Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021

Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

WEEK 16 MODULE:
The Philippine Green Building Code of 2015 (P.D. 1096 Referral Code)

Module Overview
This module covers The Philippine Green Building Code of 2015, a referral code of the National Building Code of
the Philippines (P.D. 1096)

Module Learning Outcomes

At the end of this module, the student shall improve his/her understanding and comprehension of Green Buildings
and its acceptable set of standards that will enhance sound environmental and building management.

Module Learning Materials

• Lecture Notes
o Philippines Green Building Code
• Lecture Presentation in PDF
_________________________________________________________________________________________

PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE

A Referral Code of the NATIONAL BUILDING CODE (P.D. 1096)

CHAPTER I.
GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section 1. Title
This document shall be known as the “Philippine Green Building Code” hereinafter referred to as the “GB
Code”.

Section 2. Policy
The state shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord
with the rhythm and harmony of nature against harmful effects of climate change. It shall safeguard the
environment, property, public health, in the interest of the common good and general welfare consistent with
the principles of sound environmental management and control; and for this purpose, prescribe acceptable
set of standards and requirements for relevant buildings to regulate their location, site, planning, design,
quality of material, construction, use, occupancy, operation and maintenance.

Section 3. Objectives
The GB Code seeks to improve the efficiency of building performance through a framework of acceptable
set of standards that will enhance sound environmental and resource management that will counter the
harmful gases responsible for the adverse effects of climate change, throughout the building’s life--‐cycle
including efficient use of resources, site selection, planning, design, construction, use, occupancy, operation
and maintenance, without significant increase in cost. This GB Code is a set of regulations setting minimum
standards for compliance and not intended to rate buildings.

Section 4. Principles
4.1 The technical professionals, developers, contractors, property managers and building owners involved in
the planning, design, construction and management of buildings have the opportunity and responsibility
to help government address the adverse effects of climate change by ensuring that buildings are planned,
designed, constructed, operated and maintained to the required efficiency level.
4.2 Resources must be used efficiently to equitably meet the developmental and environmental needs of the
present and future generations.

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4.3 Occupants of green buildings will benefit from improved indoor environmental quality, which promotes
higher productivity and better comfort.

Section 5. Definition of Terms

The words, terms and phrases as used in this GB Code shall have the meaning or definition as indicated
in the National Building Code (NBC) and Annex 1.

Section 6. Green Building Concept

Green building is the practice of adopting measures that promote resource management efficiency and
site sustainability while minimizing the negative impact of buildings on human health and the environment.
This practice complements the conventional building design concerns of economy, durability, serviceability
and comfort.

Section 7. Approach
The GB Code adopts a staggered or incremental approach and is subject to periodic review by the Secretary
of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), through the National Building Code
Development Office (NBCDO), to modify or include new aspects and emerging efficient technologies and
expand the coverage to other building use / occupancy or replace outmoded measures.

Section 8. Building Use / Occupancy Coverage and Application

8.1 The provisions of the GB Code shall apply to all new construction and/or with alteration of buildings in the
following classification with the required minimum Total Gross Floor Areas (TGFA) as indicated in Table
1 below:
Table 1. Minimum TGFA for Building Use / Occupancy
USE / OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION of any jurisdiction TGFA as defined by NBC
Residential Dwelling: Condominium 20,000 sqm
Hotel / Resort 10,000 sqm
Educational: School 10,000 sqm
Institutional: Hospital 10,000 sqm
Business: Office 10,000 sqm
Mercantile: Mall 15,000 sqm
Mixed Occupancy 2 10,000 sqm
Sources: NBC, Baseline Studies, IFC Philippine Green Building Code Project, May 2013
1 For Residential Dwelling: Condominium, the TGFA is the sum of the dwelling areas, common and
accessory areas within the building.
2 The areas for Mixed Occupancy classification shall have a total aggregate area equal to the TGFA
8.2 GB Code does not apply to existing buildings of the above use / occupancy classification constructed
before the effectivity of the GB Code.
8.3 When alterations, additions, conversions and renovations of existing buildings constructed after the
effectivity of the GB code, which reached the TGFA as indicated in Table 1 are to be made, the whole
building shall be subject to the applicable provisions of the GB Code.
8.4 A building of mixed occupancy with combination of classification as indicated in Table 1, shall use
appropriate measures applicable to each classification.

CHAPTER II.
GREEN BUILDING REQUIREMENTS

Section 9. Performance Standards

The GB Code shall be subject to the following performance standards:
9.1 Energy Efficiency

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9.2 Water Efficiency
9.3 Material Sustainability
9.4 Solid Waste Management
9.5 Site Sustainability
9.6 Indoor Environmental Quality

Section 10. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency requires the adoption of efficient practices, designs, methods and technologies that
reduce energy consumption resulting in cost savings.

10.1 BUILDING ENVELOPE

10.1.1 Air Tightness and Moisture Protection

a. General
As the humidity levels are very high in the Philippines, the unwanted infiltration and humidity ingress
into the spaces can cause additional load on the air conditioning system and a detrimental

impact on air quality. Buildings must be planned and designed with specific details to ensure that air
tightness is maximized. Details should precisely include joints, service entry points, windows and
doors. The implementation of these measures requires only increased attention to the construction
details and it can be implemented at practically no cost.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
Buildings shall be planned and designed with:
i. Complete gaskets, weather--‐stripping, door bottom sweeps and seals within and around window and
door assemblies
ii. Moisture protection on the surface of the external façade to reduce vapor or moisture migration
from external spaces
d. Exceptions
Buildings and spaces without provisions for air conditioning systems are exempt.

10.1.2 Glass Properties

a. General
Compared to wall assemblies, glazing transfers more heat and hence, it is ideal to reduce the
amount of glazing with respect to the wall in order to reduce internal heat gains.
The requirement of Window to Wall Ratio (WWR) needs to be balanced with the amount of
daylight coming through the glazed area.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is used to determine the amount of solar heat admitted through
the glass divided by the total solar radiation incident on the glass.
Visible light Transmittance (VLT) is used to determine the amount of light transmitted through the
glass.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
WWR shall be balanced with SHGC to maintain flexibility in design. To further describe, the higher the
designed building WWR, the lower the required SHGC in glass windows shall be and vise--‐versa. This
does not however, remove the option for building owners to apply windows with low SHGC for building
with low WWR.
i. The size of the opening (with or without glass) shall be in accordance with the NBC.

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For each WWR value, the SHGC and VLT shall be in accordance with Table 2.

Table 2. SHGC and VLT for different WWR

WWR Maximum SHGC Minimum VLT
10 0.80 0.80
20 0.70 0.70
30 0.60 0.70
40 0.45 0.60
50 0.44 0.55
60 0.37 0.50
70 0.31 0.45
80 0.27 0.40
90 0.24 0.35
Source: Prescribed Requirements, IFC Philippine Green Building Code Project, May 2013

The SHGC requirement in Table 2 can be adjusted if sun breakers are provided in the windows. Sun
breaker plays a very important role in reducing solar heat gain as it stops the solar radiation before it
enters the building and doing so reduces the cooling loads considerably. External shading has the
additional positive effect of improving the internal comfort cutting part of the direct radiation on
occupants. This must be applied only to windows that are shaded.

