Pinoy Necessities

DBM issues guidelines for granting of performance bonus to state workers

2008-12-13T07:30:00.000+08:00

Budget Secretary Rolando G. Andaya Jr., has issued on December 11, 2008 Budget Circular No. 2008-5 to implement Administrative Order No. 250 signed by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on December 10, 2008.

Pursuant to AO No. 250, all personnel of the Government are entitled to receive a one-time reward of a maximum of Ten Thousand Pesos each as performance bonus, in recognition of their commendable effort in attaining efficiency in government operations, despite the economic difficulties which may arise as a result of the global financial crisis.

Secretary Andaya said that all permanent, temporary, casual or contractual personnel of national government agencies including government owned and controlled corporations and government financial institutions whose salaries are charged against their Personal Services allocation and who are still in service as of November 30, 2008, are entitled to receive the performance bonus.

The Performance Bonus will not be granted to personnel of NGAs, GOCCs and GFIs who have already received extra cash gift or additional benefit in Fiscal Year 2008 over and above the year-end benefit authorized under RA 6686, as amended by RA 8441 as implemented by Budget Circular No. 2005-6 dated October 28, 2005.

The DBM shall release, the amount of P7,000 per employee of NGAs not belonging to the Constitutional Offices/Fiscal Autonomy Group, chargeable against the unreleased appropriations under the Fiscal Year 2008 budget which was pooled by DBM for the purpose.

The remaining Performance Bonus requirements of P3,000 per employee of NGAS shall be charged against their respective savings in allotment. In the event that the agency savings is insufficient to coven in full the remaining P3,000 per employee, DBM said, that payment thereof shall be subject to the amount available as savings provided that a uniform amount shall be given to all employees.

The total requirements of P10,000 per employee of NGAs belonging to the CFAG like congress, CSC, Judiciary, COA, Comelec, CHR and Ombudsman, shall be charged against the available savings in allotment. In the event that the CFAG does not have sufficient savings to cover in full the P10,000 per employee, payment thereof shall be subject to the amount available as savings provided that a uniform amount shall be given to all employees.

For GOCCs and GFI, the amount needed shall be charged against their respective corporate funds.

Those who are not entitled to receive the Performance Bonus are government personnel who are absent without leave; those who have been hired not as part of the organic manpower of agencies but as consultant or experts; student laborers; apprentices; laborers of contracted projects; those whose remuneration are not taken from the budgetary allocation for Personal Services; those who are formally charged with administrative cases as well as criminal cases which relate to acts or omissions in connection with their official duties and functions and found guilty, except when the penalty is a mere reprimand.

The performance bonus of government personnel detailed with another government agency or special projects, shall be drawn from their respective mother agency. In the case of those paid from project funds, the Performance Bonus shall be drawn from the same source where they draw their salaries.

The performance bonus of government personnel employed on a part-time basis shall be pro-rated corresponding to the services rendered.

For personnel who transferred from one agency to another, their performance bonus shall be granted by their new office.

Government personnel who have received any unauthorized extra cash gift or additional benefit or allowance prior to the issuance of the Circular shall refund any excess of the amount herein authorized or shall be entitled to the difference if they receive less than P10,000.

Office of the President's Official Website

2008-12-11T01:29:00.001+08:00

You may be interested. Here is the official portal of the Office of the President. It was opened last December 8, 2008 coinciding with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

The Office of the President website, which has been in use since 2002 has recently been upgraded and redesigned with the aim of improving service and user-friendliness to the public.

Young voters turning 18 by May 2010 can now register

2008-12-11T01:24:00.000+08:00

New voters will have no more excuses or alibi for not registering to participate in the national and local elections by the second Monday of May, 2010.

The reason? They have more than 365 days by which to go to municipal and city offices of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to register so their names will be officially included in the voters' list.

And they need not wait their for their 18th birthday to do just that -- as long as their natal day falls on the date of the 2010 elections, which is, again, on the second Monday of May; so right now they can go to the Comelec offices anytime during office hours, even tomorrow.

This much was revealed by a personnel at the provincial Comelec office here, adding that those turning 18 on such a date two years hence are already qualified to register.

The year-long Comelec listing, started on December 2, 2008, would be until December 19 only for this year because of the holidays, but it will resume by January 2, 2009, until the close of the working hours by the end of next year, it was learned.

The source at the provincial Comelec told PIA that new registrants would bring only an identification card, such as a school ID, and a birth certificate in going to the nearest Comelec office for the registration process.

