Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 11249)
The short title of Republic Act No. 11249 is the "Speech Language Pathology Act."
The State recognizes the important role of speech language pathologists in national building and promotes the development of a competent corps of speech language pathologists through licensure examinations, regulatory measures, and continuing professional growth.
Communication disorder refers to impairment in the ability to receive/process symbol systems, represent concepts in systems, or transmit and use symbol systems, observed in hearing, language, and speech disorders.
A speech language pathologist is a person registered and licensed to practice speech language pathology holding a valid certificate of registration and professional identification card issued by the Professional Regulatory Board of Speech Language Pathology and the Professional Regulation Commission.
It includes screening, assessing, diagnosing, managing communication and oral-pharyngeal disorders, cognitive communication systems, conducting research, providing consultancy, training, and other related acts in the field in collaboration with other professionals and the community.
The Board is composed of a chairperson and two members appointed by the President from recommendees submitted by the Accredited Integrated Professional Organization (AIPO) of speech language pathologists.
Qualifications include natural-born Filipino citizenship, residency for five years prior to appointment, being a registered and licensed speech language pathologist in active practice for five years, good moral character, and no pecuniary interest in related educational institutions.
Violations are punishable by a fine of not less than P20,000 but not more than P50,000, or imprisonment of not less than two years but not more than five years, or both, at the discretion of the court.
Applicants who hold a bachelor's degree in speech language pathology from a CHED-recognized institution prior to the effectivity of the Act and are certified members of the AIPO may register without examination if they apply within one year after the implementing rules and regulations take effect.
Prohibited acts include practicing without a valid certificate or permit, practicing during a suspension period, allowing unqualified persons to use one's certificate or professional ID, and using the certificate or ID of another person.
All individuals must take an oath of profession before a member of the Board or a Commission officer authorized to administer oaths prior to entering the practice.
Yes, but only under special temporary permits issued by the Board for specific purposes such as consultation, being an internationally recognized expert, or as educators, and provided that there is reciprocity with the foreigner's country.
Except for certain qualified persons, all applicants must pass a licensure examination administered by the Board to be registered to practice speech language pathology in the Philippines.