Principles of

Medical
Laboratory
Science
TRANSES
(RA 4688, AO 59 s. 2001, AO 2007-0027, AO 37 s. 2021, RA 9165, RA
9288,
PD 223, PD 657, RA 8981)

BY: ANDREI O. PENALES

 Republic Act No. 4688
An Act Regulating the Operation and Maintenance of Clinical Laboratories and Requiring the Registration of the
Same with the Department of Health, Providing Penalty for the Violation Thereof, and for Other Purposes

Section 1. Any person, firm or corporation, operating and maintaining a clinical laboratory in which body fluids,
tissues, secretions, excretions and radioactivity from beings or animals are analyzed for the determination of the
presence of pathologic organisms, processes and/or conditions in the persons or animals from which they were
obtained, shall register and secure a license annually at the office of the Secretary of Health:

Section 2. It shall be unlawful for any person to be professionally in-charge of a registered clinical laboratory
unless he is a licensed physician duly qualified in laboratory medicine and authorized by the Secretary of Health,
such authorization to be renewed annually.

Section 3. The Secretary of Health is in-charged of enforcing the provisions of this act.

Section 4. Any person, firm or corporation who violates any provisions of this Act or the rules and regulations
issued thereunder by the Secretary of Health shall be punished with imprisonment for not less than one month
but not more than one year, or by a fine of not less than one thousand pesos nor more than five thousand pesos,
or both such fine and imprisonment, at the discretion of the court.

Section 5. If any section or part of this Act shall be adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid,
the judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder thereof.

Section 6. The sum of fifty thousand pesos, or so mush thereof as may be necessary, is hereby authorized to be
appropriated, out of any funds in the National Treasury not otherwise appropriated, to carry into effect the
provisions of this Act.

Section 7. All Acts or parts of Acts which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed.

Section 8. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

Administrative Order No. 59, S. 2001

RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE ESTABLISHMENT, OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF CLINICAL
LABORATORIES IN THE PHILIPPINES

Title (Section 1):

The order is known as the "Rules and Regulations Governing the Establishment, Operation and Maintenance Of
Clinical Laboratories in the Philippines."

Authority (Section 2):

Issued to implement R.A. 4688: Clinical Laboratory Law consistent with E.O. 102 s. 1999: Redirecting the
Functions and Operations of the Department of Health.

The Department of Health (DOH), through the Bureau of Health Facilities and Services (BHFS), exercises
regulatory functions.

Purpose (Section 3):

Promulgated to protect and promote public health by ensuring the availability of well-managed clinical
laboratories with adequate resources and compliance with quality standards.

Scope (Section 4):

Applies to entities performing activities and functions of clinical laboratories, including the examination and
analysis of samples for the determination of pathogenic organisms and conditions.

Classification of Laboratories (Section 5):

- Clinical Pathology — includes Hematology, Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology, Parasitology, Mycology, Clinical
Microscopy, Immunology and Serology, Immunohematology, Blood Banking, Laboratory Endocrinology,
Toxicology and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and. other similar disciplines.

- Anatomic Pathology — includes Surgical, Pathology, Immunohispathology; Cytology, Autopsy and Forensic
Pathology.

Classification by Institutional Character

* Hospital-based laboratory — a laboratory that operates within a hospital.

* Non-hospital-based laboratory — a laboratory that operates on its own.

Classification by Service Capability

* Primary — provides the. minimum service capabilities such as:

-Routine Hematology (Complete Blood Count or CBC) — includes Hemoglobin Mass Concentration, Erythrocyte
Volume Fraction (Hematocrit), Leucocytes Number Concentration, (White Blood Cell or WBC Count) and
Leucocytes Type Number Fraction (Differential Count), Qualitative Platelet Determination.

-Routine Urinalysis

-Routine Fecalysis

-Blood Typing -hospital based

-Quantitative platelet determination-hospital, based

* Secondary — provides the minimum service capabilities of a primary category and the following:

-Routine Clinical Chemistry — includes Blood Glucose Substance Concentration, Blood Urea Nitrogen
Concentration, Blood Uric Acid Substance Concentration, Blood Creatinine Concentration, Blood Total
Cholesterol Concentration.

-Cross matching-hospital based.

* Tertiary — provides the secondary service capabilities and the following:

-Special Chemistry

-Special Hematology

-Immunology/Serology

-Microbiology

Policies (Section 6):

An approved permit, to construct and design lay-out of a clinical laboratory shall be secured from the BHFS prior
to submission of an application for a Petition to Operate.

- No clinical laboratory shall be constructed unless plans have been approved and construction permit issued by
the BHFS.

- A clinical laboratory shall operate with a valid license issued by BHFS/CHD, based on compliance with the
minimum licensing requirements (Annex A).

- The clinical laboratory shall be organized and managed to provide effective and efficient laboratory services.

- The clinical laboratory shall provide adequate and appropriate safety practices for its personnel and clientele.

Requirements and Procedures for Application (Section 7):

Outlines the application process for permits and licenses, including necessary documents.

Defines application renewal schedules and fees.

Specifies penalties for late renewal and outlines inspection and monitoring procedures.

Issuance of License and Terms/Conditions (Section 8):

Describes the issuance process for licenses by the CHD and the terms and conditions of the license.

Violations (Section 8):

The following acts committed by the Owner, President, Managers, Board of Trustees/Director, Pathologist or its
personnel are considered violations:

-Operation of a clinical laboratory without a certified pathologist or without a registered medical technologist.

-Change of ownership, location, head of laboratory or personnel without informing the BHFS and/or the CHD.
-Refusal to allow inspection of the clinical laboratory by the person(s) authorized by the BHFS during reasonable
hours.

-Gross negligence.

-Any act or omission detrimental to the public.

Investigation of Charges or Complaints (Section 9):

The BHFS/CHD or his duly authorized representative(s) shall investigate the complaint and verify if the laboratory
concerned or any of its personnel is guilty of the charges

Modification and Revocation of License (Section 10):

-A license may be revoked, suspended or modified in full or in part for any material false statement by the
applicant, or as shown by the record of inspection or for a violation of or failure to comply any of the terms and
conditions and provisions of these rules and regulations.

-No license shall be modified, suspended or revoked unless prior notice has been made and the corresponding
investigation conducted except in cases of willful, or repeated violations hereof, or where public health interest
or safety requires otherwise.

