TOS or Table of Specifications for BLEPP - Psychometricians for August 2023

Source - https://www.facebook.com/PAPIncorporated/photos/a.10150469570850388/10158618489250388/

PRC Psychometrician Primer

Psychometrics is a specialized field and there is a shortage of licensed psychometricians, more so now with regulatory laws, the push for educational accountability and the demand for quality assurance in testing programs.

There is a growing demand for Psychometricians in hospitals and mental health institutions as part of a multidisciplinary Psycho-diagnostic Team; in schools as part of the Testing, Admissions and/or Guidance team; and in business and industry as part of the HR Management team. Psychometricians are needed too in Psychological Test Centers, OFW clinics, in the military (PNP, AFP, PCG) and in various government agencies (DSWD, DOH, NCMH, DDB, NBI) and the Judiciary under the supervision of the Psychologists.

PRC Psychometrician PRIMER

Source -  http://prc.gov.ph/page.aspx?id=3067&page=0&maxrows=10

Mukha ng Kasiyahan sa 4th Joint Oath Taking Ceremonies

4th Joint Oath Taking Ceremonies Psychologists and Psychometricians
9 December 2014
PICC, CCP Complex, Pasay City


Mga iba't-ibang larawan ng kasiyahan ng mga nag-oath taking. Hindi na kailangan ang maraming sasabihin, panoorin na lang ang mga larawan. Meron pa po dito -

 https://www.flickr.com/photos/98033868@N06/sets/72157649672289882/

Psychometrician Registration without Examination - New Batch

CONGRATULATIONS!

New Batch of Psychometricians  who are now registered without examination as of 11 September 2013. Complying with the law, pursuant to Sec. 17, Article V of R.A. 10029 known as the "Philippine Psychology Act of 2009" and Sec 17, Rule V of Board Res. No. 03 Series of 2012, known as the "Implementing Rules and Regulations of R.A. No. 10029."


Source Links:

http://prc.gov.ph/uploaded/documents/BoardResolution22-Psychometrician-2013.pdf

https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B9L6cSSvjzAoTnk4cGNILVRZM0k/edit?usp=sharing

Psychometricians and Psychologists Online Application for Registration Without Examination

 

The grandfather clause of  RA 10029 or the Philippine Psychology Act of 2009 provides for exemption of examination as contained in the following sections of the said law:


Section 16. Registration Without Examination for Psychologists. - A person who possesses the qualifications required to take the examination for registration as a psychologist pursuant to the provisions of this Act may be registered without examination: Provided, That the applicant files with the Board within three (3) years after its creation an application for registration and issuance of certificate of registration and professional identification card by submitting credentials satisfactory to the Board that the applicant had, on or prior to the effectivity of this Act, fulfilled the requirements under either subparagraphs (a), (b) or (c) herein:

(a) Obtained a doctoral degree in psychology and had accumulated three (3) years of work experience in the practice of psychology;
(b) Obtained a master's degree in psychology and accumulated a minimum of five (5) years of work experience in the practice of psychology;
(c) Psychologists or employees who hold positions as psychologists presently employed in various government or private agencies, who have a bachelor's degree in psychology, accumulated a minimum of ten (10) years of work experience in the practice of psychology as a psychologist, and who have updated their professional education in various psychology-related functions.

Section 17. Registration Without Examination for Psychometricians. - A person who possesses the qualifications required to take the examination for registration as a psychometrician may be registered without examination:Provided, That the applicant files with the Board within three (3) years after its creation an application for registration and issuance of a certificate of registration and professional identification card by submitting credentials satisfactory to the Board that the applicant before the effectivity of this Act had obtained a bachelor's degree in psychology and had accumulated a minimum of two (2) years full time work experience in the practice of psychometrics.

The deadline for registration without examination is up until May 21, 2015. Below is the directive lifted from the website of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

(Note the original text contains info about Respiratory Therapists which we removed in order not to confuse and have a focus. Check the original link here - http://www.prc.gov.ph/online/applicationwithoutexam/ )

 

Online Application for Registration Without Examination

This facility is for the exclusive use of applicants for registration without examination and is available up to:

• May 21, 2015 - for Psychologists and Psychometricians

Please read carefully the entire instructions and information provided below so you will be guided properly on the procedures, requirements and timetables for registration without examination.

1. Before submitting an application for registration without examination, the applicant must:
   
   
   1. Decide what the application for registration without examination is for (whether for Psychologist or Psychometrician or both). Separate forms and payment will be required for each application.
      
   2. Determine whether applicant satisfies the qualification standards for Psychologist and Psychometrician. 
   3. Determine if applicant can satisfy all the documentary requirements within 15 days from the time of online application. The documentary requirements for Psychologist, Psychometrician, or Respiratory Therapist are provided hereunder:
      
      For Psychologist
      
      
      1. Original and Photocopy of Certificate of Live Birth in NSO Security Paper for Filipino citizens. In case of a foreign citizen, a copy of the law of the state or country which permits Filipino Psychologists to practice on the same basis as its subject or citizens, duly authenticated by the Philippine embassy or consulate therein.
      2. Original and photocopy of Marriage Certificate in NSO security paper (for married female only)
      3. Original and photocopy of Transcript of Records with scanned picture and with the Special Order Number indicated (for both undergraduate and graduate degrees). Where school is exempted from the issuance of an SO, a certificate of authentication and validation (CAV) must be secured from CHED.
      4. For those who do not have a master's degree, a certified true copy of of at least 100 hours of updating seminars and workshops attended from June 2005 to June 2010 must be presented/submitted
      5. Original Certificates of Practice/Work Experience(s):
         
         1. Certificate of Employment from immediate superior duly noted by either the HR Manager or Employer specifying the position title, nature of work and specific period of employment duly sworn in by the issuing authorities. Official Job Description signed by the HR Manager must be attached, and for government employees, the official service record specifying the position item must also be submitted.
         2. For those who are self-employed, applicant must submit the following:
            
