Definitions of Key Terms
- Accreditation: Official approval based on achievement standards.
- AIPO/APO: Accredited Integrated or Professional Organizations.
- ASEAN Qualifications Reference Framework (AQRF) & ASEAN Mutual Recognition Arrangement (ASEANMRA): Regional systems for mutual recognition of qualifications and mobility.
- Competence: Knowledge, skills, and ethical ability.
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Advanced knowledge and skills post-licensure.
- CPD Council: Body overseeing CPD compliance and improvement.
- CPD credit unit: Measurable learning value transferable for qualifications.
- CPD Program/Provider: Accredited CPD activities and their facilitators.
- Formal, Informal, Nonformal, Self-directed, Online learning: Various learning modes recognized.
- Learning outcomes and lifelong learning concepts explained.
- Professional: Licensed person registered with the PRC.
- Qualification and quality assurance defined.
Strengthening the CPD Program
- Mandatory formulation and implementation of CPD programs for all regulated professions.
- Objectives include competency enhancement, international alignment, quality assurance, and responsiveness to labor market needs.
- Recognizes professionals’ role in national development.
Nature of CPD Programs
- CPD activities range from structured to nonstructured.
- Include formal education, nonformal/informal learning, self-directed and online activities, and professional work experience.
PRC and Professional Regulatory Boards (PRBs) Powers and Duties
- Overall responsible for CPD implementation.
- Organize CPD Councils and issue operating guidelines.
- Review CPD programs and coordinate with stakeholders.
- Develop mechanisms to credit learning outcomes.
CPD Council Composition and Terms
- Each profession has a CPD Council under PRB supervision.
- Consists of a PRB chairperson, AIPO/APO representative, and academic representative.
- Terms: Chairperson coterminous with PRB term; members serve two years with replacement provisions.
CPD Council Functions
- Provide adequate CPD programs.
- Evaluate accreditation of CPD providers and programs.
- Monitor and upgrade CPD implementation.
- Develop validation mechanisms for diverse learning modes.
- Conduct research for international alignment.
- Issue operational guidelines and perform related tasks.
Secretariat Support
- CPD Council Secretariat established in PRC Central and Regional Offices.
- Provides technical and administrative support.
- Headed by an Executive Director appointed by PRC.
Mandatory CPD Requirement for License Renewal
- CPD is compulsory for renewal of Professional Identification Cards (PICs).
Recognition and Transfer of CPD Credit Units
- Validated CPD credits accumulate and transfer per the Philippine Qualifications Framework.
Career Progression and Specialization Programs
- PRC and PRBs will formulate career progression and specialization as part of CPD.
- Consultations with AIPO/APO, CSC, government, and industry stakeholders required.
Involvement of Government and Private Sector
- Government agencies and employers must integrate CPD in human resource development plans.
Funding and Budgeting
- CPD funding included in PRC's annual budget.
- PRC reviews and approves CPD Council budgets considering operational expenses.
Issuance of Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR)
- PRC and PRBs to issue IRRs within six months after enactment.
- PRBs may set additional profession-specific CPD rules consistent with this Act.
Penalties for Fraud
- Fraud related to CPD punishable under existing laws including penal and administrative sanctions.
- Professionals may face suspension or revocation of registration or specialization certificates.
- Government officials involved subject to anti-graft and administrative penalties.
Separability Clause
- Invalid provisions will not affect the validity of the remaining Act.
Repealing Clause
- Conflicting laws and issuances are repealed or amended accordingly.
Effectivity
- The Act takes effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or newspapers with general circulation.