Repealing Clause (Section 11):

Supersedes all previous official issuances related to the order.

Publication of List of Licensed Clinical Laboratories (Section 12):

Requires the annual publication of a list of licensed clinical laboratories in a newspaper of general circulation.

Effectivity (Section 13):

The rules and regulations take effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general
circulation.

This administrative order emphasizes the importance of compliance with regulations to ensure the quality and
safety of clinical laboratory services in the Philippines.

Administrative Order No. 2007-0027

REVISED RULES AND REGULATION GOVERNING THE LICENSURE AND REGULATION OF CLINICAL LABORATORIES
IN THE PHILIPPINES

I. Rationale:

Regulatory reforms are part of health sector reforms.

Ensuring access to quality and affordable health products and services.

Updating regulations for clinical laboratories due to technological advances.

II. Objective:
Prescribe a revised minimum standard for clinical laboratories.

Ensure accuracy and precision of laboratory examinations for public health and safety.

III. Scope and Coverage:

Applies to individuals, agencies, partnerships, or corporations operating clinical laboratories in the Philippines.

Exemptions for government clinical laboratories engaged in specific programs.

IV. Definition of Terms:

Defines terms and acronyms related to clinical laboratories.

 Applicant – a natural or juridical person who intends to operate a clinical laboratory

 BHFS – acronym for the Bureau of Health Facilities and Services

 CHD – acronym for the Center for Health Development

 Clinical laboratory – a facility where tests are done on specimens form the human body to obtain
information about the health status of a patient for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
These tests include, but are not limited to, the following disciplines: clinical chemistry, hematology,
immunohematology, microbiology, immunology, clinical microscopy, histopathology, cytology,
toxicology, endocrinology, molecular biology, and cytogenetics. Other functions of the clinical laboratory
are to provide consultative advisory services covering all aspects of laboratory investigations. Facilities
that are involved in the pre–analytical processes, such as the collection, handling or preparation of
specimens, or act as a mailing or distribution center, such as in a laboratory network or system are also
considered to be a part of a clinical laboratory. The total testing process includes pre–analytical,
analytical and post–analytical procedures.

 Critical values – panic values originally described by Lundberg as “life – threatening” unless something is
done promptly and for which some corrective action could be undertaken.

 DOH – acronym for the Department of Health

 EQAP – acronym for External Quality Assessment Program. It is a program where participating
laboratories are given unknown samples for analysis. These samples are to be treated as ordinary human
specimens for the usual processing and examination. The quality of performance of the laboratory shall
be assessed through the closeness of its results to be pre–determined value or to the reference value
generated by the participating laboratories through peer group analysis.

 Inspection tool – the checklist used by the regulatory officers during inspection visit(s) to evaluate
compliance of a clinical laboratory to the minimum standards and technical requirements.
 Institution – a corporate body or establishment organized for an educational, medical, charitable or
similar purpose.

 License – the document issued by the DOH to an individual, agency, partnership or corporation that
operates a clinical laboratory upon compliance with the requirements set forth in this Order.

 Licensee – the individual, agency, partnership or corporation to whom the license is issued and upon
who rests compliance with this Order.

 LTO – acronym for License to Operate. It also refers to the license.

 Mobile Clinical Laboratory – a laboratory testing unit that moves from testing site to another testing site,
or has a temporary testing location. It shall have a base laboratory.

 Monitoring Examinations – tests done in series on patients as a guide for treatment or follow–up of their
condition.

 NRL – acronym for the National Reference Laboratory. It is a laboratory in a government hospital which
has been designated by the DOH to provide special functions and services for specific disease areas.

 POL – acronym for Physician’s Office Laboratory. It is an individual doctor’s office/clinic wherein
laboratory examinations are performed.

 POCT – acronym for Point of Care Testing. It is a diagnostic testing at or near the site of patient care
rather than in the clinical laboratory. It includes bedside testing, outpatient and home care.

 Routine Tests – the basic, commonly requested tests in the laboratory, the results of which are not
required to be released immediately upon completion. It shall follow the usual procedures and system in
the laboratory.

 Satellite Testing Site – any testing site that performs laboratory examinations under the administrative
control of a licensed laboratory, but performed outside the physical confines of that laboratory.

 STAT Tests – tests done on urgent cases, the results of which shall be released immediately, within one
(1) hour after the procedure. STAT is an abbreviation “sta’tim” which means immediately.
V. Classification of Clinical Laboratories:

Based on ownership, function, institutional character, and service capability.

 Classification by Ownership

o Government – operated and maintained, partially or wholly, by the national government, a local
government unit (provincial, city or municipal), any other political unit or any department,
division, board or agency thereof

o Private – owned, established and operated by any individual, corporation, association or

organization

 Classification by Function

o Clinical Pathology – includes Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Immunohematology, Microbiology,

Immunology, Clinical Microscopy, Endocrinology, Molecular Biology, Cytogenetics, Toxicology
and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and other similar disciplines

o Anatomic Pathology – includes Surgical Pathology, Immunohistopathology, Cytology, Autopsy,

Forensic Pathology and Molecular Pathology

 Classification by Institutional Character

o Institution Based – a laboratory that operates within the premises and as part of an institution,
such as but not limited to hospital, medical clinic, school, medical facility for overseas and
seafarers, birthing home, psychiatric facility, drug rehabilitation center

o Freestanding – a laboratory that does not form part of any other institution

 Classification by Service Capability

o General Clinical Laboratory

  Primary Category – provides the following minimum service capabilities:

 Routine Hematology [Complete Blood Count – includes Hemoglobin Mass

Concentration, Erythrocyte Volume Fraction (Hematocrit), Leucocyte Number
Concentration (White Blood Cell or WBC count) and Leucocyte Number Fraction
(Differential count)
 Qualitative Platelet Determination
 Routine Urinalysis
 Routine Fecalysis
 Blood typing – for hospital based

 Secondary Category – provides the minimum service capabilities of a primary category

laboratory plus the following:

 Routine Clinical Chemistry – includes Blood Glucose Substance Concentration,

Blood Urea Nitrogen concentration, Blood Uric Acid Substance Concentration,
Blood Creatinine Concentration, Blood Total Cholesterol Concentration
 Quantitative Platelet Determination
 Cross matching – for hospital based
 Gram Staining – for hospital based
 KOH – for hospital based

 Tertiary Category – provides the minimum service capabilities of a secondary category

laboratory plus the following:

 Special Chemistry
 Special Hematology, including coagulation procedures
 Immunology
 Microbiology – culture and sensitivity

o Aerobic and anaerobic (for hospital and non–hospital based)

 A clinical laboratory, licensed under any of the above category, shall be permitted to offer laboratory
services other than the respective stipulated minimum services, provided that, they comply with the
requirements with respect to staff, equipment, reagents and supplies for such additional services,
provided further, that such additional services are listed under its LTO.
  Limited Service Capability (for institution–based only) – provides the laboratory tests
required for a particular service in institutions such as but not limited to dialysis centers
and social hygiene clinics.

o Special Clinical Laboratory

 A laboratory that offers highly specialized laboratory services that are usually not provided by a general
clinical laboratory.

