Ethical Conduct and Professional Integrity
- Landscape Architects must practice their profession with honor, avoiding fraudulent or deceitful acts involving moral turpitude.
- They must not abet violations of the law, this Code, or related policies.
- When professional opinions conflict, PALA or its chapters act as mediators to resolve biases and clarify positions.
Public Interest and Environmental Responsibility
- Personal and client interests must be subordinate to the public interest.
- Landscape Architects shall strive to enhance the environment, protect public interest, and promote judicious resource use.
- Professional work should address social development concerns, particularly aiding underprivileged and marginalized sectors.
- Annual registration fees must be paid for renewal; submission of continuing education units is voluntary.
Client and Employer Responsibilities
- Landscape Architects are fiduciaries, providing objective opinions free from undue influence.
- Confidentiality must be maintained; information is only disclosed with prior client/employer consent except as required by law.
- Conflicts of interest are prohibited, including use of privileged positions for financial gain or securing unauthorized extra work.
- Remuneration is limited to agreed charges; no additional commissions or speculative profit demands are allowed.
Responsibilities to the Professional Organization (PALA)
- Landscape Architects should contribute to the welfare and advancement of PALA and support new professionals.
- Membership in good standing requires adherence to rules and payment of dues.
- They must promote unity and abide by PALA's governing documents.
- Violations of the Code or illegal practice must be reported promptly with evidence; members shall assist in investigations.
- Continuing professional education is encouraged through seminars, publications, research, and higher education.
Relations Among Fellow Landscape Architects
- Harmful acts or statements damaging another Architect’s reputation or practice are prohibited.
- Signatures and seals must not be affixed to documents not directly supervised.
- Credit is only for work actually performed; claiming credit for others' work is forbidden.
- Solicitation of work must be based on merit and experience; advertising must be dignified.
- Fair competition is required: no undercutting of fees, payment of commissions, or unfair salary offers.
- Design-and-build engagements are allowed only when specifically required; fair fees must be charged.
Relations with Foreign Consultants
- Filipino Landscape Architects must uphold constitutional rights and laws protecting their profession.
- They must not facilitate or tolerate illegal foreign practice.
- In engagements with foreigners, local Architects must act as counterparts with proper rights and benefits.
- Preference must be given to qualified local Architects before hiring foreigners.
Disciplinary Actions
- The Board may suspend or revoke certificates after due process for violations of the Code.
- Decisions can be appealed to the PRC and further to the Court of Appeals.
Effectivity
- The Code becomes effective 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.