RULE I

TITLE, POLICY STATEMENT, DEFINITION OF TERMS, AND SCOPE OF

PRACTICE

SECTION 1. Title.

This Act shall be known as the “THE RULES AND REGULATIONS

IMPLEMENTING THE PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9266” or "Architecture
Act of 2004" and shall be referred to as the "Act."

SECTION 2. Statement of Policy.

The Philippine government wants to support and safeguard the architectural industry.
By regulating the practice of architecture, the main objective is to safeguard the safety,
health, welfare, and well-being of the general population.

SECTION 3. Definition of Terms.

Section 3 of RA 9266 covers the scope of architectural activities, which include

design, planning, project management, and the preparation of architectural plans and
specifications. It also defines key words linked to the practice of architecture. The concept of
how the legal system regulates the practice of architecture is laid forth in this section.

RULE II
PROFESSIONAL REGULATORY BOARD OF ARCHITECTURE:
ORGANIZATION, POWERS AND FUNCTIONS

SECTION 4. Creation and Composition of the Professional Regulatory Board.

A collegial body under the supervision and administrative control of the PRC. The
board shall be organized not later than 6 months from the effectivity of the Architecture Act
of 2004.

SECTION 5. Qualifications of Members of the Professional Regulatory Board.

 In order to be a certified member of the PRC. You should be a citizen and a resident
of the Philippines. You should be a holder of a degree in Bachelor of Science in Architecture
offered by a University in the Philippines or Accredited by CHED. You should be an
Architect With a valid COR and Professional Id and active practitioner of architecture for at
least 10 yrs on the date of appointment. You should be a member of the faculty of any
university. You should never be convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude and you
should not be an elective officer of Integrated and Accredited Professional Organization of
Architects and other Professional Organization of Architects.

SECTION 6. Term of Office.

The Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture is described in detail, along with

its membership and qualifications, along with its responsibilities for governing and
supervising the architectural profession in the Philippines. The PRBoA has the responsibility
of upholding the nation's architects' professionalism, morality, and integrity.

SECTION 7. Power and Functions of the Board.

Describes the vast authority and responsibilities of the PRBoA. These authorities
include the ability to register and license individuals, define professional standards, monitor
and oversee the architectural industry, accredited educational institutions, encourage ongoing
professional growth, and protect the welfare of the general public. In order to control and
advance the architectural profession in the Philippines, the PRBoA is extremely important.

Under Section 8 and 9 The Board is under administrative supervision by the

Commission, which custody all records and provides support services. The Commission
designates the Secretary and provides secretariat services.

In Section 10 to 11 it said here that The Board's chairman and members receive
compensation and allowances similar to those of existing regulatory boards under the
Commission. The Board submits an annual report to the Commission, detailing its
proceedings and recommendations.
ARTICLE III
EXAMINATION, REGISTRATION AND LICENSURE

SECTION 12. Examination Required. - All applicants for registration for the practice
of architecture shall be required to undergo a licensure examination to be given by the Board
in such places and dates as the Commission may designate in accordance with the provisions
of Republic Act No. 8981.

SECTION 13. Applicants for examination must meet the following qualifications:
Filipino or foreign citizen, good moral character, Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree,
diversified architectural experience, one year of practical experience, and no criminal offense
involving moral turpitude. Applicants must also demonstrate a record of diversified
experience and not be convicted of criminal offenses.

SECTION 14. The licensure examination for architects shall cover, but are not limited
to, the following subjects:

(1) History and Theory of Architecture; Principles of Planning and Architectural

Practice.
Part I: History of Architecture
Analyzing architectural manifestations from civilization to contemporary periods,
examining environmental, historical, and sociocultural influences on art, buildings, structures,
and human settlements.
Part II: Theory of Architecture
Understanding design theories, analyzing space requirements, and analyzing
sociocultural and technological trends contribute to contemporary architecture development.
Part III: Architectural Practice
Understanding the role, legal rights, obligations, and responsibilities of architects in
the Philippines, analyzing statutes, codes, and regulations, and understanding professional
practices like production, construction, resource allocation, project management, and client
relations.
 Part IV: Theory and Principles of Planning Analyzing general planning concepts and
techniques, focusing on regional, land use, and human settlements, and understanding site
planning's ecological, socio-psychological, aesthetic, and functional basis.

