Planner.Alli - Ph

Planner.Alli - Ph Architect (Ar) Armando N. Alli, apec ar is Philippine (PH)-based Planner with experience in various Architect (Arch.) Armando N. Arch. Nothing follows.

Alli’s field/s of practice encompass general physical development planning ranging from master development/site/land use/urban and regional planning to transportation facility planning, new transit and highway system planning, reclamation to housing and resettlement planning, general urban design to comprehensive land/ water/air use planning (CLWAUP); general architectural planning and design serv

ices for projects ranging from low-cost housing up to high-rise mixed-use buildings/complexes and transportation facilities; preparation and review of environmental studies; management of contracted professional consulting services; and physical planning, building, development, environmental and professional practice laws and regulations. For over three (3) decades, he was simultaneously into the parallel/concurrent practice of various aspects/classes/levels of environmental planning and environmental design, i.e., from macro development planning to land and property development consulting general architectural design and of general allied design with/ without limited environmental investigation services, and the like, for a broad range of projects both in the Philippines and overseas. Alli has over twenty five (25.0+) years of concurrent, progressively responsible and highly-diversified professional experience in the practice of the Environmental Planning (EnP) profession, with master development planning (MDP), urban/transportation/ development/site planning, comprehensive land/water/air use planning (CLWAUP), land use mapping and analyses, zoning ordinance (ZO) preparation/ revision, the formulation of development controls and management guidelines preparation (for building occupancies and land uses), environmental/ area/ estate/ site planning, transportation facility planning, master development planning (MDP), land and property development consulting, field research, pre-feasibility/feasibility study (PFS/FS) preparation and the project management of contracted consulting services and development and physical planning laws/regulations as areas of professional practice. Physical planning and architectural design experiences are further periodically complemented by the performance of various types/levels of environment consulting, environmental design and limited participation in the preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment/ Study (EIA/EIS) services over the past thirteen (13) years with focus on limited-scope initial environmental investigations (IEEs) for office, commercial and residential building projects in urban locations and for housing sites in urban/rural-urban settings. Examples of past, recent and ongoing professional work can be found at the following web pages:

1) https://www.facebook.com/pages/ADNAapec-NDCS/105214429580353
2) https://www.facebook.com/pages/ADNAapec-NDCS-Home-Office/239082389477408
3) https://www.facebook.com/armando.alli.9/photos_albums
4) www.armandoalli.com

Arch. Alli is also actively involved in the preparation of tourism standards/guidelines/regulations, tourism ordinances, zoning ordinances and related development controls for various local government units (LGUs) and in the crafting of the 2004 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (R-IRR) of P.D. No. 1096 (the 1977 National Building Code of the Philippines or NBCP) which took effect 01 May 2005 (and which was reconfirmed by a competent Philippine Court on 09 January 2008 and again on 04 May 2009). For the 2004 Revised IRR of the NBCP, the DPWH Board of Consultants (BoC of which Arch. Alli was a Member since 2002, Co-Vice Chair from March 2007 through March 2011 and Vice Chair since April 2011), successfully integrated physical planning considerations with general design concerns. The foregoing professional experiences are also complemented by hands-on professional office management experience for Shellink Planners, Inc. (SPI), a Philippine (PH)-registered corporation with 60 fulltime staff (as General Manager and Director from 1989 through 1994), DACY Architects Planners Company (DACYapc), a PH-registered partnership with 35 fulltime staff (as Managing Partner from 1993 through 2002), DA Architecture Corporation (DAac), a PH-registered corporation (as General Manager from 2008 to 2009) and ADNAapec NDCS, a PH-registered sole proprietorship (as Owner and General Manager from 1993 through 2013). Alli is an APEC Architect (registered with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation’s Architect Register for the PH), allowing him to engage in borderless professional architectural practice (on a collaborative practice mode with local architects from a host APEC member economy), and subject to certain other limitations by such an APEC member economy. He is an Honorary Fellow (hfpia) of the Philippine Institute of Architects (PIA), a fellow (fspac) and exemplar of the Society of Philippine Accredited Consultants (SPAC) and a fellow (fuap) of the United Architects of the Philippines – the Integrated and Accredited Professional Organization of Architects (UAP-IAPOA). Alli is also a firm advocate for the quality and ethical practice of the professions of environmental planning and architecture as evidenced by his involvement in Philippine legislative efforts to amend existing/ antiquated laws concerning the practice of environmental planning and architecture in the Philippines. He participated actively in the crafting and lobby effort for the passage/approval of R.A. No. 9266, its 2004 IRR and derivative regulations including the 2006 Architect’s Code of Ethics. He was also involved in the subsequent effort to amend and update other architectural regulations (including the 2010 Standards of Professional Practice/ SPP for Philippine registered and licensed architects/RLAs). He served as the Acting Chair of the Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (the PRBoA) under R.A. No. 9266, otherwise known as The Architecture Act of 2004, a PH National Government position he held from Nov 2006 through Nov 2012/6 years (URL: www.architectureboard.com.ph) and at https://web.archive.org/web/20101127185310/http:/architectureboard.ph/publication.php . The PRBoA is part of the PH Professional Regulation Commission (URL: www.prc.gov.ph), presently under the PH Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE). ADDITIONAL REFERENCES:

Architect (Arch.) Alli, apec ar and ADNAapec NDCS:Architectural and Physical Planning Project Involvements Over the Last 33 Years (1981 through 2014) as found in 67 Facebook (Fb) albums containing 1,175 images.