SHGC limits can be adjusted by multiplying it with the correction factors summarized in the
following tables, using the formula:
SHGCadj =
f x SHGC
where:
SHGCadj is the adjusted solar heat gain coefficient limit for windows with external shading
SHGC f is the solar heat gain coefficient
f is the SHGC correction factor for the external shading

ii. For intermediate values of D/H or D/W the lower figure of correction factor should be used as
stated in Tables 3 and 4.
iii. D is the depth of the shading device as projected from the building exterior wall and H or W is the
height or distance of the bottom sill of the window from the bottom of the shading device as shown in
Figure 1.
iv. Shading which is not attached to windows or placed on a wall with no window should not be
counted.

Figure 1. Schematic representation of a window and related horizontal overhang or vertical fin

Table 3. Correction factor for each horizontal overhang shading projection

D/H Correction Factor
0.1 1.03
0.5 1.06

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1 1.08

Table 4. Correction factor for each vertical fin shading projection

D/W Correction Factor
0.1 1.04
0.5 1.12
1 1.17
Source: Prescribed Requirements, IFC Philippine Green Building Code Project, May 2013
For glass products, see Annex 2 Glass Library.
d. Exceptions
There are no exceptions to this provision.

10.2 NATURAL VENTILATION

a. General
This measure will give building occupants the flexibility and opportunity to use natural ventilation for free
cooling and fresh air in regularly occupied spaces. This measure will limit the tendency to create glass--‐
sealed box type buildings. Size of each room and space shall be consistent with the occupancy load of
the NBC.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
i. Operable windows or balcony door shall be provided in regularly occupied spaces. The size of the
opening shall be equal to at least ten percent (10%) of the floor area of regularly occupied spaces.
ii. All operable windows shall be provided with safety features for protection against strong winds,
water penetration and protection for building occupants including child safety and security.
d. Exceptions
There are no exceptions to this provision.

10.3 BUILDING ENVELOPE COLOR

a. General
Light--‐colored building envelope, especially the roof areas which are the most vulnerable, can reduce heat
transfer from the outside to the inside of the building by having surfaces with high Solar Reflectance Index
(SRI).
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
Building metal roof surfaces shall either be colored white or have a minimum SRI of 70. See Table 5.

Table 5. Solar Reflectance Index Values Of Basic Colored Coatings

METAL SURFACE SRI
Reflective white 86 to 92
Basic white 80 to 88
Beige / Tan 74 to 80
Dark brown 0 to 33
Light to medium brown 45 to 56
Light to medium grey 39 to 63
Dark grey 0 to 41
Blue 23 to 30
Light to medium blue 35 to 38
Red 28 to 36
Terracotta red 38 to 40

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Green 25 to 32
Light to medium green 30 to 48

d. Exceptions.
There are no exceptions to this provision.

10.4 ROOF INSULATION

a. General
Insulation can help reduce heat gain in a building thus improving thermal comfort, acoustic quality and
reducing the load on the air conditioning system.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
Buildings shall be provided with roof insulation so that the average thermal resistance value (R--‐Value)
of the roof is at least R--‐8. See Annex 4 (Insulation R--‐Value).
For Insulating Values of Common Building Materials see Annex
3

Table 6. R--‐Value of Common Roof Insulation

Insulation R--‐Value / inch (25.4 mm)

Polyisocyanurate 5.6 to 8.0
Polyurethane 5.6 to 6.5
Closed cell spray foam 5.5 to 6.0
Phenolic foam 4.8
Urea formaldehyde fam 4.6
Plastic fiber 4.3
Mineral fiber 4.2 to 4.5
Cementitious foam 3.9
Polystyrene 3.8 to 5.0
Fiberglass 3.7
Rockwool 3.7
Rigid foam 3.6 to 6.7
Cellulose 3.6 to 3.8
Open cell spray foam 3.6
Sheep’s wool 3.5
Hemp 3.5
Cotton 3.4
Loose cellulose 3.0 to 3.7
Mineral wool 2.8 to 3.7
Straw 2.4 to 3.0
Vermiculite / Perlite 2.4
Reflective bubble foil 1to1.1
Source: US Department of Energy – insulation materials

d. Exceptions.
There are no exceptions to this provision.

10.5 MECHANICAL SYSTEMS

10.5.1 Air Conditioning System

a. General

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Air conditioning typically accounts for more than fifty percent (50%) of total electricity costs in a centrally
air--‐conditioned building. Hence, the efficiency of an air conditioning system is of prime importance. The
heart of the air conditioning system is the cooling system, typically chillers in large buildings and is
important to procure an efficient cooling system.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
The cooling equipment shall meet or exceed the minimum efficiency requirements as indicated in
Tables 7 and 8.

Table 7. Electrically Operated Unitary Air Conditioners and Condensing Units

Equipment Size Category Sub--‐Category or Minimum Test Procedure
Type (in Btu/h) (in kJ/h) Rating Conditions Efficiency
Air <65,000 <68,585 Split systems 14.0 SEER AHRI 210/240; PNS
conditioners, 12.0 EER ISO 5151:2014; PNS
air--‐cooled Single packaged 14.0 SEER ISO
11.6 EER 16358--‐1
Through--‐the--‐ <30,000 <31,655 Split systems 12.0 SEER AHRI 210/240; PNS
wall, air--‐ Single packaged 12.0 SEER ISO 5151:2014; PNS
cooled ISO
16358--‐1
Small--‐duct <65,000 <68,585 Split systems 10.0 SEER AHRI 210/240; PNS
high velocity, ISO 5151:2014; PNS
air--‐cooled ISO
16358--‐1
Air ≥65, 000 & ≥68, 585 & Split systems and 11.5 EER AHRI 340/360; PNS
conditioners, <135,000 <142,447 single packaged 11.3 EER ISO 5151:2014; PNS
air--‐cooled ≥135, 000 & ≥142, 447 11.5 EER ISO
<240,000 <253,238 11.3 EER 16358--‐1
≥240, 000 & ≥253, 238 & 10.0 EER
<760,000 <801,922 9.8 EER
≥760, 000 ≥801, 922 9.7 EER
9.5 EER
Air <65,000 <68,585 Split systems and 14.0 EER AHRI 210/240; PNS
conditioners, single packaged ISO 5151:2014; PNS
water and ISO
evaporative 16358--‐1
cooled 14.0 EER AHRI 340/360; PNS
≥65, 000 & ≥68, 585 & 13.8 EER ISO 5151:2014; PNS
135,000 142,447 ISO
≥135, 000 & ≥142,447 & 13.8 EER 16358--‐1
240,000 253,238 14.0 EER
≥ 240,000 ≥ 253,238 13.8 EER
Source: 2010 PSVARE Standards

