Manila: Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is pushing for the passage of a measure that seeks to introduce reforms on the licensure examination for teachers. Senate Bill No. 52 aims to further amend the Philippine Teachers Professionalization Act of 1994 (Republic Act No. 7836) by expanding the membership of the Board for Professional Teachers and introducing separate examinations for special needs and early childhood education, in addition to those administered for the elementary and secondary levels.

According to Philippines News Agency, the bill authorizes the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), in coordination with the Teacher Education Council (TEC), to determine the scope of examinations for other applicable fields of specialization and their corresponding qualifications. If an applicant fails the licensure examination twice, they will be required to take a refresher course. Furthermore, the proposed measure mandates that applicants submit a portfolio demonstrating their professional teaching standards for the Board Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (BLEPT).

The bill empowers the Teachers Education Council (TEC) to establish guidelines for preparing, assessing, and evaluating these portfolios. "Mahalagang masigurong handa at may sapat na kakayahan at kaalaman ang ating mga guro, lalo na ngayong patuloy na nagbabago ang paraan ng pagtuturo (It is important to ensure that the teacher has ample skills and knowledge, especially now that teaching methods continue to transform)," Gatchalian stated, emphasizing the importance of equipping teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge.