The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) recently announced that 2,094 out of 3,370 candidates successfully passed the Licensure Examination for Architects (LEA). This examination, conducted by the Board of Architecture under the leadership of Chairman Arch. Robert S. Sac and members Arch. Robert M. Mirafuente and Arch. Corazon V. Fabia-Tandoc, took place on June 11 and 13, 2024, across multiple locations including NCR, Baguio, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Pampanga, Rosales, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga.
The PRC efficiently released the results just three working days after the final examination date, demonstrating their commitment to prompt and efficient processing.
Starting August 12, 2024, successful examinees can begin registering online for their Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration. The PRC’s official website, www.prc.gov.ph, will provide the necessary instructions for initial registration. Examinees need to bring several documents to complete their registration: a downloaded and duly accomplished Oath Form (Panunumpa ng Propesyonal), notice of admission for identification purposes, two passport-sized photos with a white background and complete name tag, two sets of documentary stamps, and one short brown envelope. Personal registration and signing in the Roster of Registered Professionals are mandatory for all successful candidates.
Highlighting the top-performing institutions, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Main-Sta. Mesa ranked first among schools with 50 or more examinees and at least an 80% passing rate. Out of 60 examinees from this institution, 56 passed, achieving a passing rate of 93.33%. The University of Santo Tomas secured the second rank with 143 out of 161 examinees passing, translating to an 88.82% passing rate. The University of San Carlos came in third, with 58 out of 68 examinees passing and an 85.29% passing rate. De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, Inc. was fourth, with 46 out of 55 examinees passing, resulting in an 83.64% passing rate.
These results not only reflect the diligence and dedication of the aspiring architects but also the quality of education and training provided by their respective institutions. As these new professionals step into their careers, they bring with them the knowledge and skills honed through rigorous preparation and examination.
The top performing schools in the June 2024 Licensure Examination for Architects as per Commission Resolution No. 1814 series of 2024:
WITH 50 OR MORE EXAMINEES AND WITH AT LEAST 8O% PASSING PERCENTAGE
PRC Philippines
Academic Content of an Architects
The architecture programs in the Philippines are meticulously crafted to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for professional practice. These programs cover a comprehensive array of subjects and competencies.
Core Subjects
1. Architectural Design
- Fundamental Design Principles
- Advanced Design Studio
- Sustainable Design
- Urban Design
- Housing and Community Architecture
2. History and Theory of Architecture
- History of Philippine Architecture
- History of World Architecture
- Architectural Theory
- Contemporary Architecture
3. Building Technology
- Construction Methods and Materials
- Structural Design
- Environmental Systems
- Building Services (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing)
- Acoustics and Lighting
4. Professional Practice
- Architectural Practice and Ethics
- Building Laws and Codes (National Building Code of the Philippines)
- Project Management
- Business of Architecture
- Specifications Writing
5. Visual Communication and Presentation
- Architectural Graphics
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
- Building Information Modeling (BIM)
- 3D Visualization and Rendering
- Model Making
6. Site Planning and Landscape Architecture
- Site Analysis and Planning
- Landscape Design
- Urban Planning
- Environmental Planning
7. Research and Thesis
- Research Methods in Architecture
- Architectural Programming
- Thesis Preparation and Defense
Electives and Specializations
Students can also select electives or specialize in areas such as:
- Heritage Conservation
- Green Architecture
- Interior Architecture
- Digital Architecture
- Project and Construction Management
Internship and Practical Experience
A vital component of the curriculum is practical training through internships, enabling students to gain hands-on experience by working in architectural firms or related fields.
Accreditation and Licensure
Architecture programs are accredited by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines. Graduates must pass the licensure examination administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to become registered architects.
Influences and Considerations
- Cultural Context: There is a strong emphasis on Filipino architectural heritage and vernacular design.
- Sustainability: Programs focus on sustainable and resilient design practices, given the Philippines' susceptibility to natural disasters.
- Technological Integration: Advanced technologies are integrated into design and construction processes.