Assessment of Construction Surveying Practices of Non-Geodetic Engineer Personnel in Region III: Basis for a Surveying Practice Enhancement Program

Abstract

Construction surveying is vital to ensuring accurate positioning, structural alignment, elevation, and overall build quality across all project stages. In the Philippines, Republic Act No. 8560 (as amended by Republic Act No. 9200) mandates that professional surveying works fall under the exclusive domain of Licensed Geodetic Engineers. However, tight project schedules, manpower constraints, and budget limits often lead construction management teams to delegate routine survey tasks such as layouting, stakeout, and elevation checking to non-geodetic personnel without direct professional supervision. This study assesses the construction surveying practices performed by non-geodetic personnel in Region III. Utilizing a descriptive quantitative research design, data were gathered from Licensed Geodetic Engineers and Project Management Team personnel. The findings reveal that while utilizing on-site technical staff helps maintain operational speed, it introduces critical challenges, including measurement errors, weak field documentation, and regulatory compliance risks. Respondents strongly agreed that unmonitored surveying practices negatively impact measurement accuracy and increase project rework. To bridge the gap between statutory mandates and field practices, this study proposes a structured Surveying Practice Enhancement Program. The framework aims to strengthen technical supervision, improve quality control protocols, and elevate legal compliance across construction projects.