Title
Law Regulating Practice of Engineer and Architect
Law
Act No. 2985
Decision Date
Feb 23, 1921
The Engineering and Architecture Law in the Philippines requires individuals to obtain licenses in order to practice as engineers or architects, with specific qualifications and examination requirements outlined by appointed boards of examiners. Violation of this law can result in fines or imprisonment, but individuals without academic titles can still work as "maestros de obras" without signing plans or advertising as engineers or architects.
A

Creation and Appointment of Boards of Examiners

  • Boards for each profession (civil, mechanical, electrical, mining, chemical engineering, and architecture) composed of 3 members.
  • Members must be of good moral character, at least 25 years old.
  • Must have graduated in the relevant engineering or architecture field from a recognized institution.
  • Must have at least 5 years’ professional practice.
  • Prohibited from being faculty members or having pecuniary interests in educational institutions related to their profession.

Oath and Tenure of Board Members

  • Board members must take an official oath to faithfully perform duties and remain loyal to the Philippine Government.
  • Members serve a 1-year term or until successors qualify.
  • Vacancies filled for unexpired terms.

Organization and Authority of Boards

  • Boards organize immediately after appointment.
  • Operate under the Secretary of Commerce and Communications.
  • Authorized to issue rules and regulations with approval.

Fees and Compensation

  • Application fee for examination: 30 pesos.
  • Certificate of registration fee: 10 pesos.
  • Board members compensated 10 pesos per day of session.
  • Fees collected are paid into the Insular Treasury.

Board Sessions and Records

  • Boards meet twice a year in Manila for exams, in January and July.
  • At least 30 days' public notice required in English and Spanish newspapers.
  • Boards maintain records including registration details of licensees.
  • Annual report of activities submitted to the Secretary of Commerce and Communications.

Examination Subjects by Discipline

  • Detailed subjects specified for:
    • Civil Engineering
    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Electrical Engineering
    • Mining Engineering
    • Chemical Engineering
    • Architecture
  • Subjects cover mathematics, mechanics, materials, design, and specialized professional topics.

Qualifications for Examination Applicants

  • Minimum age 20 years.
  • Good moral character.
  • Must hold a diploma or certificate from recognized institutions, or
  • Have at least 5 years of practice in the profession.

Licenses Without Examination

  • Issued to individuals who passed civil service exams and have 5 years of good record practice at the law's enactment.
  • Licenses also issued to successful examinees under this Act.

Prohibition and Penalties for Unauthorized Practice

  • Advertising or practicing as engineer or architect without a license is illegal.
  • Penalty: fine up to 1000 pesos or subsidiary imprisonment.
  • Individuals who worked as "maestros de obras" may continue without academic titles but cannot sign plans or advertise as professionals.
  • Construction work not requiring professional registration is allowed.

Appropriation for Board Operations

  • 2,000 pesos appropriated for Board expenses for the year 1921.

Repeal and Effectivity

  • Inconsistent laws or parts thereof are repealed.
  • The Act takes effect upon approval on February 23, 1921.

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