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INTRODUCTION
Architecture is more than just designing buildings; it’s about creating spaces that shape how people
live, work, and interact. In the Philippines, architecture reflects the country’s rich culture, diverse
history, and growing need for sustainable development in the face of rapid urbanization. This makes
the role of architects vital—not only in designing structures but also in addressing the challenges of
modern living.
The practice of architecture in the Philippines is guided by laws like the Architecture Act of 2004
(Republic Act No. 9266), which ensures that architects uphold professional standards and prioritize
public safety. However, being an architect isn’t just about creativity and design. Behind every
project is the equally important task of managing an architectural office. From handling clients and
budgets to meeting deadlines and navigating legal requirements, running an architecture firm
In today’s fast-changing world, Filipino architects and their firms face new challenges. These
include keeping up with technology like Building Information Modeling (BIM), adapting to stricter
environmental laws, and finding ways to stay competitive in the global market. At the same time,
This research explores the realities of architectural practice and office management in the
Philippines. By looking at both the creative and business sides of architecture, this study aims to
understand the challenges architects face and uncover ways to improve how they work and run their
offices. In doing so, it hopes to contribute to the growth of the profession and its impact on society.
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II. OBJECTIVES
Identify the trends and challenges affecting the profession, such as sustainability, technology
Investigate the adoption and impact of digital tools like BIM, CAD software, and other
technologies.
Highlight successful management models and strategies used by architectural firms in the
Philippines.
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III. CONTENTS
1.a. What role does cultural heritage play in contemporary architectural projects in the
Philippines?
Cultural heritage plays a vital role in shaping contemporary architectural projects in the Philippines
by integrating traditional elements like the Bahay Kubo and Bahay na Bato with modern
innovations. This approach balances the preservation of historical identity and the need for urban
and sustainable designs (ArchDaily, 2023). Furthermore, efforts by the National Commission for
Culture and the Arts emphasize adaptive reuse and local materials to maintain cultural continuity in
1.b. How do Filipino architects incorporate indigenous and traditional materials and
techniques
According to this Article: Exploring the evolution and impact of architecture in Filipino: from
Exploring the defining characteristics of Filipino architecture uncovers the intricate tapestry of
cultural and historical melding. From the humble Bahay Kubo to the grandiose Bahay na Bato, the
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architecture reflects a blend of indigenous and foreign influences brought about by centuries of
colonial rule.
The Bahay Kubo, also known as the Nipa Hut, exemplifies the adaptation of local architecture to
the tropical climate. From its humble beginnings as a stilted, single-room shelter made from organic
materials such as nipa palm leaves and bamboo, the Bahay Kubo has evolved into a multifunctional
structure. Its raised floor keeps inhabitants safe from floods, while the airy construction ensures
proper airflow.
Another significant element in Filipino architecture involves the use of Capiz shells. These
translucent, oyster-like shells serve aesthetic and functional purposes. Traditionally used in
windows, they not only provide natural lighting but also offer some style with their shimmering
glow. Capiz shells are a touch of the Philippines’ biodiversity, embedded right in the heart of its
architectural designs.
Filipino architecture considers ventilation and natural lighting as essential factors, especially in a
tropical country subjected to harsh sunlight and humid conditions. Most Filipino structures embody
an ‘open plan’ layout, reducing the need for artificial light and improving air circulation. Large
windows, airy spaces, and communal areas are common features, demonstrating an architectural
understanding of the local environment and a recognition of the nation’s socio-cultural habits.
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Modern Filipino architecture demonstrates a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary
elements. Bahay Kubo’s inherent tropical design principles, for instance, serve as a template for
These structures employ Bahay Kubo’s ethos of natural ventilation, bolstered by advancements in
design technology.
Filipino architecture not merely represents physical structures. It embodies the nation’s vibrant
history, cultural diversity, and innovative spirit. This section illuminates just how architecture plays
a vital role and holds a prominent position in Filipino culture. From its traditional roots to
contemporary designs, Filipino architecture is a testament to the Philippines’s rich cultural heritage.
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Filipino architecture serves as a standing testament to the nation’s tumultuous history and multi-
layered heritage. Architectural structures provide a physical embodiment of the Philippines’ past,
bringing to life tales from various epochs. For example, the Bahay Kubo, or “nipa hut,” a dwelling
characterized by its bamboo and palm leaf construction, symbolizes the simplicity and functionality
engrained in traditional Filipino communities. On the other hand, the grandiose Spanish-era
community affair. Traditional Filipino homes, such as the Bahay Kubo, were built with communal
effort called “Bayanihan.” This practice involved neighbors helping to build or even physically
move the house to a new location, truly epitomizing the community’s influence over architectural
design.
