Plumbing History in the Philippines

Plumbing Code of the Philippines

• The Revised Plumbing Code of 1999 was adopted by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and approved by President Joseph Estrada on December 21, 1999.
• The code is based on Section 4 of R.A. 1378, known as the Plumbing Law.

Basic Principles of the Plumbing Code

• All premises intended for human use or habitation must have a supply of pure and wholesome water.
• Plumbing fixtures, devices, and appurtenances must be supplied with water in sufficient volume and pressure.
• Plumbing systems should use the minimum quantity of water consistent with proper performance and cleaning.
• Devices for heating and storing water must be designed and installed to prevent dangers from explosion through overheating.
• Every building with a public sewer must connect its plumbing fixtures to the sewer system.
• Each family dwelling unit must have at least one water closet, one kitchen type sink, a lavatory, and a bathtub or shower.
• Plumbing fixtures must be made of smooth, non-absorbent material and located in ventilated enclosures.

History of Plumbing Practices in the Philippines

• The Plumbing Trade was recognized by the government in the City of Manila in 1902.
• Master Plumber John F. Haas became the first Chief of the Division of Plumbing Construction and Inspection in 1902.
• A Plumbing Code based on the US Plumbing Code was incorporated into the Building Code for the City of Manila in 1902.
• The National Master Plumbers Association of the Philippines (NAMPAP) was formally organized in 1935.
• The "Plumbing Code for the City of Manila" was enacted in 1935 and placed under the Department of Public Services, Manila.
• The "Plumbing Law of the Philippines" (R.A. 1378) was approved in 1955.
• The National Plumbing Code of the Philippines was promulgated and approved in 1959.
• The "Building Code of the Philippines" (R.A. 6541) was passed in 1972, with the "National Plumbing Code of 1959" as referral code.

Additional Requirements

• If there is no sewer system, suitable provision must be made for the disposal of building sewage by some accepted method.
• Suitable provision must be made to prevent backflow of sewage in areas where it may occur.
• Plumbing systems must be maintained in serviceable condition by Registered Master Plumbers.
• All plumbing fixtures must be installed properly spaced and accessible for their intended use.
• Plumbing systems must be installed with due regard to the preservation of structural members and the prevention of damage to walls and surfaces.
• Sewage or waste from plumbing systems must not be discharged into the ground or waterways unless first treated to be innocuous.