De La Salle University- Dasmarinas

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, ARCHITECTURE AND

TECHNOLOGY
ARCHITECTURE DEPARTMENT

RESEARCH TOPIC:
“ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN FOR A CALAMITY RESILIENT
SENIOR HIGH BUILDING AND COMPLEX”

T-ARCH311/T-ARCH311LA

Architectural Design 5 - Space Planning 2

Final Enabling Assessment 2

Submitted By;

PAJE, MARK JOSEPH L.

PEÑARANDA, PATRIECE JANIELE

SAMSON, CLARISSE

TABUZO, CARL LAURENCE A.

ARC32

Submitted To:

AR. Barren Paul del Rosario, UAP

INTRODUCTION:

The Department of Education (DepEd) issues this DepEd Order on Establishing the

Minimum Performance Standards and Specifications (MPSS) for DepEd School

Buildings to guide the Department and other stakeholders in preparing plans architectural,

structural, electrical, fire protection, and sanitary to ensure the comfort and safety of the

school buildings' would-be occupants.

1. A well-designed school building, that considers ergonomics, anthropometrics, thermal

comfort, illumination, ventilation, acoustics, color, and compliance with the law,

contributes to improved student performance and makes a lasting impression on the

community about the importance of education.

2. All DepEd Orders and related issuances, rules, and regulations inconsistent with these

minimum performance standards and specifications are currently repealed, rescinded,

or modified accordingly.

3. This Order shall take effect immediately upon its approval.

4. Immediate dissemination and strict compliance with this Order are directed.

The Manual was developed through consultations with DepEd central and

regional/division offices, as well as representatives from the United Architects of the

Philippines (UAP), the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE), the Heritage

Conservation Society, the Commission on Audit (COA), the National Disaster

Coordinating Council (NDCC), the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC), and

Education in Emergencies cluster member agencies. To improve its reliability, it underwent

in-house and field validations with School Division Superintendents, Principals, Physical

Facilities Coordinators, and Division Office Promotional Staff.

 It is designed primarily to provide DepEd central, regional, and field officials with

reference materials to help them manage educational facilities more efficiently and

effectively. Managing under a decentralized set-up of the Department, with its discussion of

many hazards that can lead to disasters if not given priority attention through preparedness

and risk reduction. Topics that would bring up building construction rules, current practices,

and necessary changes. With the necessary information readily available, this will aid in

policy formulation and decision-making about educational facility management, as well as

the timely and sensible resolution of issues, difficulties, and other concerns. Designing a

learning institution or environment requires careful consideration of numerous factors. These

include spatial planning, security, and compliance with the requirements necessary to

establish an educational system that meets students' and teachers' standards and needs.

Beyond aesthetics and the visual appeal of an educational institution, it is crucial to create a

space that serves current and future generations. The campus must be functional and

operational in the long term. A well-designed school fosters student productivity and

performance, while also creating a sense of belonging within the community. Ultimately, a

school's purpose is to unify diverse and dynamic young minds, fostering innovation and

intellectual growth under the guidance of experienced educators.

The layout of both public and private schools is crucial for creating an efficient learning

environment. Key elements include the strategic placement of classrooms, teacher offices,

essential facilities, and spacious pathways that accommodate the movement of students and

staff. Accessibility is another important consideration, particularly for students with

disabilities. Schools should include ramps and other accessible features between floors to

ensure that all students can continue their learning despite physical limitations. Proper

lighting and ventilation are essential, especially as many schools incorporate technology into
their learning environments. Additionally, open spaces like soccer fields provide

opportunities for students to step away from technology and engage in physical activities.

Safety is a vital factor in designing educational institutions. Security measures and student

protection are fundamental, including the placement of entrances and exits and designated

emergency areas within the campus. Lastly, sustainability plays a crucial role in campus

design planning. This involves using energy-efficient materials and appliances and

incorporating green spaces to create an environmentally friendly and sustainable learning

environment.

However, when it comes to school buildings, user engagement is a significant factor in

architectural design. By analyzing the interactions between students, teachers, and other

faculty members, these engagements can enhance the learning environment by creating

opportunities for collaboration and fostering a sense of responsibility. Overall, user

engagement is essential for a successful school design. By involving students and teachers in

the decision-making process and designing an environment that meets their needs, schools

can create a learning experience that is both effective and enjoyable (Whisker, 2023).

OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION:

The project is of public ownership, managed and administered by the state through the

DepEd Division in Cavite, with the support and partnership of the Local Government Unit.

DepEd had reorganized the administration of the Kaong National High School & Elementary

School.
DESIGN OBJECTIVES:

The design of the building Shall be a climate-resilient structure that features the use of

renewable energy that can sustain occupants during calamities, and flexible spaces to

accommodate multiple communal and educational functions. It shall conform to the legal

standards and specifications of DepEd and other relevant building laws, ordinances, or

statutes while being creative and aesthetically pleasing. The building must have suitably lit

and ventilated environments suitable to learning or education, with the inclusion and design

of spaces that shall cater to public events facilitated by the LGU or National Government

such as public programs, Division-level competitions, national or local elections, etc.