            1. Certificate of private practice from colleagues, professional partners and/or institutional clients, specifying the nature of work/services rendered and the duration thereof, duly sworn in and notarized under oath
            2. Work contract(s), if any, and/or sworn in statement of the practitioner specifying the nature, scope and duration of project engagement or services rendered, and the regularity of service-delivery with the undertaking that documentary evidence will be produced when required by the Board
            3. Business permit and DTI registration
      6. Three (3) Original Certificates of Good Moral Character from any of the following: school, employer, church, and/or Barangay Captain duly signed by issuing authority and notarized under oath
      7. Original Certificate of Mental Health or Mental Fitness from a Psychiatrist or from a Registered/Certified Clinical Psychologist, duly signed and notarized under oath
      8. Original and photocopy of valid NBI Clearance plus Ombudsman clearance for government employees
      9. Two (2) colored passport-size picture with white background and complete name tag
      10. Photocopy of Community Tax Certificate
      
      For Psychometrician
      
      
      1. Original and Photocopy of Certificate of Live Birth in NSO security paper for Filipino citizens. In case of a foreign citizen, a copy of the law of the state or country which permits Filipino Psychometricians to practice on the same basis as its subject or citizens, duly authenticated by the Philippine embassy or consulate therein.
      2. Original and photocopy of Marriage Certificate in NSO security paper (for married female only)
      3. Original and photocopy of Transcript of Records for Bachelor's Degree in Psychology (AB/BS) with scanned picture. Special Order Number must be indicated. Where school is exempted from the issuance of an SO, a certificate of authentication and validation (CAV) must be secured from CHED.
      4. Original certificate of full-time work experience as a Psychometrician or full time work engagement in the practice of psychometrics for a minimum of 2 years, either from immediate superior (if employed) or from institutional clients, professional partners/colleagues (if on private practice), specifying the nature of work, duly sworn in and notarized under oath. Official job description must be attached.
      5. Original and photocopy of valid NBI Clearance; plus Clearance from the Ombudsman for those in government service.
      6. Three (3) original Certificates of Good Moral Character, from any of the following: school/former professor, employer, church, and/or Barangay Captain duly signed by issuing authority and notarized under oath
      7. Two (2) colored passport-size pictures with white background and complete name tag
      8. Photocopy of Community Tax Certificate
      
      
      NOTE: For applicants working abroad, the required documents must be certified by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office near the place of work.
      
   
   
2. As soon as applicant has ascertained (1) which registration without examination to apply for (as Psychologist, Psychometrician or both); (2) that he/she satisfies the qualification requirements; and (3) can satisfy all the documentary requirements within the time stated, the applicant is ready to proceed to submit his/her application online.
   
   
3. After receiving an acknowledgement through applicant's email that the application for registration without examination has been submitted successfully together with an order form for payment, applicant must follow the steps hereunder:
   
   
   1. On the assigned date, applicant must go to the Customer Service Center of the nearest PRC office and secure one (1) P15 metered documentary stamp. Affix the documentary stamp on the space provided in the application form, sign it and indicate the date when the application form was accomplished. Applicant can then proceed to the cashier's window for the payment of the application/processing fee (P900.00 for each application to be processed).
      
      
   2. Submit a copy of the official receipt (OR) evidencing payment together with the duly accomplished application form and documents to:
      
      
      • For Psychologist and Psychometrician - Window 12, Application Division at the Ground Floor of PRC Main Building
      • PRC Regional Offices
      
      Submit all required documents in a clear book with the confirmation number and official notice of submission from the PRB on the first page, a table of contents on the second, the printed application form on the third page, and the rest of the documents in subsequent pages arranged according to the list provided.
      
      The application processor will conduct an initial screening of the application documents and should inform the applicant of any deficiency at this time. Applicant should receive a claim stub after initial screening is done.
      
      
   3. After receipt by PRC of applicant's documents, he/she should wait for official notification from PRC through his/her email account. Applicant is also advised to check the PRC website regularly to check whether the application has been approved or call tel. no. 3101018 to inquire about the status of application.      

For more information go to this link - http://www.prc.gov.ph/online/applicationwithoutexam/

Message from the PAP President Maria Regina M. Hechanova

Below is a posting from FB, a message of PAP President Ms. Maria Regina M. Hechanova. Ms. Hechanova also blogs at - http://ginahechanova.weebly.com/blog.html on I/O Psychology and other personal stuff.

(Image source - http://ginahechanova.weebly.com/uploads/3/3/7/3/337323/7960100.jpg)

Message from the PAP President

July 26, 2013 at 12:02am

July 25, 2013

Dear PAP Members,

For almost three decades the PAP worked on a Psychology Law to protect the public and to allow psychologists to practice their profession amidst other licensed mental health professionals. The Philippine Psychology Act was signed into law in 2009 and our gratitude go to all those who were part of the efforts at getting the law passed. Last Friday July 19, 2013 was the induction of the first batch of psychologists and psychometricians who were granted licensure without examination. Our congratulations go to all 400 oath-takers! We would like to thank our Professional Regulatory Board (PRB) Dr. Miriam Cue and Dr. Emy Villar for making this event special. We wish to remind the rest of the PAP community that application for licensure without examination is only until May 21, 2015. According to the PRB, the examination for licensure will be done before the year ends.

PAP will be applying to be the Accredited Integrated Professional Organization (AIPO) to assist the PRB in implementing the Psychology Law. Yet as we are finding out, our law has its challenges and we are trying to navigate through these as best as we can. The Professional Regulatory Commission requires that all new officers of the AIPO are licensed. Thus our biggest challenge is balancing QUALITY, INCLUSION, and GROWTH - not just for those covered in the law but for the entire Psychology community in the country. The Board is currently exploring various options to ensure representation of the many specializations in Psychology and to prevent the marginalization of those whose practice is not covered by the law. We will also be asking the division officers not covered in the law to consult its members whether its practice areas should be regulated. Once we have done this, we will be reviewing the PAP constitution, certification and membership policies and processes to align these with the directions we set.

