Senator Erwin Tulfo. Photo courtesy of Avito Dalan/PNA.
Senator Erwin Tulfo is eyeing to scrap licensure exam fees for indigent Filipinos, saying the cost of becoming a professional remains out of reach for many graduates.
In filing Senate Bill No. 2035 or the Free Professional Examinations Act, Tulfo sought to open doors for those who finish school but fail to secure licenses due to financial constraints.
He said it has become common for degree holders to skip licensure exams and instead enter the workforce early, often settling for jobs below their qualifications just to earn a living.
The proposed measure would cover exams administered by the Professional Regulation Commission, Civil Service Commission, and even the Bar examinations handled by the Supreme Court.
Tulfo said the reality on the ground shows that lack of funds continues to derail the plans of aspiring professionals who have already invested years in their education.
Under the bill, only those certified as indigent by the Department of Social Welfare and Development would qualify for the exemption.
Applicants would need to present proof of indigency before they can avail themselves of the benefit.
The lawmaker said the proposal aims to help struggling students fully achieve their goal of becoming licensed professionals, with the privilege limited to once a year per applicant.