DESIGN LAWS:

1. P.D. 1096 - National Building Code of the Philippines, Rule VII & VIII

2. R.A. 9514 Revised Fire Code of the Philippines

3. BP 344 - Accessibility law, and its latest amendments

4. DepEd Minimum Performance and Standard Specifications (Annex 1)

5. DepEd and DPWH building standard plans

LOCATION:

The project is located at a converted agricultural lot, which had been converted by a special

Sangguniang resolution to be a General Institutional (GI) zone, specifically for the project.

The allowable occupancy falls under Division C-2, under P.D. 1096. The site is adjacent to

Residential (R1) and Mixed-use commercial zone (C1) in the locality, which location is

strategized to be the best option because of its high elevation and low-risk assessment rating.
The site measures approximately 1.2 hectares in area. It is a regular lot, with a frontage of

110 meters facing a two-way local road (6.0 meters wide). The site slopes gently (3-5 %)

towards the rear. The following site map entails the site data and pertinent descriptive

inventory of the basic site features:

Silang, Cavite: Site Analysis

Type Municipality

Island Group Luzon

Region CALABARZON (Region IV-A)

Province Cavite

Barangay Count 64

Postal Code 4118

Coastal/Landlocked Landlocked

Area (2013) 209,43 km^2 (80.86 sq mi)

Population (2020) 295,644

Density (2020) 1,412 / km^2 (3,656 /sq mi)

 Coordinates 14° 13' North, 120° 58' East (14.2236,
120.9741)

Estimated elevation above sea level 316.9 meters (1,039.5 feet)

Silang is a landlocked municipality in the coastal province of Cavite. The

municipality has a land area of 209.43 square kilometers or 80.86 square miles, constituting

13.72% of Cavite's total area. Its population as determined by the 2020 Census was 295,644.

This represented 6.80% of the total population of Cavite province or 1.83% of the overall

population of the CALABARZON region. Based on these figures, the population density is

computed at 1,412 inhabitants per square kilometer or 3,656 inhabitants per square mile.

Silang is believed to be the second-oldest town in Cavite and was founded in 1571.

The name Silang was derived from the Tagalog word “Silanganan”. Some said it came from

“isinilang” because of the sudden existence of a church at the center of the town.

DEFINITION:

Educational Facilities:

The term “educational facilities” refers to all of a school's physical properties,

including its grounds, buildings, and numerous facilities both on the grounds and inside the

building, The different components that constitute educational facilities are categorized as

follows: school sites, school buildings, school furniture and equipment. The primary goal of

educational buildings is to offer an appropriate school environment that promotes effective

teaching and learning. It must be adaptable to changes in teaching methods and school

organization while considering changes in the educational process, which has become more

active, interconnected, and an important part of the larger community.

 A comprehensive educational facilities program shall cover within its scope of action

such aspects as establishing, organizing, developing, improving, maintaining, financing,

evaluating, etc., the school furniture, equipment, school buildings, and school sites. The

formation of action plans must consider the community's overall educational program, as well

as new educational trends and advancements that influence the character of the school

program and the accompanying physical facility requirements. It will also be based on data

gathered from a survey of current facilities and the findings of the school mapping process.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STANDARDS:

● Classroom Size:

○ The size of the classroom for elementary and secondary schools must be 7.00

in width or depth x 9.00 meters in length or 9.00 meters in width or depth x

7.00 meters in length measured from the centers of the walls.

● Windows

○ The windows must be of bilateral fenestration (transparent or translucent),

operable louver type. The window must allow daylight entry even if it’s

closed.

○ The total area of the window opening must be at least 10.00 sqm to provide for

natural ventilation and illumination.

○ The window still must not be lower than 0.60 meters for single-story buildings

or higher than 0.90 meters for multi-story buildings from the finished floor

line (FFL).

○ The minimum height of the fixed louver or transom window above the

operable windows is 0.30 meters.

 ○ The window panels, when opened, must not be an obstruction along the

corridor.

○ The window metal frames and jalousie holders must be sturdy enough to

withstand vandalism.

● Doors

○ There shall be two (2) doors for every classroom.

○ The swing-out should be 180 degrees.

○ The doors must withstand normal wear and tear and shall be provided with the

keyed lever-type lockets.

● Floor

○ The floor must be a non-skid finish (grayish color)

○ The classroom FFL should be higher than the corridor FFL by 25 millimeters.

○ The first-floor finish elevation must not be less than 225 millimeters and 325

millimeters for single-story and multi-story school buildings, respectively. The

elevation may be increased depending on the history of flood level.

○ A Ramp must be provided with a maximum slope of 1:12 in compliance with

the Accessibility Law (B.P No. 344), of non-skid finish, and properly labeled.

● Ceiling

○ The ceiling must be a drop-type ceiling.

○ The clear height of rooms from FFL to the finished ceiling line (FCL) must be

at least 2.70 meters.

○ Materials to be used for the ceiling must provide thermal comfort inside the

classroom.

○ Maintenance access to the ceiling cavity must be through the corridor.

● Roofing
 ○ The roofing material must be adequately protected from rust or oxidation, salt,

air, acid rain, or other sources and forms of corrosion. If made of metal, the

folding sheets shall be of 0.40 mm base metal thickness (BMT) and securely

fastened to the roof frames.

