Question & AnswerQ&A (PRC Resolution NO. 98-547, S. 1998)
Section 14, Article XII of the Philippine Constitution provides that the practice of all professions in the Philippines shall be limited to Filipino citizens, except in cases prescribed by law.
Exceptions include laws allowing practice through reciprocity, foreign professionals called for consultation, employment as technical officers or professors, attachments to international organizations, employment by the Government as experts or consultants, investments involving foreign professionals, and international conventions or agreements permitting such practices.
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) is empowered to administer, implement, and enforce regulatory policies and licensing of professions in the Philippines.
'Regulated Profession' refers to a person's occupation or calling regulated by law, which defines admission and practice of the profession.
It refers to acts, activities, or services done or rendered that constitute the practice of a profession as defined by the law regulating that profession.
Foreign consultants may engage in advisory or review services, pre-investment or feasibility studies, design, construction supervision, management and related services, and other technical or special studies related to professional practice.
They must submit authenticated proof of reciprocity laws, valid alien employment permits or registration certificates from DOLE, official government commitment letters, certified proof of registration and licensing in their country, proof of at least three years residence in the Philippines, and a sworn Personal Data Sheet with relevant information.
Applicants filing under Sections 3-B(1), 3-B(5), and 3-B(6) file the application themselves. For those under Sections 3-B(2), 3-B(3), and 3-B(4), the government agency or instrumentality availing of foreign professional services files the application.
They may be administratively sanctioned according to professional regulatory laws and penalized criminally for violations under the country's criminal laws, facing corresponding penalties.
Yes, all foreign professionals allowed to practice must take the oath of office of a professional and commit under oath to abide by professional regulatory laws and the Code of Ethics in the Philippines.