Concerned agencies in the government are directed to fully implement eight ASEAN-level Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs) that aim to liberalize key professions in the region, Malacañan announced on Thursday, November 16.
The Palace issued Memorandum Circular No. 34, urging concerned departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the national government to implement the MRAs concluded by member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The MRAs seek to liberalize the practice of eight professional services, including Engineering Services; Nursing Services; Architectural Services; Surveying Qualifications; Dental Practitioners; Medical Practitioners; Accountancy Services; and Tourism-related Services.
These agreements are part of ASEAN’s overall effort to uphold regional peace and stability by maintaining mutually beneficial links among its member states.
“ASEAN shall continue its efforts to ensure closer and mutually beneficial integration among its member states and among their peoples, and to promote regional peace and stability, security, development, and prosperity with a view of realizing an ASEAN community that is open, dynamic, and resilient,” the order stated.
The integration of the services seeks to promote the adoption of best practices in the respective professions in terms of standards and qualifications.
The MRAs also aim to facilitate the mobility of practitioners within the region, and to provide opportunities for capacity building and training.
Furthermore, the MRAs are expected to bolster the exchange of information among ASEAN member states, and enhance their cooperation through the mutual recognition of their practitioners.
The order covers agencies under the national government, including executive departments, government-owned and -controlled corporations, government financial institutions, state universities and colleges, and local government units.
The funds for the implementation of the MRAs will come from the regular budget of the concerned agencies, subject to the availability of funds, and applicable budgetary regulations.
Palace enjoins agencies to support Intramuros fairs
In a separate order also issued on Thursday, Malacañan enjoined all departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the national government to support the Intramuros Regional Fairs, which will be held next year.
The Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership with the Intramuros Administration, will organize regional fairs in Intramuros beginning March 2018, which will highlight the Filipino people’s rich history and culture.
The event will feature cultural shows and displays, including lectures, workshops, performances, fashion and product exhibits, and culinary festivals.
Under Memorandum Circular No. 33, the Palace directed all government agencies and departments to support the conduct of the fairs and to encourage active participation in all related activities and programs.
This is in line with the Duterte administration’s policy of promoting the importance of the Filipino culture and heritage, as part of the government’s Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022.
“The government aims to expand inclusive cultural structures as civic spaces for dialogue and cultural exchange by utilizing cultural infrastructure and facilities as venues for fostering social cohesion and valuing cultural diversity,” the order stated. (PCO-Content)