(2) Structural Design, Building Materials, and Architectural Specifications, and

Methods
of Construction and Utilities; Structural design involves understanding the
fundamentals of mechanics, material strength, and structure theory. It involves general design
principles and analysis of structural elements. Building materials and methods of construction
involve understanding properties, application, and articulation of materials. Utilities are
essential for building and structure aesthetics, function, and strength.

(3) Urban Design and Architectural Interiors Part I: Urban Design analyzes concepts
and techniques in planning, emphasizing ecological, socio-psychological, aesthetic, and
functional aspects. Part II: Architectural Interiors focuses on theories and principles,
analyzing anthropometric, proxemic, and kinesthetic requirements of space.

(4) Architectural Design and Site Planning The Board aims to apply a logical
approach to architectural interiors, urban design, and site planning, focusing on design
methodology, space, circulation, and interrelationships. They also possess the ability to
visualize problems and present solutions in appropriate graphical language. The Board may
revise or exclude subjects and syllabi as needed.

SECTION 15. Rating in the Licensure Examination Candidates must achieve a 70%
weighted general average in architects' licensure examination, with no grade below 50% in
any subject. Board may adopt internal procedures.

SECTION 16 -17 Report of Ratings and Oath The Board must submit candidate
ratings to the Commission within 30 days of the examination, unless extended. After release,
the Board sends the rating to the examinees, who can distribute it during their mass
oathtaking as registered and licensed architects.

SECTION 18-19 Issuance of Certificates of Registration and Professional

Identification Card and Roster of Architects A certificate of Registration and Professional
Identification Card are issued to examinees who pass licensure examinations, subject to
payment of fees. The certificate bears the Commission chairperson's signature and the
Board's seal. It remains valid until withdrawn, suspended, or revoked. A Professional
Identification Card with registration number, issuance date, and expiry date is issued for
registered architects who pay annual registration fees for three years. A roster of registered
architects' names, places of business, and personal information is prepared and updated by the
Board, which makes copies available to interested parties.
SECTION 20. Seal, Issuance and Use of Seal
A duly licensed architect shall affix the seal prescribed by the Board bearing the
registrant’s name, registration number and title “Architect” on all architectural plans,
drawings, specifications and all other contract documents prepared by or under his/her direct
supervision.

SECTION 21-22 Indication of Certificate of Registration/Professional Identification

Card and Professional Tax Receipt and Refusal to Issue Certificate of Registration and
Professional Identification Card The architect must provide their Certificate of Registration
and Professional Identification Card (PIC) number, date of issuance, and validity, along with
the professional tax receipt number issued by the City/Municipal Treasurer. The Board
cannot register or issue a PIC to individuals falsely sworn or misrepresented, or those
convicted of criminal offenses. If a certificate is refused, the Board will provide a written
statement. However, registration cannot be refused for political offenses or offenses that
should not disqualify a person from practicing under R.A. No. 9266.

SECTION 23. Suspension and Revocation of Certificates of Registration,

Professional Identification Card or the Special/Temporary Permit The Board has the power
to suspend or revoke a Certificate of Registration/Professional Identification Card or cancel a
special permit for an architect on grounds of fraud, deceit, gross negligence, unprofessional
conduct, or any other reason. The Board may appeal to the Commission if the applicant has
signed or affixed their name on architectural plans, paid money, falsely impersonated a
practitioner, aided or abetted someone not authorized to practice architecture, openly solicited
projects without a valid service agreement, or violated any provisions of R.A. No. 9266, its
implementing rules and regulations, the Code of Ethical Conduct, and Standards of
Professional Practice. The Board will periodically examine the grounds for revocation and
update them as necessary. Charges against registrants can be prepared or the Board may
investigate and take cognizance of acts and practices. The rules on administrative
investigation issued by the Commission govern the hearing or investigation, subject to R.A.
No. 9266, R.A. No. 8981, and the Rules of Court.

SECTION 24. Re-issuance or Replacement of Revoked or Lost Certificates of

Registration, Professional Identification Card or Special and Temporary Permit The Board
can reinstate a revoked Certificate of Registration after two years, exempting applicants from
examinations. The Board issues a Resolution, subject to Commission approval, to reinstate
the practice of architecture.