○ For single-story school buildings, gutters may not be included, however, a

properly sloped trench drain on both sides must be provided.

○ For multi-story school buildings, the roof must be provided with a concrete

gutter and eaves, which shall be at least 1.10 meters from the corridor.

● Partitions

○ The partitions must be from floor to ceiling.

● Corridors

○ The Corridor for single-storey buildings school buildings shall not be less than

1.50 meters

○ For multi-story school buildings, the corridors must not be less than 2.50

meters and should be provided with steel railing at a height not less than 1.50

meters.

● Stairways

○ For multi-story school buildings, concrete stairs must have a width of not less

than 1.50 meters.

○ The number of stairways per school building shall comply with the

requirements stipulated in the National Building Code of the Philippines

(NBCP).

○ Handrails with steel railings must be provided.

● Fire Protection

○ All school buildings shall comply with R.A No. 9514, otherwise known as the

Fire Code of the Philippines (FCP) and its latest Implementing Rules and

Regulations (IRR). The requirements shall include a fire alarm system, a

standpipe system, pressure and gravity tanks, hose boxes/reels, extinguishers,

and other fire fighting equipment, including an automatic sprinkler system

(NFPA 13). In addition, 3-story and 4-story school buildings should be

compliant with NFPA 25.

○ Fire escapes must be provided for multi-story school buildings following the

requirements of the Fire Code of the Philippines.

● Chalkboard

○ The classroom must be provided with a built-in curved chalkboard measuring

4.88 meters wide by 1.22 meters tall, with mounting heights and specifications

as per DepEd standards.

● Painting

○ The standard paint or color schedule of DepEd school buildings shall be as

follows:

Element DepEd Paint/Color Masonry Paint Paint for

MPSS Color Schedule (Latex) Wood, Metal,

Scheme etc.

ROOFING and Foam Green Foam Green Semi-gloss Quick-dry

ACCESSORIES Latex Enamel (QDE)

(if introduced) Semi-gloss

DOORS Palmyra Temptation Semi-gloss Quick-dry

Green Latex Enamel (QDE)

Semi-gloss

COLUMNS Beige (Light Yellow Rain Semi-gloss Quick-dry

AND BEAMS Shade) Latex Enamel (QDE)

Semi-gloss

EXTERIOR Beige (Very Crisp Ecru Semi-gloss Quick-dry

WALL Light) Latex Enamel (QDE)

Semi-gloss

INTERIOR Beige Bright Wonder Semi-gloss Quick-dry

WALL (Lightest Latex Enamel (QDE)

Shade) Semi-gloss

CEILING White White Semi-gloss Quick-dry

(suspended or Latex Enamel (QDE)

slab/stair soffit) Semi-gloss

GRILLS and Palymra N/A Semi-gloss Quick-dry

RAILINGS Green Latex Enamel (QDE)

Semi-gloss

BASEBOARD Beige N/A Semi-gloss Quick-dry

(Lightest Latex Enamel (QDE)

 Shade) Semi-gloss

FLOOR Concrete N/A N/A N/A

FINISH Plain

(Interior and Cement,

Exterior) Non-skid

finish

(Grayish

Color)

● Paint materials for internal finish must be independently certified lead-safe

paints/coatings.

● All new school buildings should follow the standard color scheme above, except in

the following cases:

○ A different dominant color scheme already exists. In such cases, the dominant

color scheme may be applied.

○ Designs and/or accents depicting local culture or school approach are

practiced. In synch cases, the same design/accents may be adopted.

○ In both cases above, no additional cost may be charged.

● No new design, accent, or color scheme different from what is hereby prescribed

and/or from what already predominantly exists under item 3 above may be proposed/

introduced.

● There is a need to endure, as far as practicable, the uniformity of all public school

buildings essentially to provide an environment for education activities, and effective

teaching and learning. At the same time, the DepEd encourages and promotes regional

diversity and cultural identity.

● Roof Markings

○ Roof Markings shall be painted on the main building or the tallest building of

the school. It shall include only the DepEd logo and School ID Number.

○ Details and specifications shall be as follows:

Roof Marking Size Color

DepEd Logo 3.80m Height Existing DepEd Logo

*Refer to DepEd Order 7.60m Length Design

No.69, s. 2003 entitled

DepEd Logo

School I.D Number 2.00m Height Blue with Color White

0.30m Thick Outline

● Note: The distance between the DepEd Logo and the School I.D Number shall be at

least 2.00m.

● Wall Markings:

○ All walls must be free from any markings, except the following, which may be

painted on separate prominent spaces:

■ DepEd name, Seal, Logo, Mission, Vision, and Core Values

■ Portraits and Sayings of National Heroes

■ Name, ID, and Location of school.

○ An Interior wall section may be selected and dedicated for the recognition of

sponsors, donors, and other school partners, provided that the recognition

materials shall follow a standard metal plaque format that will be mounted to

the wall.
 ● Ventilation

○ Natural Ventilation shall be primarily supplied by the windows and vents.

Artificial ventilation inside shall be primarily supplied by the windows and

vents. Artificial ventilation inside each classroom shall be supplied by two (2)

units of oscillating ceiling fans.

