concept to commercialization.
(b) Improvement of construction materials and methods through exhaustive studies to reduce total
construction cost and at the same time improve quality.
A.8. Special Services
These services can vary to suit special needs of the client and can include such diverse activities as:
• Value engineering
• Appraisal and valuation
• Load testing
• Environmental evaluations
• Traffic engineering
• Forensic engineering for structural and other failures
• Operational assistance
• Materials process design
• Pilot studies
• Computer modeling
• Safety engineering
• Topographic, sounding and boundary survey engineering
• Toxic and hazardous waste evaluation
• Permit and application services
• Sales and marketing services
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• Expert witness
• Representation of municipal or private entities in projects proposed for privatization
B. DESIGN SERVICES FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
Cvil engineering services are required for each of six typical phases of a construction project. All services are
preferably furnished by the same Civil Engineer for consistency and efficiency, although at times services in
various phases are furnished by different engineers or by the client. The services are supplemented by
special services which may be provided by the client, a specialized engineer, or another Civil Engineer
The six standard phases of a construction project and the engineering services needed for each are:
Study and Report Phase. Analysis of the client’s needs conceptual design conceptual opinions of probable
construction cost.
Preliminary Design Phase. Preparation of final design criteria, preliminary drawings, outline specifications,
and preliminary opinions of probable construction cost.
Final Design Phase. Preparation of design calculations, construction drawings, specifications, estimated
construction cost, and other contract documents.
Bidding or Negotiating Phase. Assistance to the client with the bidding or negotiating process for construction
of the project.
Construction Phase. Advice and Consultation on matters related to his services.
Operation Phase. Assistance to the client in start-up and operation of the project, including periodic
inspections
B.1. Study and Report Phase
This phase involves determination of project scope and economic and technical evaluation of
feasible alternatives. The services performed during this phase may include
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1. Reviewing available data and consulting with the client to clarify and define the client's requirements for
the project.
2. Advising the client as to the necessity of providing or obtaining from others additional data or services
and assisting the client in obtaining such data and services. These additional services may include
photogrammetry, reconnaissance surveys, property surveys, topographic surveys, geotechnical
investigations and consultations, seismicity studies, compilation of hydrological data, traffic studies,
materials engineering, assembly of zoning, deed and other restrictive land use information, and
environmental assessments and impact statements.
3. Identifying and analyzing requirements of governmental authorities having jurisdiction to approve the
design of the project and participating in consultations with such authorities.
4. Providing analyses of the client’s needs, planning surveys, comparative evaluations of prospective sites
and solutions.
5. Providing a general economic analysis of the client's requirements applicable to various alternatives
6. Preparing a report and presenting alternative solutions available to the client with the Civil Engineers
findings and recommendations. The report may contain schematic layouts, sketches, conceptual design
criteria with appropriate exhibits to indicate clearly the considerations involved (including applicable
requirements of governmental authorities having jurisdiction) and the Civil Engineers conceptional
opinion of probable costs for the project.
B.2. Preliminary Design Phase
This phase involves the establishment of the general size and scope of the project and its location on the
selected site. The preliminary design services may include:
1. Consulting with the client, reviewing preliminary reports, clarifying and defining the project requirements,
reviewing available data, and discussing general scheduling. Conferences may also be required with
approving and regulatory governmental agencies and applicable utilities.
2. Advising the client as to whether additional data or services of the type described under the study and
report phase above are required and assisting the client in obtaining such data and services.
3. Preparing preliminary design documents consisting of final design criteria, preliminary drawings, outline
specifications, and written descriptions of the project.
4. Preparing revised estimates of probable total project costs.
5. Providing periodic status reports.
B.3. Final Design Phase
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This phase of project development is usually undertaken only after the client has approved the preliminary
design phase material. The basic services for the final design phase may include:
1. Preparing construction drawings and specifications showing the character and extent of the project
based on the accepted preliminary design documents.
2. Preparing and furnishing to the client a revised estimate of probable total project costs based on the
final drawings and specifications.
3. Furnishing the necessary engineering data and assisting in the application for regulatory permits from
local, or national authorities. This is distinguished from and does not include detailed applications and
supporting documents for government grants-in-aid or planning grants that would be furnished as
additional services described later in this section.
4. Preparing basic documents related to construction contracts for review and approval by the client (and
the client's legal and other advisors). These may include contract agreement forms, general conditions
and supplementary conditions, invitations to bid, instructions to bidders, insurance and bonding
requirements, and other contract-related documents.
5. Furnishing to the client specified number of copies of drawings, specifications and other contract
documents.
