In a significant move to simplify the lives of Filipino professionals, the House of Representatives recently gave the green light to a bill that promises to extend the validity of Professional Identification Cards (PICs) issued by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to five years. This decision was made during a session on Wednesday, where House Bill No. 9764 received overwhelming support, with 234 lawmakers voting in favor and none opposing or abstaining.

This bill, if turned into law, will bring about a major change in how professionals maintain their licensure, alleviating the need for frequent renewals. Specifically, the Information and Communication Technology Service (ICTS) and other relevant departments within the PRC are to be tasked with updating the necessary systems (namely the Licensure Examination Registration Information System, or LERIS) and administrative processes within six months after the bill becomes law. This is aimed at making the renewal process smoother and more efficient for everyone involved.

The push to make renewing PRC IDs more convenient isn’t new. Back in 2012, the PRC began allowing Filipino professionals to renew or obtain their identification cards at various malls, marking an initial step towards easing the renewal process. Despite these efforts, there have been ongoing challenges, particularly concerning the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Act. Enacted as Republic Act 10912, this law mandates nurses and other professionals to accumulate 45 CPD units as a prerequisite for renewing their PRC licenses. This requirement has been a point of contention among professionals who find it burdensome.

The approval of House Bill No. 9764 represents a hopeful advancement towards addressing the needs of Filipino professionals, making it easier for them to maintain their professional status without the added stress of frequent renewals. This bill not only acknowledges the importance of their contributions to society but also aims to support them in their professional journeys by simplifying bureaucratic processes. As the bill moves forward, it holds the promise of significant benefits for the professional community, marking a step towards more efficient and less cumbersome administrative procedures.