1) Architect.Alli-Ph at www.facebook.com/Architect.Alli.Ph
which has 5 albums w 197 images:
a) 1982-1986 Project Involvements w 5 images;
b) 1987-1993 Project Involvements w 12 images;
c) 1994-2002 Project Involvements w 34 images;
d) 2003-2009 Project Involvements w 55 images; and
e) 2010-2014 Project Involvements w 91 images.

2) Planner.Alli - Ph at www.facebook.com/Planner.Alli.ph
which has 16 albums w 152 images:
a) Platform Settlements (Cities and Townships) w 5 images;
b) Transport-related Urban Design w 9 images;
c) Transit & Transit Facility Planning w 10 images;
d) Platform Settlements Using Air Rights Above Waterways w 7 images;
e) Arterial and Tollway Planning w 17 images;
f) Settlement, Resettlement & Subdivision Planning w 7 images;
g) Airport Master Planning w 13 images;
h) 1990s Development Concepts for Metro Manila w 11 images;
i) Property Development Planning w 7 images;
j) Land Use Planning (LUP) w 10 images;
k) Master Development Planning (MDP) w 7 images;
l) Resettlement Physical Planning (LUP) w 2 images;
m) Tourism Planning (MDP) w 4 images;
n) Reclamation Physical Planning w 18 images;
o) Intermodal Physical Planning w 14 images; and
p) Small Seaport Physical Planning w 11 images.

3) ADNAapec NDCS at www.facebook.com/ADNAapec.ph
which has 18 albums w 239 images:
a) ADNAapec Urban Design w 2 images;
b) Transport-Oriented Design w 7 images;
c) Housing & Residential Solutions w 24 images;
d) ADNAapec Reclamation Projects w 31 images;
e) ADNAapec Local Architectural Collaboration w 3 images;
f) ADNAapec Transportation & Urban Design Projects w 18 images;
g) Miscellaneous Information w 1 image;
h) ADNAapec Airport & Building Projects w 39 images;
i) Projects with the FDC (1993-2012) w 7 images;
j) Projects with the PTCC (2004-2010) w 5 images;
k) Land Use Planning cm Zoning Ordinance Collaborative Work w 2 images;
l) ADNAapec PH BoT-PPP Infrastructure Project Study Involvements w 24 images;
m) ADNAapec Project Management (PM) of Contracted Consulting Services w 8 images;
n) ADNAapec International Collaborative Work w 9 images;
o) ADNAapec Official Development Assistance (ODA) Project Involvement w 2 images;
p) ADNAapec Interprets Building Laws & Regulations (NBZs at RROWs) w 34 images;
q) ADNAapec Physical Planning Projects w 8 images; and
r) ADNAapec Mixed Use Devt & Housing Projects w 15 images.

4) ADNAapec NDCS Home Office at www.facebook.com/ADNAapec.home.office.ph
which has 16 albums w 273 images:
a) New Settlements & Resettlements w 21 images;
b) Public Buildings & Spaces w 9 images;
c) ADNA Reclamation Projects w 17 images;
d) ADNA Building Projects w 15 images;
e) ADNA Transportation Projects w 7 images;
f) ADNA Projects (1993-2011) w 14 images;
g) Projects Under DACY Architects/ Planners Co. (1994-2007) w 26 images;
h) Projects Under TAM Planners Co. (1996-2008) w 7 images;
i) Projects Under Shellink Planners, Inc. (1987-93) w 13 images;
j) Space Planning & Architectural Interiors w 9 images;
k) ADNA Residential & Housing Projects w 9 images;
l) ADNA Mixed Use Development Projects w 15 images;
m) ADNA Physical Planning Projects w 10 images;
n) ADNA Esplanades & Promenades (Mandated Legal Easements/MLEs) w 8 images;
o) ADNA Interprets No Build Zones (NBZs) at Road Rights-of-Way (RROWs) w 90 images; and
p) Urban Design Projects w 3 images.

5) Planners.TAM-Ph at www.facebook.com/TAM.planners.ph
which has 4 albums w 34 images:
a) Special Studies w 1 image;
b) Master Development Planning w 6 images;
c) Tourism Planning w 9 images; and
d) Land Use Planning w 18 images.

6) Armando Alli at www.facebook.com/armando.alli.9/photos_albums
which has 8 albums w 280 images:
a) TAM Planners Co. (1996 - 2011) w 14 images;
b) Shellink Planners, Inc. (1987 - 1994) w 35 images;
c) DACY Architects/Planners Co. (1993 - 2008) w 51 images;
d) More Collaborative Work (2006 - 2011) w 14 images;
e) 2010 Interpretations of the 1977 Natl Building Code of the Ph (NBCP) w 65 images;
f) Arch. Alli Collaborative Environmental Design Work (1981 - 2012) w 52 images;
g) ADNAapec Project Involvements (1993 - 2012) w 41 images; and
h) Selected ADNAapec Project Involvements by Type (1998 - 2012) w 8 images. PLUS

7) National Building Code of the Philippines - NBCP at https://www.facebook.com/BuildingCode.Ph and at www.facebook.com/BuildingCode.Ph with 4 albums (and 113 images); and

8) Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture (PRBoA, from Nov 2006 through Nov 2012) at www.architectureboard.com.ph and at https://web.archive.org/web/20101127185310/http:/architectureboard.ph/publication.php ,
which has 2 sections and 12 folders containing several thousand pages of official documents about the practice of the State-regulated profession of architecture on Philippine soil:
a) Latest Publications Section (with posts mainly up to 23 November 2012 and which requires the use of the downloadable Topic Guide);
b) Latest News Section/ Archives folder (with posts mainly up to 23 November 2012);
c) Laws folder;
d) Programs folder;
e) Board Exam folder;
f) Letters folder;
g) Papers folder;
h) Documents folder;
i) Write Ups folder;
j) Publications folder;
k) Complaints folder; and
l) Listings folder.