At the City Comelec office, an observer informed PIA that by his own estimate, more than one hundred young, new voters had showed up to register since the poll body announced last week that its doors are now open for the continuing registration.

The early listing was meant to avoid rush during registration deadline, including the listing of transferees or transferred voters, but many still had to cram up at the last minute, prompting the polling offices to extend the time.

The Comelec had hoped to reverse this trend by campaigning and encouraging new voters early on to make use of the long time allotted for voters' registration.

Source: http://gov.ph

Donating Blood

2008-12-11T01:11:00.001+08:00

Are you planning to donate blood? You may need to read this first:

Who can donate?
To ensure the safety of blood supplied, donors must meet certain requirements before donating.

You may be eligible to be a blood donor if you

weigh more than 45 kilograms (100 lbs.) for 250 ml. of donated blood;50 kilograms (110 lbs.) for 450 ml. of donated blood
are in good health
are aged 16-65 years of age ( for ages 16 & 17, parental consent is needed)
blood pressure in safe range - 90- 160 mmHg systolic and 60-100mmgHg diastolic
hemoglobin is at least 125 g/l (12.5 g/dl)

Conditions that can prevent you from sharing your blood

Diabetes
Cancer
Hyperthyroidism
Cardiovascular diseases
Severe psychiatric disorder
Epilepsy / convulsions
Severe bronchitis & other lung disorders, such as TB
AIDS, Syphilis & other sexually transmitted diseases (past or present)
Malaria
Kidney & liver diseases, such as Hepatitis
Prolonged bleeding
Use of prohibited drugs

Steps on how to donate blood:

Go to the nearest BLOOD COLLECTION UNIT (BCU) located in a government hospital
Register as a potential blood donor
Your health history will be taken
A physical examination follows to check on your weight, temperature, pulse and blood pressure.
A blood test will be done to know your blood group type

What happens to your blood after you donate?
Unless whole blood is urgently needed, your blood donation, once cleared by all screening tests, is separated into its components - and using the particular component needed by a patient, it is now possible to use a single donation to treat several patients suffering from different illnesses. The technique is known as 'blood component therapy'.

Who receives blood?
From a single blood donation, up to 13 products can be produced, all serving a vital function to others in need.

Those who receive blood form donations include:

patients suffering from shock
lost 20% or more of blood in an accident
loss in surgery
leukemia
childbirth
major trauma
liver transplants
hemophilia

What are the blood components in common use?
Red cell concentrates are the most widely used blood component. Most patients requiring transfusions are in need of the oxygen-carrying capacity of the red cells, however few require whole blood. Most require red cells only. Red cell concentrates contain all the red cells of a unit of blood in about half the original volume. These red cells are mixed with special additive solution containing extra glucose and other substances to keep the cells alive and functioning.

Platelet concentrates are used to control bleeding due to platelet deficiencies. These may be caused by disease (e.g. leukemia) or may follow severe hemorrhage. Platelet concentrates can be stored for 5 days.

Cryoprecipitate is occasionally used for the treatment of Haemophilia A, the most common inherited bleeding disease, but is more commonly used in the treatment of massive bleeding.

How is blood kept free from bacteria?
Blood is collected with special care to avoid contamination, then kept cold to prevent bacteria from growing. Refrigerators with thermostatic controls keep the blood temperature between 4degC and 6degC. An alarm sounds if it varies outside these limits and an auxiliary power source is used to keep the refrigerator operating if the power supply fails.

When blood is transported, similar temperatures are maintained by using insulated carrying boxes and ice refrigerated delivery vehicles.

For how long can blood be stored?
Whole blood and red cell concentrates were in the past stored for four weeks. With the new blood preservatives the shelf life can be safely extended to five weeks. Plasma can be stored frozen for 12 months.

What to expect when donating...
Upon arrival at the blood collection unit/blood bank, you will be asked to fill up a Donor's Form.

It is important that we protect both you and the patients who receive your blood from suffering any adverse affects from your donation. Therefore, on your first visit, you will be interviewed about your past and present medical history. This will take about 15 minutes and is confidential.

To ensure that your hemoglobin (iron) level is high enough for you to donate, a small sample of blood from your finger will be tested. (We don't want you to be anemic after you donate).

Before you donate blood, your blood pressure will be measured. The donation takes 5-10 minutes. Approximately 450cc of blood will be taken, which is about 7-9% of the blood volume of an average adult.