VI. Guidelines:

General guidelines for licensing and operation, including human resources, equipment, quality assurance, and
communication.

Specific guidelines for standards, LTO (License to Operate), and renewal procedures.

VII. Procedural Guidelines:

Registration and licensing procedures for different types of clinical laboratories.

Inspection, monitoring, and reporting procedures.

VIII. Schedule of Fees:

Non-refundable fees for initial applications and license renewals. All fees/checks shall be paid to the order of
DOH in person or through postal money order. All fees, surcharges and discounts shall follow the current DOH
prescribed schedule of fees.

IX. Violations:

Violation of Republic Act 4688 or these rules and regulations and/or commission of the following acts by
personnel operating the clinical laboratory under this authority shall be penalized.

X. Investigation of Complaints:

A. The BHFS or the CHD Director or his authorized representative(s) shall investigate the complaint and verify if
the laboratory concerned or any of its personnel is accountable for an alleged violation.

B. The CHD Director or his authorized representative(s), after investigation, shall suspend, cancel or revoke for a
determined period of time the LTO of licensees who are found violating the provision of R.A. 4688 or this Order,
without prejudice to taking the case to judicial authority for criminal action. The CHD shall seek the assistance of
any law enforcement agency to execute the closure of any erring clinical laboratory, when necessary.

XI. Penalty:

Any person who operates a clinical laboratory without the proper license from the DOH shall upon conviction be
subject to imprisonment for not less than one (1) month or a fine of not less than PhP 1,000.00 and not more
than Php 5,000.00 or both at the discretion of the court. Provided, however, that if the offender is a firm or
corporation, the managing head and/or owner(s) thereof shall be liable to the penalty imposed herein.

XII. Appeal:

The decision of the BHFS/CHD may be appealed to the Office of the Health Secretary within ten (10) days after
receipt of the notice of the decision. Thereupon, the BHFS shall promptly certify and file a copy of the decision,
including all documents and transcripts of hearings on which the decision is based, with the Office of the Health
Secretary for review. The decision of the Office of the Health Secretary is final and executory.

XIII. Repealing Clause:

Rescinds and modifies provisions from previous issuances inconsistent with this order.

XIV. Separability Clause:

Ensures the validity of unaffected provisions if any part of the order is declared invalid.

XV. Effectivity:

The order takes effect fifteen (15) days after approval and publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of
general circulation.

The Administrative Order (AO) No. 2021-D037

NEW RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE REGULATON OF CLINICAL LABORATORIES IN THE PHILIPPINES

SECTION 1: RATIONALE

SECTION 2: OBJECTIVES

• The rules and regulations shall serve as the new guidelines in the licensing of clinical laboratories in the
Philippines.

SECTION 3: SCOPE OF APPLICATION

• Anyone involved in the application for DOH license to operate and those in the operation of diagnostic clinical
laboratories in the Philippines

• The provisions of R.A. 11054 or the Bangsamoro Organic Act”

SECTION 4: DEFINITION OF TERMS

• Applicant - anyone seeking for license to operate

• Assessment Tool – the checklist which prescribes the minimum standards and requirements for licensure

• Clinical Laboratory (CL) – a facility that is involved in the pre– analytical, analytical, and post–analytical
procedures, where tests are done on specimens
• Department of Health – License to Operate (DOH – LTO) – a formal authorization issued by the DOH

• Department of Health – Permit to Construct (DOH – PTC) – a permit issued by DOH through HFSRB or Center
for Health Development Regulation, Licensing and Enforcement Division (CHD – RLED)

• External Quality Assessment Program (EQAP) – participating CL are given unknown samples for analysis

• Initial Application – refer to application by newly constructed health facilities

• Mobile Clinical Laboratory (MCL) – a laboratory testing unit capable of performing limited CL diagnostic
procedures

• National External Quality Assessment Scheme (NEQAS) – an EQAP activity conducted by the National
Reference Laboratories

• National Reference Laboratory (NRL) – the highest level of laboratory in the country

• Physician’s Office Laboratory (POL) – refers to a doctor’s office/clinic wherein CL examinations are performed

• Point of Care Testing (POCT) – refers to a diagnostic testing done at or near the site of patient care

• Satellite Clinical Laboratory (SCL) – refers to an extension of the main CL

• Referral Tests – refers to CL tests that are either sent–out or outsourced to other DOH–licensed CL

SECTION 5: GENERAL GUIDELINES

•All CL shall secure DOH-LTO

• DOH-LTO shall be secured from DOH regulatory office.

• Only DOH-licensed CL may have SCL. • DOH-licensed CL may have MCL.

• CL shall not perform testing above its authorized service capability

• Health office performing diagnostic CL tests shall be under the DOH-licensed CL.

•The CL head must be a certified Pathologist.

• There should be an adequate number of personnel.

• CL for research and testing is required to register with the DOH-HFSRB.

• NRL is covered by the license of the CL.

• CL price should be available to the public

•The Director III of HFSRB shall approve issuance of DOH-LTO in the absence of Director IV.

• The Director IV shall approve the issuance of license at CHD.

• Department Circulars shall be issued for any technology or platform that may affect the standards.

• The CL shall be compliant to the standards and requirements.

• The license may be revoked, suspended, or modified for any violation of the owner.