3. Draft ZO Definition of a Residential-3 Zone (“R-3”) - an area within the local government unit (LGU)’s jurisdiction i...
01/09/2026

3. Draft ZO Definition of a Residential-3 Zone (“R-3”) - an area within the local government unit (LGU)’s jurisdiction intended for high-density residential use or occupancy characterized mainly by 1- up to 3-storey rowhouse buildings (with each unit for exclusive use as single family dwellings), and by low-rise up to medium-rise (4-storey up to 12-storey)/multi-level buildings/structures (for use as multiple family dwellings with mixed housing types).

R-3 dwellings/buildings/structures encompass low-rise up to medium-rise residential condominium buildings that are already partly commercial in nature and scale, i.e., including 3-storey rowhouse buildings referred to as “accesorias” or shop-houses with commercial activities at the ground floor.

For multi-level buildings/structures at R-3 zones, the 2004 Revised IRR (RIRR) of P.D. No. 1096, the 1977 National Building Code of the Philippines (NBCP) only prescribes a maximum of ten percent (10%) of the gross floor area (GFA) for commercial and other non-residential uses/occupancies.

There shall be two (2) R-3 Sub-Zones, to wit:

a. Basic Residential-3 (“R-3 Basic”) Sub-Zone – an area within the LGU intended for high-density residential use characterized by 1- up to 3-storey rowhouse dwellings, possibly with community/neighborhood scale commercial spaces at the ground floor, with a building height limit (BHL) of 10.0 m meters (m) reckoned from the established grade elevation (EGE). Under this zoning ordinance (ZO), the 10.0 m BHL shall mainly apply to new R-3 Basic dwellings featuring a deck roof level (DRL) with a maximum 1.0 m tall parapet wall or railing or combination thereof. R-3 Basic dwellings without a DRL shall only have a BHL of 9.0 m (measured from the top of roof ridge line down to the EGE).

b. Maximum Residential-3 (“R-3 Max”) Sub-Zone – an area within the LGU intended for high-density residential use characterized by 4- up to 12-storey/multi-level buildings/structures (for use as multiple family dwellings), possibly with community/neighborhood scale commercial spaces at a maximum of 10% of the generated GFA, with a building height limit (BHL) of 12.0 m up to 36.0 m, reckoned from the EGE. Under this ZO, said BHL shall mainly apply to new R-3 Max dwellings featuring a DRL with a maximum 1.0 m tall parapet wall or railing or combination thereof. R-3 Max dwellings without a DRL shall have a BHL of 11.0 m up to 35.0 m (measured from the top of roof ridge line down to the EGE).

While basement levels are allowed at R-3 zones (and where consolidated basements can also be considered for common use), particularly at areas that do not experience flooding, the generated floor area below grade line/EGE shall form part of both the total gross floor area (TGFA) and the GFA as defined under the 2004 RIRR of P.D. No. 1096, the 1977 NBCP.

With their lot sizes and road right-of-way (RROW) widths, a parking space for a R-3 lot may be at basement levels within the TLA, or at parking buildings or open parking lots offsite, and not on any portion of the RROW. While basement levels are allowed at R-3 areas, the generated floor area below grade line/EGE shall form part of both the TGFA and the GFA.

As defined under the NBCP 2004 RIRR of P.D. No. 1096 and under the 2009 RIRR of P.D. No. 957, R-3 is a high-density residential use or occupancy where lots must have setbacks and yards along its front and rear property lines. Under the NBCP, a national-level development control (DC), a firewall or similarly constructed abutment, is only allowed along the two (2) side property lines of a R-3 lot, but not along the entire lengths of said property lines.

While the NBCP 2004 RIRR allows only partial firewall construction along the rear property line of R-3 lots (provided certain conditions are met for the interior spaces/window sizes/walls), such a practice is NOT supported under this ZO (i.e., which is a permitted act under Section 102 of the NBCP itself), for the following reasons: 1) with the construction unseen/unmonitored from the street, over-building and over-paving inevitably results; 2) natural light and ventilation (NLV) already severely reduced to only 2 sides will only be further compromised; and 3) loss/severe reduction of the service yard at the rear of the R-3 lot.

To further increase NLV, multiple 2.0-meter deep light and ventilation wells (LVW at firewall locations) shall be required for multi-level R-3 residential buildings that are taller than 3 storeys.

For an existing development to continue to qualify as R-3 Basic, at least fifty percent (50%) of the properties (including vacant/idle/unused properties) must collectively satisfy the prescribed density, TLA and dwelling/shelter/building type for rowhouse dwellings (with 2 side firewalls).

