PRC warns the public on fake license syndicate operating in Region 8

By GAY B. GASPAY (PIA 8)
May 23, 2007

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte  –  The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Regional Office 8 through its Assistant Regional Director Ed Costibolo warns the public of fake professional license operation in the region being done by a syndicate victimizing many professionals.

The warning was made during a press conference held recently at the Leyte Park Hotel. Costibolo claims that the syndicate has been operating in the region for several years already and not one of the members has been caught yet.

Around 30 professionals from the different professions such as teachers, doctors, nurses, engineers and others have been victimized. They came to know about it upon verification of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) when applicants apply for work that they are holders of fake licenses.

Do not believe in fixers, Costibolo added, PRC has no rechecking scheme for failed examiners. It is the modo operandi of the group to sweet talk you that for certain amount PRC will recheck your papers and will issue you a license. The amount they are asking ranges from 5 thousand to 35 thousand pesos.

“Would you ever like to be served by an unlicensed doctors?” he asked the media. He made mentioned that they were able to confiscate fake license of a doctor from Samar who has been serving his clients and patient for quite sometime already. Licenses of said professionals are now with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for further investigation. And operation of the clinic has been stopped.

When asked whether its an inside operation, he said, they are not aware of any person from the PRC endulging in such an activity, but the NBIs investigation will justify its report.