SECTION 6: SPECIFIC GUIDELINES

• Ownership ▪ Government – operated by political unit

▪ Private - established and operated by any individual, corporation, association or organization

• Institutional Characteristics

▪ Institution-based – within the premises and as part of an institution

▪ Non-institution based – operates independently

• Function ▪ Clinical Pathology – bodily fluids

▪ Anatomic Pathology – tissues

• Service Capability

▪ Clinical Laboratory for Clinical and Anatomic Pathology – clinical microscopy, clinical chemistry, hematology,
serology/immunology, microbiology, anatomic pathology

▪ Clinical Laboratory for Anatomic Pathology only – provides services not limited to cytology and histopathology

▪ Clinical Laboratory for Molecular Pathology only – provides services for genetics, immune/hematopathology,
and infectious diseases

SECTION 7: PROCEDURAL GUIDELINES

• Permit to construct

• License to operate

• Certificate of registration

• Validity

• Fees

• Monitoring

SECTION 8: ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Health Facilities and Services and Regulatory Bureau

▪ Set standard for CL

▪ Disseminate policies

▪ Provides assistance to stakeholders

▪ Respond to complaints

• Center for Health DevelopmentRegulatory, Licensing and Enforcement Division

▪ Enforce provision

▪ Submit report on suspension, revocation, cease and desist order issued on CL

▪ Provides assistance to stakeholders

▪ Respond to complaints
• National Reference Laboratory

▪ Provide laboratory referral services

▪ Train laboratory personnel

▪ Maintain NEQAS

▪ Perform technical evaluations

• DOH-licensed Clinical Laboratories

▪ Comply with the rules and regulations

▪ Participate in EQAP

▪ Submit timely reports and data in times of pandemic

SECTION 9: VIOLATIONS, SANCTIONS AND APPEAL

• CL shall be sanctioned and penalized upon violation of any guidelines

• For non-institution-based CL that are not under OSSOLS

▪ 1st offense: stern warning ▪ 2nd offense: 30,000 php

▪ 3rd offense: 50,000 php

▪ 4th offense: revocation of DOH-LTO

• For CL that are part of a hospital, sanctions shall be governed by the order

• Operating without license – Cease-and Desist order and penalty of 50000 php

• Any licensed person who issued fraudulent test result shall not be allowed to own, operate or be an analyst of
a DOH licensed CL

SECTION 10: TRANSITORY PROVISIONS

• License shall be given 3 years to comply with physical plant requirements

• Licensed CL shall be given 2 years to fully offer additional services

• The order shall be immediately applicable to new CL

SECTION 11: REPEALING CLAUSE

• These rules and regulations shall rescind Administrative Order No. 2007 – 0027

SECTION 12: SEPARABILITY CLAUSE

• Any provision or section of this act found invalid; the remaining provisions unaffected shall remain valid

SECTION 13: EFFECTIVITY

• Shall take affect 15 days after publication to official Gazette or newspaper

• Upon filing 3 copies to the University of the Philippines Law Center

• June 11, 2021

Republic Act No. 8981

AN ACT MODERNIZING THE PROFESSIONAL REGULATION COMMISSION, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NUMBERED TWO HUNDRED AND TWENTY- THREE, ENTITLED "CREATING THE
PROFESSIONAL REGULATION COMMISSION AND PRESCRIBING ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS," AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES

Section 1-2: Title and Statement of Policy

The Act is named the "PRC Modernization Act of 2000" and recognizes the role of professionals in nation-
building. It emphasizes the importance of credible licensure examinations and the development of
internationally recognized professional standards.

Section 3-4: Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Composition

Establishes the PRC, a three-man commission attached to the office of the President. The Commission is headed
by a Chairperson and two Commissioners, appointed by the President for seven years without reappointment.
The Chairperson or Commissioner must be at least 40 years old, hold a valid professional license, and have
executive experience.

Section 5: Powers and Functions of the Commission

Details the powers and functions of the Commission, including setting high admission standards, conducting
licensure examinations, and ensuring the integrity of examinations. The Chairperson acts as the presiding officer
and chief executive officer.

Section 6: Compensation and Benefits

Specifies the compensation and benefits for the Chairperson and Commissioners, aligned with government
standards.

Section 7: Powers and Responsibilities of the Commission

Lists various powers and responsibilities of the Commission, such as administering regulatory policies,
conducting licensure examinations, approving resolutions from Professional Regulatory Boards, and more.

Section 8: Regional Offices

Authorizes the creation of regional offices by the Commission as needed to fulfill its functions.

Section 9: Powers of Professional Regulatory Boards

Outlines the powers and functions of Professional Regulatory Boards, including regulating professions,
monitoring conditions, hearing and investigating cases, and preparing annual reports.

Section 10: Compensation of Board Members

▪ The members compensation will be equivalent to, at least, two salary grades lower than the salary grade of the
Commissioners.
▪ the Chairperson of the Regulatory Board- 2 steps higher than the members

Section 11: Qualifications for Teachers of Licensure Exam Subjects

-States that subjects for licensure examinations must be taught by individuals holding valid certificates of
registration and professional licenses.

Section 12: Assistance of Law Enforcement Agency

- Any law agency shall provide assistance in implementing rules and regulations upon request of the Commission
or PRB.

Section 13-14: Appropriations and Authority to Use Income

-Addresses appropriations for the initial implementation and authorizes the use of Commission income for
computerization for a specified period.

Section 15-16: Penalties for Manipulation and Violation of Section 7

-Manipulating licensure exam results: imprisonment for 6 years and 1 day to 12 years and 1 day; fine of not less
than 50,000 php and not more than 100,000 php

▪ If the offender is an officer: shall be remove from office and penalty of perpetual absolute disqualification

▪ For accomplices: imprisonment for 4 years and 1 day to 6 years; fine of not less than 20,000 php and not more
than 49,000 php

▪ For accessories: imprisonment for 2 years and 1 day to 4 years; fine of not less than 5,000 php and not more
than 19,000 php Imprisonment for not less than 6 months and 1 day to 6 years; fine of not less than 50,000 php
and not more than 500,000 php

• Imprisonment for not less than 6 months and 1 day to 6 years; fine of not less than 50,000 php and not more
than 500,000 php

Section 17-19: Implementing Rules, Transitory Provisions, Separability

-Covers the preparation of implementing rules, transitory provisions for incumbent officers, and a separability
clause.

