Long before skyscrapers and modern structures rose in the Philippines, master builders were already laying the foundations not only of buildings but also of the profession itself, establishing an organization as solid as the infrastructures they created.

The Philippine Institute of Architects (PIA), recognized as the oldest architectural society in Asia, stands strong as it celebrates its 92nd anniversary this year.

In a conversation with DAILY TRIBUNE’s Straight Talk, PIA National Board members, Foundation President and District Director for Visayas Architect Isabel “Chabeng” Garcia and PIA National Treasurer Architect Mylene Isidro shared the ongoing story of their organization and its role in shaping the profession.

PIA has around 1,000 members nationwide. “We are just small compared to UAP, but we are like one big happy family. The camaraderie is strong, and our members include some of the biggest architects in the industry,” Garcia said.

Although more compact compared with other groups, PIA carries immense prestige, having led crucial projects such as heritage and restoration programs. Today, it has 18 sections nationwide spanning Davao, Baguio, La Union, Tarlac, Pangasinan, Cavite, Quezon City, Makati, CAMANAVA, Ilocos, Cebu, Negros, Iloilo, Bohol, Cagayan de Oro, Butuan, Zamboanga and UAE.

Among its accomplished figures is its chancellor, Carmelo Casas. “If you’ve been to Manila Golf, all the high-rises you see there, that’s Casas+Architects whose,” Garcia said. Other renowned members include PRC commissioner Conrad Onglao, architect Roger Villarosa, architect William Coscolluela, and national president, Architect Terence Yu. Interestingly, PIA also counts among its members nuns who practice architecture while serving in the church.

The profession’s voice

Founded in 1933, the institute has served as a voice for the industry for nearly a century.

“It’s like having representation. In Congress, you have a voice as an organization, not just as an individual, because you are heard when supported by a group,” Garcia explained.

PIA, together with other architectural groups, played a key role in the passage of Republic Act 9266, or the Architects’ Law. Under its current leadership, the organization continues to champion unity with other professionals in the infrastructure sector while emphasizing teamwork.

“Before, engineers were allowed to sign architectural plans. But now, we won. Architects should sign architectural plans, and engineers should sign engineering plans,” Garcia said.

“We should not compete. We should be a team,” she added.

In earlier years, master architects covered plumbing, sanitary work, and interior design. As more specialized fields emerged, however, the scope of practice became more defined.

“Previously, master architects were authorized to sign off on structural, plumbing, electrical and even interior design plans. However, as specialized professions emerged such as electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, plumbing engineers, sanitary engineers and interior designers, responsibility for these aspects has since been transferred to their respective fields,” Garcia explained.

She added, “The fine line here is that civil engineers can sign on behalf of architects. But architects never sign off on structural work because that comes with an obligation and liability. If something happens to the structure, the responsibility falls on you.”

Strength in design

With the country’s location in the Pacific Ring of Fire, quake-resistant design has always been essential.

“I’ve been a consultant for the Mormons for about 25 to 26 years, specifically in areas that need to be earthquake-proof. Our foundation is mat flooring,” Garcia shared.

She recalled how such foundations kept structures standing even during a strong earthquake in Negros. “For just a chapel, we used a mat flooring foundation. In the last earthquake in Guihulngan, Negros, the soil gave way, but the building itself remained intact. We only had a few minor cracks, but the foundation was solid,” she said.

Real estate and growth

PIA also keeps a close watch on the growth of the country’s real estate sector. Demand for residential and office spaces continues to rise, although the high cost of construction materials remains a challenge.

Garcia pointed out how property investment, particularly by overseas Filipino workers, continues to be a wise choice. “If you put [your money] in the bank, how much interest will you really get? But if you put it into a building, it will appreciate in value,” she said.

This principle of building value is also reflected in PIA’s own history, with its properties serving as headquarters, convention venues, showrooms, and even accommodations for members from the provinces.

At its core, PIA does more than help design infrastructures. It builds a strong network for its members, strengthens the profession, and continues to shape the future of Philippine architecture.