● Illumination

○ Illumination falling at a desk or armrest should be taken with combined

artificial and natural lightning. Illumination at all staircases and fire exit stairs

shall comply with R.A No 9514. And it’s IRR

STRUCTURAL DESIGN STANDARDS:

● The structural design must be by the revised IRR of the 1977 NBCP and the latest

edition of the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP), Volume 1, 2010.

● Classification of Streuctures:

○ By the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP), buildings under

the project shall be designed following the classifications based on the nature

of the occupancy of “Essential Facilities”

● Wind Load

○ For all school buildings, the roofing and walls shall be designed to withstand a

minimum BASIC wind speed (as defined in SEC. 207 of the NSCP) of 250

kilometers per hour (kph). The year-round effects of the southwest monsoon
 (Habagat) wind and the northeast monsoon (Amihan) wind as well as the

easterly winds must be taken into consideration due to the extensive damage

these may cause to roofing, walls, and fenestration.

○ A Wind importance factor (WIF) of 1.15 based on the NSCP, shall be used.

The structure should be fully sealed against rainwater intrusion during

typhoons and heavy rains to protect sensitive materials and equipment. Doors

and windows should be fully sealed against strong vertical and lateral rains.

● Seismic Load

○ For all school buildings the structure shall be designed to withstand

earthquakes, for Seismic Zone 4 with a corresponding Seismic Zone Factor of

0.4, or as otherwise specified in the NSCP.

○ A Seismic Importance Factor (SIF) of 1.5 shall be used]

○ As the FFL shall be elevated to 0.20 meters above the level of flood

indicated/identified in the Sites Appraisal Reports (SAR), the use of a

“containment wall” is prescribed to ensure the safety of the structure during

the rainy season.

● Live Loads

○ The minimum occupancy or live loads shown in the table below shall be used

in the design.

● Live Loads:

Structure Part Live Load

Classrooms 1.9 kPa (Kilopascals)

Corridor / Stairs 4.8 kPa (Kilopascals)

Roof 1.0 kPa (Kilopascals)

● Design Life

○ The school building and its structure shall have a design life of at least

twenty-five (25) years.

● Building Foundation

○ The foundation shall be designed for a net allowable soil bearing pressure of

96 kPa (2,000) pounds per square foot or psf). Consistent with the best

practices, the Proponent shall undertake the prior appropriate

studies/investigations for use as basis/bases for the foundation and structural

design of each Sub-Project.

● Wall Vibration

○ Walls must not unduly vibrate due to impact caused by any part of an adult

human body and must neither be dented nor punctured by deliberate punches

or kicks by adult humans.

● ELECTRICAL DESIGN STANDARDS

○ The electrical design must follow the latest edition of the Philippine Electrical

Code (PEC). It must be provided with the basic electrical power and lighting

layout, general notes, riser diagram, single line diagram, legends and symbols,

load schedule, and auxiliary layouts.

● Lighting and Fixtures

 ○ Each classroom of dimension 7m x 9m or 9m x 7m must be provided with at

least six (6) units of double T-5 36 watts fluorescent lamps with reflectors or a

minimum of 104 Lumens per watt (LPW)

○ A duplex convenience outlet of the grounding type must be provided on each

windowless side of the classroom

○ Two ceiling outlets for ceiling fans for each classroom must be provided

● Wires and Wiring Devices

○ Wire shall be properly designed under article 3.10 and the grounding system

shall conform to article 2.50 of the (PEC).

○ Service entrance wires for a standard 7m x 9m or 9m x 7m described above

must have a size of 8.0 sq. mm minimum and be properly protected by circuit

breaker protection.

● Roughing Ins

○ Service entrance

○ The service entrance shall be at least 1.60 meters above the natural grade line

(NGL) or 0.30 meters above the established high flood level, whichever is

higher.

● Sanitary and Plumbing Design Standards

○ Provision of toilets and sanitary facilities

○ Toilets and sanitary facilities shall be by the plumbing code and the sanitary

code of the Philippines.

● Waste and Vent Piping system

○ The drain waste and vent line piping system must be aligned with the

American Society for Testing and Materials known as ASTM D-2729,

international standards organization or ISO 4435 and ISO 3633.

 ● Water Line Piping System

○ The system must be aligned with the Dutch Deutsche industry norm DIN 1988

for polypropylene random copolymer PP-R type 3 pipes and ASTM

A53/A53M. The system must provide for a water line service entrance.

● Plumbing Fixtures

○ These must be aligned with the American National Standards Institute or

known as anti slash American Society of Mechanical Engineers ASME A

112.19.4 m, A 112.19.3, A 112.19.5

● Drainage System

○ The storm drainage system must be sized in consideration of the rainfall

intensities, slope, and roof areas of the school buildings. Provision shall be

made for the future installation of the rainwater collection system and

compliance with R dot A dot NO .6716 double “an act providing for the

construction of water wells, rainwater collectors, development of springs and

rehabilitation of existing water wells in all barangays in the Philippines”.

● Septic Vault

○ All concrete septic tanks, if used as sanitation solution, shall be protected from

corrosion by coating with an approved bituminous coat or by other acceptable

means.

