The architecture industry in the Philippines is currently facing significant challenges, notably the widespread issue of illegal and unethical practices among professionals. This situation raises important questions: Are these issues due to a blatant disregard for the law, a lack of understanding among graduates, or shortcomings in how professional practice is taught in academic institutions?

Recent reports from the Special Committee on Anti-Illegal Practice of the United Architects of the Philippines highlight that many involved in these unethical activities are architecture graduates. These individuals include students, registered and licensed professionals, non-registered yet licensed individuals, and even those not related to the field of architecture.

While the principle that ignorance of the law excuses no one is well-established, there is a critical need to ensure that students genuinely understand the legal and ethical standards required in their profession. Traditional educational methods, which often involve merely reading legal provisions, do not foster a deep comprehension of these standards.

To address this issue, I propose an experiential learning approach that incorporates real-world scenarios and case studies into the curriculum. This approach includes the integration of Interactive Workshops, Role-Playing Simulations and Debates, Guest Lectures and Mentorship, and Project-Based Learning.

This experiential learning approach aims to instill a profound understanding of legal and ethical responsibilities in future architects, thus addressing the root causes of illegal and unethical practices and contributing to the revitalization of the architecture profession in the Philippines.

Authors:
Joannie Lumbao, National University Manila, Philippines
John Bernard Alejo, National University Manila, Philippines
Marcjoseph Yatco, National University Manila, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Ar. Joannie Lumbao is a professor of Architecture at National University - Manila, Philippines. Currently taking her law degree at Arellano University Manila Philippines.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannie-lumbao-638565166/

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