A Brief History on Architectural Education in the Philippines

The first Filipino recorded architect was Felix Roxas y Arroyo, born circa 1820 in Manila. Prior to American colonization, the architectural profession was essentially embodied by the maestro de obras (literally translated as “master builder”). There was no actual title of “architect.” Instead, the maestro de obras was responsible for the construction and supervision over the erection of public and private structures. The nearest form of architectural education during the Spanish period was the Escuela Practica y Profesional de Artes y Oficios de Manila, which was established by the Spanish government in 1890. Among the first graduates of this school were Arcadio Arellano, Juan Carreon, Julio Hernandez, and Isidro Medina. Later, private schools, such as the Liceo de Manila, were established...

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