On October 23-26, 2013 we are holding our first joint international conference with the Asean Regional union of Psychological Societies (ARUPS). We would like to thank Dr. Allan Bernardo and Dr. Chee Leong Goh, Dr. Caring Tarroja, Dr. Mira Ofreneo, Mr. Jay Yacat, Dr. Ronnie Motilla, Dr. Sean Mansukhani who are part of the organization committee and committee chairs Dr Boboy Alianan, Dr. Ola Regala, Dr Paz Manaligod, Dr. Marge Alvarez, Dr. Grace Dalisay, Dr. Claudette Agnes, and Dr. Delia Belleza who are working very hard to make the upcoming conference a success. We are excited because we will have lined up both local and international speakers, presenters and workshop facilitators. On the first day of the conference, we will also be having free learning sessions on various topics. We will be opening up conference registration by August 1 so we hope you will join in yet another milestone!

Even as we are preparing for the PAP ARUPS conference, we are also beginning to prepare for PAPJA to be held on Jan 17 and 18, 2014 under the leadership of Mr. Hector Perez. Please inform your students to save the date!

Finally in terms of outreach and advocacy, the Psychology for Philippine Education program is underway with the pilot schools beginning their work with public schools. We will also be continuing to partner with Interaksyon for an advice column to make psychology more accessible to the public.

We thank you for your support and ask for your continuing involvement as we continue to build our discipline, organization and nation. We hope to see you all in October!

Cheers,

Maria Regina M. Hechanova

PAP President

(source -  https://www.facebook.com/notes/psychological-association-of-the-philippines/message-from-the-pap-president/610218392344696)

Some Reflections on RA 10029 and its IRR

(Image source -http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTInCJLgMNnGg9PIzKtU06eZ4wdFKpSbFKF2AYWFdskDad3Y5afgQ)

With RA 10029 or Philippine Psychology Act of 2009, the law now provides a legal definition and distinction of a psychologist from a psychometrician. Also, the law allowed several people to be exempted  from taking the exam through its grandfather clause. So they are now licensed Psychologist and Psychometrician without undergoing the licensure exam.

I hope that a provision should also be provided that licensed psychometricians without having to take their MA in Psychology but through their experience and units taken from continuing education could pass for an equivalency so they may be allowed to take the licensure exam for Psychology. And if ever they failed only then that they should take units in Psychology to be allowed  to retake the exam.

The law identified the particular subjects that will covered in the licensure exam. Some universities are now scrambling with the upcoming exam since they did not offer Industrial Psychology. Perhaps if there are areas of specialization in the exam then some examinees won't have to worry subjects they were not able to cover in college.

In my observation of the law,  psychometrician plays a secondary role to the psychologist.  When giving psychological assessment a psychometrician should be supervised by a psychologist. The  greater responsibility is relegated to that of the psychologist who should review very well the output of the psychometrician. Any blunder by the psychometrician will be blamed to the psychologist who serves as signatory a psychometrician's report.

I believe that the new law created a better work opportunity for Psych graduates. Unless  otherwise they have other plans with their course, now they can aim and pursue becoming a full pledge and  licensed Psychologist. Just additional 2 year for an MA in Psychology and with the required  number of hours of practice  they can be entitled to take the board exam for Psychologist instead of Psychometrician. Authority-wise, the Psychologist have more authority that that of Psychometrician.  But if ever they flunk they could always try and take the Psychometrician board en-route to another examination and level-up to get licensed as a Psychologist.

I am just wondering what the would be the implication of this new law to schools and organizations that have been administering tests with their in-house guidance counselors and psychometricians. With the new law their practice of not having licensed Psychometrician and Psychologist could be penalized.

With regards to the licensure exam of psychometrician, the law states "...excluding projective tests and other higher level forms of psychological tests;"  I hope that such test will not be appearing in the licensure exam for psychometrician since they are now excluded in administering projective tests  although it was part of their course and training to be exposed in those kind of tests.

So with the licensure exam for psychometrician and psychologist, school curriculum should also be overhauled and aligned with the intent of the new law to give better advantage to graduates of psychology.

Perhaps with the license given to psychometrician they could also be given opportunity to work as teacher covering the subjects of their licensure exam. Perhaps in the revision of school curriculum more subjects in education/teaching and counselling could be offered as a possible track for psychology graduates.

And it should also be the same for those who would take on the track of  Industrial and Organizational Psychology. There should be a provision for students to take more units in Management or Business Administration should they want to pursue a career in an organizational set-up.

But definitely continuing education should always be encouraged for all licensed psychometrician and psychologist as well as to those who are not yet licensed.

To have a better distinction of the exam between Psychologist and Psychometrician, below is my proposition of subject coverage: 

a) Psychometrician - subject includes General Psychology, Psychological Assessment,  Social Psychology, Child/Developmental Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology,  Guidance and Counselling, Educational/Learning Psychology

b) Psychology - subject includes Theories of Personalities, Abnormal Psychology, Psychotherapy, Projective Techniques, Guidance and Counselling, Psychological Research, Psychological Assessment

Below are some comparison of terms/definitions and  responsibilities of a psychologist from that of a psychometrician. Note that the IRR expounded  on the section on the practice of Psychology.

