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Reinforces Interior Design Industry's Victory in Cebu Through Signing and Sealing

Design professionals with licenses now have the authority to officially approve and certify architectural plans in Cebu, reinforcing the local design sector.

Reinforcing interior design victories in Cebu, sign-and-seal deal completed
Reinforcing interior design victories in Cebu, sign-and-seal deal completed

Reinforces Interior Design Industry's Victory in Cebu Through Signing and Sealing

The Supreme Court's recent ruling has validated years of advocacy for professional integrity, public safety, and the rightful recognition of licensed interior designers in Cebu and the Visayas. This decision marks a significant step forward in recognising the importance of these creative professionals in the region.

The ruling grants licensed interior designers the full recognition of sign-and-seal authority, a move expected to boost the membership of PIID-Cebu, currently home to around 300 of the country's 5,000 licensed interior designers. Lionel Sanchez, a member of the PIID-Cebu Ethics Team, emphasised the potential benefits of this authority, including boosting economic growth and enhancing Cebu's global reputation.

Sanchez clarified that interior designers undergo four years of formal education, apprenticeship, and a licensure examination, similar to architects, to dispel any misconceptions that they are mere "decorators." The ruling is seen as upholding professional standards and safeguarding public safety.

The decision reinforces Cebu's status as a Unesco Creative City of Design. PIID-Cebu president interior designer Polaris Anne Arrogancia stated that the ruling empowers their members and ensures high-quality design services. The implementation of sign-and-seal authority is expected to streamline permitting processes, spur more projects, create jobs for allied industries, and boost tax revenues for the city.

The Cebu City Office of the Building Official has directed clients and developers to comply with the ruling, reinforcing government efforts to safeguard public trust and ensure structural safety. PIID-Cebu plans to launch an awareness campaign to target clients, developers, and government offices to ensure compliance with the ruling.

Sanchez also emphasised that the sign-and-seal authority will strengthen accountability, safety, and efficiency, citing the importance of professional interior designers in ensuring safe and sustainable spaces. The ruling is seen as a significant step towards recognising the importance of licensed interior designers in the region, and PIID-Cebu is optimistic about the potential benefits it will bring.

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