Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 835)
The main purpose is to direct the Professional Regulation Commission and other concerned government agencies to conduct yearly Special Professional Licensure Board Examinations (SPLBE) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and other Middle East countries for the benefit of qualified Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
Qualified Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) residing and working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and other Middle East countries with diplomatic relations with the Philippines.
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Bureau of Immigration, and the Philippine Professional Organizations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (PPO-SA).
The Special Professional Licensure Board Examinations shall be held once every year starting December 2009.
The PPO-SA coordinates with and supports the PRC and concerned government agencies in conducting the SPLBE for unlicensed organization members and other overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East region.
DOLE through PRC and DFA through its Consular Offices are jointly responsible for facilitating the required permits from host countries, providing adequate and conducive venues for examinations, and processing travel documents for examination personnel.
To enhance their competitiveness in the labor market, avoid expensive travel expenses, and eliminate the need for travel permits from employers or host countries.
The Professional Regulation Commission is responsible for funding the administration of the SPLBE, charged against its appropriate funding sources included in its annual budget.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and other Middle East countries with which the Philippines has diplomatic relations.
It took effect immediately upon signing on October 6, 2009.