Such a R-3 Basic classification shall be supported by an official certification from the concerned homeowner association (HoA), duly assisted and subsequently officially affirmed by the LGU OZA and CPDO. As the non-conforming individual properties may negatively affect the R-3 Basic property prices, these shall be officially identified and jointly monitored by the LGU OZA, CPDO, OBO, OFM, Legal Office, Health Office and Assessor’s Office. Both witting/unwitting violations of the building, fire and civil codes must also be covered by the appropriate notices, technically documented by the LGU OZA, CPDO and OBO, and may be officially annotated on the concerned titles at the LGU’s behest.

There shall be 3 sub-classifications at R-3 Basic developments, viz:

1. R-3 Basic (A). Per Table VIII.G.7 of Rule VIII of the 2004 RIRR of P.D. No. 1096, the 1977 National Building Code of the Philippines (NBCP), the minimum TLAs for R-3 Basic (A) lots range from 50.0 up to say 200.0 sqm, covering at least 3 lot locations/types, where the applicable R-3 Basic (A) density shall be at say between 35 up to 140 dwellings per ha. Based on the minimum TLAs and Figure VIII.8 of Rule VIII and Table VII.G.1 of Rule VII Guidelines under the NBCP 2004 RIRR, the maximum TGFA for R-3 Basic (A) dwellings shall range from say 120.0 sqm up to 480.0 sqm for a R-3 Basic (A) lot.

2. R-3 Basic (B). Per P.D. No. 957 and its 2009 RIRR (covering medium cost and open market housing), the applicable R-3(B) density shall be between say 116 up to 140 dwellings per hectare (ha.), with minimum TLAs ranging from 50.0 sqm up to 60.0 sqm, covering all lot types, and with dwelling/shelter minimum TGFAs ranging from 30.0 sqm up to 42.0 sqm.

3. R-3 Basic (C). Per B.P. Blg. 220 and its 2008 RIRR (covering socialized and economic housing), the applicable R-3(C) density shall be from say 220 to say 295 dwellings per ha., with minimum TLAs ranging from 28.0 sqm up to 36.0 sqm, covering all lot types, and with dwelling/shelter minimum TGFAs ranging from 18.0 sqm up to 22.0 sqm.

Lastly for R-3 Max, and as per Table VIII.G.7 of Rule VIII of the 2004 RIRR of P.D. No. 1096, the 1977 NBCP, the minimum TLAs for R-3 Max lots range from say between 400.0 sqm up to 700.0 sqm, covering at least 4 lot locations/types. Based on the minimum TLAs and Figure VIII.8 of Rule VIII and Table VII.G.1 of Rule VII Guidelines under the NBCP 2004 RIRR, the maximum TGFA for R-3 Max dwellings shall range from say 960.0 sqm up to say 6,720.0 sqm.

2. Draft ZO Definition of a Residential-2 (“R-2”) Base Zone – an area within the local government unit (LGU)’s jurisdict...
01/09/2026

2. Draft ZO Definition of a Residential-2 (“R-2”) Base Zone – an area within the local government unit (LGU)’s jurisdiction intended for medium-density residential use or occupancy characterized mainly by 1- up to 3-storey single-attached buildings (with each unit for exclusive use as single family dwellings), and by 1- up to 3-storey duplex buildings or low-rise (5-storey)/multi-level buildings/structures (both for exclusive use as multiple family dwellings).

There shall be two (2) R-2 Sub-Zones, to wit:

a. Basic Residential-2 (“R-2 Basic”) Sub-Zone – an area within the LGU intended for medium- density residential use characterized by 1- up to 3-storey single-attached buildings for use as single family dwellings or 1- up to 3-storey duplex buildings for use as multiple family dwellings, with a building height limit (BHL) of 10.0 m meters (m) reckoned from the established grade elevation (EGE). Under this zoning ordinance (ZO), the 10.0 m BHL shall mainly apply to new R-2 Basic dwellings featuring a deck roof level (DRL) with a maximum 1.0 m tall parapet wall or railing or combination thereof. R-2 Basic dwellings without a DRL shall only have a BHL of 9.0 m (measured from the top of roof ridge line down to the EGE).

b. Maximum Residential-2 (“R-2 Max”) Sub-Zone – an area within the LGU intended for medium-density residential use characterized by 3- up to 5-storey multi-level buildings for use as multiple family dwellings, with a building height limit (BHL) of 15.0 m meters (m) reckoned from the EGE. Under this ZO, the 15.0 m BHL shall apply to both R-2 Max buildings featuring a DRL (with a maximum 1.0 m tall parapet wall or railing or combination thereof) and to R-2 Max buildings without a DRL (with BHL measured from the top of roof ridge line down to the EGE).

While basement levels are allowed at R-2 zones (and where consolidated basements can also be considered for common use), particularly at areas that do not experience flooding, the generated floor area below grade line/EGE shall form part of both the total gross floor area (TGFA) and the gross floor area (GFA) as defined under the 2004 Revised IRR (RIRR) of P.D. No. 1096, the 1977 National Building Code of the Philippines (NBCP).

With their rather small lot sizes and narrow road rights-of-way (RROW), a parking space for a R-2 lot may be provided at basement levels within the TLA, or at parking buildings or open parking lots offsite, and not on any portion of the RROW. While basement levels are allowed at R-2 areas, the generated floor area below grade line/EGE shall form part of both the TGFA and the GFA.