2.a. How do the Philippine Professional Regulations and Codes affect the growth and
Professional Practice.
The Philippine Professional Regulations and Codes significantly influence architectural practices in
the country by establishing standards for professional conduct, licensure, education, and ongoing
development. These frameworks, primarily governed by Republic Act No. 9266, or the
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"Architecture Act of 2004," outline key areas of practice, including ethical responsibilities,
continuing professional development (CPD), and compliance with design and construction
standards.
2.1 Licensure and Education Standards: Architects in the Philippines must pass a rigorous
licensure examination that tests their knowledge in areas such as architectural design,
urban planning, and construction techniques. This ensures that only qualified individuals
enter the profession, maintaining high standards across the industry (PRC, 2023).
2.2 Ethics and Professional Practice: The Architect’s Code of Ethics emphasizes the need
for fairness in dealings with clients, contractors, and peers. It prohibits practices like
accepting commissions from suppliers, ensuring that architects act solely in the best
interests of their clients, which enhances trust and professionalism (PRC, 2023)
2.3 CPD Requirements: The Continuing Professional Development program ensures that
While CPD is encouraged and integrated into professional life, it is not mandatory for
license renewal, striking a balance between maintaining expertise and avoiding undue
ensuring the safety and functionality of structures. Furthermore, compliance with local
national goals.
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2.b. What are the current key challenges faced by Filipino architects in starting and putting
As explained by: Luna, A. J. (2024, October 29). In the Article Should you get foreign or local
consultants?
Thus, from a point of view of parity in training, the average Filipino architect starts at a
disadvantage to their foreign peers. Sheer grit and raw talent may be good foundations, but
competency and expertise are built through education, training, and experience. And it is here where
A significant factor in the apparent disparity between competencies is our country’s economic
status.
As a developing country, local education is challenged by funding and limited access to knowledge
and technology. Local projects are modest in scale and investments in building are tempered
relative to wealthier countries where building projects are larger and more complex, and whose
more mature markets allow for cutting-edge designs that push their local practitioners toward higher
Further aggravating this situation is the erratic progression of our economy whose history has been
punctuated by incessant economic and political crises, preventing the steady progress enjoyed by
The aftermath of crises often severely impacts the building industry, with sharp declines in the scale
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Not only did these crises result in the downsizing or closure of firms, but also in hampered local
knowledge growth due to a flight of intellectual capital through overseas employment, immigration,
or shift in careers. Countries less disrupted by crises can realize compounding benefits yielded by
economic stability.
Since buildings have historically been a means to express wealth (and power), architecture remains
largely an elite profession. Buildings are imbued with prestige. Those with the means will tend to
Often, and for reasons that are driven by logic as well as bias, those after prestige would seek
foreign expertise due to the gravitas they project. This is the uneven competitive arena that local
architects are in, one where they are forced to compete based on cost.
Urbanization is accelerating in developing countries more than in any other place in the world.
Thus, the bulk of new urban space will be created in countries like the Philippines as declining
Already, we are seeing a lot of innovative urban projects being proposed in the developing world, in
A surge in economic activity in the Philippines could imply several things: For one, it could present
a boon to the local building industry, and the local design practice.
But it could also mean increased competition by foreign firms who would be enticed to promote
their services and peddle their newfangled solutions to the naïve and starstruck eyes of developing
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There is, however, a larger playing field that architects should have a role in. As the urbanization of
developing countries such as the Philippines accelerates, the need to mitigate the challenge of
metropolitan growth in terms of water, energy, waste, congestion, housing, and climate change will
It is not just in the realm of building design that our young Philippine architects need to be ready.
More importantly, they need to be ready to address our country’s most daunting urban challenges.
This, ultimately, is where we pin our hopes on our young Filipino architects. Despite being
underdogs in our own turf, who else will better understand our problems than us? And who can best
design the outcomes we want for ourselves but our own? Who else would be more invested in the
Foreign expertise, prestige, and savviness may matter a lot, but they are often transactional, lacking
the empathy, dedication, and soul a native mind can bring. If we are to ask for whom we design and
toward what end, it will have to be for ourselves and for our own betterment. If design is
storytelling, then who would we want to tell the story of our built environment?