Table 8. Water Chiller Packages – Minimum Efficiency Requirements

Minimum Efficiency
Equipment Type Size category Test Procedures
Full Load
Air--‐cooled chillers with, < 150 tons EER 10
condenser, electrically AHRI 550/590
operated ≥150 tons EER 10

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Air--‐cooled chillers Condenser less units shall be
without condenser, All capacities EER rated with matched AHRI 550/590
electrically operated condensers
Reciprocating units required to
Water--‐cooled,
All capacities Kw/ton comply with water--‐cooled AHRI 550/590
electrically operated,
positive displacement
positive
requirements
< 75 tons Kw/ton 0.78
Water--‐cooled, ≥ 75 tons and < 150 tons Kw/ton 0.775
Electrically operated, ≥ 150 tons and < 300 tons AHRI 550/590
Kw/ton 0.68
positive displacement
≥ 300 tons Kw/ton 0.62
< 150 tons Kw/ton 0.634
Water--‐cooled ≥ 150 tons and < 300 tons Kw/ton 0.634
electrically operated, ≥ 300 tons and < 600 tons AHRI 550/590
Kw/ton 0.576
centrifugal
≥ 600 tons Kw/ton 0.57
Air--‐cooled absorption
All capacities COP 0.6
single effect
Water--‐cooled
All capacities COP 0.6 AHRI 560
absorption single effect
Absorption double effect
All capacities COP 1
indirect--‐fired
All capacities COP 1
Source: 2010 PSVARE Standards
d. Exceptions
Buildings with no air--‐conditioning systems are exempt.

10.5.2 Water Heating System

a. General
The use of energy--‐efficient water heating systems in buildings, by observing minimum power
performance requirements, will help reduce energy consumption due to heating of water.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements.
Applicable buildings shall comply with the minimum performance requirements for water heating in the
2010 PSVARE Standards, as shown in Table 9.
d. Exceptions
Buildings with no water heating systems and buildings with using solar water heating and/or heat
pump for water heating are exempt.

Table 9. Minimum Performance Requirements for Water Heating Equipment

Equipment Size Category (Input) Subcategory or Rating Performance Required
Type Condition Test Procedure
I--‐P SI I--‐P > 75,000 I--‐P SI
Btu/h
Electric Water 12 kW 12 kW Resistance > 75,000 EF≥0.97--‐ EF≥0.97--‐ DOE 10 CFR
Heaters ≥ 20 gal Btu/h 0.00132V 0.00132V Part 430
> 12 kW > 12 kW Resistance > 75,000 SL≤20+ 35√V, ANSI Z21.10.3
≥ 20 gal Btu/h Btu/h
> 75,000 DOE 10 CFR
All sizes All sizes Heat Pump EF≥2.0 EF≥2.0
Btu/h Part 430

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≤ 75,000 > 75,000 DOE 10 CFR
≤ 22 kW ≥ 20 gal EF ≥ 0.67 EF ≥ 0.67
Gas Btu/h Btu/h Part 430
Storage E ≥ 80% and
Water > 75,000 < 4,000
> 22 kW < 0.31 kw/L SL ≤ (Q/800 + ANSI Z21.10.3
Heaters Btu/h (Btu/h)/gal
110√V), Btu/h
> 50,000
≥ 4,000
Btu/h and < > 15 kW and ≥ 0.31 kw/L EF ≥ 0.82 EF ≥ 0.82 DOE 10 CFR
(Btu/h)/gal
200,000 < 58kW and 7.57 L Part 430
Gas and < 2 gal
Btu/h
Instantaneous ≥ 4,000
Water Heaters ≤ 200,000 ≤ 58 kW (Btu/h)/gal
≥ 0.31 kw/L
E ≥ 80% E ≥ 80%
Btu/h and 37.85 L
and < 10 gal ANSI Z21.10.3
4000 E ≥ 80% and
≥ 200,000 0.31 kw/L
≥ 58 kW (Btu/h)/gal SL ≤ (Q/800 +
Btu/h and≥ 37.85 L
and ≥ 10 gal 110√V), Btu/h
≤ 105,000 EF≥0.59--‐ EF≥0.59--‐ DOE 10 CFR
≤ 31 kW ≥ 20 gal ≥ 76 L
Oil Storage Btu/h 0.0019V 0.0019V Part 430
Water E ≥ 78% and
Heaters > 105,000 < 4,000
>31 kW < 0.31 kw/L SL ≤ (Q/800 +
Btu/h (Btu/h)/gal
110√V), Btu/h DOE 10 CFR
≥ 4,000 Part 430
≤ 210,000 ≥ 0.31 kw/L EF≥0.59--‐ EF≥0.59--‐
≤ 62 kW (Btu/h)/gal
Btu/h and <7.87 L 0.0019V 0.0019V
Oil and < 2 gal
Instantaneous ≥ 4,000
Water Heaters > 210,000 > 62 kW (Btu/h)/gal
≥ 0.31 kw/L
E ≥ 80% E ≥ 80%
Btu/h and <37.85 L
and < 10 gal ANSI Z21.10.3
≥ 4,000 E ≥ 78% and
> 210,000 ≥ 0.31 kw/L
> 62 kW (Btu/h)/gal SL ≤ (Q/800 +
Btu/h and ≥37.85 L
and ≥10 gal 110√V), Btu/h
Hot--‐water 300,000
≥ 4,000
supply Btu/h and < 88 kW and < ≥ 0.31 kw/L E ≥ 80% E ≥ 80%
(Btu/h)/gal
boilers, gas 12,500,000 3664 kW and <37.85 L
and < 10 gal
and oil Btu/h
Hot--‐water ≥ 4,000 E ≥ 80% and ANSI Z21.10.3
≥ 0.31 kw/L
supply (Btu/h)/gal SL ≤ (Q/800 +
and ≥37.85 L
boilers, gas and ≥10 gal 110√V), Btu/h
Hot--‐water ≥ 4,000 E ≥ 78% and
≥ 0.31 kw/L
supply (Btu/h)/gal SL ≤ (Q/800 +
and ≥37.85 L
boilers, oil and ≥10 gal 110√V), Btu/h
Pool heaters
All sizes All sizes E ≥ 78% E ≥ 78% ASHRAE 146
oil and gas
Heat pump
All sizes All sizes ≥ 4.0 COP ≥ 4.0 COP ASHRAE 146
pool heaters
Unfired
All sizes All sizes ≥ R--‐12.5 ≥ R--‐12.5 None
storage tanks
Source: 2010 PSVARE Standards
10.5.3. Variable Speed Drives and High Efficiency Motors
a. General
Variable Speed Drive (VSD) describes the equipment used to control the speed of machinery by
changing the frequency of the motor that is being operated. Where process conditions demand
adjustment of flow from a pump or fan, varying the speed of the drive may save energy compared
with other techniques for flow control.