As defined under the NBCP 2004 RIRR of P.D. No. 1096 and under the 2009 RIRR of P.D. No. 957, R-2 is a medium-density residential use or occupancy that includes R-2 structures within semi-exclusive subdivisions and semi-exclusive residential communities which are not subdivisions. R-2 lots must have setbacks and yards along three (3) of its property lines. Under the NBCP, a national-level development control (DC), a firewall or similarly constructed abutment, is only allowed along one (1) side property line of a R-2 lot, but not along the entire length of said property line.

While the NBCP 2004 RIRR allows only partial firewall construction along the rear property line of R-2 lots (provided certain conditions are met for the interior spaces/window sizes/walls), such a practice is NOT supported under this ZO (i.e., which is a permitted act under Section 102 of the NBCP itself), for the following reasons: 1) with the construction unseen/unmonitored from the street, over-building and over-paving inevitably results; 2) natural light and ventilation (NLV) already reduced to only 3 sides will only be further compromised; and 3) loss/severe reduction of the service yard at the rear of the R-2 lot.

To further increase NLV, at least one (1) 2.0-meter deep light and ventilation well (LVW at firewall locations) shall be required for multi-level R-2 residential buildings that are taller than 3 storeys.

For an existing development to continue to qualify as R-2 Basic, at least seventy percent (70%) of the properties therein (including vacant/idle/unused properties) must collectively satisfy the prescribed density, TLA and dwelling/shelter/building type for single-attached or duplex dwellings (all with single side firewalls), with the individual residential units found therein also intended for occupancy by nuclear families (of a maximum of 5 persons, including children).

Such a R-2 Basic classification shall be supported by an official certification from the concerned homeowner association (HoA), duly assisted and subsequently officially affirmed by the LGU OZA and CPDO. As the non-conforming individual properties may negatively affect the R-2 Basic property prices, these shall be officially identified and jointly monitored by the LGU OZA, CPDO, OBO, OFM, Legal Office, Health Office and Assessor’s Office. Both witting/unwitting violations of the building, fire and civil codes must also be covered by the appropriate notices, technically documented by the LGU OZA, CPDO and OBO, and may be officially annotated on the concerned titles at the LGU’s behest.

There shall be 3 sub-classifications at R-2 Basic developments, viz:

1. R-2 Basic (A). Per Table VIII.G.7 of Rule VIII of the 2004 RIRR of P.D. No. 1096, the 1977 NBCP, the minimum TLAs for R-2 Basic (A) lots range from say between 80.0 sqm up to 140.0 sqm, covering at least 4 lot locations/types, where the applicable R-2 Basic (A) density shall be at say between 50 up to 87 dwellings per ha. Based on the minimum TLAs and Figure VIII.8 of Rule VIII and Table VII.G.1 of Rule VII Guidelines under the NBCP 2004 RIRR, the maximum TGFA for R-2 Basic (A) dwellings shall range from say 180.0 sqm up to say 315.0 sqm.

2. R-2 Basic (B). Per P.D. No. 957 and its 2009 RIRR (covering medium cost and open market housing), the applicable R-2 Basic (B) density shall be below 73 up to above 87 dwellings per ha., with minimum TLAs ranging from 80.0 sqm up to 96.0 sqm, covering all lot types, and with dwelling/shelter minimum TGFAs ranging from 30.0 sqm up to 42.0 sqm.

3. R-2 Basic (C). Per B.P. Blg. 220 and its 2008 RIRR (covering socialized and economic housing), the applicable R-2 Basic (C) density shall be between say 166 up to 187 dwellings per ha., with minimum TLAs ranging from 48.0 sqm up to 54.0 sqm, covering all lot types, and with dwelling/shelter minimum TGFAs ranging from 18.0 sqm up to 22.0 sqm.

Lastly for R-2 Max, and as per Table VIII.G.7 of Rule VIII of the 2004 RIRR of P.D. No. 1096, the 1977 NBCP, the minimum TLAs for R-2 Max lots range from say between 192.0 sqm up to 378.0 sqm, covering at least 4 lot locations/types. Based on the minimum TLAs and Figure VIII.8 of Rule VIII and Table VII.G.1 of Rule VII Guidelines under the NBCP 2004 RIRR, the maximum TGFA for R-2 Max dwellings shall range from say 432.0 sqm up to say 1,417.0 sqm.

2025 AAIF Differentiations Among Low-Density Residential (R-1) Zoning SUB-Classifications/ZSC for LGU Zoning Ordinances ...
01/09/2026

2025 AAIF Differentiations Among Low-Density Residential (R-1) Zoning SUB-Classifications/ZSC for LGU Zoning Ordinances and/or Special Ordinances (ZO/SO) as Local-Level Development Controls/DC

Additional Considerations for Low-Density Residential Developments (R-1 Zoning Classification/ZC)A) B.P. Blg. 220 2008 R...
30/08/2026

Additional Considerations for Low-Density Residential Developments (R-1 Zoning Classification/ZC)
A) B.P. Blg. 220 2008 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (RIRR) provisions;
B) P.D. No. 957 2009 RIRR provisions;
C) Article 670 of R.A. No. 386, the 1949 (New) Civil Code of the Philippines (CCP);
D) Differentiating Between Easement Under R.A. No. 386 (1949 New CCP) and Setback Under P.D. No. 1096 (1977 NBCP); and
E) A Layman's Appreciation of the Identifiable Hierarchy of Philippine Laws (where P.D. No. 1096/1977 NBCP becomes the general law IF compared against the LGU Zoning Ordinance/ZO, which acts as the special law, insofar as building regulations are concerned, noting also that while Section 102 of the NBCP actually allows the ZO provisions to be more stringent (stricter) than NBCP provisions, the ZO provisions can NEVER relax (or make less strict) the NBCP provisions. Thanks.