The volume will be replaced by your body within 24-48 hours and by drinking more fluids.

Every time you donate, your blood is tested for diseases such as HIV (AIDS), Syphilis and both Hepatitis B&C. Your donation is also checked to identify and confirm your blood group.

After donating blood...
Keep an eye on your dressing. You should leave the adhesive dressing on your arm for at least 3 hours but not more than twelve (12) hours. Do not be alarmed if some bruising or discoloration occurs. It will disappear in a few days.

Avoid carrying heavy objects with your donating arm. And do not smoke for the next 2 hours and avoid alcohol intake for the next twelve (12) hours.

Eat regular meals and increase fluid intake following your donation.

Accredited Drug Testing Centers

2008-12-11T01:02:00.000+08:00

If you are applying for a job, one of the requirements is a certification that you are not (or no longer) a drug user. There are a lot of non-accredited testing centers nowadays and to avoid hassle, see the list of the accredited drug testing centers here.

P10,000 cash gift for government employees

2008-12-08T11:26:00.000+08:00

For government casual and contract workers who hopes to receive a bonus this Christmas, here's good news! Got this from http://balita.ph/ and the official website of the government of the Philippines also confirms this.

PGMA approves P10,000 yearend bonus for gov’t employees
December 4, 2008 9:44 pm
http://balita.ph/2008/12/04/pgma-approves-p10000-yearend-bonus-for-govt-employees/

MANILA, Dec. 4 — President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has approved a P10,000 yearend productivity bonus for all government workers, including contractual and casual employees who have been in the service for at least four months.

The much-awaited report on the yearend bonus came in tandem with the good news that the salaries of government employees will be increased every year over the next four years starting in 2009.

Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya Jr., who announced in Malacañang today the yearend productivity bonus and the salary increase, said the cash gift will entail an allocation of at least P11 billion.

The staggered wage hikes, on the other hand, will require a budget of P109 billion over the four-year period.

Andaya said that P7,000 of the yearend bonus will be shouldered by the national government, while the balance of P3,000 will come from the savings of the employing agency.

“I have been authorized by the President to end all water-cooler 'chismis', lunchtime talk, powder-room chitchats, evening novenas on what will be this year’s yearend productivity bonus,” said Andaya in finally ending speculations on “how much in extra Christmas bonus each government employee will receive this year.”

The details of the extra Christmas bonus will be spelled out in an Executive Order that President Arroyo will be signing soon and a circular of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Andaya said.

“A few might say that the P10,000 is too little, but to them, let me give this bottomline so they can see the big picture – this cash gift will cost… for national government workers alone P11 billion,” he added.

He explained that the salary increase for government workers will be given in four tranches or four “gives” from 2009 to 2012, with the first installment totalling P20 billion.

“This is the amount included in the proposed national budget for 2009,” said Andaya, who added that government has also issued the implementing rules of Executive Order No. 641 establishing a provident fund in each government agency.

The staggered salary increase is contained in “Standard Salary Law (SSL) 3, which the proposed Joint Congressional Resolution 24 seeks to realize,” he said.

In SSL 3, the government is coming up with higher pay and position scale based on the principles of, among others, “equal pay for work of equal value, comparability with private sector compensation, performance-based incentive scheme, and fiscally-supportable, modest and reasonable,” Andaya explained.

To cite an example, under the proposed staggered wage hike, the salary grade of a Medical Specialist lV will be raised from 24 to 25, and his basic monthly salary will be increased two-fold from P25,196 to P54,975 in 2012.

“A Nurse lll, on the other hand, will climb two rungs up from SG 16 to SG 18, and his monthly basic salary from the present P17,059 to P32,018 in 2012,” Andaya said.

Citing another example, the budget secretary pointed out that under the new wage scheme, the salary of an Associate College Professor V will increase from P23,294 to P43,541; and a Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Engineer lll from P20,318 to P34,644.

Andaya said that the Arroyo administration had always redeemed its commitments on salary hikes for government workers. “In just 30 months, we increased government workers’ salaries three times, or once every 300 days on the average.

“As a result, an ordinary teacher’s salary has increased by P3,087 since January 2006, that of an Army sergeant by P3,383, and that of a medical specialist by P5,043,” he added.

The budget chief stressed that no “government had ever raised the pay of its workers by so much in such a short time, yet this one had been so shy in claiming credit for such an unprecedented move.”