RULE IV
PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE (SUNDRY PROVISIONS)

SECTION 25-26 The Philippines prohibits the practice of architecture, preparing

plans, specifications, or using the title "Architect" without obtaining a Certificate of
Registration and a Professional Identification Card from the Board. Foreign architects or
those not authorized to practice architecture in the Philippines are considered unauthorized
and criminally liable under R.A. No. 9266 and the "IRR of the Architecture Act of 2004." All
architects registered at the time of the law will automatically be registered under the
provisions, subject to future requirements. Certificates of Registration and Professional
Identification Cards held by those in good standing will have the same force and effect as
those issued after the passage of R.A. No. 9266.

SECTION 27. Reciprocity Requirements

A non-Filipino citizen cannot take a licensure examination unless they can prove that
their country admits or allows them to practice the same profession without restriction, or
after passing an examination on equality terms with citizens, subjects, or nationals. This
includes unconditional recognition of prerequisite degrees/diplomas issued by recognized
institutions.

SECTION 28. Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

 Controls how foreign architects may use the title "Architect" and carry out
architectural work in the Philippines. It outlines the requirements and credentials for
international architects who want to work there permanently or temporarily and highlights the
need of abiding by local norms and laws.

SECTION 29. Prohibition in the Practice of Architecture and Penal Clause

Emphasizes the value of having a reputable, accredited professional association in the

Philippines for architects. This group is actively engaged in a number of facets of
professional governance, such as board member selection and policy development, and plays
a crucial role in advancing the goals and integrity of the architectural profession.

SECTION 30. Prohibition in the Practice of Architecture

Creates the foundation for the Philippines' obligatory Continuing Professional

Development (CPD) program for architects. The curriculum is meant to make sure that
architects keep their competence and professionalism throughout their careers while also
advancing their knowledge and abilities and staying current with industry advancements. To
keep their licenses current, architects must get CPD credit units, and failure to do so might
result in penalties.

SECTION 31. Liability of Representatives of Non-Registered Persons

Highlights how important it is for architects to ensure adherence to the National

Building Code and other pertinent laws. Architects are accountable for planning and directing
the construction of structures that adhere to safety and legal requirements, and they risk
punishment if they are careless or act unethically while carrying out their obligations.

SECTION 32. Signing and Sealing of Architectural Plans, Specifications, Architectural

Permit and Other Contract Documents
 Allows those with foreign architectural degrees to be excluded from taking the
licensing test as long as they meet certain requirements, such as citizenship, foreign degree
accreditation, and PRBoA certification of substantial equivalent. Exempted people must also
abide by any additional legal obligations and CPD standards.

SECTION 33. Ownership of Plans, Specifications and Other Contract Documents

Enables the acceptance of reciprocity agreements regarding the practice of

architecture between the Philippines and other nations or jurisdictions. The recognition is
subject to a number of requirements, and the PRBoA is crucial in assessing, authorizing, and
regulating these agreements. Under specific requirements and situations, architects from
nations with recognized reciprocity may practice in the Philippines.

SECTION 34. Non-Registered Person shall not Claim Equivalent Service

Permits for the issuing of a unique temporary permit that enables international
architects to work with registered Filipino architects on certain projects or for consulting
purposes in the Philippines. The permit is project-specific and is revocable if it is not
followed. This clause promotes cross-border cooperation in architectural projects while
ensuring adherence to regional norms and laws.

SECTION 35. Positions in Government Requiring the Services of Registered and Licensed
Architects

Sanctions for the illegal practice of architecture in the Philippines are established.
Fines, the suspension or revocation of professional licenses, sanctions against businesses or
other entities, and other remedies including injunctive relief are only a few examples of these
sanctions. The section places emphasis on the value of upholding the rules and laws
pertaining to the practice of architecture.

SECTION 36. Collection of Professional Fees

Specifies that architects in the Philippines must adhere to a Code of Ethical and
Professional Standards. This code outlines the moral standards and ideals that architects must
uphold in their work, placing a focus on honesty, skill, and responsible behavior. Maintaining
the high standards and moral conduct demanded of architects in the nation requires adherence
to the code.