Republic Act  10029	Implementing Rules and Regulations  of  RA 10029
(a) "Psychology" is the scientific study of human behavior. It involves the application of scientific methods to inquire into the biological, cognitive, affective, developmental, personality, social, cultural and individual difference dimensions of human behavior.	(a) "Psychology" is the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. It involves the application of scientific methods to inquire into the biological, cognitive, affective, developmental, personality, social, cultural and individual difference dimensions of human behavior.
(b) "Practice of Psychology" consists of the delivery of psychological services that involve application of psychological principles and procedures for the purpose of describing, understanding, predicting and influencing the behavior of individuals or groups, in order to assist in the attainment of optimal human growth and functioning. The delivery of psychological services includes, but is not limited to: (1) psychological interventions: psychological counseling, psychotherapy, psychosocial support, coaching, psychological debriefing, group processes and all other psychological interventions that involve the application of psychological principles to improve psychological functioning of individuals, families, groups and organizations; (2) psychological assessment: gathering and integration of psychology-related data for the purpose of making a psychological evaluation, accomplished through a variety of tools, including individual tests, projective tests, clinical interview and other psychological assessment tools, for the purpose of assessing diverse psychological functions including cognitive abilities, aptitudes, personality characteristics, attitudes, values, interests, emotions and motivations, among others, in support of psychological counseling, psychotherapy and other psychological interventions; and (3) psychological programs: development, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of psychological treatment for individuals and/or groups.	(b) "Practice of Psychology" consists of the delivery of psychological services that involve application of psychological principles and procedures for the purpose of describing, understanding, predicting and influencing the behavior of individuals or groups, in order to assist in the attainment of optimal human growth and functioning. The delivery of psychological services includes, but is not limited to: (1) psychological interventions: psychological counseling, psychotherapy, psychosocial support, coaching, psychological debriefing, group processes and all other psychological interventions that involve the application of psychological principles to improve psychological functioning of individuals, families, groups and organizations; (2) psychological assessment: gathering and integration of psychology-related data for the purpose of: a) making a psychological evaluation, accomplished through a variety of tools, including individual tests, projective tests, clinical interview and other psychological assessment tools, or b) assessing diverse psychological functions including cognitive abilities, aptitudes, personality characteristics, attitudes, values, interests, emotions and motivations, among others, in support of psychological counseling, psychotherapy and other psychological interventions; and (3) psychological programs: development, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of psychological treatment for individuals and/or groups. The term "other psychological interventions" shall be deemed to include: a) preventive and therapeutic measures like play and expressive arts therapy, music therapy and trauma healing; as well as correctional, rehabilitative and behavioral modificaion measures; b) consultation, that is, providing extensive knowledge, specialized technical assistance and expertise in an advisory capacity to consultees in regard to mental and behavioral concerns, emotional distress, personality disorders and other neuropsychological dysfuntions. "Psychological evaluation" shall include the making of diagnostic intepretations, reports, and recommendations  a) as part of a case study; or b) in support of diagnostic screening, placement, management decisions, psychiatric evaluation, legal action, psychological counseling, psychotherapy or change intervention.  "Assessing diverse psychological functions" shall include the development, standardization, and publication of psychological tests which measure adjustment and psychopathology; and/or the creation of assessment tools primarily for psycho-diagnostic purposes.         The term "other psychological intervention programs" shall include: a) addiction rehabilitation and treatment programs, behavioral management and intervention programs in correctional facilities, psychological training programs which involve inner processing, and mental health programs in disaster and emergency situations, either for individuals and/or communities; b) clinical  supervision: the direction, guidance, mentoring, and cliniquing of psychology practitioners and interns, psychometricians, and other trainees for psychology-related work to meet the standards of quality and excellence in professional practice.
(c) "Psychologist" means a natural person who is duly registered and holds a valid certificate of registration and a valid professional identification card as professional psychologist, issued by the Professional Regulatory Board of Psychology and the Professional Regulation Commission pursuant to this Act for the purpose of delivering the different psychological services defined in this Act.	(c) "Psychologist" a natural person who is duly registered and holds a valid Certificate of Registration and a valid Professional Identification Card as Professional Psychologist, issued by the Professional Regulatory Board  and the  Commission pursuant to Section 3(c) of R.A. 10029  for the purpose of delivering the different psychological services defined under this IRR.
(d) "Psychometrician" means a natural person who holds a valid certificate of registration and a valid professional identification card as psychometrician issued by the Professional Regulatory Board of Psychology and the Professional Regulation Commission pursuant to this Act. As such, he/she shall be authorized to do any of the following: Provided, That such shall at all times be conducted under the supervision of a licensed professional psychologist: (1) administering and scoring of objective personality tests, structured personality tests, excluding projective tests and other higher level forms of psychological tests; (2) interpreting results of the same and preparing a written report on these results; and (3) conducting preparatory intake interviews of clients for psychological invention sessions.	(d) "Psychometrician" a natural person who has been registered and issued a valid Certificate of Registration and a valid Professional Identification Card as psychometrician by the Board  and the Commission in accordance with Sec. 3(d), Article III of R.A. 10029 and is authorized to do any of the following activities:  (1) administering and scoring of objective personality tests, structured personality tests, excluding projective tests and other higher level forms of psychological tests;  (2) interpreting results of the same and preparing a written report on these results; and  (3) conducting preparatory intake interviews of clients for psychological invention sessions. Provided, that these activities shall at all times be conducted under the supervision of a licensed professional psychologist. All the assessment reports prepared and done by the psychometrician shall always bear the signature of the supervising psychologist who shall take full responsibility for the integrity of the report.

RA 10029 or the Philippine Psychology Act of 2009

Republic of the Philippines
CONGRESS OF THE PHILIPPINES
Metro Manila

Fourteenth Congress
Third Regular Session

Begun and held in Metro Manila, on Monday, the twenty-seventh day of July, two thousand nine.

REPUBLIC ACT No. 10029

AN ACT TO REGULATE THE PRACTICE OF PSYCHOLOGY CREATING FOR THIS PURPOSE A PROFESSIONAL REGULATORY BOARD OF PSYCHOLOGY, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled:

ARTICLE I
 

TITLE

Section 1. Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Philippine Psychology Act of 2009".

