The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), through the Professional Regulatory Board (PRB) of Landscape Architecture and the International Affairs Office (IAO), actively participated in the “Recognition of Landscape Architecture Globally” session held on 18 September 2025, in conjunction with the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB) Annual Meeting. The session brought together leading experts from across the world to discuss the evolving practice of landscape architecture, focusing on international licensure, professional mobility, and harmonization of regulatory standards.

Moderated by CLARB Chief Executive Officer Matt Miller, the panel featured distinguished speakers representing various regions of the world. Mónica Pallares represented Mexico for International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) Americas, and Indra Purs represented Latvia for IFLA Europe, both attending in person. Speaking online were Ben Stockwin from Australia, Ruth Wanjiku from Kenya, and Hon. Cecilia Herras-Tence from the Philippines. Despite the challenges of coordinating across multiple time zones, the global dialogue reaffirmed a shared commitment: landscape architecture is a truly international profession—one that is rapidly evolving in response to global challenges and opportunities.

Attending with Hon. Herras-Tence, Member of the PRB of Landscape Architecture, are Atty. Melisa Jane Comafay Yeachana, Director of the IAO; and Ms. Alexandra Pauline S. Fernando and Ms. Ana C. Mendoza of the IAO-International Commitments Negotiation Division (ICND).

The session highlighted the urgent need to address inconsistencies in the regulation of landscape architecture worldwide. With licensing systems varying significantly across countries, panelists emphasized the importance of establishing a cohesive framework for cross-border recognition of professional credentials—one that ensures public safety, maintains competency standards, and facilitates professional mobility.

Panel discussions drew insights from other global professions, such as engineering, accountancy, and surveying, outlining strategies to expand opportunities for practice without compromising regulatory rigor. Enhanced licensure recognition and mobility, the panel concluded, can elevate both professional prospects and the global credibility of landscape architects.

Hon. Herras-Tence highlighted the Philippines as one of the few countries where landscape architecture is fully legislated and regulated under Republic Act No. 9053, with licensure governed by the PRC. She emphasized the role of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in maintaining academic standards and showcased the country’s Landscape Architecture Qualifications Framework (LAQF) aligned with the Philippine Qualifications Framework (PQF). These initiatives support career progression through the Career Progression and Specialization and Credit Accumulation Transfer System (CPSP-CATS) and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs. She also noted the Philippines’ active collaboration with international organizations such as the IFLA and CLARB, stressing that mutual recognition and shared standards are key to the profession’s global advancement.

In her closing remarks, Hon. Herras-Tence inspired participants:

“Licensure has given landscape architecture a strong foundation for professional recognition and public accountability. But beyond regulation, our greatest contribution is demonstrating how the profession can lead in addressing urgent global challenges—climate change, resilience, sustainable development, and disaster risk reduction. Recognition, whether national or international, is not just about protecting a title. It is about empowering landscape architects everywhere to shape healthier, safer, and more sustainable communities. So never give up—just keep pushing on.”

The “Recognition of Landscape Architecture Globally” session not only showcased the remarkable progress many countries have made in professionalizing the field but also set the stage for deeper international cooperation, fostering a future where talent, innovation, and responsibility can cross borders freely—wherever they are needed most.”