Section 20-21: Repealing Clause and Effectivity

-Republic Act. No. 546, Presidential Decree No. 223, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 657, Republic Act
No. 5181, and Executive Order No. 266, Series of 1995 are hereby repealed

-Shall take affect 15 days after publication to official Gazette or in 2 newspapers of general circulation

Presidential Decree No. 657

AMENDING SECTION FIVE (J) OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NUMBERED TWO HUNDRED AND TWENTY THREE,
CREATING THE PROFESSIONAL REGULATION COMMISSION AND PRESCRIBING ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS.

Section 1. - The Commission may, upon recommendation of the Board concerned, approve the registration of
and authorize the issuance of a certificate of registration with or without examination to a foreigner who is
registered under the laws of his country. If the requirements for registration and licensing in the foreign country
is the same as those required in the laws of the Philippines. Must provide evidence that the foreign country is
allowing Philippine citizens to practice in the said country. The foreigner may be allowed registration with or
without reciprocity in the foreign country if he/she is an outstanding expert in the profession.

Section 2.- All laws, decrees, orders, instructions, rules and regulations and parts thereof inconsistent herewith
are hereby repealed and modified accordingly.

Section 3. - This Decree shall take effect immediately.

Done in the City of Manila, this 19th day of February, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and seventy-five.

Republic Act No. 9288

AN ACT PROMULGATING A COMPREHENSIVE POLICY AND A NATIONAL SYSTEM FOR ENSURING NEWBORN
SCREENING

SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Newborn Screening Act of 2004."

SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. This comprehensive initiative fosters collaboration among diverse stakeholders to
ensure that every newborn has the opportunity for screening, preventing potential heritable conditions leading
to mental retardation and death if untreated.

SEC. 3. Objectives. - The objectives of the National Newborn Screening System are:

1) To ensure that every newborn has access to newborn screening for certain heritable conditions that can result
in mental retardation, serious health complications or death if left undetected and untreated;

2) To establish and integrate a sustainable newborn screening system within the public health delivery system;

3) To ensure that all health practitioners are aware of the advantages of newborn screening and of their
respective responsibilities in offering newborns the opportunity to undergo newborn screening; and

4) To ensure that parents recognize their responsibility in promoting their child's right to health and full
development, within the context of responsible parenthood, by protecting their child from preventable causes of
disability and death through newborn screening.

SEC. 4. Definitions. - Under this Act, the following terms shall have the meanings respectively given to them
below:

1) Comprehensive Newborn Screening System - newborn screening system that includes, but is not limited to,
education of relevant stakeholders; collection and biochemical screening of blood samples taken from
newborns; tracking and confirmatory testing to ensure the accuracy of screening results; clinical evaluation and
biochemical/medical confirmation of test results; drugs and medical/surgical management and dietary
supplementation to address the heritable conditions; and evaluation activities to assess long term outcome,
patient compliance and quality assurance.

2) Follow-up- the monitoring of a newborn with a heritable condition for the purpose of ensuring that the
newborn patient complies fully with the medicine of dietary prescriptions.
3) Health institutions - hospitals, health infirmaries, health centers, lying-in centers or puericulture centers with
obstetrical and pediatric services, whether public or private.

4) Healthcare practitioner -physicians, nurses, midwives, nursing aides and traditional birth attendants.

5) Heritable condition - any condition that can result in mental retardation, physical deformity or death if left
undetected and untreated and which is usually inherited from the genes of either or both biological parents of
the newborn.

6) NIH - the National Institute of Health

7) Newborn - a child from the time of complete delivery to 30 days old.

8) Newborn Screening - the process of collecting a few drops of blood from the newborn onto an appropriate
collection card and performing biochemical testing for determining if the newborn has a heritable condition.

9) Newborn Screening Center - a facility equipped with a newborn screening laboratory that complies with the
standards established by the NIH and provides all required laboratory tests and recall/follow-up programs for
newborns with heritable conditions.

10) Newborn Screening Reference Center - the central facility at the NIH that defines testing and follow-up
protocols, maintains an external laboratory proficiency testing program, oversees the national testing database
and case registries, assists in training activities in all aspects of the program, oversees content of educational
materials and acts as the Secretariat of the Advisory Committee on Newborn Screening.

11) Parent education - the various means of providing parents or legal guardians information about newborn
screening.

12) Recall - a procedure for locating a newborn with a possible heritable condition for purposes of providing the
newborn with appropriate laboratory to confirm the diagnosis and, as appropriate, provide treatment.

13) Treatment - the provision of prompt, appropriate and adequate medicine, medical, and surgical
management or dietary prescription to a newborn for purposes of treating or mitigating the adverse health
consequences of the heritable condition.

SEC. 5. Obligation to Inform. - Any health practitioner who delivers, or assists in the delivery, of a newborn in
the Philippines shall, prior to delivery, inform the parents or legal guardian of the newborn of the availability,
nature and benefits of newborn screening.

SEC. 6. Performance of Newborn Screening. - Newborn screening must be done after 24 hours of life and not
more than 3 days after delivery. Newborn placed in intensive care may be exempted in the 3-day requirement
but must be tested by 7 days of age.

SEC. 7. Refusal to be Tested. - a parent or legal guardian may refuse testing on the grounds of religious beliefs,
but shall acknowledge in writing their understanding that refusal for testing places their newborn at risk for
undiagnosed heritable conditions.

SEC. 8. Continuing Education, Re-education and Training Health Personnel. - The DOH, with the assistance of
the NIH and other government agencies, professional societies and non-government organizations, shall:

(i) conduct continuing information, education, re-education and training programs for health personnel on
the rationale, benefits, procedures of newborn screening;
(ii) disseminate information materials on newborn screening at least annually to all health personnel
involved in material and pediatric care.

SEC. 9. Licensing and Accreditation. - The DOH and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC) shall
require health institutions to provide newborn screening services as a condition for licensure or accreditation.

SEC. 10. Lead Agency. - The DOH shall be the lead agency in implementing this Act.

SEC. 11. Advisory Committee on Newborn Screening. The Committee is composed of 8 members Chairperson –
Secretary of health, Vice Chairperson – Executive Director of NIH, Undersecretary of DILG, Executive Director of
the Council for the Welfare of Children

SEC. 12. Establishment and Accreditation of Newborn Screening Centers. - Standards of Newborn Screening
Center:

▪ Have certified laboratory performing tests for newborn screening

▪ Have recall/follow up programs for newborns found positive of heritable conditions

▪ Supervised by personnel qualified by NIH

▪ Submit announced or unannounced inspections by Reference Center

SEC. 13. Establishment of a Newborn Screening Reference Center. - The NIH shall establish a Newborn
Screening Reference Center, which shall be responsible for the national testing database and case registries,
training, technical assistance and continuing education for laboratory staff in all Newborn Screening Centers.