3.a. What opportunities exist for Filipino architects to advance their skills in digital tools like
B.I.M. or A.I.?
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Educational institutions in the Philippines, such as Mapúa University and the University of the
Philippines, incorporate BIM into their curricula. These programs align with global standards, such
as ISO 19650, ensuring graduates are equipped with up-to-date skills (HM Government, 2015).
Collaborative frameworks are pivotal in bridging the gap between academia and practice.
programs designed to disseminate best practices in BIM adoption. These programs emphasize open
The Philippine government’s Construction Industry Roadmap and partnerships with the World Bank
on smart city initiatives highlight a growing emphasis on digital transformation. Events like the
Philippine Urban Forum 2023 promote the integration of AI in urban planning and architectural
design, offering architects practical exposure to AI-driven technologies (World Bank, 2023).
Global platforms such as Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer flexible, accessible courses
on BIM and AI. These courses, often developed in partnership with top universities, provide
Filipino architects with opportunities to learn from international experts. Programs covering topics
like generative design and parametric modeling are particularly relevant for advanced skill
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3.b. What is the current impact of international accreditation on the career mobility and
International accreditation enables Filipino architects to meet education and licensure standards
recognized by global institutions. Membership in organizations like the UIA facilitates access to
competitions, networks, and resources across 130 member countries, providing avenues for
Architectural Services allow Filipino architects to work across Southeast Asia, streamlining the
Secretariat, 2015). These frameworks empower Filipino architects to expand their practices beyond
Accreditation also raises practice standards by promoting ongoing professional development and
compliance with global best practices. International competitions and events emphasize themes
such as sustainable architecture, urban resilience, and advanced technology integration, helping
resources, workshops, and mentorship programs, which are vital for developing specialized skills in
areas like climate-responsive design and parametric modeling (AIA International, 2024).
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4. Architectural Office Management in the Philippines
4.a. What strategies do small and medium-sized architectural firms in the Philippines use to
As explained by: Fischer, E. M. (2023, August 31). In the Article Marketing Strategies for
Architects.
4.1 The 4 Ps of Marketing for Architects The 4 Ps are position, process, professionals, and
portfolio. If you have ever heard a client tell you that all the firms they talked to,
including yours, seemed the same, it might be a good idea to focus on the 4 Ps. Find out
4.2 Lead Generation Services Cold calling and digital marketing are two branches of this
fairly old strategy to marketing for architects. Both will get you in contact with a lot of
potential clients, but you have to be ready for a fair amount of rejection.
4.3 Expand Your Website View your website as more than just a place to store information
about your firm. Your website, and your portfolio, in particular, are your chance to
impress and vital to marketing for architects. Improve the content by reworking the
4.4 Public Speaking If you like public speaking and are good at it, this is a great way to get
you and your expertise in the face of potential clients. You are positioning yourself as an
4.5 Develop Your Elevator Pitch Your elevator pitch is a short – as in, can be said in the
time it takes to travel in an elevator – sales pitch. It should be short and sweet,
interesting, and hit on the thing that makes your firm different from the competition.
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4.6 Get Yourself Published This will build your reputation fast, but it isn’t all that hard to
4.7 Create Your Newsletter Newsletters may seem old-school, but they are a great way to
show off to your website visitors. Collect email addresses of potential clients by offering
them something for free in exchange. A free eBook or video are both perfect options. A
regular newsletter keeps you fresh in their minds. Fill the newsletter with whatever you
4.8 Don’t Throw Away Old Leads Many firms focus all their efforts on chasing new leads
and leave old leads in the dust. The problem with this is you don’t know the reasons the
old lead didn’t decide to hire you. Maybe it wasn’t the right time for them and in a year,
4.9 Adopt New Technologies Virtual reality and Building Information Modeling are new
technologies that more and more firms are using to sell their services. They are new
4.b. What are the best practices for managing multi-disciplinary teams in architectural
According to the Article Managing Complex Projects and Multidisciplinary Teams with
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Establish effective communication channels to ensure all team members are aligned. Regular
meetings, email updates, and online collaboration tools can help keep everyone informed.
A strong leader understands the needs and concerns of each discipline and promotes an environment
Each team member should understand their specific responsibilities and contributions to the project.
When identifying potential risks, involve all relevant experts. This ensures that scenarios are
4.c. How does office culture influence creativity and productivity in architectural practices?
In the past, offices had a strict hierarchy. The executives would have large corner offices filled with
natural light while other employees were stationed at the center, often inside of tall, poorly lit
cubicles.