He said that the administration fully recognizes that government employees deserve the wage increase as a matter of “fair pay for a fair day’s work.” (PNA)

Check-out also RP's official website:
http://www.gov.ph/news/default.asp?i=22974

Just 1 ID to Open a Bank Account

2008-11-26T10:19:00.006+08:00

My fresh grad friend recently had a problem opening his own savings account because he only has one valid ID, which is his school ID. If you are like him, you need not worry anymore because the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines) recently issued a circular that from now on, banks should be asking only one (1) identification card for banking transactions.

Effective as early as June 2008, the BSP circular relaxes the bank’s requirement on IDs and also expanded the list of IDs a bank client can use.This hopes to “promote access of Filipinos to services offered by formal financial institutions,” as well as to “encourage and facilitate remittances of OFWs through the banking system.”

For first-time bank clients, the following IDs may be presented:

Passport
Driver’s License
Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID
National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
Police Clearance
Postal ID
Voter’s ID
Barangay Certification
Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) e-Card
Social Security System (SSS) Card
Senior Citizen Card
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) ID
OFW ID
Seaman’s Book
Alien Certificate of Registration / Immigrant Certificate of Registration
Government Office and GOCC ID / Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ID / Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) ID
Certification from the National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (NCWDP)
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Certification
Integrated Bar of the Philippines ID
Company IDs issued by private entities or institutions registered with or supervised or regulated either by the BSP, SEC, or Insurance Commission

Students who are beneficiaries of remittances who are not yet of voting age can still open an account by presenting the original and submitting a clear copy of one valid photo-bearing school ID duly signed by the principal or head of school.

How Pinoys Earn Money Online

2008-11-25T07:56:00.003+08:00

Many are jumping into online money-making schemes because of its convenience and promise of good income (passive income even). Some do it for extra income and some are resigning from their job and do it full time because of the good return it brings.

So how can Juan dela Cruz turn his web surfing into a lucrative business?

1. Google Adsense, etc.
How Filipinos earn money online The most basic way to make money online is to own a site or blog and monetize it by having advertising networks serve ads to the site. Learn how to start a blog here then pepper it with content. The more content, the better. Once you have a decent number of posts, join any of the popular advertising networks Google Adsense, Bidvertiser, and AdBrite. They will give you snippets of codes that you have to add to your sites in order to show the ads. When visitors click on the ads, you get paid. Know the basics of Google Adsense here or share how much you are earning from it by posting in the Google Adsense Earnings Survey thread.

2. Selling Ad Space
Some Filipino website owners offer customized packages and lease advertising space directly to advertisers. You need to have valuable and frequently updated content, however, and consistent traffic in order to attract advertisers.

Most of the time, Pinoy publishers merely join ad networks where they sell their ad space. Upon signing up, these networks provide links that are to be posted in the blog or site in order to receive payment. A few examples of these networks include Blog to Profit, Money4Blogs, Chitika, Crisp Ads, grokAds, Tagword, and Text Link Ads.

3. Paid Blogging
Rather than write mushy, self-centric, or showbiz-crazed stuff, a few Pinoy writer-bloggers use their creative juices to publish short reviews of a product, website, or service. Of course, they get paid in the process. Two of the popular sites where you can become a paid blogger are ReviewMe and PayPerPost.

4. Paid Outsourced Service (Content writing, programming, web design, SEO services)
Several Filipinos hang out in sites like Rent-a-Coder, Scriptlance, Getafreelancer, and eLance to offer programming, content writing, web design, or search engine optimization (SEO) services for a fee. Competition among fellow for-hires, though, is tough but once a good reputation is built, clients will ultimately follow. Learn how some PMT members are successfully earning as home-based freelancers in the Freelancers and Home-Based Workers board in the forum.

5. Affiliate Marketing
Sell someone else’s products and earn commissions for every lead or sale. A few have found luck earning regular income as affiliates of Commission Junction, LinkShare, ShareaSale, and previously Clickbank. Discuss strategies with other Pinoy affiliate marketers in the Internet and Affiliate Marketing board.

6. Online Selling
The bustling activity in eBay.ph, Auction.ph and Bidshot.com is a testament to the growing number of Filipino sellers. Sell your stuff by posting in eBay, transforming a Multiply account into an online shop, or setting up a full-fledged e-commerce site. Drop by the Online Auctions, Selling and Dropshipping board for more stories of Pinoys in the online selling arena.