SEC. 14. Quality Assurance. - The NIH Newborn Screening Reference Center shall be responsible for drafting and
ensuring good laboratory practice standards for newborn screening centers, including establishing an external
laboratory proficiency testing and certification program.

SEC. 15. Database. - All Newborn Screening Centers shall coordinate with the NIH Newborn Screening Reference
Center for consolidation of patient databases. The NIH Newborn Screening Reference Center shall maintain a
national database of patients tested and a registry for each condition. It shall submit reports annually to the
Committee and to the DOH on the status of and relevant health information derived from the database

SEC. 16. Newborn Screening Fees. -The cost of newborn screening shall be included in the PHIC’s benefit
package. Division of Newborn Screening Fee: 4% for DOH's Centers for Health Development, 4% for Newborn
Screening Centers, 4% for NIH Newborn Screening Reference Center.

SEC. 17. Repealing Clause. - All general and special laws, decrees, executive orders, proclamations and
administrative regulations, or any parts thereof, which are inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed or
modified accordingly.

SEC. 18. Separability. - If, for any reason or reasons, any party of provisions of this Act shall be declared or held
to be unconstitutional or invalid, other provision or provisions hereof which are not affected thereby shall
continue to be in full force and effect.

SEC. 19. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers
of general circulation.
 Republic Act No. 9165
AN ACT INSTITUTING THE COMPREHENSIVE DANGEROUS DRUGS ACT OF 2002, REPEALING REPUBLIC ACT NO.
6425, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE DANGEROUS DRUGS ACT OF 1972, AS AMENDED, PROVIDING FUNDS
THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

Article I: Definition of Terms

The act provides definitions for terms related to dangerous drugs, drug abuse, and related activities.

Article II: Unlawful Acts and Penalties

Importation of Dangerous Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals:

-Life imprisonment to death and a fine from P500,000 to P10,000,000 for importing any dangerous drug.

-Twelve to twenty years imprisonment and a fine from P100,000 to P500,000 for importing controlled precursors
and essential chemicals.

-Enhanced penalties for using diplomatic channels or organizing, managing, or financing illegal activities.

-Sale, Trading, Administration, Dispensation, Delivery, Distribution, and Transportation of Dangerous Drugs -
and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals:

-Life imprisonment to death and a fine from P500,000 to P10,000,000 for engaging in illegal transactions with
dangerous drugs.

-Twelve to twenty years imprisonment and a fine from P100,000 to P500,000 for transactions involving
controlled precursors and essential chemicals.

-Enhanced penalties for offenses near schools or involving minors or mentally incapacitated individuals.

-Maintenance of a Den, Dive or Resort:

-Life imprisonment to death and a fine from P500,000 to P10,000,000 for maintaining a place where dangerous
drugs are used or sold.

-Twelve to twenty years imprisonment and a fine from P100,000 to P500,000 for maintaining a place involving
controlled precursors and essential chemicals.

-Enhanced penalties if the offense occurs near a school or leads to a death.

-Employees and Visitors of a Den, Dive or Resort:

-Twelve to twenty years imprisonment and a fine from P100,000 to P500,000 for employees aware of illegal
activities.

-Twelve to twenty years imprisonment and a fine from P100,000 to P500,000 for individuals knowingly visiting
such places.
Manufacture of Dangerous Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals:

-Life imprisonment to death and a fine from P500,000 to P10,000,000 for engaging in illegal drug manufacturing.

-Twelve to twenty years imprisonment and a fine from P100,000 to P500,000 for manufacturing controlled
precursors and essential chemicals.

-Enhanced penalties for specific circumstances during manufacturing.

Illegal Chemical Diversion of Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals:

-Twelve to twenty years imprisonment and a fine from P100,000 to P500,000 for illegally diverting controlled
precursors and essential chemicals.

Manufacture or Delivery of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus, and Other Paraphernalia:

-Twelve to twenty years imprisonment and a fine from P100,000 to P500,000 for delivering or possessing items
intended for drug-related activities.

-Enhanced penalties for involving minors or mentally incapacitated individuals.

Possession of Dangerous Drugs:

-Life imprisonment to death and a fine from P500,000 to P10,000,000 for possessing specified quantities of
dangerous drugs.

Graduated penalties for lesser quantities.

Possession of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus, and Other Paraphernalia:

-Six months and one day to four years imprisonment and a fine from P10,000 to P50,000 for possessing items fit
for drug-related activities.

Prima facie evidence if possessing such items.

Possession of Dangerous Drugs During Parties, Social Gatherings or Meetings:

-Maximum penalties under Section 11 for possessing drugs during social events.

Possession of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus and Other Paraphernalia for Dangerous Drugs During Parties,
Social Gatherings or Meetings:

-Maximum penalties under Section 12 for possessing items during social events.

Use of Dangerous Drugs:

-Rehabilitation for a minimum of six months for the first offense.

-Six to twelve years imprisonment and a fine from P50,000 to P200,000 for the second offense, with exceptions.

Section 16 imposes the penalty of life imprisonment to death and a fine ranging from P500,000 to P10,000,000
for planting, cultivating, or cultivating marijuana, opium poppy, or other plants classified as dangerous drugs.
Exemptions are provided for medical laboratories and research centers under certain conditions. The land used
for cultivation can be confiscated and escheated to the State.
Section 17 penalizes the violation of maintaining original records of transactions on dangerous drugs, with
imprisonment ranging from one year and one day to six years and a fine of P10,000 to P50,000. Additional
penalties include revocation of professional or business licenses.

Sections 18 and 19 address the unlawful and unnecessary prescription of dangerous drugs, prescribing penalties
of imprisonment and fines. Section 20 mandates the confiscation and forfeiture of proceeds and properties
derived from illegal drug activities.

Section 21 outlines the custody and disposition of confiscated drugs and paraphernalia, including destruction in
the presence of the accused. Section 22 provides for compensation and rewards for information leading to
successful operations.

Sections 23 and 24 disallow plea-bargaining and probation for drug-related offenses. Section 25 considers drug
use as a qualifying aggravating circumstance. Section 26 penalizes attempts or conspiracies to commit drug-
related offenses.

