I remember once seeing similar pics. I believe that technically speaking, that this is allowed.
It is in MA and was under the NEC until the prohibition against NM above suspended ceilings went into the NEC.
Commercial gets pipe ... and metal flex where necessary. Not romex, SER, smurf, or any other 'easy' way.
Isn't that a question best answered by the person paying for the work?
The pics are a good illustration of the difference between 'code minimum' and 'trade practice.'
Perhaps a better illustration of the different methods used in different areas, this is trade practice in this area.
Pipe is almost never used above ceilings, MC is most common and when allowed NM / SE etc.
It's funny though.....the plumbers in MA can't use plastic in commercial work but I can run NM.
When I work in RI I can't use NM but the plumbers can use plastic.