If you are a licensed architect in the Philippines looking to gain international recognition in the APEC region, the APEC Architect title is for you. This process is officially managed by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) through its Monitoring Committee, Philippine Section.
What is the APEC Architect Program?
“The APEC Architect Program is a framework within the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) that establishes common standards for recognizing architects, creating a registry of qualified professionals to facilitate their mobility and the trade of architectural services across participating economies.”
Step by step process
Here are the concrete steps you need to follow to apply for registration as an APEC Architect in the Philippines, based on the 2025 PRC document.
Step 1: Pre-requisites
Before you apply, ensure you meet all the following requirements: ([Professional Regulation Commission]
1. You must have a Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree from a duly accredited school or college of Architecture.
2. You must have completed 3,840 hours (equivalent to two years) of pre licensure practical diversified experience.
3. You must have passed the Architect’s Licensure Examination given by the PRC Board of Architecture.
4. You must have done at least 7 years of professional practice after licensure, with experience covering:
Step 2: Self-Assessment
Please read all the details carefully. Visit the official website for more accuare info.
-
Go through the official forms and tables: Tables 1-4 for professional practice & experience; Tables 5A-5D, 6, 7A-7B; Tables 8A-8F; Table 9 for your continuing professional development.
-
Verify you can fill them meaningfully and have the supporting documents. If there are gaps, you should address them before applying.
Step 3: Fill out the Application Forms
If your self assessment shows you’re eligible, fill up the required Forms for Application for Registration as an APEC Architect.
Include all the tables mentioned above.
Prepare all the supporting documents listed in those forms.
Step 4: Prepare Binder of Submittals
You will need to organize all your documents in a binder (one original + two copies). Preferred format:
A-4 size, portrait.
Included in the binder should be:
- a. Covering Letter (sample provided in form)
- b. Three copies of recent 2” × 2” photographs taken within the last 6 months (one photo per copy of the binder).
- c. Completed application forms
- d. Photocopies of required documents (diplomas, licenses, certificates, etc.)
- e. Detailed Curriculum Vitae including employment history, project experience, awards, involvement in UAP-IAPOA, civic work.
- f. Certified True Copy of your IAPOA Certificate
- g. Certification of Authenticity of Information and Documents.
- h. NBI Clearance (for Philippine applicants).
Step 5: Application Fee & Submission
Pay the non refundable application fee of US\$50 (or its Philippine peso equivalent) to the United Architects of the Philippines.
Submit the binder (with all copies) to:
The Secretariat – International Affairs Office, Qualification Recognition Division
Professional Regulation Commission
5th Floor, Bulwagang Nubla, PRC Building, Paredes St, Sampaloc, Manila.
Step 6: Evaluation by the Monitoring Committee
After submission, the MC-Phi evaluates your documents.
You may or may not be invited for a Professional Interview (PI) if the Committee needs to clarify anything.
Step 7: Endorsement and Processing Fee
If MC-Phi is satisfied with your application, it will be forwarded to the Central Council of the APEC Architect Project for final deliberation.
At this stage, you will need to pay a non-refundable processing fee of US\$200 (or its PHP equivalent).
Step 8: Central Council Deliberation & Final Registration
The Central Council meets to evaluate applications from different economies. If your application satisfies all APEC-wide criteria, your name is enrolled in the APEC Architect Register, and you are allowed to use the title APEC Architect.
If approved, you must pay the balance registration fee of US\$250 (or equivalent) to complete your registration.
Important Notes to Remember
All fees are non-refundable, even if your application is not approved.
Keep all submitted documents organized; originals and certified true copies should be clear and legible.
The binder format, photo requirements, authenticity certification, and membership in professional organization are mandatory. Missing any item may delay the process.
Benefits of Registering
You gain international recognition in the APEC region.
Your credentials and experience are formally accredited for mobility.
Enhanced professional credibility at home and abroad.
Important Links