Section 27 imposes severe penalties on public officers misappropriating or failing to account for confiscated
drugs. Section 28 increases penalties for government officials involved in drug offenses. Section 29 prescribes the
death penalty for planting evidence, and Section 30 holds officers of juridical entities criminally liable for drug
violations.

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Section 31 imposes deportation on aliens who violate drug-related provisions, in addition to other penalties.
Section 32 penalizes violations of regulations issued by the Board with imprisonment and fines. Section 33
grants immunity from prosecution to individuals providing information on drug offenses under certain
conditions.

Section 34 outlines the termination of immunity if the information is false or if the informant refuses to testify
without just cause. Access to the benefits under Article VIII of the Act is denied if the informant falls under the
conditions specified in Section 34.

Section 35 stipulates accessory penalties for a person convicted under the Act, including the suspension of civil
and political rights.

Article III focuses on dangerous drugs test and record requirements:

Section 36 mandates authorized drug testing for various groups, including applicants for driver's licenses,
firearm licenses, students, officers and employees of public and private offices, and candidates for public office.

Section 37 penalizes the issuance of false or fraudulent drug test results by authorized persons.

Section 38 requires laboratory examination or tests on apprehended offenders within 24 hours, subject to
confirmatory testing.

Section 39 outlines the accreditation of drug testing centers and physicians by the Department of Health (DOH).

Section 40 requires records for transactions on dangerous drugs and precursors and essential chemicals,
specifying the information to be recorded by pharmacists, physicians, and other entities.

Article IV addresses the participation of the family, students, teachers, and school authorities in enforcing the
Act:
Section 41 emphasizes the role of the family in educating and monitoring members on the ill effects of
dangerous drugs.

Section 42 involves student councils and campus organizations in preventing and deterring drug abuse.

Section 43 integrates drug abuse prevention and control in school curricula, outlining the content that must be
covered.

Section 44 designates school heads, supervisors, and teachers as persons in authority with the power to
apprehend or arrest violators within or near the school premises.

Section 45 mandates the publication and distribution of materials on dangerous drugs by education authorities
with the assistance of the Board.

Article V focuses on the establishment of Special Drug Education Centers for out-of-school youth and street
children, led by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the National Youth Commission
(NYC), and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). These centers aim to conduct drug
prevention programs and activities, educating young individuals about the harmful effects of drug abuse.

Article VI introduces the National Drug-Free Workplace Program, emphasizing a tripartite approach involving
private companies, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), labor, and employer organizations. Private
companies with ten or more employees are mandated to adopt drug abuse prevention programs in consultation
with relevant stakeholders.

Article VII involves the participation of the private and labor sectors in enforcing the Act. Labor organizations, in
collaboration with private sector partners, are encouraged to include joint programs and information campaigns
in their collective bargaining agreements. Government assistance, such as technical support from government
and law enforcement agencies, is made available for the implementation of these programs.

Article VIII focuses on the participation of local government units (LGUs). LGUs are required to allocate a
significant portion of their annual budgets to support the enforcement of the Act, with a priority on preventive or
educational programs and the rehabilitation or treatment of drug dependents.

Section 52 of Article VIII addresses the abatement of drug-related public nuisances, allowing local authorities to
declare places used for the unlawful sale or delivery of dangerous drugs as public nuisances, subject to specific
procedures.

Article VIII also covers the Program for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Drug Dependents:

Section 54 outlines the process for voluntary submission of a drug-dependent to confinement, treatment, and
rehabilitation.

Section 55 grants exemption from criminal liability to drug dependents under the voluntary submission program
who meet specified conditions.

Section 56 discusses temporary release from the center, after-care, and follow-up treatment under the
voluntary submission program.

Section 57 provides for probation and community service for drug dependents discharged as rehabilitated.

Section 58 addresses the filing of charges against a drug-dependent who is not rehabilitated under the voluntary
submission program.
Section 59 deals with escape and recommitment for confinement and rehabilitation under the voluntary
submission program.

Section 60 emphasizes the confidentiality of records under the voluntary submission program, except for
determining the number of times an individual voluntarily submitted or has been committed.

Section 61 provides for the compulsory confinement of a drug-dependent who refuses to apply under the
voluntary submission program. The Board or its authorized representative may file a petition for confinement in
a designated center, and a court hearing is conducted. If the court finds the person to be a drug-dependent, an
order for confinement is issued within 15 days of filing the petition.

Section 62 deals with the compulsory submission of a drug-dependent charged with an offense to treatment and
rehabilitation. If a person charged with an offense is found to be a drug-dependent, the prosecutor or court may
suspend proceedings and transmit the case to the Board. The Board may file a petition for commitment to a
center, and if the court finds the person to be a drug-dependent, they are committed for treatment and
rehabilitation.

Section 63 addresses the prescription of the offense charged against a drug-dependent under the compulsory
submission program. The period of prescription is suspended during the time the drug-dependent is under
confinement. The court may order temporary discharge with conditions for after-care and follow-up treatment.

Sections 64 and 65 discuss the confidentiality of records under the compulsory submission program. Records of
rehabilitated individuals are covered by confidentiality, while records of those not rehabilitated or those who
escaped may be forwarded to the court.

Sections 66 to 68 describe the suspension of sentence, privileges, and conditions for first-time minor offenders,
providing alternatives such as probation or community service in lieu of imprisonment.

Section 69 details the promulgation of sentence for a first-time minor offender, while Section 70 outlines
probation or community service and the deduction of time spent in a center from the imprisonment period.

Sections 71 to 73 address record-keeping, confidentiality violations, and the liability of a parent, spouse, or
guardian who refuses to cooperate.

Section 74 introduces cost-sharing in the treatment and rehabilitation of drug dependents, charging a
percentage of the cost to the family.

Section 75 focuses on treatment and rehabilitation centers, transferring operational responsibilities to the
Department of Health (DOH), encouraging private center establishment, and prioritizing funding for government
centers. The goal is to establish at least one drug rehabilitation center in each province, depending on the
availability of funds.

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Section 76 outlines the duties and responsibilities of the Department of Health (DOH) under the specified Act.
The key points are:

Overseeing Rehabilitation Programs: The DOH is tasked with monitoring and supervising drug rehabilitation,
intervention, after-care, and follow-up programs. It includes coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare
and Development (DSWD) and other agencies.

