By Michelle Ducut
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) in Cordillera has called on the public to verify the licenses of professionals through its online verification system to ensure they are dealing with legitimate service providers.
Atty. Cresente Lumerez Jr., legal officer IV of the PRC-Cordillera, emphasized the importance of verifying credentials during a statement on Thursday. He revealed that in 2023, 28 individuals were convicted of falsification of public documents and illegal practice of their professions, including impersonating teachers, civil engineers, nurses, midwives, dentists, and certified public accountants.
The PRC’s online platform provides a convenient way to confirm the authenticity of licenses. “In the PRC website, there is a tab for verification, making it easier to identify whether a person is a fake or a legitimate professional,” Lumerez explained.
In addition to the convictions, 18 more cases against fake professionals are pending. Lumerez credited licensed professional associations for their active role in initiating complaints against fraudsters.
“We work hard to obtain a degree and later on to get a professional license. We should take care of our professions by not allowing persons to pose as professionals when they are not, especially since they can cause harm to others,” he stated.
The PRC continues to encourage vigilance to uphold the integrity of professions and protect the public from unqualified individuals.