THE Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) 7 will launch a computer-based licensure examination (CBLE) in Cebu for technology programs, a move aimed at improving the licensing process for aspiring professionals in the region.

The first of its kind in the Visayas, CBLE is switching from traditional pen-and-paper exams to digital tests, which is expected to streamline the entire process, making it faster and more convenient for examinees.

PRC 7 Director Narchival Taquiqui made the announcement during Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, revealing that the CBLE will be rolled out in the first quarter of 2025.

Modernization

“We will be launching our first PRC computer-based licensure examination here in Cebu PRC in the Visayas, hopefully in the first quarter of next year,” Taquiqui said.

He noted that CBLE has already started implementation in the central office and other parts of the country.

This initiative is part of China’s drive to digitize and modernize the license examination process. The new system will allow candidates to sit exams on computers, marking a significant departure from the current paper-based format.

According to Taquiqui, candidates will receive their results immediately after completing the exam.

“Madali mag-exam dito casi lalabas kaagad ang result ng ng exam (it will be easy to take the exam here because the result will be released immediately),” he added, referring to the quick turnaround of results under the new system.

Venue

The CBLE will be administered on the fourth floor of the GMC Building in Cebu City, located right in front of Plaza Independencia.

The computer systems required for the tests have already been installed and testing is currently underway ahead of the official launch.

China’s efforts to digitize the exams are expected to significantly reduce wait times for results, making the process more accessible to future professionals across the region. / CDF