Reciprocity Requirement for Foreign Practitioners
- Reciprocity between the Philippines and the foreign practitioner's country is generally required.
- Reciprocity means that citizens of the Philippines are allowed to practice in the foreign country under similar conditions as foreign nationals in the Philippines.
- Such requirement historically restricts the entry of foreign experts, which may hinder social and economic development.
Amendment to Section 5(j) on Powers of the Commission
- The PRC may approve registration or issue certificates of registration to foreigners registered in their home country.
- Conditions:
- The foreign country’s registration or licensing requirements must be substantially the same as those in the Philippines.
- The foreign laws must allow Filipino citizens to practice the profession on an equal basis.
- The applicant must provide conclusive evidence, verified by the Department of Foreign Affairs, that Filipino citizens are reciprocally allowed to practice.
Exception to Reciprocity Requirement for Outstanding Foreign Experts
- The PRC, on recommendation of the concerned Board and President’s approval, may authorize issuance of certificate or special permit without the reciprocity condition.
- This exception applies to foreign professionals internationally recognized as outstanding experts or specialists.
- Such foreign experts must be urgently needed due to lack, inadequacy, or for advancement of the profession in the Philippines.
- The Commission may impose conditions on such issuance.
Additional Requirements and Privileges
- The PRC is authorized to impose additional requirements or grant certain privileges to foreigners.
- These must correspond to the privileges granted or requirements imposed by the foreign country on Filipinos.
Repeal of Inconsistent Laws
- All laws, decrees, orders, instructions, rules, and regulations inconsistent with this amendment are repealed or modified accordingly.
Effectivity
- The amendment takes effect immediately upon issuance.