1. Residential-1 (“R-1”) Zone – an area within the local government unit (LGU)’s jurisdiction intended for low-density r...
29/08/2026

1. Residential-1 (“R-1”) Zone – an area within the local government unit (LGU)’s jurisdiction intended for low-density residential use characterized mainly by a low-rise, single-detached structure for exclusive use as single (nuclear) family dwelling, with a building height limit (BHL) of 10.0 meters (m) reckoned from the established grade elevation (EGE). Under this zoning ordinance (ZO), the 10.0 m BHL shall mainly apply to new R-1 dwellings featuring a deck roof level (DRL) with a maximum 1.0 m tall parapet wall or railing or combination thereof. R-1 dwellings without a DRL shall have a BHL of 9.0 m (measured from the top of roof ridge line down to the EGE).

While basement levels are allowed at R-1 zones, the generated floor area below grade line/EGE shall form part of both the total gross floor area (TGFA) and the gross floor area (GFA) as defined under the 2004 Revised IRR (RIRR) of P.D. No. 1096, the 1977 National Building Code of the Philippines (NBCP).

As defined under the NBCP 2004 RIRR of P.D. No. 1096 and under the 2009 RIRR of P.D. No. 957, R-1 is a low-density residential zone characterized mainly by single-family, single-detached dwellings, with the usual community ancillary uses on a neighborhood scale, such as executive subdivisions and relatively exclusive residential communities which are not subdivisions. R-1 lots must have setbacks and yards at all sides and firewalls or similar abutments, e.g., 10.0 m BHL reckoned from EGE, where 3.0 m tall “perimeter” walls, are prohibited under the NBCP, a national-level development control (“DC”) as such “perimeter” walls are effectively firewalls that require special construction and reinforcement. As per the NBCP, duplexes that are characterized by common firewalls [even if used as single (nuclear) family dwellings] are not permitted in R-1 zones, and shall be duly designated as non-conforming dwellings in R-1 developments.

For an existing development to continue to qualify as a R-1 development, at least ninety percent (90%) of the properties (including vacant/idle/unused properties) must collectively satisfy the prescribed density, total lot area (TLA) and dwelling/shelter/building type for single-detached dwellings (without firewalls) that are intended mainly for occupancy by nuclear families (of a maximum of 5 persons, including children).

Such a R-1 classification shall be supported by an official certification from the concerned homeowner association (HoA), duly assisted and subsequently officially affirmed by the LGU’s Office of the Zoning Administrator (OZA) and City Planning and Development Office (CPDO).

As the non-conforming individual properties may negatively affect the R-1 property prices, these shall be officially identified and jointly monitored by the LGU OZA, CPDO, Office of the Building Official (OBO), Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM), Legal Office, Health Office and Assessor’s Office. Both witting/unwitting violations of the building, fire and civil codes must also be covered by the appropriate notices and may be officially annotated on the concerned titles at the LGU’s behest.

There shall be 3 R-1 sub-classifications, viz:

1. R-1(A). Per Table VIII.G.7 of Rule VIII of the 2004 Revised IRR/RIRR of P.D. No. 1096, the 1977 National Building Code of the Philippines (NBCP), the minimum TLAs for R-1(A) lots range from 301.0 square meters (sqm) up to 548.0 sqm, covering 5 lot locations/types, where the applicable R-1(A) density shall be at say between 19 up to 23 dwellings per hectare (ha.). Based on the minimum TLAs and Figure VIII.8 of Rule VIII and Table VII.G.1 of Rule VII Guidelines under the NBCP 2004 RIRR, the maximum TGFA for R-1(A) dwellings shall range from say 451.0 sqm up to say 822.0 sqm.

2. R-1(B). Per P.D. No. 957 and its 2009 Revised IRR/RIRR (covering medium cost and open market housing), the applicable R-1(B) density shall be below 20 up to above 65 dwellings per ha., with minimum TLAs ranging from 100.0 up to 120.0 square meters (sqm), covering all lot types, and with dwelling/shelter minimum TGFA ranging from 30.0 sqm up to 42.0 sqm.

3. R-1(C). Per B.P. Blg. 220 and its 2008 RIRR (covering socialized and economic housing), the applicable R-1(C) density shall be between say 97 up to 109 dwellings per ha., with minimum TLAs ranging from 64.0 sqm up to 72.0 sqm, covering all lot types, and with dwelling/shelter minimum TGFAs ranging from 18.0 sqm up to 22.0 sqm. Nothing follows.

