July 08, 2024 - The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced on July 8, 2024, that none of the two examinees passed the Special Professional Licensure Examination for Social Workers held last June in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates and Singapore.
The Board for Social Workers, led by Chairman Hon. Lorna C. Gabad and members Hon. Rosetta G. Palma, Hon. Fe J. Sinsona, and Hon. Ely B. Acosta, administered the licensure exam.
The PRC did not release any information regarding the performance of schools for this examination.
The complete list of examinees and their results can be found on the PRC official website.
Social Work in the Philippines
Social work is a vital profession in the Philippines, focusing on improving the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Social workers address various social issues like poverty, inequality, and discrimination. They work in diverse settings, including government agencies (like the Department of Social Welfare and Development or DSWD), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), schools, and healthcare institutions.
The Examination
This specific exam was a Special Professional Licensure Examination, meaning it was held outside the Philippines to cater to Filipino social workers seeking licensure abroad. The low number of examinees (only 2) could be due to various factors, such as limited awareness of the exam or the specific requirements for licensure in Abu Dhabi and Singapore.
Social Work Profession Facts
- Demand: Social workers are generally in high demand across the Philippines, particularly in areas like:
- Mental health
- Child welfare
- Disaster response
- Specialization: Social workers can specialize in various fields after gaining experience and qualifications, such as:
- Medical social work
- Community development
- Social work education
- Salary: The average entry-level salary for social workers in the Philippines varies depending on location and employer, but it typically falls within the range of PHP 15,000 to PHP 20,000 per month (approximately USD 300 to USD 400).
- Further Licensure: After passing the board exam, social workers can pursue further licensure specializations to enhance their career prospects and potentially increase their earning potential.