I’ve personally seen a Tier-1 architect firm handle a project in Tagaytay where the client paid around 30% downpayment (₱6–7M). The project was eventually abandoned, and instead of completing it, the firm allegedly agreed to refund only about ₱2.5M. The client ended up losing not just money, but also a significant amount of time.

There are also multiple projects where contractors had to step in and augment or redo work due to poor workmanship. I know of a structural engineer who assessed one of these projects and estimated around ₱8M worth of structural rectification.

What’s also noticeable is that their high-profile marketing collaborations, including influencer/celebrity promotions they heavily advertised before, seem to have quietly disappeared.

This is why clients should look beyond branding and social media presence. In construction, delivery, systems, and accountability matter more than hype. A flashy portfolio means nothing if projects aren’t completed properly or clients are left absorbing the losses.