SECTION 37. Limitation to the Registration of a Firm, Company, Partnership,

Corporation or Association

Creates the CPD Council for Architecture, which would be in charge of directing the
Philippines's Continuing Professional Development program for architects. Through the
development of CPD rules, accreditation of providers and programs, monitoring compliance,
and ensuring that architects continue to advance their professional knowledge and abilities
throughout their careers, this council plays a crucial role.

SECTION 38. Coverage of temporary/Special Permits

Explains the consequences for architects in the Philippines who don't follow the CPD
program's rules. Fines, the suspension of professional licenses, and other administrative
measures are some examples of these sanctions. The CPD program is a way to make sure that
architects keep improving their professional knowledge and abilities, and non-compliance
can have serious repercussions for their business.

SECTION 39. Liability Insurance of a Person or Entity Allowed to Practice under a

Temporary/Special Permit

The Philippines' Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Program for architects.

The program aims to support architects' professional growth, skill, and ethical behavior.
Architects must get CPE credit units through a variety of activities in order to renew their
licenses, and failure to do so can lead to penalties. The PRBoA is in charge of managing the
program and establishing the rules and specifications for participation.

RULE V
FINAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 40. Integration of the Architecture Professions

Outlines punishments for people or organizations found to have violated the law
implementing rules and laws pertaining to the practice of architecture in the Philippines.
Fines, the suspension or revocation of a professional license, other suitable measures, and
possibly criminal culpability are only a few examples of these sanctions. The section aims to
maintain the ethical standards and professional standards of the architectural profession while
enforcing adherence to the law.

SECTION 41. Implementing Rules and Regulations

Appoints the Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA) as the

regulatory authority in charge of regulating the Philippine architectural industry. The PRBoA
is made up of qualified people who have been chosen by the President and is charged with
carrying out a number of tasks, including administering licensing tests, regulating practice,
and upholding professional standards in the area of architecture.

SECTION 42. Appropriations

Describes the authority and duties of the Philippine Professional Regulatory Board of
Architecture (PRBoA) in controlling and regulating the practice of architecture. These
abilities include the ability to make rules, the ability to administer licensing exams, the ability
to assess qualifications, the ability to oversee practice, the ability to impose moral standards,
and the ability to decide cases. The PRBoA is crucial in ensuring the nation's architects are
qualified and professional.

SECTION 43. Act Not Affecting Other Professionals

Explains the eligibility and requirements for those wishing to sit for the Philippine
licensing exam for architects. It addresses educational requirements, practical training,
eligibility requirements, exam topics, and the granting of licenses. To maintain the integrity
of the profession, this part makes sure that those who practice architecture in the nation are in
compliance with certain rules and requirements.
SECTION 44. Enforcement of the Act

Under reciprocity agreements between the Philippines and their home countries,
permits the registration of international architects in the Philippines. Foreign architects are
required to fulfill certain requirements and abide by the terms and circumstances of the
agreement. This clause makes it easier for nations to collaborate on architectural projects
while guaranteeing that foreign architects who wish to work in the Philippines do so in
accordance with the country's rules and regulations.
SECTION 45. Separability Clause

Permits for the issuing of a short-term or special permit to international architects who
want to offer their skills for particular projects or consultancies in the Philippines. The
permission is intended to allow global cooperation in architectural projects while
guaranteeing adherence to regional norms and laws. Its issue is subject to conditions,
including cooperation with a licensed Filipino architect.

SECTION 46. Repealing Clause

Sets sanctions for foreign architects who practice architecture illegally in the
Philippines. Fines, the suspension or cancellation of special permissions, other suitable
measures, and possible criminal culpability are some examples of these consequences. The
section strives to uphold the professional standards and ethics of the profession and ensure
that foreign architects comply with the legal requirements for practicing architecture in the
nation.

SECTION 47. Effectivity

Enables for the recognition of licensed architects from other nations or jurisdictions
who satisfy certain requirements. Foreign architects are permitted to practice architecture in
the Philippines within the bounds specified by their certificate of recognition, subject to
review and approval by the PRBoA. This clause encourages worldwide collaboration in the
field of architecture while ensuring that foreign architects adhere to local regulations and
norms.