Past Philippine Presidents and Their Legacies (all posted by One News PH on YouTube)1) Aguinaldo and the making of the P...
21/08/2026

Past Philippine Presidents and Their Legacies (all posted by One News PH on YouTube)
1) Aguinaldo and the making of the Philippine nation: Power, war, and controversy / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgzMfYXwLKY; and Emilio Aguinaldo: Controversial Revolutionary and First Philippine President / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gX-VyWngIpA;
2) Manuel Quezon: The Making of a National Leader / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLEdSEkbroI; and Manuel Quezon: The President Who Gambled with Power / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVbCNbQVehM&t=52s;
3) Sergio Osmena: The Wartime President / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peIR4ciFuUY;
4) Was Jose P. Laurel really a “puppet president”? / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pBgygbLs6s;
5) Manuel Roxas: The First President of an Independent Philippines / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCr-eNWwfvI;
6) Ramon Magsaysay: The President of the People / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpW6RPNhXxc;
7) Elpidio Quirino: The president who chose forgiveness / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzctT56ePd0&t=85s;
8) Carlos P. Garcia: The President behind the Filipino First Policy / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCKpgkbZk6o;
9) Diosdado Macapagal and the fight against poverty / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amzcSJ5dPqY;
10) Ferdinand Marcos Sr.: The Martial Law era / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzKhktKD7Eo;
11) Corazon Aquino: Leading the Philippines after Martial Law / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ajjHzIkjAw&t=7s;
12) Fidel V. Ramos: The Philippines 2000 agenda / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8td9oBE6Go;
13) Joseph Estrada: The rise and fall of a populist president / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Dzu3ZnBxHE&t=7s;
14) Rodrigo Duterte: Redefining presidential leadership / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nq2DfWFkENE;
15) Gloria Macapagal Arroyo: Governing through political storms / Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ro4E-r0nx3M; and
16) Benigno Aquino III: The promise of ‘Daang Matuwid’/ Chronicles at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dc66TE6mjHg.

| Gloria Macapagal Arroyo assumed the presidency in 200...

MMDA Underground Water Facilities (on You Tube) based on Aug 18, 2026 PBBM Briefing:�MMDA: Eyed underground water facili...
21/08/2026

MMDA Underground Water Facilities (on You Tube) based on Aug 18, 2026 PBBM Briefing:�MMDA: Eyed underground water facilities can be completed in a year / ANC at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FOsU-EyuwUA;�Marcos eyes 30 underground sites to store Metro Manila floodwater at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6u1nerGRbNY;�Marcos taps Dutch experts, eyes 30 sites for floodwater storage facilities / ANC at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nt_9IZb5Y8I;�Marcos attends situation briefing at MMDA office to discuss impact of southwest monsoon / ANC at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ie15PmIj2c4;�MMDA to build underground tanks as part of flood prevention plan / Morning Matters at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6JuPh1xQ0Q�30 lugar sa NCR, target ng nature-based flood solutions ng MMDA at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zlz3ojH_0Q

Tatlumpung lugar sa National Capital Region ang target ng Metropoli...

18/08/2026

THE BASIC PHILIPPINE BUILDING LAWS AND REGULATIONS AND DIRECTLY RELATED MATTERS

Greetings, everyone. There are 4 basic DPWH documents relating to building and grounds planning/design & construction (see listing hereafter), as implemented by the DPWH and its LGU offices of the building official (OBO) nationwide. There is also the 2019 Revised IRR (RIRR) of R.A. No. 9514, the Fire Code of the PH (FCP) of 2008 as implemented by DILG Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and B.P. Blg. 220 (the Accessibility Act of 1983), both of which are key standing referral codes (RC) of P.D. No. 1096, the 1977 NBCP. These is likewise the plethora of professional regulatory laws (PRL) implemented by the DoLE Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) through its concerned professional regulatory boards (PRB). Finally, there is the current law on Contractor Licensing (as consolidated from 3 laws).

1) P.D. No. 1096, the 1977 National Building Code of the PH (NBCP) from www.dpwh.gov.ph;

2) the 2004 Revised IRR (RIRR) of P.D. No. 1096 (1977 NBCP) from www.dpwh.gov.ph; from 2002-2004, Arch. Alli co-led the DPWH Board of Consultants (BoC, a public-private advisory body to the DPWH Secretary on NBCP matters) in the writing of the content of Rule VII (Classification and General Requirements of All Buildings by Use or Occupancy) and Rule VIII (Light and Ventilation), both material to determining the building bulk (sizing the building on a given lot/site); over the last 1.5 decades, Arch. Alli has shared online the interpretations of this document at various platforms, chiefly at National Building Code of the Philippines – NBCP, a public page administered by the Architecture Advocacy International Foundation (AAIF), Inc. is at link https://www.facebook.com/BuildingCode.Ph; additionally, the DPWH, under a matching grant by the NCCA to the AAIF (as co-fiunder and producer) crafted the 2016 NBCP:Illustrated Project, a document freely downloadable at links: a) https://ncca.architectureboard.com.ph/; b) https://www.facebook.com/groups/180376455641456/permalink/1181412158871209; c) https://www.facebook.com/BuildingCode.Ph/posts/available-e-files-online-on-the-ncca-dpwh-aaif-nbcpillustrated-project-2013-231-/1133727812114824/; and
d) DPWH NBCDO M.C. No. 04, series of 2016 at links 1) https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/files/NBCDO%20MC/16-NBCDO%20MC/NBCDO%20MC_04_s2016.pdf?fbclid=IwY2xjawTwnxJwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMWJMUEtHNXhOaThROEhaYlNzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEehMuUVteWc82e4mrVJxNhtRMickKwZqI-k1Xqh8nLVx2b0l9Z0pJeAVZN_sw_aem_yr2g7Yyjmf_tk6b8ESDOmQ; and
2) https://www.facebook.com/AAIF.ph/photos/dpwh-nbcdo-memorandum-circular-no-04-series-of-2016-the-department-of-public-wor/973440479442113/;