7. HYIP and Autosurf Investing
If you are the gambler type, “investing” in autosurf or high yield investment programs (HYIP) might be for you. For a short period of time, you can earn double, triple, or even 10,000 times your principal without doing anything or, at the most, “autosurfing” other people’s websites. Beware, though, because 99% of these online “investment” programs are scams.

8. Get-paid-to (GPT) Programs
Not a lot of income can be expected here, but absolutely no cash outlay is needed either. Earn a few cents after several minutes (sometimes hours) of clicking links and reading advertisement emails. To meet fellow GPTers, go to the Free-to-Join Get-Paid-To Programs or visit the GPT Programs Discussion board to access a list of programs that are currently paying.

Pinoy Hangaroo!!

2008-11-22T10:30:00.007+08:00

This is so much fun! Filipinos out there, we have now our very own version of Hangaroo.

Don't forget to leave a message on the chatbox. Enjoy!

Applying for Dual Citizenship

2008-11-22T02:49:00.014+08:00

With President Arroyo's signing of the Dual Citizenship bill, Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003 (Republic Act No. 9225), Filipinos all over the world over can once again re-acquire their Philippine citizenship.

Check out the Implementing Rules and Regulations for R.A. 9225
Download Application Form for Citizenship Retention and Re-Acquisition (under R.A 9225), Checklist of Requirements and Oath of Allegiance

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Republic Act No. 9225?
Republic Act No. 9225 is an Act making the citizenship of Filipinos who acquire foreign citizenship permanent, amending for the purpose Commonwealth Act No. 63.

RA 9225, which took effect on 17 September 2003, declares that former natural-born Filipino citizens who acquired foreign citizenship through naturalization are deemed not to have lost their Philippine citizenship under conditions provided in the Act.

There former Filipinos can re-acquire/retain their Philippine citizenship by taking the oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines.

2. Who is a natural-born Filipino citizen?
Under the Philippine Constitution, a natural-born citizen is a person born of one or both parents who are Filipino citizens at the time of birth.

3. Does the law RA 9225 apply to dual citizens?
RA 9225 does not apply to dual citizens, i.e., those who have both Philippine citizenship as well as foreign citizenship not acquired through naturalization.

A child born of parents who are both Filipino citizens (at the time of birth) in a country that adheres to the jus soli principle (e.g., the United States) is a dual citizen. The child, who is a natural-born Filipino because the Philippines adheres to the jus sanginis principle, is also entitled to apply for a US passport.
Jus soli (right of soil) is the legal principle that a person's nationality at birth is determined by the place of birth (i.e., the territory of a given state).
Jus sanguinis (right of blood) is the legal principle that, at birth, an individual acquires the nationality of his/her natural parent/s.
A child born of one parent who is a Filipino citizen (at the time of birth) and of one foreign parent (e.g., Australian) whose country adheres to the jus sanguinis principle is a dual citizen and is entitled to apply for both Philippine and Australian passports.
A child born of one parent who is a Filipino citizen (at the time of birth) and of one foreign parent (e.g, Australian) whose country adheres to the jus sanguinis principle in a country that adheres to the jus soli principle (e.g., US) would be entitled to apply for Philippine, Australian and US passports.

4. How do I prove that I am a natural-born Filipino?
A former natural-born citizen, who was born in the Philippines, shall submit the NSO-authenticated copy of his or her birth certificate.
A former natural-born citizen, who was born abroad, shall present a copy of the Report of Birth issued by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate and, in applicable cases, the original copy of the Birth Certificate by competent foreign authorities.

5. What is the procedure in applying and what documents are required in order to apply?
1. Applicant shall present a copy of his/her Birth Certificate issued or duly-authenticated by the National Statistics Office (NSO) in Manila.

(Note: Applicants can request for an authenticated birth certificate from the National Statistics Office on-line through the following website: www.ecensus.com.ph)

In case of no records found, applicant must present a Certificate of Non-Availability of Birth Record from the NSO and other secondary documentary proof of being a former natural-born Filipino citizen (e.g. old Philippine passport, baptismal certificate, marriage certificate of applicant’s parents)

2. Applicant accomplishes form entitled “Petition for Dual Citizenship and Issuance of Identification Certificate (IC) pursuant to RA 9225” and attaches three (3) 2”x2” photographs showing the front, left side and right side views of the applicant.

3. Applicant submits duly-accomplished petition to the Philippine Consulate / Embassy together with the photos, birth certificate and a valid ID.

(Note: Applicants who are married and who wish to use their married names must submit a copy of their marriage certificate).

