TO ENHANCE accessibility and convenience for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), pregnant women, and students seeking professional licenses, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) launched on Thursday, June 26, 2025, a service center at SM Jmall, Mandaue City.
The event opened with a Memorandum of Agreement signing ceremony, signifying a partnership between the PRC and SM Supermalls.
It was attended by PRC chairperson Charito Zamora, along with key figures including Director Narcival Taquiqui (PRC Central Visayas) and Anton Del Prado (SM Supermalls Regional Operations Manager).
“This collaboration is more than just a partnership; it’s a manifestation of our shared commitment to making professional licensing accessible to everyone,” said Prado.
He emphasized the ease of access, particularly for board passers, and the convenience of the location within a well-known and easily accessible shopping mall.
“We are grateful for this opportunity to work with the PRC and contribute to a more efficient and user-friendly system,” he added.
Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are also welcome.
Taquiqui, for his part, highlighted the strategic location of the new service center within SM Jmall.
“Our goal is to bring PRC services closer to the professionals of Northern Cebu,” he said.
He added that SM JMall’s central location and high foot traffic ensure their services are easily accessible to a wider population.
He also stressed the PRC's dedication to decentralizing services, bringing government services directly to the community.
The new center offers a one-stop shop for a wide array of PRC transactions, including:
Licensure Examination Applications: This includes processing applications, which require various documents such as birth certificates, transcripts, NBI clearances, and other relevant credentials.
License Renewals: The center facilitates efficient license renewal processes, including managing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) records.
Certifications and Verifications: The PRC will issue various certifications and verifications of credentials, streamlining the process for professionals needing official documentation.
Other essential services: The center will also handle registration documents (oaths, tax receipts, experience affidavits), and other profession-specific documents. Online LERIS account data will also be accessible.
Addressing concerns about document security and confidentiality, Taquiqui assured the public of robust security measures.
“All confidential materials, including financial collections, are transferred to the main office after closing hours,” he said.
He added that daily deposits are made through the Landbank to ensure transparency and accountability.
The PRC is also committed to inclusivity and accessibility for all.
Priority lanes are available for PWDs, pregnant women, and senior citizens.
It also encouraged the use of online services for a more efficient and convenient experience.
“We strive for online journeys, not in-line journeys,” Taquiqui said., promoting the use of digital platforms for various transactions.
The new SM Jmall service center operates from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Fees are minimal, with application for licensure examinations set at P900 and authentication certifications at P75. (Trixcy Shien Cobarde, Benedicto College intern)