● Mechanical / Fire Protection Design Standards

○ All mechanical system equipment and installation shall conform to the

provisions of the mechanical code of the Philippines' latest edition.

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS: (CALAMITY-RESILIENT SCHOOL BUILDINGS)

● Function and Needs of its Users

 ● The Economy in Construction, Utilization, and Maintenance

● Human Dimensions

● Applicable Building Codes

● Green Building Adaptation

● Effect of Climate Change

● Calamity-Resilient School Buildings

● Designed to Withstand 250 KPH Wind Velocity

● Designed to Withstand Major Earthquake

● Complies With The National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP) 2010

DEPED NEW SCHOOL BUILDING DESIGNS: (CALAMITY-RESILIENT SCHOOL

BUILDINGS)

Architectural Features of the School Building were Upgraded

● Doors & Windows:

○ Security grilles at front, casement window at rear side concrete jamb

● Stair width from 4.5M to 5.0M

● Fire Exit Stair width from 0.90M to 1.20M (clear width)

● Provision of Wet Standpipe System for 4-story school building

● Provision of Dry Standpipe System for 2-story & 3-story school building

● Color Scheme

Structural Components were Upgraded

● Roof Framing

● Columns

● Beams
 ● Tie Beams

● Foundation

NEW DEPED-DPWH School Building Designs: (CALAMITY-RESILIENT SCHOOL

BUILDINGS)

ROOFING 0.4mm thick base metal (0.43m with metal

coating) Pre-Painted Long Span Corrugated
GI Sheet

WINDOWS 14 Glass Jalousie Blades on a Shutter Type

window holder (Jaloplus) w/ fixed clear
glass transoms on 50x150mm concrete
jambs

DOORS 2 Panel Type Door

(swing-out) with lever-type locket and Fixed
Glass Transom on 50x150mm concrete
jambs/frames.

CEILING 4.5mm thick Fiber Cement Board on metal

furring @400mm OC with aluminum for
insulation

LIGHTINGS & FIXTURES 6 Units of 2-36watts (T5) Box Type

fluorescent lamps equally spaced inside the
classroom

2 units of grounding-type convenience outlet

(CO) on the windowless side of the
classroom

CHALKBOARD Built-in panoramic chalkboard measuring

4.88m length by 1.22m width framed w/
thickness of 13 cm at the center and 42cm at
the ends
NATIONAL BUILDING CODE:

● INSTITUTIONAL:
● SETBACKS:

● HEIGHT:

● SITE COMPUTATION:
 ● PARKING:

Educational Facilities Manual Philippines:

Chapter II. School Sites. Site Development Planning.

School Site Zoning. (DepED Educational Facilities Manual, 2010, p. 69-70).
A. Visual zone. By defining the areas that best project the aesthetic appearance of the
school.
a) Assembly area. Adequate space immediately in front of the main building
shall be allocated as an assembly area for the entire school population. The
assembly area is the place where the whole school population assembles in
formation for flag ceremonies, school convocations or programs, etc. The
ground shall be leveled, drained, and tamped hard or cemented.
b) Lawns. The front area in a school site is usually developed and improved to
constitute the school lawns. Fruit-bearing trees are discouraged from growing
in the front/side areas of the school building as this may cause distractions and
accidents to the school populace.
c) Rain Gardens or Bio-Wales. Incorporate in design to allow rainwater runoff
catchment.
d) Functional zone. Grouping areas and buildings with similar or related use or
function.
External Areas in the School. (DepED Educational Facilities Manual, 2010, p. 70).
A. Circulation Areas. The circulation areas consist of the main walk, the footpaths, and
the driveway which are intended to facilitate movement within the school site.
a) The main walk, which is the primary access from the front gate to the main
building, shall be at least three (3) meters wide, cemented, if possible
i) The footpaths, which are the secondary accesses between the different
zones and buildings within the school site, maybe one (1) or two (2)
meters wide.
ii) The standard driveway, which is intended to serve vehicular traffic
inside the school site, shall be at least three (3) meters wide.
b) As a general rule, walks, footpaths, and driveways shall be laid out most
directly; that is; they shall follow the shortest distance to destinations.

B. Athletic Field. The allocation of external space for the athletic field shall allow adequate
provision for the laying out of the following basic components, among others:
a) A standard oval tract with a distance of 400 meters.
b) A baseball diamond with sides measuring 27.4 meters (90 ft.) long.
c) A softball diamond with sides measuring 18.2 meters (60 ft.) long.
d) A soccer football field measuring 90-120 meters (100-130 yards) long and 45-
90 meters (50-100 yards) wide.
e) A basketball court which shall be a flat, hard, (not grass) surface measuring 26
x 14 meters (85 x 46 ft.).
f) A volleyball court measuring 18 meters long and 9 meters wide (60 x 30 ft).
g) A lawn tennis court measuring 23.77 meters long and 8.23 meters wide (73 x
27 feet), which is the standard for singles. For doubles, a wider court is used,
10.97 meters (36 feet) wide.
h) Perimeter space shall also be provided for the construction of a grandstand or
grandstands and bleachers.