ARTICLE II
STATEMENT OF POLICY

Section 2. Statement of Policy. - The State recognizes that psychologists have an important role in nation-building and development. It also acknowledges the diverse specializations of psychologists and the diverse functions specific to the varied specializations. It particular, it recognizes the significance of the psychological services that practicing psychologists provide to diverse types of clients, but also recognizes the need to protect the public by preventing inexperienced or untrained individuals from offering psychological services. Hence, it shall nurture competent, upright and assiduous psychologists whose standards of practice and service shall be excellent and globally competitive through the administration of inviolable, effective and credible licensure examinations and the imposition and promotion of regulatory measures, programs and activities that enhance their professional growth and well-being.

ARTICLE III
DEFINITION OF TERMS

Section 3. Definition of Terms. - As used in this Act, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

(a) "Psychology" is the scientific study of human behavior. It involves the application of scientific methods to inquire into the biological, cognitive, affective, developmental, personality, social, cultural and individual difference dimensions of human behavior.

(b) "Practice of Psychology" consists of the delivery of psychological services that involve application of psychological principles and procedures for the purpose of describing, understanding, predicting and influencing the behavior of individuals or groups, in order to assist in the attainment of optimal human growth and functioning. The delivery of psychological services includes, but is not limited to: (1) psychological interventions: psychological counseling, psychotherapy, psychosocial support, coaching, psychological debriefing, group processes and all other psychological interventions that involve the application of psychological principles to improve psychological functioning of individuals, families, groups and organizations; (2) psychological assessment: gathering and integration of psychology-related data for the purpose of making a psychological evaluation, accomplished through a variety of tools, including individual tests, projective tests, clinical interview and other psychological assessment tools, for the purpose of assessing diverse psychological functions including cognitive abilities, aptitudes, personality characteristics, attitudes, values, interests, emotions and motivations, among others, in support of psychological counseling, psychotherapy and other psychological interventions; and (3) psychological programs: development, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of psychological treatment for individuals and/or groups.

(c) "Psychologist" means a natural person who is duly registered and holds a valid certificate of registration and a valid professional identification card as professional psychologist, issued by the Professional Regulatory Board of Psychology and the Professional Regulation Commission pursuant to this Act for the purpose of delivering the different psychological services defined in this Act.

(d) "Psychometrician" means a natural person who holds a valid certificate of registration and a valid professional identification card as psychometrician issued by the Professional Regulatory Board of Psychology and the Professional Regulation Commission pursuant to this Act. As such, he/she shall be authorized to do any of the following: Provided, That such shall at all times be conducted under the supervision of a licensed professional psychologist: (1) administering and scoring of objective personality tests, structured personality tests, excluding projective tests and other higher level forms of psychological tests; (2) interpreting results of the same and preparing a written report on these results; and (3) conducting preparatory intake interviews of clients for psychological invention sessions.

ARTICLE IV
PROFESSIONAL REGULATORY BOARD OF PSYCHOLOGY

Section 4. Creation and Composition of the Professional Regulatory Board of Psychology. - There is hereby created a Professional Regulatory Board of Psychology, hereinafter called the Board, a collegial body under the administrative control and supervision of the Professional Regulation Commission, hereinafter referred to as the Commission, which shall be composed of a Chairperson and two (2) members appointed by the President of the Philippines from a list of three (3) nominees for each position. The list of nominees shall be submitted to the Commission by the integrated and accredited national organization of psychologists. The Board shall be organized not later than sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this Act.

Section 5. Qualification of the Chairperson and the Members of the Professional Regulatory Board of Psychology. - The Chairperson and members of the Board shall, at the time of their appointment and for the course of their term, possess the following qualifications:

(a) A natural born citizen and resident of the Philippines;

(b) At least thirty-five (35) years of age;

(c) Possess good moral character;

(d) Hold a doctorate degree in psychology conferred by a university, college or school in the Philippines or board duly recognized and/or accredited by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED);

(e) Have at least ten (10) years of practice in psychology and psychometrics in a duly recognized institution, clinic or center, as well as at least (5) years of teaching experience in the field of psychology;

(f) Be a registered and licensed psychologists, except in the case of the first members of the Board who shall automatically be conferred a valid certificate of registration and a valid professional identification card in psychology and psychometrics upon appointment to the Board;

(g) Is neither an officer, trustee nor member of the faculty of any university, college, institute or school where a regular course in psychology is offered or taught or review classes conducted and shall not have any pecuniary interest, direct or indirect, in any such institution;

(h) Is not an officer, nor hold any position other than being a member of the integrated and accredited national organization of psychologists; and

(i) Shall not have been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude.

Section 6. Term of Office. - The members of the Board shall hold office for a term of three

(3) years or until their successors shall have been appointed and duly qualified. Each member of the Board may be reappointed for one (1) full term of three (3) years. The first members of the Board shall hold office for the following terms: the Chairperson for three (3) years; one (10 member for two (2) years; and the other member for one (1) year, which shall be specified in their respective appointments. Any vacancy occurring within the term of a member shall be filled for the unexpired portion of the term only. Each member of the Board shall qualify by taking the proper oath prior to the performance of his/her duties.

