Senator Win Gatchalian has raised serious concern over alleged leaks in Professional Regulation Commission licensure examinations, warning that the credibility of professional qualifications in the country could be undermined.
The issue was discussed during a Senate hearing after the Second Congressional Commission on Education reported that parts of the March 2023 Board Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers allegedly circulated online.
Gatchalian described the situation as “alarming,” stressing that “the whole point of licensure exams is to ensure we have doctors, engineers or teachers who are qualified.” He added, “Even though it’s an allegation, I’m very much concerned because we spend so much in regulating these professions and so much time in making laws,” pointing to the years of effort and resources invested in building standards for regulated professions.
The senator warned that if exam materials are compromised, unqualified individuals could pass and enter professions that directly affect public welfare. Licensure exams are meant to screen candidates before they are allowed to practice. Any breach, he said, threatens public trust in the system and raises questions about how exam materials are handled and secured.
Dr. Rosita Navarro, chair of the Career Progression and Specialization Program Credit Accumulation and Transfer System Committee for Professional Teachers, said the alleged leakage did not originate from inside the PRC. She explained that board members are placed under quarantine while exam questionnaires are being prepared to prevent unauthorized disclosures.
Gatchalian maintained that even if internal safeguards are in place, authorities must determine how the materials were allegedly shared. He called for closer review of procedures to ensure that licensure examinations remain secure and credible.
The matter remains under review as lawmakers and regulators examine possible reforms to prevent future breaches.