Evacuation Areas
a) The school should have provision for open space big enough to accommodate the
total population of the school. The open space can be used as a short-term (hours in
 duration) temporary evacuation area for students, teachers, and school staff in case of
emergencies such as after a strong earthquake or occurrence of fire.
b) The open space should be at a safe distance from buildings, electrical wires, etc which
can become the source of falling debris that can injure people (DepED Educational
Facilities Manual, 2010, p. 72).

Special Projects
a) From time to time, special projects are undertaken by the schools in line with socio-
economic programs of the government, such as Kilusang Sariling Sikap (KSS), Food
Production, Clean and Green, School Orchard, Mini-forest, Herbal Garden, SHGP,
ALS activities, etc.
b) Provisions of space for such special projects shall be considered in the allocation of
external spaces in the school site (DepED Educational Facilities Manual, 2010, p.
72).

Chapter II. School Buildings.

The Design of School Buildings
A. Design Guidelines. The following general guidelines shall be observed in the design
of school buildings:
a) A school building shall be designed in accordance with its functions, the needs
of its users, and the nature of the environment.
b) The design approach shall be straightforward, relying upon the simplicity of
concept in the context of innovation to reflect order and dignity, ensure
flexibility in anticipation of educational change, and achieve structural
stability.
c) Human dimensions, static and dynamic, specifically regarding Filipino
children and youth, shall be the basis for establishing scale.
d) Aesthetic elements shall be integral to the overall design and even given
contemporary treatment, shall derive from historical, traditional, or native
themes.
e) Provision for the mobility of handicapped/disabled persons shall be given due
consideration in the design and construction of school buildings and other
facilities following Batas Pambansa Bilang 344. (Accessibility Law).
 B. Placement and Layout. A school building shall be properly oriented, i.e. properly
placed about air currents, natural light and heat from the sun, utility of the plant and
grounds, and most advantageous display. It is directly related to the health and
comfort of the pupils/students and teachers; hence, the efficiency of the school plant
(DepED Educational Facilities Manual, 2010, p.72).

C. School Building Orientation. Orientation of school buildings located in coastal

areas should consider the direction of possible storm surges. The impact of storm
surges will be less if the shorter side of the building faces the coast instead of its front
(DepED Educational Facilities Manual, 2010, p. 83).

Taking into consideration the two factors, the recommendable orientation of a school
building in the Philippines is a northwest-west to southeast-east axial direction.

In special instances where the path of typhoons occurs (East to West direction), the
onset of the southeast/ northeast monsoon (amihan-habagat) winds shall also be considered.
A. Layout. As a general rule, the different school buildings shall be laid out according to
functional grouping (DepED Educational Facilities Manual, 2010, p.83-84). The
distances between school buildings shall be such that:
a) Ventilation is not obstructed;
b) Natural illumination is not impeded; and
c) Sounds in one building do not carry into the next building
d) The suggested minimum distances between buildings are:
i) 8 meters between one-story buildings positioned side by side;
ii) 10 meters between two-story academic buildings positioned side by
side;
iii) 10 meters between non-academic buildings;
iv) For a main building facing the front gate, at least 10 meters distance is
suggested.
v) Greater distance than the minimum between school buildings is
desirable. Wider distance between buildings allows for adequate free
space to be utilized for many school-related activities.
e) The recommended minimum setback of a school from the street is 5 meters to
minimize intrusive sounds.
f) The School Site Development Plan must be considered in the laying-out of
school buildings

B. Design Requirements. The following pertinent requirements prescribed in the

National Building Code of the Philippines shall be considered in the design of school
buildings (DepED Educational Facilities Manual, 2010, p. 84-85).

a) Windows. Window openings shall be equal to or at least ten (10) percent of

the floor area of the room, provided that such opening shall be not less than
one square meter, except those in toilets and baths which shall be not less than
one-twentieth of the floor area of such rooms, or not less than 240 square
millimeters.
b) Ceiling Height. The ceiling height of rooms with natural ventilation shall be
not less than 2.70 meters measured from the floor to the ceiling; rooms
 provided with artificial ventilation shall have ceiling heights not less than 2.40
meters.
c) Exit Doors. At least two (2) exit doors are required where the number of room
occupants are over 50 in the case of classrooms, conference rooms, exhibit
rooms, gymnasia, school shops, vocational institutions, laboratories, and
auditoriums; a door shall not be less than 2.10 meters high and 900 millimeters
wide.
d) Door Shutters. Door shutters shall be swung out and be capable of opening at
least 90 degrees so that the clear width of the exit way is not less than 700
millimeters. No door shutter shall exceed 1.20 meters in width.
e) Corridors. Every corridor shall not be less than 1.10 meters wide and shall be
unobstructed.
f) Stairways. Stairways serving an occupant load of 50 or less must be 1.10
meters wide; those serving more than 50 shall not be less than 1.50 meters.
The rise of every step shall not exceed 200 millimeters and the tread shall not
be less than 250 millimeters. Handrails shall be provided on each side of every
stairway having more than four steps