Section 7. Powers and Duties. - The Board shall have the following powers and duties:

(a) Administer and implement the provisions of this Act and promulgate as well as revise or update, as necessary, rules and regulations, resolutions and guidelines hereto: Provided, That the policies, resolutions, rules and regulations issued or promulgated by the Board shall be subject to review and approval of the Commission;

(b) Supervise and monitor the registration, licensure and practice of psychologists and Psychometricians in the Philippines;

(c) Administer oaths in connection with the administration of this Act;

(d) Issue, and upon compliance with due process requirements, suspend or revoke, and/or reinstate, the certificate of registration and professional identification card for psychologists and psychometricians;

(e) Adopt an official seal of the Board;

(f) Monitor the conditions and circumstances affecting the practice of psychology and psychometrics in the Philippines and adopt such measures as may be deemed lawful and proper for the enhancement and maintenance of high professional, ethical and technical standards of the profession;

(g) Issue permits to and exercise visitorial powers over agencies, institutions, associations and partnerships to verify that the persons practicing psychology and psychometrics therein are psychologists and psychometricians with valid certificates of registration and valid professional identification cards, and that they possess the necessary accreditation, skills and/or facilities to competently carry out their functions;

(h) Assist the Commission in the formulation and implementation of the guidelines on continuing professional education for psychologists and psychometricians;

(i) Ensure, in coordination with the CHED, that all educational institutions offering the course/program of psychology strictly comply with the policies, standards and requirements prescribed by the CHED for such course/program, especially in the areas of administration, curriculum, faculty, library and facilities;

(j) Prepare, adopt, issue and amend, in consultation with the CHED, syllabi for the licensure examination subjects;

(k) Investigate and, when warranted, her administrative cases involving violations of this Act, its implementing rules and regulations as hereinafter promulgated, and any applicable code of ethics and/or code of professional standards. For this purpose, it may issue subpoena testificandum and subpoena duces tecum to secure the appearances of witnesses and the production of documents in connection therewith: Provided, That the Board's decision, resolution or orders rendered in administrative cases shall be subject to review only on appeal; and

(l) Perform such other functions and duties as may be lawfully delegated to it, or as it may deem necessary to carry out the objectives of this Act.

Section 8. Compensation and Allowances. - The Chairperson and members of the Board shall receive the same compensation and allowances as those received by the Chairperson and members of the existing regulatory boards under the Commission, as provided in the charter of the Commission and in the General Appropriations Act.

Section 9. Removal or Suspension of Members of the Professional Regulatory Board of Psychology. - Any member of the Board may, upon the recommendation of the Commission, upon observance of due process and completion of the proper investigation, be suspended or removed by the President from office for cause, such as gross neglect of duty, incompetence, malpractice, behavior unbecoming of a psychology professional, immorality, unethical or dishonorable conduct, final conviction of any crime involving moral turpitude, any act of grant and corruption, and participation in the manipulation of or any dishonesty relative to the licensure examinations and/or the registration process.

Section 10. Administrative Supervision over the Board, Custodian of its Records, Secretariat and Support Services. - The Board shall be under the administrative supervision and control of the Commission. All records of the Board, including documents relative to the licensure examinations as well as administrative and other investigative cases conducted by the Board, shall be kept in the custody of the Commission. The Commission shall designate the Secretary of the Board and shall provide the secretariat with necessary support services to effectivity implement the provisions of this Act.

ARTICLE V
LICENSURE EXAMINATIONS

Section 11. Examinations Required. - All applicants for registration to practice psychology and psychometrics shall be required to pass a licensure examination for psychologists and psychometricians to be conducted by the Board in such places and dates, and subject to such requirements prescribed by the Commission.

Section 12. Qualifications of Applicants for the Licensure Examination for Psychologists. - Any person may apply to take examination for registration and licensure as a psychologist after furnishing evidence satisfactory to the Board that the applicant:

(a) Is a Filipino citizen, a permanent resident or a citizen of a foreign state/country which extends reciprocity to the Philippines relative to the practice of the profession;

(b) Holds at least a master's degree in psychology conferred by a university, college or school in the Philippines or abroad recognized/accredited by the CHED and has obtained sufficient credits for the subjects covered in the examinations;

(c) Has undergone a minimum of two hundred (200) hours of supervised practicum/internship/clinical experience related to services enumerated in paragraph (b) of Section 3 of this Act and under the auspices of a licensed psychologist or other licensed mental health professional;

(d) Is of good moral character; and

(e) Has not been convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude.

Section 13. Qualifications of Applicants for the Licensure Examination for Psychometricians. - Any person may apply to take the examination for registration and licensure as a psychometrician by furnishing evidence satisfactory to the Board that the applicant:

(a) Is a Filipino citizen, a permanent resident or a citizen of a foreign state/country which extends reciprocity to the Philippines relative to the practice of the profession;

(b) Holds at least a bachelor's degree in psychology conferred by a university, college or school in the Philippines or abroad recognized/accredited by the CHED and has obtained sufficient credits for the subjects covered in the examinations;

(c) Is of good moral character; and

(d) Has not been convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude.

Section 14. Examination Subjects for Psychologists. - The licensure examination for psychologists shall cover the following subjects:

(a) Advanced Theories of Personality;

(b) Advanced Abnormal Psychology;

(c) Advanced Psychological Assessment; and

(d) Psychological Counseling and Psychotherapy.

Section 15. Examination Subjects for Psychometricians. - The licensure examinations for psychometricians shall cover the following subjects:

(a) Theories of Personality;

(b) Abnormal Psychology;

(c) Industrial Psychology; and

(d) Psychological Assessment.

The Board may recluster, rearrange, modify, add or exclude and prescribed subjects for psychologists and psychometricians as the need arises.

Section 16. Registration Without Examination for Psychologists. - A person who possesses the qualifications required to take the examination for registration as a psychologist pursuant to the provisions of this Act may be registered without examination: Provided, That the applicant files with the Board within three (3) years after its creation an application for registration and issuance of certificate of registration and professional identification card by submitting credentials satisfactory to the Board that the applicant had, on or prior to the effectivity of this Act, fulfilled the requirements under either subparagraphs (a), (b) or (c) herein:

(a) Obtained a doctoral degree in psychology and had accumulated three (3) years of work experience in the practice of psychology;

(b) Obtained a master's degree in psychology and accumulated a minimum of five (5) years of work experience in the practice of psychology;

(c) Psychologists or employees who hold positions as psychologists presently employed in various government or private agencies, who have a bachelor's degree in psychology, accumulated a minimum of ten (10) years of work experience in the practice of psychology as a psychologist, and who have updated their professional education in various psychology-related functions.