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b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
i. All motors for mechanical equipment over five (5) kW shall be provided with variable speed drive
and high efficiency motors in accordance with Table 10.
ii. All motors of cooling towers shall be provided with variable speed drive and high efficiency
motors.
iii. All motors for domestic pumps shall have high efficiency motors as indicated in Table 10.
d. Exceptions
Kitchen ventilation fans are exempt from this requirement. Non--‐ centralized air--‐conditioning systems in
buildings are not required to employ variable speed controllers.

Table 10. Motor Efficiencies

Number of Poles

Source: 2010 PSVARE Standards

10.5.4. Enthalpy Recovery of Exhaust Air

a. General
When buildings have outside air or fresh air supply and extract system through mechanical means,
using heat exchangers can use the air extracted from the building areas to pre--‐condition the incoming
outdoor air. This process exploits the fact that the extract air is usually already conditioned and therefore
colder and drier.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements.
All buildings with centralized air supply system shall use enthalpy recovery wheels with efficiency of at
least sixty percent (60%) of ninety percent (90%) exhaust air.
d. Exceptions.
Buildings without centralized cooling systems are exempt.

10.6 ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS 10.6.1 Daylight Provision

10.6.1 Daylight Provision

a. General
Building should be planned and designed to maximize the use of natural light so to reduce the use of
artificial illumination.
b. Applicability.
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1. For residential
condominiums, it does not apply to individual dwelling units.
c. Requirements.
All regularly occupied spaces inside the building shall have a view of any combination of the following
features that can allow daylight into the room space:
i. Window
ii. Light shelf
iii. Clerestory
iv. Skylight
v. Light monitor / light scoop
vi. Other devices that can allow daylight inside

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d. Exceptions
Spaces where daylight access hinders its intended function are exempt from this provision with
justification for exemption.

10.6.2 Daylight Controlled Lighting System

a. General
Building interior perimeter zones exposed to daylight generally do not require artificial lighting during
the day. However, sub--‐optimal design and operation of the building results in use of artificial lighting
when not required.
Photoelectric sensors connected to luminaires help in dimming or switching off lamps that do not
require to be operated due to presence of adequate daylight.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as stated in Table 1. For residential condominiums,
this applies only to common indoor areas with access to daylight.
c. Requirements
Applicable buildings shall comply with the following:
i. Lighting fixtures within the daylight zone shall be controlled with photoelectric sensors with an auto
on--‐off basis or continual dimming. The photoelectric sensor shall be located approximately at half
(1⁄2) the depth of daylight zone.
ii. If occupancy sensors are installed in the daylight zone, the occupancy sensor shall override the
photoelectric sensor during non--‐occupancy period.
d. Exceptions
Installed lighting fixtures within the day--‐lit zones are exempt from using photoelectric sensor if this
hinders its intended function, with justification for exemption.

10.6.3 Lighting Power Density (LPD)

a. General
Limitation of LPD will help to design the lighting system in the most efficient way and reduce the
lighting and cooling in the building. The maximum allowed LPD for each space type is specified in
Table 11.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
All applicable building types shall comply with the LPD limits in the 2010 PSVARE Standards, as shown
in Table 11.

Table 11 Maximum Allowed

LPD *4 Source 2010
PSVARE Standards
*4 Above requirement excludes parking and exterior lighting (see Table 12)

Table 12. Maximum

Allowed LPD Source :
ASHRAE --‐ IESNA 90.1

d. Exceptions
There are no exceptions to this provision.

10.6.4 Occupancy Sensors for Lighting Control

a. General
Occupancy sensors linked to lighting shall be installed in areas with variable occupancy.

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b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1, except for hospitals and
malls.
c. Requirements
Applicable buildings shall comply with the following:
i. In order to limit the use of electricity in unoccupied areas of buildings, occupancy sensors linked to
lighting (except for emergency and security lighting) shall be installed in the following areas with
variable occupancy:
▪ corridors
▪ private offices
▪ storage rooms
▪ common toilets
▪ meeting rooms
▪ stairways
▪ other similar areas
ii. For covered car parks: minimum of sixty per cent (60%) of the lighting must be controlled by the
occupancy sensors.
d. Exceptions
Provisions for emergency and security lighting are exempted from this requirement.

10.6.5 Elevators and Escalators / Moving Ramps / Walkways

a. General
Escalators / Moving Ramp / Walkway must be fitted with controls to automatically reduce speed or
stop when no traffic is detected. Elevators must be fitted with mechanisms to reduce energy demand.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
Applicable buildings shall comply with the following:
i. Escalators / Moving Ramps / Walkways
• Escalators / Moving Ramps / Walkways shall be fitted with automated controls to reduce to a
slower speed when no activity has been detected for a maximum period of one and a half (1--‐
1/2) minutes and duration may be adjusted depending on the demand.
• The escalator / moving ramp / walkway shall automatically be put on a standby mode when no
activity has been detected for a maximum period of five (5) minutes and duration may be
adjusted depending on the demand.
• These escalators / moving ramps / walkways shall be designed with energy efficient soft start
technology. Activation of reduced speed, power off and power on modes shall be done through
sensors installed in the top or bottom landing areas.
ii. Elevators
• Elevators shall be provided with controls to reduce the energy demand. To meet this
requirement, the following features must be incorporated:
▪ Use of Alternating Current (AC) Variable Voltage and Variable Frequency (VVVF) drives
on non--‐hydraulic elevators
▪ Use of energy efficient lighting and display lighting in the elevator car shall have an average
lamp efficacy, across all fittings in the car, of more than 55 lumens / watt
▪ Lighting shall switch off after the elevator has been inactive for a maximum period of five (5)
minutes
▪ The elevators shall operate in a stand--‐by condition during off--‐peak periods
d. Exceptions
There are no exceptions to this provision.

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10.6.6 Transformer
a. General
The transformer shall be tested in accordance with relevant Philippine National Standards (PNS) at
test conditions of full load, free of harmonics and at unity power factor.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies, with own transformer, as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
Transformers that are part of the building electrical system shall have efficiencies not lower than 98% as
prescribed in the DOE Guidelines on Energy Conserving Design of Buildings.
d. Exceptions
There are no exceptions to this provision.

10.6.7 Overhead or Elevated Water Storage

a. General
To reduce dependence on motorized systems to supply and distribute potable or non--‐potable water
within the building, thus help reduce energy consumption, overhead or elevated water storage systems
are used, provided there’s a twenty percent (20%) fire reserve over and above the average daily demand
supply. The system relies mostly on elevation and gravity to distribute water within the building.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
Applicable buildings shall include in the water distribution system the integration of overhead or
elevated water tanks that will facilitate the distribution of potable and / or non--‐potable water into the
building spaces, without compromising the required water volume and pressure based on demand
and the Plumbing Code of the Philippines.
d. Exceptions
Buildings below ten (10) storeys high are exempt from this provision.

