The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Architecture Schools Association Inc.(PHILASA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to integrate construction industry standards in the school curriculum to enhance the practical application of architectural education.
This collaboration seeks to integrate CIAP Document 102—Uniform General Conditions of Contract for Private Construction—into the syllabi of contract-related courses as reference material or an added learning objective. By doing so, the partnership intends to bridge the gap between institutional learning and on-site construction practices.
The MOU signing on March 20, 2025 was facilitated by the DTI’s Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines (CIAP) through its implementing board, the Philippine Domestic Construction Board (PDCB).
It highlights the importance of having a clear understanding of contractual rights, obligations, and industry standards, which are essential elements in project supervision, monitoring, and management within the construction industry. This initiative underscores the shared goal of both organizations to equip architecture students with the professional skills and knowledge necessary for success.
A key component of the MOU is the provision of technical training on construction contracts and CIAP Document 102 to faculty members, instructors, and professors teaching architecture and engineering courses. This training will empower educators to effectively impart industry-relevant knowledge to their students, strengthening collaboration between the government and academia.
Ultimately, the MOU lays the groundwork for preparing a new generation of architects and engineers with the tools and skills necessary to succeed in a highly evolving industry landscape.
By emphasizing practical application and observing industry standards, this partnership is poised to elevate the professionalism and further growth of the Philippine construction sector.