6. Providing final design and construction services for design-build contracts. The engineer generally
serves as a subcontractor to a general contractor during the initial planning and design phases. Services
provided by the engineer may extend through the construction phase, as appropriate.
7. Providing periodic status reports.
B.4. Bidding or Negotiating Phase
Services under this phase may include:
1. Assisting the client in advertising for and obtaining bids or negotiating proposals for each separate prime
construction contract, maintaining a record of prospective bidders to whom bidding documents have been
issued, attending pre-bid conferences, and receiving and processing deposits for bidding documents.
2. Issuing addenda as appropriate to interpret, clarify, expand or amend the bidding documents.
3. Assisting the client in determining the qualifications and acceptability of prospective contractors,
subcontractors and materials suppliers.
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4. Consulting with and advising the client as to the acceptability of alternative materials and equipment
proposed by the prospective constructors when substitution prior to the award of contracts is allowed by
the bidding documents.
6. Attending the bid opening, preparing bid tabulation sheets and providing assistance to the client in
evaluating bids or proposals and in assembling and awarding contracts for construction, materials,
equipment and services.
B.5. Construction Phase
Services under this phase involve consulting with and advising the client during construction and are usually
those associated with service as the client's representative. Most Civil Engineers are not willing to assume
the responsibilities associated with construction phase services without providing resident project
representative services at the site. Construction phase service may include:
1. Reviewing, for compliance with design concepts, shop and erection drawings submitted by the
constructors.
2. Reviewing laboratory, shop, and mill test reports on materials and equipment.
3. Visiting the project site at appropriate intervals as construction proceeds to observe and report on the
progress and the quality of the executed work.
4. Providing services during construction by a ful-time resident project representative, and by supporting
staff as required, to enable construction to be accomplished in conformance to the construction
drawings, specifications, and other contract documents.
5. Issuing instructions from the client to the contractors, issuing necessary interpretations and clarifications
of contract documents, preparing change orders, requiring special inspections and testing of the work,
and making recommendations as to acceptability of the work.
6. Making recommendations to the client on corrective actions or contractual measures that may be
exercised by the owner.
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7. Preparing sketches required to resolve problems due to actual field conditions encountered.
8. Determining amounts of progress payments due, based on degree of completion of the work, and
recommending issuance of such payments by the client.
9. Observing and assisting performance tests and initial operation of the project.
10. Preparing record drawings from information submitted by the contractor.
11. Making a final inspection and reporting on completion of the project, including recommendations
concerning final payments to contractors and release of retained percentages.
B.6. Operation Phase
At the completion of construction, the Civil Engineer may as a basic service, assist in the start-up of
project operations. The Civil Engineer may be commissioned to prepare a manual for both operation and
maintenance requirements, and may also provide assistance in adjusting and balancing equipment,
identifying deficiencies and assisting in obtaining corrections, and performing inspection prior to the end of
the project warranty period. The Civil Engineer may assist in operator training, setting up job classifications
and salaries, organizing the purchase of supplies developing charts for recording operational data, and
observing and reporting on project operations.
C. CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
A registered Civil Engineer may engage in construction contracting after being licensed as a
contractor by the Contractors Accreditation Board. It is considered unethical for a civil engineer to allow his
license to be used by any other construction company except his own.
A registered Civil Engineer may provide the services of a supporting technical employee as required
of a construction company. He shall however, be paid the professional fees, in addition to his regular salary,
for any design work he performs for which he signs as professional Civil Engineer and/or engineer on record.
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A Civil Engineer may be employed as a construction engineer, resident Civil Engineer, project
engineer, quality control engineer, cost engineer or engineer inspector in a project. In accordance with
Section 23 of RA 544, only registered Civil Engineers can take charge or supervise construction or alteration
of any building or structure and any other CIvil engineering works mentioned in Section 2 of the mentioned
Republic Act. The Civil Engineer when employed is similarly required to comply with the code of ethics of the
profession as the consulting, Civil Engineer.
D. SPECIAL SERVICES FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
Special services required during the study, design, construction, and operation phases of a
construction project may include investigations, reports, and activities beyond the scope of the basic services.
These services, many of which are also listed earlier in this section under the category "Consultations,
Investigations, and Reports, may relate to the clients decisions as to the feasibility scope, and location of the
project. The research, compilation of engineering data, and acquisition of property may involve professional
specialists in engineering and other fields.
Special services that may be provided by the Civil Engineer or negotiated with other frms or sub-consultants
by the Civil Engineer acting on behalf of the client could include:
1. Geotechnical engineering - including test borings, sampling and analysis, and recommendations.
2. Special studies, tests, and process determinations to establish design criteria or demonstrate
compliance.