Section 11. WATER EFFICIENCY

Water efficiency requires the adoption of efficient practices, plan, design, materials, fixtures, equipment and
methods that reduce water consumption resulting in cost savings.

11.1 WATER FIXTURES

a. General
Efficient water fixtures include faucets, showerheads and water closets that use less water in order to
perform the same function of cleaning as effectively as standard models. Water efficiency is an important
aspect, especially as fresh water resources start getting depleted at a rate faster than they are
replenished. Use of efficient plumbing fixtures, sensors, auto control valves, aerators, flow control and
pressure--‐reducing devices, wherever possible, can result in significant reduction in water consumption.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
Applicable buildings shall comply with the requirements as shown in Table 13.
d. Exceptions.
There are no exceptions to this provision.

Table 13 Water Fixture Performance Requirements

Source: Prescribed Requirements, IFC Philippine Green Building Code Project, May 2013

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11.2 WATER MANAGEMENT

11.2.1 Rainwater Harvesting

a. General
Rainwater is one of the purest sources of water available. Rainwater from roofs and hardscape must be
collected and reused for non--‐ potable purposes.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
i. Minimum storage tanks size (in cu.m) shall be calculated by dividing the building footprint area by 75.
ii. Collected water shall be used for non--‐potable purposes such as toilet flushing, irrigation and
cooling towers.
d. Exceptions.
There are no exceptions to this provision.

11.2.2 Water Recycling

a. General
Recycled water from Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) shall be reused for non--‐potable purposes.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
The recycled water produced on site shall be reused for non--‐potable purposes such as toilet flushing,
irrigation and cooling towers, through a distinct and separate piping system from the potable water supply
system.
d. Exceptions
Buildings with no dedicated STP are exempted from this requirement.

Section 12. MATERIAL SUSTAINABILITY

Material Sustainability governs all matters related to resource efficiency and material selection and use
with the least impact on the environment.

12.1 Non--‐Toxic Materials

a. General
Non--‐Toxic building materials refer to building materials without hazardous
or toxic chemicals that could cause Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) and eventually lead to Building
Related Illness (BRI).
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
i. Paints, coatings, adhesives and sealants used indoors or non--‐ ventilated areas shall not contain
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) or should be within levels tolerable to humans as specified
in Table 14.
ii. Composite wood shall not have urea formaldehyde content.
iii. All other materials containing chemicals used in construction shall not compromise and be
deleterious to the health and safety of the workers and occupants of the building.
iv. Specifications shall comply with the allowable VOC limits as stated in Table 14 with Material
Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) from supplier and other certification to justify the compliance of the
material.

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d. Exceptions
There are no exceptions to this provision.

Table 14. VOC Limits

VOC levels are measured in grams of VOC per liter of material Source: USGBC LEED Addenda
# 100000419, 14 April 2010

Section 13. SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

Efficient waste management requires the adoption of efficient waste management practices and use of
eco--‐friendly materials.

13.1 Material Recovery Facility (MRF)

a. General
MRF shall be provided for the collection and segregation of solid waste materials
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
i. Buildings shall be provided with a minimum area for MRF as specified in Table 15.
ii. MRF shall be fully enclosed and easily accessible from within the building and from the outside
for easy collection of waste.
iii. Solid waste containers shall be provided for at least four (4) types of wastes:
▪ compostable (biodegradable)
▪ non--‐recyclable (to be disposed off in the landfill)
▪ recyclable (paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, wood, etc.)
▪ special waste
iv. For hospitals, isolated bins for hazardous wastes shall be provided to avoid contamination.
d. Exceptions
There are no exceptions to this provision.

Table 15. MRF Minimum Daily Storage Space Requirements

Source: DENR (EMB Report on Solid Waste Generation) and
NBC

Section 14. SITE SUSTAINABILITY

Site sustainability requires the adoption of planning, design, construction and operation practices that
minimize the adverse impact of buildings on ecosystems and water resources.

14.1 Site / Ground Preparation and Earthworks

a. General
Site clearing, grading and excavation shall be planned at the start of construction to mitigate pollution
caused by erosion and sedimentation taking into consideration existing endemic foliage as regulated
by the DENR.
All existing utilities and water bodies and waterways, shall be protected and shall not be disturbed.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
Measures for site protection shall be in place before the start of construction.
i. Building site erosion and sedimentation control plan that outlines measures to be applied
to prevent soil that can run--‐off at the natural bodies of water, causing water pollution.
ii. Additional measures to mitigate the effect of pollution and safety on construction

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conforming to Rule XI of the NBC
iii. Storm water collection management plan
iv. Structures or facilities for storm water collection
d. Exceptions
There are no exceptions to this provision.

14.2 Open Space Utilization

a. General
The inclusion of green areas or landscaped areas for indigenous or adaptable species of grass, shrubs
and trees will help in providing more permeable surface for the building development’s open space and
thus allow the re--‐charging of natural ground water reservoir, control storm water surface run--‐off, cool the
building surroundings, and provide indoor to outdoor connectivity for the building occupants.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all building occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
A minimum of fifty percent (50%) of the required Unpaved Surface Area (USA), as required in Rule VII
and VIII of the NBC, shall be vegetated with indigenous and adaptable species.
d. Exceptions
There are no exceptions to this provision.

Section 15. INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

Indoor Environmental Quality requires the adoption of efficient design and operation practices that take into
consideration the building environment to improve occupant health, productivity and safety.

15.1 Minimum Fresh Air Rates

a. General
The building indoor environment can contain more contaminants many times over than the outside.
Various studies have shown that indoor air contaminants can cause health disorders, through
symptoms of SBS and BRI. The introduction and application of minimum fresh air rates will maintain
acceptable indoor air quality thru the constant replacement of indoor air in buildings.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all buildings occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
Compliance to the minimum fresh air rates provided in the latest Philippine Society of Ventilating,
Air--‐Conditioning and Refrigerating Engineers (PSVARE) Standards. See Table 16.
d. Exceptions
There are no exceptions to this provision.

Table 16 Minimum Ventilation Rates in Breathing

Zone Source: 2010 PSVARE Standards

15.2 Designated Smoking Area

a. General
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) is one of the leading causes of respiratory illnesses in building
occupants. RA 9211, the Tobacco Regulations Act, restricts tobacco smoking in public spaces and the
prescription of designated smoking areas inside buildings.
b. Applicability
This measure applies to all buildings occupancies as indicated in Table 1.
c. Requirements
i. If smoking is banned within the building and property premises, “NO SMOKING” signs in

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compliance with the RA 9514 (Fire Code of the Philippines 2008), shall be posted in conspicuous
areas of the building and property premises to remind building occupants of the policy.
ii. If smoking is only allowed outdoors, designated smoking areas shall be naturally ventilated,
outside of the building shell and away from building entrances, windows and outside supply air
(OSA) intakes by at least ten (10) meters.
iii. If smoking is allowed indoors, designated smoking areas shall be provided, partitioned from the rest
of the indoor areas. Partitions shall be from floor to soffit of the next floor or roof structure. Enclosed
smoking areas shall be equipped with adequate exhaust system with exhaust rate in accordance
with the latest PSVARE Standards. Exhaust shall directly vent out to the outside of the building and
away from any building openings or air intakes.
iv. Doors and windows of enclosed smoking area shall always be closed and well sealed. Negative
pressure within is recommended to prevent smoke infiltration to adjacent spaces.
d. Exceptions
Buildings with a general policy of “no smoking” within building premises may be exempted from
having designated smoking areas.