Licensing and Accreditation: The DOH is responsible for licensing, accrediting, establishing, and maintaining drug
test networks and laboratories. It is also involved in scientific research on drugs and drug control.
Private Centers Accreditation: The DOH is to encourage, assist, and accredit private centers, establishing rules to
ensure their competence and integrity.

Rule Formulation: The DOH is authorized to prescribe rules and regulations governing the establishment of drug
treatment and rehabilitation centers after conducting feasibility studies.

Closure Authority: The DOH has the power to order the closure of a center for treatment and rehabilitation if
found guilty of violating the Act.

Fees and Special Funds: The DOH can charge reasonable fees for services related to drug dependency
examinations, and the income generated forms part of special funds for implementing the Act.

Following this, Sections 77 to 89 discuss the establishment and responsibilities of the Dangerous Drugs Board,
the creation of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), their composition, powers, and functions.
Notably, the PDEA is designated as the implementing arm of the Board, responsible for law enforcement related
to dangerous drugs.

Section 85 introduces the PDEA Academy for the recruitment and training of PDEA agents and personnel.
Section 86 discusses the transfer, absorption, and integration of existing units into the PDEA.

Sections 87 and 88 address appropriations and the management of funds. Section 89 mandates auditing of the
accounts and expenses of the Board and PDEA.

Lastly, Section 90 establishes the jurisdiction, designating special courts and prosecutors to handle cases
involving violations of the Act. Preliminary investigations are required to be completed within specific time
frames, and the filing of information in court is promptly mandated when probable cause is established.

The provided text appears to be a legal document outlining various provisions related to dangerous drugs in the
Philippines. Below is a summary of the key points:

Article XI: Responsibility and Liability of Law Enforcement Agencies and Government Officials in Testifying:

Any member of law enforcement or government official who, without valid reason, fails to appear as a witness
for the prosecution in drug-related cases may face imprisonment of 12 to 20 years and a fine of at least
P500,000.

Immediate superiors failing to present the witness may be penalized with imprisonment and fines, as well as
perpetual absolute disqualification from public office.

Members of law enforcement or government employees involved in drug cases cannot be transferred during the
case's pendency unless there are compelling reasons, and such transfers must be promptly notified to the court.

Section 92: Delay and Bungling in the Prosecution of Drug Cases:

Government officers or employees responsible for prosecuting drug cases may face imprisonment from 12 years
to 20 years for causing unsuccessful prosecutions due to neglect, delay, or deliberate actions.

Section 93: Reclassification, Addition, or Removal of Drugs:

The Dangerous Drugs Board has the power to reclassify, add, or remove drugs from the list of dangerous drugs
based on various factors, including abuse potential, pharmacological effects, and public health risk.

The Board must consider international obligations and commitments.

Public hearings are required for reclassification, addition, or removal, and the effects of such actions are
outlined, including changes in criminal liability and automatic release for certain cases.

Article XII: Implementing Rules and Regulations (Section 94):

The Board, in consultation with various government agencies, is tasked with promulgating implementing rules
and regulations within 60 days.

Article XIII: Final Provisions:

A Congressional Oversight Committee on Dangerous Drugs is created, composed of members from the Senate
and the House of Representatives, to monitor and ensure the proper implementation of the Act.

The Oversight Committee has various functions, including setting guidelines, ensuring transparency, approving
budgets, and submitting reports to the President and Congress.

Funding and operational details for the Oversight Committee are specified.

The provisions of the Revised Penal Code do not apply to this Act except for minor offenders.

A separability clause is included, ensuring that if any section is declared invalid, the remainder of the Act remains
in force.

The Act repeals Republic Act No. 6425 and modifies other laws inconsistent with its provisions.

The Act takes effect 15 days after its publication in at least two national newspapers of general circulation.

PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 223

CREATING THE PROFESSIONAL REGULATION COMMISSION AND PRESCRIBING ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS

Section 1. Professional Regulation Commission. There is hereby created a three-man Commission to be known
as the Professional Regulation Commission

Section 2. Composition. • 1 full time commissioner; 2 full time associate commissioners ▪ Full time
commissioner: 9 years of service ▪ Full time associate commissioners: 1 for 6 years of service, 1 for 3 years of
service ▪ Must be at least 40 years of age, has knowledge about principles and methods of professional
regulation, and at least 5 years of managerial experience

Section 3 Exercise of powers and functions of the Commission.. The Commissioner, who shall be the Chairman
of the Commission, and the Associate Commissioners as members thereof shall, as a body, exercise general
administrative, executive and policy-making functions for the whole agency.

Section 4. Compensation. The Commissioner shall receive an annual compensation of forty-eight thousand
pesos (P48,000) with five hundred pesos (P500) commutable transportation and representation allowances and
the Associate Commissioners, thirty-six thousand pesos (P36,000) each with three hundred fifty pesos (P350)
commutable transportation and representation allowances.

Section 5. Powers of the Commission. The powers of the Commission are as follows:

• Implement policies

• Enter into contracts, make rules and issue orders

• Review and approve policies and rules

• Administer and conduct licensure examinations

• Maintain a register of authorized practitioners

• Have custody of the records of various Boards

• Determine and collect fees

• To appoint official to the provisions of the law

• Submit and recommend nominees for appointment of members from various Boards

• Approve registration or issue certificate of registration without prior examination

Section 6. Powers, functions and responsibilities of various Boards. The various Boards shall retain the
following powers, functions and responsibilities:

• Look for the condition affecting the practice of profession

• Investigate violations

• Delegate the hearing of investigation of administrative cases filed before them

• Promulgate decisions on administrative cases

• Subject to review by the Commission to approve registration without prior examination

• Suspend, revoke, and reissue certificates of registration

• Determine and prepare the contents of licensure examination

Section 7. Names of various Boards. The names of the various Boards shall be changed by the Commission by
deleting the word "Examiners."

Section 8. Transfer of personnel, funds, records, etc. The present office of the Boards of Examiners, its
personnel, funds, records, supplies, equipment, materials, furniture, and fixture are hereby transferred to the
Commission.

Section 9. Repealing clause. The provisions of Republic Act No. 546 are hereby repealed as well as those of other
pertinent laws inconsistent herewith.

Section 10. Effectivity. This Decree shall take effect immediately.