Question & AnswerQ&A (PRC BOARD OF ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING Resolution NO. 01, SERIES OF 1997)
The Code is known as the "Code of Ethics for Environmental Planners in the Philippines."
It was adopted pursuant to the powers and functions under Section 8 (e) and (l), Article II of P.D. 1308, the Law Regulating Environmental Planning in the Philippines.
The Code serves as a norm of ethical standards governing the personal and professional conduct of Environmental Planners in the practice of their profession to promote public interest and respectable standards of behavior.
An Environmental Planner must commit himself first to the service of God, country, and mankind, and advance environmental planning in line with the constitutional mandate to protect the people's right to a balanced and healthful ecology.
They must uphold and obey all relevant laws, observe fairness, courage, honesty, and sincerity, and be mindful of their role in achieving ecological balance, public order, safety, and convenience.
They must contribute to the development of the profession by sharing knowledge, initiating innovative concepts, and devote time, talent, and resources for the profession's advancement while promoting strong professional organizations.
Environmental Planners must accurately represent their qualifications and experience, analyze ethical issues critically, pursue continuing professional education, exercise sound professional judgment, and demonstrate high moral and professional integrity.
They must maintain harmonious relationships, practice honesty and transparency, provide competent service within their scope, avoid conflicts of interest, exercise confidentiality of information, offer professional advice on critical matters, and charge fees commensurate with services rendered.
They must exercise utmost confidentiality, and such information or documents may only be shared upon the client’s written consent by legal means.
To serve the country, safeguard public interest, consider the long-range consequences of actions, provide clear information to the public, protect the environment, plan for disadvantaged groups, and strive for balanced development contributing to national stability and growth.
Violations constitute unethical and unprofessional conduct, which may lead to suspension or revocation of the Certificate of Registration in accordance with the provisions of P.D. No. 1308 and relevant rules and regulations.
The Code took effect fifteen (15) days after publication in the Official Gazette or newspaper of general circulation, whichever was earlier, following its adoption on May 28, 1997.