CHAPTER III.
INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS

Section 16. OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL BUILDING OFFICIAL

The Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), as the concurrent National
Building Official, pursuant to Section 203 of the NBC, through the NBCDO, shall regularly review the GB
Code not to exceed three (3) years from the date of effectivity and every three (3) years thereafter.
For this purpose, the NBCDO shall convene the Technical Working Group (TWG) to review and update
the GB Code implementation vis--‐à- ‐vis current and emerging trends in the industry and make
recommendations for reform.
The NBCDO shall serve as the center for the development and promotion of green buildings in the
Philippines. As such, it shall be the repository of resource materials relating to green buildings. It shall
also be responsible for developing modules and providing green building training.

Section 17. TECHNICAL STAFF

The Secretary is hereby authorized to constitute and provide in his department a professional staff
composed of highly qualified architects, engineers and technicians who possess diversified and
professional experience in the field of green building planning, design and construction.

Section 18. PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

The Executive Director of NBCDO shall chair the Technical Working Group (TWG) and may make
arrangements with the Secretary for compensation of the services of the TWG. He may also engage and
compensate within appropriations available thereof, the services of such number of consultants, experts and
advisers on full or part--‐time basis as may be necessary coming from any concerned government agency or
private business, Accredited Professional Organizations (APO) and other associations to carry out the
provisions of the GB Code. The members are the duly authorized representatives from the following:
18.1 CCC (Climate Change Commission)
18.2 DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources)
18.3 DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government)
18.4 DOE (Department of Energy)
18.5 DOST (Department of Science and Technology)
18.6 DTI (Department of Trade and Industry)
18.7 GEP (Geodetic Engineers of the Philippines)
18.8 IECEP (Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines)

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18.9 IIEE (Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers)
18.10 PALA (Philippine Association of Landscape Architects)
18.11 PICE (Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers)
18.12 PIEP (Philippine Institute of Environmental Planners)
18.13 PIID (Philippine Institute of Interior Designers)
18.14 PSME (Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers)
18.15 PSSE (Philippine Society of Sanitary Engineers)
18.16 UAP (United Architects of the Philippines)
18.17 BOMAP (Building Owners and Managers Association of the Philippines)
18.18 PABA (Philippine Association of Building Administrators)
18.19 PABO (Philippine Association of the Building Officials)

CHAPTER IV.
CERTIFICATION PROCESS

Section 19. GREEN BUILDING PERMIT PROCESS

The Office of the Building Official shall review the building permit application for Green Buildings as
prepared by the design professionals in compliance with the requirements of the GB Code and the
various referral codes in accordance with Rule 3 of the NBC.

CHAPTER V.
FINAL PROVISION

Section 20. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE

Should any part or provision of the GB Code be held unconstitutional or invalid by a competent court, the
other parts or provisions hereof which are not affected thereby shall continue to be in full force and effect.

Section 21. EFFECTIVITY

This GB Code shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication once a week for three (3)
consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation.

Section 22. TRANSITORY PROVISION

Those projects with building designs and plans that have already been prepared and signed by all duly
licensed design professionals shall be exempt from the coverage, provided that the request for exemption
shall be filed with the Office of the Building Official within 30 days after the effectivity of this Code.

ANNEX 1
DEFINITION OF TERMS

Accredited Professional Organizations (APO) --‐ professional organizations accredited by the Professional
Regulatory Commission (PRC)
Addition --‐ any new construction which increases the height and / or floor area of existing buildings /
structures
Air Conditioning --‐ the process of treating air so as to control simultaneously its temperature, humidity,
cleanliness, and distribution to meet the requirements of conditioned space
Air--‐Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) - ‐ trade association representing manufacturers of
HVACR and water heating equipment within the global industry7
Alteration --‐ works in buildings / structures involving changes in the materials used, partitioning, location / size of
openings, structural parts, existing utilities and equipment but does not increase the building height
and/or floor area

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American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air--‐Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) - ‐ global society founded
in 1894, advancing human well--‐being through sustainable technology for the built environment with
focus on building systems, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, refrigeration and sustainability within
the industry
Applicable Provision – any requirement that relates to a given condition
Building Owners and Managers Association of the Philippines (BOMAP) --‐ helps members ensure tenants’
satisfaction, maximize profits, and enhance asset values for building owners and investors through
market intelligence, education, networking, and government advocacy
British thermal unit (Btu) --‐ amount of heat energy needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one
degree Fahrenheit
Building Official (BO) --‐ the Executive Officer of the Office of the Building Official (OBO) appointed by the
Secretary
Building Permit --‐ document issued by the Building Official (BO) to an owner / applicant to proceed with the
construction, installation, addition, alteration, renovation, conversion, repair, moving, demolition or other
work activity of a specific project/building/structure or portions thereof after the accompanying principal
plans, specifications and other pertinent documents with the duly notarized application are found
satisfactory and substantially conforming with the NBC and its Implementing Rules and Regulations
(IRR).
Building Related Illness (BRI) --‐ diagnosable illness whose cause and symptoms can be directly attributed to a
specific pollutant source within a building
Car, elevator – the load--‐carrying unit including its platform, enclosure and door or gate
Clerestory - ‐ high windows above eye level
Climate Change --‐ refers to any significant change in measures of climate, such as temperature,
precipitation, or wind, lasting for an extended period
Climate Change Commission (CCC) - ‐ the lead policy--‐making body of the government tasked to coordinate, monitor
and evaluate programs and action plans on climate change
Coefficient of Performance (COP) --‐ ratio of heating or cooling provided to electrical energy consumed where
higher COPs equate to lower operating costs
Common Area --‐ part of the building premises is used by the occupants, owners, tenants or other building users
of which the landlord retains control and is responsible to maintain in a reasonably safe condition that
includes spaces such as lobby, corridor, hallway, toilet, elevator or stairway
Compostable waste --‐ mixture of various organic substances that can be placed into a composition of
decaying biodegradable materials which eventually turns into a nutrient--‐ rich material, used for
fertilizing soil
Construction - ‐ all on--‐site work done in the site preparation, excavation, foundation, assembly of all the
components and installation of utilities, machineries and equipment of buildings / structures
Conversion --‐ change in the use or occupancy of buildings / structures or any portion/s thereof, which has
different requirements
Daylight --‐ the natural light of day, which is a combination of all direct and indirect sunlight during the daytime
Daylight Zone --‐ area substantially illuminated by daylight consistently receiving significant quantities of
daylight during the day (ASHRAE/IES 90.1--‐2010 energy standard)
Demolition --‐ systematic dismantling or destruction of a building/structure, in whole or in part
Department --‐ the Department of Public Works and Highways
Department of Energy (DOE) --‐ the executive department of the Philippine Government responsible for
preparing, integrating, coordinating, supervising and controlling all plans, programs, projects and
activities of the Government relative to energy exploration, development, utilization, distribution and
conservation
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) --‐ the executive department of the Philippine
Government responsible for supervising and managing the different programs and implementing rules
governing the use and development of the country's natural resources
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) --‐ the executive department of the Philippine
Government responsible for promoting peace and order, ensuring public safety and strengthening
local government capability aimed towards the effective delivery of basic services to the citizenry

