PRC's Regulatory Powers and Responsibilities
- Under RA 8981, PRC's powers include:
- Administering professional regulations and licensing.
- Enhancing and maintaining professional and ethical standards.
- Promulgating necessary rules and regulations for professional practice.
- Performing other related functions to implement the law and relevant issuances.
- PRBs are mandated to monitor and enhance professions through appropriate measures ensuring maintenance of competence and ethics.
Adoption of Professional Conduct Code
- Executive Order No. 220 (2003) directed the adoption of a Code of Good Governance for professions.
- The PRC and PRBs adopted this Code encompassing principles of integrity, objectivity, professional competence, and global competitiveness.
Global Competitiveness and International Commitments
- The National Council for Global Competitiveness was convened to ensure Filipino professionals are globally competitive amid economic globalization.
- As a WTO member, the Philippines must comply with the 4th Protocol under the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS), facilitating trade in professional services globally.
- The Philippines must offer competitive professional services in sectors including health, education, engineering, IT, architecture, tourism, transport, and others.
ASEAN Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs)
- As an ASEAN member, the Philippines complies with MRAs, which require recognition of professional qualifications across ASEAN states.
- MRAs for professions like nursing, engineering, surveying, and architecture mandate continuing professional development as a prerequisite for recognition.
Mandatory Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Requirement
- Attendance in CPE courses accredited by the CPE Council and PRC-accredited providers is made mandatory for registered professionals.
- This mandate aims to maintain professionals' good standing, ensure global competitiveness, and comply with WTO-GATS and ASEAN agreements.
- The PRC will publish an official list of accredited CPE courses and providers.
Implementation and Effectivity of the Resolution
- The PRC Resolution No. 2008-465 prescribes the mandatory attendance of CPE courses for all registered professionals.
- The requirement takes effect fifteen days after publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
- The resolution aligns with the Philippine government's goals of developing globally competitive and ethically sound professionals.
Importance of the Resolution
- Ensures continuous enhancement of professional knowledge and skills.
- Aligns Philippine professional standards with international commitments and market liberalization.
- Supports cross-border recognition of professional qualifications within ASEAN and WTO frameworks.
- Reinforces the regulatory function of the PRC to safeguard public interest and promote excellence in all professions.