Section 17. Registration Without Examination for Psychometricians. - A person who possesses the qualifications required to take the examination for registration as a psychometrician may be registered without examination: Provided, That the applicant files with the Board within three (3) years after its creation an application for registration and issuance of a certificate of registration and professional identification card by submitting credentials satisfactory to the Board that the applicant before the effectivity of this Act had obtained a bachelor's degree in psychology and had accumulated a minimum of two (2) years full time work experience in the practice of psychometrics.

Section 18. Ratings in the Examination. - To be qualified as having passed the licensure examination for psychologists and psychometricians, a candidate must have obtained a weighted general average of at least seventy-five percent (75%) for all subjects, with no grade lower than sixty percent (60%) in any given subject. An examine who obtains a weighted general average of seventy-five percent (75%) or higher but obtains a rating below sixty percent (60%) in any given subject may retake such subjects within the next two (2) years, and upon obtaining a rating of at least seventy-five percent (75%) in each such subject, shall then be deemed to have passed the licensure examination.

Section 19. Report of Ratings. - The Board shall submit to the Commission an official report detailing the ratings obtained by each examine within ten (10) calendar days after the examination, unless such period is extended for just cause.

ARTICLE VI
REGISTRATION

Section 20. Oath of Psychologists and Psychometricians. - All successful examines qualified for registration and all qualified applicants for registration without examination shall be required to take an oath to uphold the profession before any member of the Board or any officer of the Commission authorized to administer oaths, prior to entering into the practice of psychology or psychometrics in the Philippines.

Section 21. Issuance of Certificate of Registration and Professional Identification Card. - A certificate of registration and professional identification card shall be issued to all successful examines and registrants without examination upon compliance with all the legal requirements, including payment of fees, prescribed by the Commission. The certificate of registration shall bear the signature of the Chairperson of the Commission and members of the Board, indicating that the person named therein is entitled to practice the profession with all the privileges and concomitant responsibilities appurtenant thereto. The said certificate shall remain in full force and effect until suspended in accordance with this Act. A professional identification card bearing the registration number, date of issuance and validity term of three (3) years, duly signed by the Chairperson of the Commission, shall likewise be issued to every registrant who has paid the prescribed registration fee. Upon expiration of the professional identification card, the psychologist and psychometrician may renew the same upon proof of compliance with continuing education requirements prescribed by the Board and/or the Commission.

Section 22. Disclosure of Registration Information. - The psychologist or psychomitrician shall be required to indicate his/her registration and professional identification card number and date of issuance, the duration of validity, including the professional tax receipt number on each document signed, used or issued in connection with the practice of his/her profession.

Section 23. Non-issuance of Certificate of Registration and Professional Identification Card. - The Board shall not register nor issue a certificate of registration or professional identification card to any person convicted of a criminal offense involving moral turpitude, has been found guilty by a judicial or other duly constituted tribunal of immoral or dishonorable conduct, or has been medically diagnosed to be of unsound mind. In the event of non-issuance of the certificate for any reason, the Board shall furnish the applicant a written statement setting forth the reasons for such denial, which statement shall be incorporated to the records of the Board.

Section 24. Foreign Reciprocity. - No foreigner shall be admitted to the psychology or psychometrics licensure examinations unless he/she proves that the country of which he/she is a citizen either:

(a) Admits Filipino citizens to the practice of psychology or psychometrics without need for registration and issuance of a certificate of registration/professional identification card;

(b) Allows Filipino citizens to practice psychology or psychometrics without restriction; or

(c) Allows Filipino citizens to practice the same after an examination on terms of strict and absolute equality with nationals of said country.

Section 25. Practice through Special/Temporary Permit. - Special/temporary permits may be issued by the Board, subject to the approval by the Commission and payment of appropriate fees, to the following persons:

(a) Licensed psychologists or psychometricians from foreign countries/states who are internationally acknowledged specialists or outstanding experts in psychology or psychometrics: Provided, That their services are important and necessary either due to the lack or inadequacy of available local specialists or experts or in recognition of their potential contribution to the promotion and advancement of the practice of psychology of psychometrics through transfer of technology;

(b) Licensed psychologists or psychometricians from foreign countries/states whose services shall be free and offered exclusively to indigent patients in a particular hospital, center or clinic; and

(c) Licensed psychologists or psychometricians from foreign countries/states employed as exchange professors to teach psychology or psychometrics in schools, colleges, universities offering psychology or psychometrics courses or programs.

The permit shall detail the conditions thereof which shall, among other things, include the effectivity period of not more than one (1) year subject to renewal and the specific place of practice such as the clinic, hospital, center, school, college, university offering the course of psychology or psychometrics. The Board, subject to the approval by the Commission, shall prescribed rules and regulations on the implementation of this particular section.

Section 26. Suspension or Revocation of Certificate of Registration and Professional Identification Card or Cancellation of a Special/Temporary Permit. - The Board shall have the power, after notice and hearing, to suspend or revoke the certificate of registration and professional identification card or to cancel special/temporary permits granted pursuant to this Act on any ground set forth in Section 33 of this Act or any of the instances hereunder:

(a) Procurement of a certificate of registration and/or professional identification card or special/temporary permit by fraud or deceit;

(b) Allowing an unqualified person to advertise or to practice the profession by using one's certificate of registration or professional identification card or special/temporary permit;

(c) Violating or conspiring to violate any of the provisions of this Act, its implementing rules and regulations, the code of ethics or code of professional standards promulgated hereinafter by the Board;

(d) Manifest physical or mental incompetence to render psychological services with reasonable skill and safety to his/her clients/patients;

(e) Professional misconduct or negligence in the performance of duties as a psychometrician; and

(f) Engaging in the practice of the profession during the period of one's suspension.