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Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) --‐ executive department of the Philippine Government that
functions as the engineering and construction arm of the Government tasked to continuously develop
its technology for the purpose of ensuring the safety of all infrastructure facilities and securing for all
public works and highways the highest efficiency and quality in construction
Department of Science and Technology (DOST) --‐ the executive department of the Philippine Government
responsible for the coordination of science and technology--‐ related projects in the Philippines and to
formulate policies and projects in the fields of science and technology in support of national development
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) --‐ the executive department of the Philippine Government tasked to expand
Philippine trade, industries and investments as the means to generate jobs and raise incomes for Filipinos
Door assembly --‐ unit composed of a group of parts or components which make up a closure for an opening to
control passageway through a wall which consists of the following parts: door; hinges; locking device or
devices; operation contacts (such as handles, knobs, push plates); miscellaneous hardware and
closures; the frame, including the head, threshold and jambs plus the anchorage devices
Elevator --‐ a hoisting and lowering mechanism other than a dumbwaiter or freight elevator which is designed
to carry passanger or authorized personnel, in a protected enclosure (elevator car) which moves along
fixed guides in a vertical direction serving two or more fixed landings/ floors on a hoistway.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) --‐ energy efficiency rating for room air conditioners that lists how many Btu per hour
are used for each watt of power it draws
Enthalpy Recovery Wheel – an energy recovery device that transfers outgoing temperature and humidity to the
incoming outdoor air
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) --‐ secondhand smoke consisting of airborne particles emitted from the
burning end of cigarettes, pipes, and cigars, exhaled by smokers containing about 4,000 compounds, up
to 50 of which are known to cause cancer
Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) --‐ national authority in the Philippines that sets air and water quality
standards and monitors ambient and point source pollutants
Escalator – a power driven, inclined, continuous stairway for raising or lowering passengers
Executive Director --‐ the executive officer or head of the NBCDO
Geodetic Engineers of the Philippines (GEP) --‐ accredited professional organization of Geodetic Engineers
composed of technically competent engineers with a high degree of integrity, moral standards and
professionalism and at pace with modern geodetic engineering technologies
Government Agency --‐ refers to any of the various units of the government including a department, bureau, office,
instrumentality, or government owned or controlled corporation
Harmonics --‐ increased heating in equipment and conductors, the reduction of which is desirable
Hazardous – anything that involves risk or danger to the safety and welfare of the public
Heat Island Effect (HIE) --‐ describes built up areas that are hotter than nearby rural areas
Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) --‐ system that helps maintain good indoor air quality
through adequate ventilation with filtration and provide thermal comfort
Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) – a non--‐profit learned society whose mission is to
improve the lighted environment by bringing together those with lighting knowledge and translating that
knowledge into actions that would benefit the public
Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) --‐ rules and regulations necessary in the implementation of the
provisions of GB Code
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) --‐ conditions inside the building that includes air quality, access to daylight and
views, pleasant acoustic conditions, and occupant control over lighting and thermal comfort
Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines (IECEP) --‐ the integrated accredited professional organization
of professional electronics engineers, electronics engineers and electronics technicians, whose objective
is to promote, through scientific inquiry and study the advancement of electronics in theory and practice,
and its application to allied fields of engineering and to human needs
Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines (IIEE) --‐ the accredited organization of Electrical
Engineers that aims to instill excellence to Electrical Engineers and to give contribution to the
development of the Philippines
Joint --‐ a space between the adjacent surfaces of two bodies joined and held together Light Monitor --‐ raised structure
running along the ridge of a double--‐pitched roof, with
its own roof running parallel with the main roof

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Light Scoop - ‐ south--‐facing skylight, that uses tilted panels of transparent glass to strategically bring daylight into an
interior space.
Light Shelf - ‐ a horizontal surface that reflects daylight deep into a building, placed above eye--‐level with high--‐
reflectance upper surfaces, which reflect daylight onto the ceiling and deeper into the space
Lighting Power Density (LPD) --‐ amount of electric lighting, usually measured in watts per square foot, being used
to illuminate a given space
Material Recovery Facility (MRF) --‐ a facility designed to receive, sort, process, and store compostable and
recyclable materials efficiently and in an environmentally sound manner
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) --‐ data providing procedures for handling or working with a material or
product in a safe manner, which includes information such as physical data, toxicity, health effects, first
aid, reactivity, storage, disposal, protective equipment and spill handling procedures
Mixed Occupancy --‐ enclosed structure with two or more primary usages and where at least two of these primary
usages fall into different classification of use
Moving Ramp / Walkway – a type of horizontal passenger--‐carrying device on which passengers stand or walk,
with its surface remaining parallel to its direction of motion is uninterrupted
National Building Code (NBC) – P.D. 1096 is a uniform building code in the Philippines which embodies up--‐ to--‐
date and modern technical knowledge on building design, construction, use, occupancy and
maintenance
National Building Code Development Office (NBCDO) --‐ created through DPWH Department Order, assist the
Secretary in the administration and enforcement of the provisions of the GB Code and its IRR
Non--‐recyclable Waste - ‐ not able to be processed or treated for reuse in some form
Office of the Building Official (OBO) --‐ the office authorized to enforce the provisions of NBC and its IRR in the field
as well as the enforcement of orders and decisions made pursuant thereto
Operable Window --‐ a window unit with one or more sections that can be opened for ventilation
Overall Thermal Transfer Value --‐ (OTTV) measure of the energy consumption of a building envelope
Outside Supply Air (OSA) --‐ air containing at least the minimum volume of outside air filtered and
conditioned to the required temperature and humidity
Parking, Covered --‐ parking under roof that does not contribute to the heat island effect
Parking, Open --‐ parking structure with wall openings open to the atmosphere, distributed over 40 percent of the
building perimeter or uniformly over two opposing sides to provide ventilation
Philippine Association of Building Administrators (PABA) – a non--‐profit organization for Building
Administrators and Property Managers
Philippine Association of Building Officials (PABO) – association of Building Officials in the Philippines
Philippine Association of Landscape Architects (PALA) --‐ the integrated and accredited organization of
landscape architecture professionals responsible for the advancement of the profession as an
instrument of service in improving the quality of life within a better natural and built environment
Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) --‐ a professional organization for civil engineers in the
Philippines formed by merging two separate organizations of civil engineers: one group working
from government sector and the second group working in the private sector
Philippine Institute of Environmental Planners (PIEP) --‐ a national organization of professionally trained planners
who will make an advancement in the studies of environmental planning in the best interest of the nation
Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID) – the accredited professional organization of Interior
Designers creating platforms for learning and sustainable creativity, adhering to international
standards while preserving the Filipino heritage
Philippine National Standards (PNS) --‐ documents established by consensus through technical committees and
approved by the Department of Trade and Industry Bureau of Product Standards that ensures desirable
characteristics of products and services such as quality, environmental friendliness, safety, reliability,
efficiency and interchangeability
Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers (PSME) – the organization of Mechanical Engineers in the
Philippines uniting and enjoining the mechanical engineers in the pursuit of further professional
growth and to uplift the profession
Philippine Society of Sanitary Engineers (PSSE) --‐ the only professional organization of Sanitary Engineers in the
Philippines accredited by PRC and soon to be renamed to Philippine Society of Environmental and
Sanitary Engineers, Inc. (PSEnSE)