3. Land surveys, establishment of boundaries and monuments preparation of easement descriptions, and
related computations and drawings.
4. Engineering and topographic surveys for design and construction.
5. Mill, shop, or laboratory inspections of the materials and equipment.
6. Additional copies of reports, construction drawings, specifications, and other documents as required for
bidding and construction beyond the number specified in the Basic Services agreement.
7. Extra travel and subsistence as defined by the agreement for engineering services.
8. Value engineering including review of the work of other engineers, either within the same organization
or in other firms to determine whether a proposed solution is optimum and, if not, to suggest a better
approach for meeting the project's functional and financial criteria.
9. Redesign to reflect changes requested by the client or necessitated by the clienť's acceptance of
substitutions proposed by the contractor.
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10. Assistance to the client as an expert witness in litigation in connection with the project or in hearings
before approving and regulatory agencies.
11. Final investigations involving detailed consideration of operation, maintenance, and overhead
expenses; preparation of final rate schedules, and earning and expense statements; appraisals,
valuations, and material audits or inventories required for certification of force account construction
performed by the client or for extra work done by the contractor
12. Preparation of detailed applications and supporting documents grants or advances for public works
projects.
13. Plotting, computing, and filing of subdivision plans, staking of lots, and other land planning and
partitioning activities.
14. Preparation of environmental assessment and impact statements and other assistance to the client in
connection with public hearings.
15. Additional studies and design efforts to meet special conditions encountered during construction.
16. Assistance to the client in the selection and engagement of architects, other engineers, contractors
and subcontractors, and observation and approval of their services or work; contacts with
governmental agencies to obtain permits and documents; and other services related to project
development.
17. Assessment of a completed project's ability to meet its design intent relative to capacity,
maintainability, operability, or reliability.
18. Computer simulation and modeling.
E. ENGINEERING SUPPORT SERVICES
The professional services described above often require engineering support services. Geotechnical
engineering, for example, frequently requires services such as taking soil and rock borings, excavating test
pits sampling and identifying sol and earth materials, field and laboratory tests and geophysical
measurements and observations. The engineering support services in general civil engineering practice may
involve drafting, land and construction surveying, and other data gathering activities for specialized purposes.
Although persons who are not Civil Engineers sometimes accomplish some of these tasks, the procurement
of adequate and correct data usually requires professional Civil engineering judgment and guidance. Since
soundness of any engineering decision is dependent upon the accuracy and suitability of data obtained in
field and laboratory investigations these supporting services must be under the guidance of the Civil Engineer
whose decisions will be based upon those data.
F. ACADEMIC SERVICES
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These services involve full or part time teaching or training of perspective professionals and also the
upgrading of knowledge and skills of fellow professionals. Academic services may include:
a. Teaching of civil engineering courses in engineering colleges/universities on part/full time basis. As per
RA 8981, all subjects for licensure examinations shall be taught by persons who are holders of valid
certificates of registration/professional licenses and professional identification cards, or special
temporary permits, or a valid certificate of competency for the profession issued by the Commission,
and who comply with the other requirements of the CHED.
b. Lecturing in civil engineering courses designed by the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers for practicing
engineers who want to obtain CPD credits.
c. Conducting tutorials/refresher courses on civil engineering concepts and related subjects
d. Serving as a Resource Speaker in Technical Session.
e. Writing technical articles and pamphlets.
G. SERVICES AS EMPLOYEE
This is a condition when a Civil Engineer engages to perform work or fulfill duties regularly for wages
or salary being paid by an employer.
A Civil Engineer may be employed for any position or function in any commercial or institutional
organization. Where he is performing civil engineering functions, he is required to follow the code of ethics
for Civil Engineers and comply with the standards and guidelines of this manual. A licensed Civil Engineer
may not allow his licensed to be used by the company that employs him without the proper agreement for his
professional services. Where the firm he is working for uses his license to sign and seal the plans,
specifications and contract document, the Civil Engineer much charge the professional fee for said services.
A civil Engineer in part time employment with a firm is considered to be an employee and at the same
time a consultant of the firm.
The standards for an employee and an individual consultant as defined in this manual apply to this
Civil Engineer.
Any Civil Engineer employed as an individual consultant of any firm, whether the firm is performing
engineering, commercial, administrative, management or financial services is required to comply with the
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requirements and the standards herein established for a consulting Civil Engineering firm or consulting Civil
Engineer.
All Government Civil Engineers employed by the instrumentalities of the Government e.g. national
and local, shall be governed by pertinent existing laws and regularities and particularly to those prescribed
by the Civil Service Commission. In case of any conflict with any of the provisions of this Manual of Practice,
such pertinent laws and regulations shall take precedence and shall govern.