Section 27. Reinstatement. - A psychologist or psychometrician whose certificate of registration has been revoked may apply to the Board for reinstatement at any time after two (2) years from the date of revocation of said certificate. The application shall be in writing and shall conform to requirements hereinafter prescribed by the Board. No certificate of registration or professional identification card or special/temporary permit shall be reinstated unless the Board is satisfied that a good cause exists to warrant such reinstatement. Issuance of a new certificate of registration or professional identification card or special/temporary permit in lieu of one that has been lost, destroyed or mutilated shall be subject to applicable rules prescribed by the Commission.

Section 28. Appeal from Judgement. - The decision of the Board shall ipso facto become final fifteen (15) days from receipt of the decision by the respondent unless an appeal has been filed with the Commission within the same period. The Commission's decision on appeal may be further appealed before the Court Appeals within fifteen (15) days from receipt thereof.

Section 29. Rights of the Respondent. - The respondent psychologist or psychometrician shall have the right to be represented by counsel at all stages of the proceedings as well as to speedy disposition of his/her case. He/She shall have the right to confront witnesses against him/her in addition to such other rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

ARTICLE VII
PRIVILEDGED COMMUNICATION AND PROFESSIONAL INTEGRATION

Section 30. Rights to Privilege Communication for Psychologists and Psychometricians. - A psychologists or psychometrician cannot, without the consent of the client/patient, be examined on any communication or information disclosed and/or acquired in the course of giving psychological services to such client. The protection accorded herein shall extend to all pertinent records and shall be available to the secretary, clerk or other staff of the licensed psychologist or psychometrician. Any evidence obtained in violation of this provision shall be inadmissible for any purpose in any proceeding.

Section 31. Integration of the Profession. - The profession shall hereinafter be integrated by consolidating all practitioners into one (1) national organization of registered and licensed psychologists and psychometricians, which shall be recognized and accredited by the Board, subject to approval of the Commission. A psychologist or psychometrician duly registered and licensed by the Board and the Commission shall automatically become a member of said organization and shall receive the benefits and privileges, as well as be subject to all responsibilities and obligations, appurtenant thereto upon payment of the required fees and dues. Membership in the integrated organization shall not be a bar to membership in any other association of psychologists and/or psychometricians.1avvphi1

Section 32. Code of Ethics and Code of Practice for Psychologists and Psychometricians. - The Board shall adopt and promulgated the Code of Ethics and Code of Practice for Psychometricians prescribed and issued by the accredited professional organization of psychologists.

ARTICLE VIII
PROHIBITED ACTS, PENALTIES AND ENFORCEMENT OF THIS ACT

Section 33. Prohibited Acts. - (a) No person shall:

(1) Engage in the professional practice of psychology or psychometrics nor represent himself/herself as a professional practicing psychologist or psychometrician without a valid certificate of registration or valid professional identification card, or a valid special/temporary permit granted by the Board pursuant to this Act;

(2) Represent himself/herself to be a licensed and authorized practicing psychologist or psychometrician during the time that his/her certificate of registration has been suspended or revoked or professional identification card without being renewed, or special/temporary permit cancelled;

(3) Allow any other person to use his/her certificate of registration and professional identification card or special/temporary permit for any purpose, regardless of whether such enables the unqualified individual to engage in the practice of psychology or psychometrics;

(4) Use, exhibit and/or misrepresent as his/her own the certificate of registration and/or professional identification card or special/temporary permit of another; and

(5) Give any false, inaccurate, misleading or incomplete information to the Board on order to obtain a certificate of registration or professional identification card or special/temporary permit.

(b) No corporation, partnership, association or entity shall operate a psychology or psychometrics office, center, clinic or otherwise engage in the practice or allow the practice of psychology or psychometrics within its premises without securing a permit therefor from the Board. Such permit shall be issued only after the Board is satisfied that such establishment is competently staffed by a psychologist and equipped with sufficient and adequate psychology-related instruments and facilities.

(c)A violation of any provision of this Act or of its implementing rules and regulations shall be penalized accordingly.

Section 34. Penalties. - Any person who violates any provision of this Act implementing rules and regulations shall be punished with imprisonment of not less than six (6) months but not more than three (3) years, or a fine of not less than Ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00) but not more than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00), or both, at the discretion of the court.

Section 35. Injunction. - The Board may initiate action to enjoin, restrain, and/or prosecute any individual, corporation, association, partnership or entity engaging in the practice of psychology and psychometrics in violation of this Act.

Section 36. Enforcement. - It shall be the duty of all duly constituted law enforcement agencies and officers of national, provincial, city or municipal governments to uphold and enforce the provisions of this Act and to investigate and prosecute or cause the investigation and prosecution of any person violating the same.

ARTICLE IX
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Section 37. Funding Provision. - The Chairperson of the Commission shall immediately hereinafter include in the Commission's programs the prompt implementation of this Act, funding of which shall be provided for in the annual General Appropriations Act.

Section 38. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - Within ninety (90) days after the constitution of the Board, it shall promulgated the necessary implementing rules and regulations, subject to approval of the Commission, to implement the provisions of this Act.

Section 39. Separability Clause. - If any provision of this Act shall at any time be found to be unconstitutional or invalid, the remainder thereof not affected by such declaration shall remain in full force and effect.

Section 40. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, rules or regulations inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 41. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following its complete publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation.

Approved,

(Sgd.) PROSPERO C. NOGRALES Speaker of the House of Representatives

(Sgd.) JUAN PONCE ENRILE President of the Senate

This Act which is a consolidation of Senate Bill No. 3498 and House Bill No. 6512 was finally passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives on December 14, 2009 and December 16, 2009, respectively.

(Sgd.) MARILYN B. BARUA-YAP Secretary General House of Represenatives

(Sgd.) EMMA LIRIO-REYES Secretary of Senate

Approved: March 16, 2010
(Sgd.) GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO
President of the Philippines