This office architecture design is a problem because it discourages collaboration. Executives don’t
get to interact as often with their employees. Likewise, employees feel quite isolated when they
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If you flip this layout, you’ll get better results and improve everyone’s happiness. You can do this
by:
4.14 . Placing executives in the middle of the action. Moving executive offices and
conference rooms to the center encourages workers to come to their supervisors with
problems or work on innovative new ideas. Using glass walls ensures that these office
spaces still receive a lot of daylight and also breaks down the barrier between
4.15 . Using a mix of soft collaborative and task seating. Task seating is usually stiff
because it supports people’s backs as they work. These types of seats are still very
important, however, you should also make softer seats available in collaborative zones.
Lounge areas and conference rooms are ideal places for couches or soft modular
furniture. People will naturally gravitate to these seats because they’re so comfortable.
4.16. Providing outdoor seating and work stations. Sometimes, workers just want to
be outside. Placing seats and tables outside in the shade gives them more options to work
4.17 . Offering more options. In general, you should give your workers more
opportunity for movement and customization. Not everyone works well at a desk or in an
open office floor plan. Allowing workers to alter their environments is not only more
humane, but it also empowers them. They can take ownership of their work and feel like
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5. TOP 10 ARCHITECTURAL FIRMS / ARCHITECTURAL OFFICE IN THE
Based on the Article Top architectural firms in the Philippines. By: Lamudi. (2021, September 27).
An architectural firm that originated in England in 1995 but ultimately evolved into an all-Filipino
firm by 2003, AIDEA is one of the Philippines’ largest design practices and has been included in
BCI Media Group’s Top 10 Architectural Firms for three consecutive years, and ranked 62 among
Recent projects by AIDEA include the Ascott Residences, Kidzania Philippines, High Street South
Corporate Plaza Tower 2, and Woodside Greentown Twin Towers. The project it has recently gotten
the most acclaim for has been the Globe Tower in Bonifacio Global City, as it is now one of the
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Globe Tower. Photo via AIDEA Philippines
Asya Design Partner has constantly been in BCI’s Top 10 architectural firms since the recognition
started being awarded in 2005. Headed by Architect Albert Yu, the firm is widely recognized for its
holistic services that help owners develop properties from the ground up. ASYA is also the only
local firm with its very own 12-story Platinum-certified green office building.
Working with as many as 65 developers so far, ASYA has completed design for a bevy of structures
both locally and abroad. The most recognizable include the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the
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City of Dreams. Photo via Shutterstock
3. BUDJI+ROYAL Architecture+Design
BUDJI+ROYAL is an architectural design firm established by Royal Pineda and Budji Layug, born
out of their creative collaboration that began in 2001. The company prides itself on bringing its
signature organic modern style to the world. Their total approach to design integrates the demands
of interior design, architecture, furniture design, landscaping, and home accessories into one
complete practice.
Their award-winning portfolio features local and international resorts, hotels, airport projects, and
commercial and residential developments. They have projects across Hong Kong, Singapore,
Beijing, India, Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, USA, Australia, United Kingdom, France, and Israel.
Meranti Hotel in Quezon City, Lumot Vacation House in Laguna, and Camara Residence in Makati
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4. Casas + Architects, Inc.
contemporary vision. The company is dedicated to upholding the ideals of architecture and master
planning every aspect of their work. Their body of work spans commercial properties, high-rise
The firm was founded by Jose Pedro C. Recio and Carmelo T. Casas, who both cut their teeth in one
of Hong Kong’s leading architectural firms. They began their creative partnership in 1990, serving
as design consultants for projects like The Pacific Plaza Tower in Makati City, the ABS-CBN
Broadcasting Studio, Richmonde Hotel, and Salcedo Park, a notable landmark in Salcedo Village,
Makati.
With a passion for sustainability, Edward Co Tan & Architects (ECTA) has established itself among
the top architectural firms in the Philippines by embracing advancements and methodologies that
complement the systems developed by environmental institutions like the Philippine Green
Building Council (PhilGBC), the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), and the Leadership in
A five-time entrant in the BCI Top 10, ECTA continues to embark on several high-profile projects
in the country, bringing as much of their commitment to sustainability as possible to each one.
Some of the most recognizable projects of the firm include the cylindrical Del Rosario Building in
BGC, The Sanctuarium in Quezon City, and the upcoming World Hotel and Residences in Quezon
City.