3) the 2015 PH Green Building Code (PGBC) from www.dpwh.gov.ph; this applies to military facilities as well; as Vice Chair of the DPWH BoC, Arch. Alli led the DPWH BoC review of this document prior to endorsement to then DPWH Secretary Singson for promulgation; the PGBC specifically applies to buildings with a total gross floor area (TGFA) of 10,000 square meters (sqm) or more, BUT its principles and provisions may be freely/voluntarily applied to buildings with a smaller TGFA; a large number of documents and forms to help implement the PGBC can be freely download at the same website;

4) the DPWH Bureau of Design (BoD) Design Guidelines, Criteria & Standards (DGCS) Volume 6 (Public Buildings and Other Related Structures); the entire section on architectural and allied services (as well as the corresponding Annex sections) were written by Arch. Alli for PTCC, the local counterpart firm of Cardno (Australia), the commissioned DPWH consultant; while originally crafted for public buildings, this has since become a steady reference for the planning/design of private buildings and grounds as well; the full 2015 DPWH BoD DGCS (at 359 pp) may be freely downloaded at these links: a) https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/edh2danywyd5rcw1opnqb/AJIjAUU85_Fz_HNcrh7GJh4/DPWH.2015.DGCS.vol.6.pdf?e=2&fbclid=IwY2xjawTwmZhwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjExAGJyaWQRMWJMUEtHNXhOaThROEhaYlNzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeqfpcP8dODQpZc4PrhLepvW7fX4hGYVlMvWGn_g-rLlaW-AP-i79j9sBXbqM_aem_8VI9XZpIVP9pfe-uZGStQA&rlkey=f24jmfjglw72d1ijd4m9sc4yg&dl=0; b) https://www.facebook.com/Architect.Alli.Ph/posts/active-links-to-materials-on-development-controls-dc-as-primarily-authored-by-ph/1287512586840334/; and c) DPWH D.O. No. 179, series of 2015 at link https://dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/issuances/department-order/2459;

5) the 2019 RIRR of R.A. No. 9514, the Fire Code of the PH (FCP) of 2008 at https://bfp.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/RA9514-RIRR-rev-2019.pdf; being the primary referral code (DC) of the NBCP, this is a key compliance document (particularly for building insurance purposes like FM Global for international building and vertical infrastructure projects, as it contains about 250 references to NFPA, a USA fire protection standard); and

6) R.A. No. 4566, the Contractor's License Law of 1965, as amended by P.D. No. 1746 of 1980 and R.A. No. 11711 of 2022 [2025 version consolidating all 3 laws, as undertaken by Arch. Alli for his NGO, the Architecture Advocacy International Foundation (AAIF), Inc., est. 2002); Arch. Alli served as PCAB Board Member (BM) over the period 26 Nov 2025 through 25 June 2026 (7 months), during which time several attempts to introduce vast reforms to the PCAB were attempted by the then 2-man PCAB Board. It is hoped that at this juncture, at least 25 key resolutions by said PCAB Board could have been shared with the Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR) at the UP Law Center for implementation/rollout. FYI only. Thanks. Regards to all,

15/08/2026

OVER THE LAST QUARTER CENTURY, THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT ITSELF CONTINUALLY PRESCRIBED THE REMEDIES FOR UNAUTHORIZED RECLAMATION
(Note: You May Also View the Documents at Their Official Source at https://www.pea.gov.ph/laws-and-mandate/)
1) Administrative Order No. 2005-1 [ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 2005-1 Rules and Procedures for Special Registration of Unauthorized/Illegal Reclamation Projects Pursuant to Presidential Decree No. 3-A, (Section 1), dated January 11, 1973 and Executive Order No. 525, (Section 1), dated February 14, 1979 in relation to PRA’s powers and functions under Presidential Decree No. 1084 (Section 5 (p)) and Executive Order, posted Jan 30, 2024];
2) AO 2005-1-ANNEX (PROCESS FLOW FOR REGISTRATION OF UNAUTHORIZED RECLAMATION, posted Jan 30, 2024); and
3) AO 2021-03 (Interim use of illegal/unauthorized reclaimed lands pending the issuance of title of the land in the name of the Republic of the Philippines through the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), Oct 1, 2021);
4) AO 2021-01 (Rules and Procedures for the Forfeiture of Unauthorized and Illegal Reclamation Through Titling under the name of Philippine Reclamation Authority, Mar 1, 2021);
5) AO 2008-3 (Rules and Procedures for the Processing of Applications for Titling of Completed Unauthorized or Illegal Reclamation through PRA);
6) AO 2005-1-Annex (Process Flow for Registration of Unauthorized Reclamation); and
7) Administrative Order (AO) No. 2005-1 (Providing Rules and Procedures for Special Registration of Unauthorized/Illegal Reclamation Projects, Feb 9, 2005). Thanks.

Address

Arch. Armando Alli C/o No. 22 Talisay Street , Brgy. San Juan, Taytay Rizal Province
Taytay
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