7TH-REVIEW-MATERIAL

Overview of Republic Act No. 11131

Introduction

Republic Act No. 11131, also known as "The Philippine Criminology Profession Act of 2018", was enacted on July 23, 2018, during the Seventeenth Congress of the Philippines. This law regulates the practice of criminology in the country and repeals the previous Republic Act No. 6506.

Title and Purpose

The law's primary goal is to set a framework for the examination, registration, licensure, and practice of criminologists. Its establishment reflects the recognition of criminology as a vital domain for enhancing national security, public safety, peace, order, and nation-building.

Articles of the Act

Article I: Title, Policy, Objectives, and Definitions

  • Title: Known as "The Philippine Criminology Profession Act of 2018".

  • Statement of Policy: The State acknowledges the significance of the criminology profession, underscoring a commitment to develop competent and ethical practitioners.

Objectives

The Act aims to:

  1. Examine and register criminologists: Establishing licensure for professionals in the field.

  2. Supervise and regulate the practice: Ensuring standards of practice are maintained.

  3. Standardize criminology education: Aligning educational frameworks with professional expectations.

  4. Develop professional competence: Through Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

  5. Integrate professional bodies: Encouraging unity within all professional groups in criminology.

Definitions of Terms

Key definitions include:

  • Commission: Referring to the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

  • Criminology: Defined as the scientific study of crimes and criminal behavior.

  • Registered Criminologist: A professional with a valid registration and professional identification card.

Scope of Practice

The scope includes roles in:

  • Law enforcement administration.

  • Teaching criminology subjects.

  • Criminal investigation and forensic science.

  • Correctional administration.

Creation of the Professional Regulatory Board

The Act establishes a Professional Regulatory Board for Criminologists which is responsible for the following:

  • Composition: Includes a Chairperson and members appointed based on established criteria.

  • Qualifications: Members must possess credentials such as being a registered criminologist and having significant experience in the field.

  • Terms of Office: Board members serve three-year terms with specific protocols for reappointment and vacancy handling.

Article II: Professional Regulatory Board Functions

The Board is empowered to:

  1. Administer and supervise licensure examinations.

  2. Investigate complaints against registered criminologists.

  3. Issue or revoke licenses and conduct CPD programs.

  4. Set professional ethics standards.

  5. Monitor compliance with regulations in criminology practice.

Article III: Examination and Licensure

Licensure Examination Requirements

  • Applicants must:

    1. Be citizens of the Philippines.

    2. Hold a bachelor's degree in criminology.

    3. Have good moral character.

Examination Subjects

Key subjects in the examination include:

  • Criminal Jurisprudence.

  • Crime Detection and Investigation.

  • Forensic Science disciplines.

Oath and Certification

Successful examinees must take an oath and will receive a certificate of registration and a professional identification card, signifying their qualifications to practice.

Article IV: Practice of Criminology

Lawful Practitioners

Qualified individuals authorized to practice include:

  1. Duly registered criminologists.

  2. Holders of temporary/special permits issued by the Board.

Ethical Regulations

The Act lays out clear ethical boundaries and defines grounds for disciplinary actions, emphasizing accountability and professional integrity.

Article V: Privileges and Preferences

Registered Criminologists' Privileges

  • Exemptions from qualifying government examinations for certain roles, leading to priority for appointments in various government positions related to criminology.

Conclusion

Republic Act No. 11131 presents a comprehensive regulatory framework for the criminology profession in the Philippines, aiming to enhance the standards, practices, and recognition of the field. The Act not only aligns criminology education with professional requirements but also underscores the importance of ethical practices and professional development in ensuring competent and dedicated practitioners.