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The Sancturium. Photo via ECT Architects
GF & Partners Architects began as Gabriel Formoso’s successful personal practice. The renowned
architect began his career in 1939 and established himself as one of the first 100 licensed architects
in the Philippines. The firm eventually evolved to include founding partners Susana S. Castillo,
Ricardo S. Dela Rosa Jr., Jaime C. Marquez, Rodolfo V. Lameyra, and Severino C. Villarama.
Most of the firm’s designs are underscored by Formoso’s penchant for “bold-lined fascias” and
“masculine-looking rubble walls.” His creative vision has been described as “a pride in architectural
symmetry, elegance, and beauty.” They’ve been responsible for some of the most notable buildings
in the country, such as the Ayala Alabang landmark Alabang Town Center, Makati City Hall,
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7. FSL & Associates, Co.
Founded by renowned architect Felix S. Lim in 1983, FSL & Associates, Co. is an architectural firm
with over 700,000 sqm of completed commercial, office, and LEED projects. They’ve been
consistently awarded the Asia Pacific Award for Best Office Development since 2012.
Together with architects Don Fendi Li, Patrick Jefferson Lim, and a team of talented designers, the
firm has persistently challenged, enhanced, and diversified Metro Manila’s skylines and thriving
urban centers. Among their most notable projects include the Ortigas CBD landmark Podium
Mall and BDO Tower in Ortigas Center, and Eton Cyberpod Centris in Quezon City.
Known in the industry for institutional architecture projects like the Xavier School Sports Complex
in Manila and the Southville Foreign College in Las Piñas, Jonathan O. Gan + Associates has been
a BCI Asia Top 10 awardee on numerous occasions. The firm’s other projects like the A. Venue
Mall and Jonathan O. Gan + Associates have gone as far as to be featured in the award-giving
body’s magazine.
The architecture firm’s more recent projects include the Chimes Condominiums in Greenhills,
Robinsons Tagum in Tagum City, and the Midori Clark & Casino in Mabalacat, Pampanga. The
project in Pampanga is one of great anticipation, as it is set to stand in a city classified as the new
business frontier.
Established in 1983 with only three office staff in San Juan City, Jose Siao Ling & Associates
exemplifies building something from the ground up. Fast forward to more than three decades, and
the architectural firm stands as one of the most decorated in the country. The firm has been in the
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BCI Asia Top 10 eight times, with members of the firm recognized as top ASEAN or APEC
Architects.
Undoubtedly, the most recognizable project designed by the firm is the Mall of Asia Arena, the
leading venue for large-scale events in the Philippines. Notable residential projects embarked on by
the firm include Luxe Residences in Taguig, and H Hotel by Harolds in both Cebu and in Quezon
City.
Mall of Asia Arena. Photo via Jose Siao Ling & Associates
With an impressive body of work composed of over 450 completed award-winning projects, such as
the SMX Convention Center in the SM Mall of Asia complex, JSLA Architects has been committed
to providing exceptional real estate services since 1983. Their stellar portfolio also includes 37 of
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the 70 malls of SM, more than 30 buildings in Bonifacio Global City, several BPO buildings in
Robinsons Malls, and numerous hotels, resorts, and residential properties across the country.
What started as Jose Siao Ling and Associates, a small architectural practice, has grown into a
family corporate practice that encompasses more than 50 design capabilities. Their main mission is
to be a formidable presence in the architectural world, planning and providing highly productive
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REFERENCES
AIA International. (2024). Driving Positive Change Through Design. Retrieved from AIA
International.
ArchDaily. (2023). The Evolution of Residential Dwellings in the Philippines Through the Years.
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Bradshaw, M. (2024, May 9). Exploring the evolution and impact of architecture in Filipino: from
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impact-of-architecture-in-filipino-from-bahay-kubo-to-modern-designs/
BuildingSMART International. (2023). Advancing BIM through open digital standards. Retrieved
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Gomes, C. (2023, August 22). Managing Complex Projects and Multidisciplinary Teams with
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excellence-gomes
Monograph. https://monograph.com/blog/marketing-strategies-for-architects
HM Government. (2015). The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. Retrieved
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International Union of Architects (UIA). (n.d.). Philippines: United Architects of the Philippines
Lamudi. https://www.lamudi.com.ph/journal/top-architectural-firms-in-the-philippines/
Luna, A. J. (2024, October 29). Should you get foreign or local consultants? | Inquirer Business.
INQUIRER.net. https://business.inquirer.net/457360/should-you-get-foreign-or-local-consultants
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