C. Building Risk Reduction Requirements. Risk Reduction Requirements for Parts of

a School Building and Amenities (DepED Educational Facilities Manual, 2010, p.85-
86).
a) Main Entrance/Gate
i) Main entrance shall be located preferably on a secondary road and
must be designed swing in to the school property.
ii) Provide separate service entrances for the pupils/students and guests.
iii) Main entrance shall provide enough clearance for fire trucks and
medical vehicles.
b) Stairs/Handrails
i) Distance between railings shall not be more than 100 mm (4 inches) so
that pupils/students cannot squeeze through;
ii) For abrupt changes in floor elevation, provide a ramp to avoid freak
accidents.
 iii) To minimize the chance of slipping, avoid smooth or polished step
surfaces and provide non-slip nosing.
iv) Always provide a landing with railings between a doorway and a
stairway.
c) Windows
i) Windows shall be provided with security grills with emergency exits.
d) Doors/Exits
i) Classrooms shall always be provided with two swing-out Doors at the
opposite sides of the classroom.
e) Walls
i) Walls shall be smoothly finished to prevent injury to highly active,
playful, and mobile primary-grade pupils.

Fire Code of the Philippines: RA 9514

Every building or structure, new or old, designed for human occupancy shall be
provided with exits sufficient to permit the fast and safe escape of occupants in case of fire or
other emergency. The design of exits and other fire safety construction shall be such that
reliance for safety to life in case of fire or other emergency will not depend solely on any
single fire safety construction. Additional safeguards shall be provided for life safety in case
any single safeguard is ineffective due to some human or mechanical failure (Fire Code of
the Philippines: RA 9514, 2019, p. 43-44).

Section 10.2.5.2. General provisions for means of egress (Fire Code of the Philippines: RA
9514, 2019, p. 51-57).

A. Minimum Width of Egress

a) The width of any means of egress shall not be less than nine hundred fifteen
millimeters (915 mm) except when specifically provided under Division 8 to
Division 17 of this Chapter.

B. Number of Means of Egress

a) When the occupant load for any story or portion thereof is more than five
hundred (500) but not more than one thousand (1000), the means of egress
 shall not be less than three (3); in excess thereof, the means of egress shall not
be less than four (4).

C. Arrangement of Exit
a) Exits shall be located and exit access shall be arranged so that exits are readily
accessible at all times.
b) Corridors shall provide exit access without passing through any intervening
rooms other than corridors, lobbies, and other spaces permitted to be open to
the corridor.

D. Access to Exits
a) A door from a room to an exit or to a way of exit access shall be of the side-
hinged, swinging type. It shall swing with exit travel.
b) In no case shall access to exit be through a bathroom, bedroom, or other room
subject to locking.
c) Exit access shall be arranged so that it will not be necessary to travel toward
any area of high-hazard occupancy to reach the nearest exit unless the path is
protected by suitable partitions.

E. Discharge from Exits

a) All exits shall terminate directly at a public way or an exit discharge. Yards,
courts, open space, or other portions of the exit discharge shall be of the
required width and size to provide all occupants with safe access to a public
way.

Section 10.2.5.4. Stairs.

a) All stairways designated as a means of egress shall be continuous from the uppermost
floor level down to the ground floor.
b) Standard stairs shall meet the following criteria:
i) New stairs shall be in accordance with Tables 2 and 4.
 (Fire Code of the Philippines: RA 9514, 2019, p. 63-64).

SECTION 10.2.5.5. Outside stairs.

A. General
a) Any permanently installed stair outside of the building being served is
acceptable as a means of egress under the same condition (Fire Code of the
Philippines: RA 9514, 2019, p. 63-64).

B. Enclosures
a) Under all conditions where enclosure of inside stairways is required, outside
stairs shall be separated from the interior of the buildings with walls having
the same fire-resistance rating as that required for the wall enclosing inside
stairs. Any opening in such wall shall be protected by fire doors or fixed wired
glass windows (Fire Code of the Philippines: RA 9514, 2019, p. 63-64).
b) Wall construction required by para “B” (1) of this Section shall extend as
follows:
i) Either vertically from the ground to a point 3,050 mm above the
topmost landing of the stairs or to the roofline, whichever is lower.
ii) Horizontally for not less than 3050 mm.
Batas Pambansa Bilang 344 (Accessibility Law)

Standard accessibility for special types of facilities (Accessibility Law, 1981, p. 13).
A. Seating for the disabled shall be accessible from the main lobby to primary entrances,
together with related toilet facilities.
B. In all assembly places where seating accommodation is provided, there shall be
spaces for the disabled person as provided.

The following are the minimum requirements for accessibility (Accessibility Law, 1981,
p. 19-22).

A. Walkways and Passageways

a) Walkways should be kept as level as possible and should have a minimum
width of 1.20 meters.

B. Handrails
a) Handrails should be installed at both sides of ramps and stairs and the outer
edges of dropped curbs. Handrails at dropped curbs should not be installed
beyond the width of any crossing so as not to obstruct pedestrian flow.
b) Handrails shall be installed at 0.90 meters and 0.70 meters above steps or
ramps. Handrails for protection at great heights may be installed at 1.0 m to
1.06 m.