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Philippine Society of Ventilating Air--‐Conditioning and Refrigerating Engineers (PSVARE) - ‐ is a duly registered non-
-‐stock, non--‐profit organization, the members of which are consultants, contractors, manufacturers,
suppliers who are all involved in the practice of air conditioning, ventilation, and refrigeration systems
Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) --‐ the instrument of the Filipino people in securing for the nation a
reliable, trustworthy and progressive system of determining the competence of professionals by credible
and valid licensure examinations and standards of professional practice that are globally recognized
Photoelectric Sensor --‐ a device used to detect the distance, absence, or presence of an object by using alight
transmitter, often infrared and a photoelectric receiver
R--‐Value - ‐ resistance value or the capacity to resist heat loss or its thermal resistance Recyclable Waste - ‐ anitem or
material capable of being used again
Referral Codes – the applicable provisions of the various agency and technical professional codes
supplementary to the NBC and GB Code
Regularly Occupied Space --‐ areas where one or more individuals normally spend time (more than one hour per
person per day on average) seated or standing as they work, study, or perform other focused activities
inside a building
Renovation --‐ any physical change made on buildings/structures to increase the value, quality, and/or to
improve the aesthetic
Repair --‐ remedial work done on any damaged or deteriorated portion/s of building / structure to restore to its
original condition
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) --‐ energy efficiency rating for central air conditioners
Secretary --‐ head or chief executive officer of the DPWH
Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) --‐ an industrial structure designed to remove biological or chemical waste
products from water, thereby permitting the treated water to be used for other purposes
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) --‐ Building whose occupants experience acute health and/or comfort effects that
appear to be linked to time spent therein, but where no specific illness or cause can be identified
Smoking Area --‐ a designated area in which smoking is permitted
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) --‐ fraction of solar gain admitted through awindow, expressed as a
number between 0 and 1
Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) --‐ a measure of a material’s ability to reflect heat with white or light colors having
high reflectance and dark or black surfaces with low or little reflectance thereby having higher
temperatures
Special Waste --‐ a class of waste that has unique regulatory requirements with potential environmental
impacts that needs to be managed to minimize the risk of harm to the environment and human
health
Staff --‐ personnel of the NBCDO
Storey – portion of a building/structure included between the uppermost surface (or finish level) of any floor and
the uppermost surface (or finish level) of the next floor above or below it. If the uppermost surface (or
finish level) of a floor/level above the uppermost surface (or finish level) of a basement, cellar or unused
under--‐floor space is more than 3.60 meters above established grade as defined herein at any point, such
basement, cellar or unused under--‐floor space shall be considered a storey.
Sun breaker --‐ feature of a building commonly used as external shading devices, which reduces heat gain within
that building by deflecting solar rays to reduce energy cooling loads
Total Gross Floor Area (TGFA) --‐ the total floor space within the main auxiliary buildings primarily consisting of the
GFA and all other enclosed support areas together with all other usable horizontal areas/surfaces above
and below established grade level that are all physically attached to the building/s which shall consists
of the following: Covered areas used for parking and driveways, services and utilities.
Toxic Materials --‐ substances that may cause harm to an individual if it enters the body through inhalation, skin
contactor ingestion
U--‐Value - ‐ describes how well a building element conducts heat, measuring the rate of heat transfer through a
building element over a given area, under standardized conditions
United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) --‐ the Integrated and Accredited Professional Organization of
Architects in the Philippines responsible in the improvement and sustainability of the quality of built
environment

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
Unity Power Factor --‐ power factor of 1.0 obtained when current and voltage are in phase, as in a circuit
containing only resistance or in a reactive circuit at resonance.
Unpaved Surface Area (USA) --‐ the portion of the lot that shall remain unpaved and reserved for softscaping
/ planting; expressed as a percentage (%) of the Total Lot Area or TLA and may be combined with the
Impervious Surface Area (ISA) to satisfy the Total Open Space within Lot (TOSL), i.e., the total open space
requirement for each type of use or occupancy
Urea formaldehyde --‐ combination of urea and formaldehyde used in some glues and adhesives, particularly in
composite wood products, emitting formaldehyde at room temperature, which is a toxic and possibly
carcinogenic gas
Variable Speed Drive (VSD) --‐ a piece of equipment that regulates the speed and rotational force, or torque output,
of an electric motor.
Variable--‐Voltage and Variable--‐Frequency (VVVF) - ‐ employs frequency inverter technology which regulates input
voltage and frequency throughout the journey, drawing much less current during acceleration and
deceleration
Ventilation – process of supplying or removing air by natural or mechanical means to or from any space.
Visible Transmittance (Tvis) --‐ the ratio of total transmitted light to total incident light with the higher value allowing
more incident light to pass through the glazing
Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) --‐ organic chemicals with have a high vapor pressure at ordinary room
temperature that are dangerous to human health or cause harm to the environment
Weather--‐Stripping - ‐ narrow piece of material, such as plastic, rubber, felt, or metal, installed around doors and
windows to protect an interior from external extremes in temperature.
Window assembly --‐ a unit, which includes a window and the anchorage between the window and the wall
Window to Wall Ratio (WWR) --‐ ratio of the total area of a building facade, which is occupied by windows
(glass area and frame)

ANNEX 2 GLASS LIBRARY

Source: US Department of Energy

ANNEX 3 Insulating Values of Common Building Materials

Source: 2013 ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals / 1958 ASHAE Guide / www.inspectApedia.com

ANNEX 4 Philippine Green Building Code Activites

REFERENCES

• Philippine Green Building Code of 2015, A Referral Code of the National Building Code (P.D. 1096)
http://www.iibh.org/kijun/pdf/Philippines_05_Green_Building_Code_of_Philippones_Y2015.pdf

ARC 1426: PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE 1