C. Ramps
a) Ramps shall have a minimum clear width of 1.20 meters, and the maximum
gradient shall be 1:12.
b) The length of a ramp should not exceed 6:00 m. Longer ramps whose gradient
is 1:12 shall be provided with landings not less than 1.50 m.

Solid Waste Management

 a) A Material Recovery Facility (MRF) must be provided to facilitate the collection and
segregation of solid waste materials. The MRF should be fully enclosed and designed
to be easily accessible both from within the building and from the outside, ensuring
convenient waste collection (THE PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE, 2015, p.
27).
b) 1.0 square meters of waste storage space is required per 1,250 square meters of total
gross floor area (TGFA), with an additional 50% circulation space (THE
PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE, 2015, p. 27).

MINIMUM SPACE REQUIREMENTS

Gate, School Signage, and Peripheral Fence

● School Assembly Area: (Allows individuals to gather for social, recreational,

educational, civic, or amusement purposes.)

● Area for Philippine flag, conforming with R.A. 8491

● Assembly quadrangle with a stage for programs and activities

School Athletic Program:

● Basketball court (open or closed)

● Soccer football (open) field (45m x 90m)

● Grandstand with bleachers for at least 300 pax

School Administration Building

● Faculty Room

● Guidance counselor’s office

● Disciplinary office

● Student consultation room

● School Principal's Office with reception

● Assistant Principal’s Office

 ● Registrar office

● Finance and Administration Office

● Cashier’s Office

● Conference room

● Maintenance quarters

● Janitorial and servicing spaces (utility and storage room/ s)

● Closed Auditorium (for at least 150 pax)

Academic building/s (compute adequate number of building/s as per design)

● Classrooms

● Regular classrooms (at least 35 classrooms, 40 pax cap. Each)

● Special rooms

● Special classroom for Technical/ Vocational (1)

● Drafting Room (1, at least 20 cap. Each)

● Home Economics Room (1)

● Computer Laboratory (1, 40 pax cap.)

● Science Laboratory (1, 40 pax cap.)

● Toilet facilities (He/She/PWD)

School Canteen

● Hot canteen

● Dry canteen with space for at least two concessionaires

● Dining spaces

School Clinic

● School nurse office

● Infirmary

Site development spaces

 ● Parking area, (compute as per site requirements; with dedicated 5 slots for

administration) PWD ramps

● Covered walkways

● Area for septic tank/s

● Waiting areas with information boards

● Male, Female, and PWD toilets with spaces for drinking and hand wash

● Access to the site for future expansion

Others

● School Library (air-conditioned)

● Storage for calamity relief and DRRM paraphernalia

REFERENCES:
National Building Code - Philippines - Rule 7. Building Classification by use or occupancy.

(n.d.). Philippine Architecture 101 - College and University Notes - UST UPD FEU UE SLU

CIT. https://philarchitecturenotes.weebly.com/rule-7-building-classification-by-use-or-

occupancy.html

Maximum height of buildings. (2019b, March 6). Architects Online Review.

https://alereviewers.wordpress.com/architectural-practice/pd1096/classification-and-

general-requirements-of-all-buildings-by-use-or-occupancy/maximum-height-of-

buildings/

Republic Act. (n.d.). https://republicact.com/docs/statute/1019/pd-1096-national-

building-code-philippines

https://www.deped.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/DO_s2008_010.pdf

https://www.teacherph.com/deped-educational-facilities-manual/

https://www.scribd.com/document/199208344/DEPED-Revised-Minimum-Performance-

Standards

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/files/nbc/PD.pdf

SECTION 701. Occupancy classified. (2019, February 24). Architects Online Review.

https://alereviewers.wordpress.com/architectural-practice/pd1096/classification-and-

general-requirements-of-all-buildings-by-use-or-occupancy/occupancy-classified/

https://www.deped.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/DO_s2017_064.pdf

https://www.teacherph.com/2016-new-deped-school-building-designs

Batas Pambansa Bilang 344 (Accessibility Law). (2008). NATIONAL COUNCIL ON

DISABILITY AFFAIRS.

DepED EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES MANUAL (Revised Edition of the 2007

Handbook on Educational Facilities-Integrating Disaster Risk Reduction in School

Construction). (2010). https://gseuphsdlibrary.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/educational-

facilites-manual_philippines.pdf

THE PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE. (2015).

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/DPWH/sites/default/files/laws_codes_orders/
PgbcBooklet23March.pdf

Fire Code of the Philippines: RA 9514: Vol. Revised 2019. (2019).

https://bfp.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/RA9514-RIRR-rev-2019.pdf

Whisker, A. (2023b, May 3). Designing for Learning: School Building Planning —

Whisker Architecture. Whisker Architecture.

https://www.whiskerarchitecture.com/library/school-building-planning

Department of Education. (2022, November 25). Updated guidelines on classroom

and school office structuring.

https://baybaycitydivision-deped.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/DM-NO.-573-s.-

2022-UPDATED-GUIDELINES-ON-CLASSROOM-AND-SCHOOL-OFFICE-

STRUCTURING-FOR-SY-2022-2023-AND-ONWARDS.pdf

Establishing the Minimum Performance Standards and Specifications for DEPED

School Buildings. (2017, December 17).

https://www.deped.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/DO_s2017_064.pdf