4. Applicant pays a processing fee of US$ 50.00 and is assigned a schedule for his/her oath of allegiance before a consular officer. Applicant takes his/her oath.

5. Applicant is given the original copy of his notarized oath of allegiance together with an Order of Approval issued by the Philippine Consulate General.

6. The Philippine Consulate General forwards to the Bureau of Immigration in Manila the petition, oath, order of approval, and other supporting documents for issuance of an Identification Certificate.

7. The Bureau of Immigration issues an Identification Certificate (IC) and forwards it to the applicant through the Philippine Consulate General.

6. What is the implementing agency of RA 9225?
Administrative Order No. 91, Section 1 designates the Bureau of Immigration (BI), in consultation with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of the Civil Registrar-General of the National Statistics Office (NSO), as the implementing agency of RA 9225

7. Where do I apply for re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship if I am in the Philippines?

A former natural-born Filipino citizen who is already in the Philippines and registered in the Bureau of Immigration shall file a petition under oath to the Commissioner of Immigration for the cancellation of the Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) and issuance of an Identification Certificate (IC) as the case may be, under RA 9225.

A former natural-born citizen who is already in the Philippines but has not registered with the BI within 60 days from date of arrival shall file a petition under oath to the Commissioner of Immigration for the issuance of an IC under RA 9225.

8. Where do I apply for re-acquisition of Philippine Citizenship if I am overseas?
A former natural-born citizen who is abroad but is a BI-registered alien shall file a petition under oath to the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for evaluation. Thereafter, the Embassy or Consulate shall forward the entire records to the Commissioner of Immigration for the cancellation of the ACR and issuance of an IC under RA 9225.

A former natural-born citizen who is abroad and is not a BI-registered alien shall file a petition under oath to the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for the issuance of an IC under RA 9225.

9. What is the Oath of Allegiance?
The Oath of Allegiance is the final act that confers Philippine citizenship. It reads as follows:

"I,________________, solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines and obey the laws and local orders promulgated by the duly constituted authorities of the Philippines, and I hereby declare that I recognise and accept the supreme authority of the Philippines and will maintain true faith and allegiance thereto, and that I impose this obligation upon myself voluntarily without mental reservation or purpose of evasion."

10. Can the conferment of Philippine citizenship be revoked?
The conferment of Philippine citizenship under the IRR shall no longer be subject to the affirmation by the Secretary of Justice. However, Philippine citizenship may be revoked by competent authority upon a substantive finding of fraud, misrepresentation or concealment on the part of the applicant.

11. Can my foreign spouse also become a Filipino citizen under RA 9225?
No, the law does not apply to the foreign spouse. He/she has the following option if he/she wishes to reside permanently in the Philippines: (a) apply for naturalization; (b) apply for a permanent resident visa.

12. Can my children (minor or aged 18 years old or over) also acquire Philippine citizenship under RA 9225?
According to Section 4 of RA 9225 (Derivative Citizenship), the unmarried child, whether legitimate, illegitimate or adopted, below eighteen (18) years of age, of those who re-acquire Philippine citizenship under this Act shall be deemed citizens of the Philippines.
A married child, although a minor, cannot therefore be included in the petition of his/her parent.

Children 18 years old and over do not qualify to acquire Philippine citizenship under RA 9225. They have the same options that are open to the foreign spouse.

13. What is the procedure for derivative acquisition of Philippine citizenship?
The petition under oath has the option to list the names and details of any minor, unmarried children. The applicant should include a copy of the Report of Birth and the original copy of Record of Birth for each minor child.

The Embassy will clarify from Bureau of Immigration the exact procedure in case of the minor children and whether the BI will issue to them a Certificate of Identification.
14. After I have re-acquired Philippine citizenship, can I apply for a Philippine passport?

Yes, and so can the minor children who are deemed to have acquired Philippine citizenship under RA 9225. You would need to comply with the requirements for first-time passport applicants.

15. What rights and privileges will dual citizens enjoy?
Those who retain or reacquire their Philippine Citizenship under RA 9225 shall enjoy full civil and political rights and be subject to all attendant liabilities and responsibilities under existing laws of the Philippines and the following conditions:
1. Those intending to exercise their right of suffrage must meet the requirements under Section 1, Article V of the Constitution, Republic Act No. 9189, otherwise known as “The Overseas Absentee Voting Act 0f 2003” and other existing laws.
2. Under the Act, the right to vote or be elected or appointed to any public office in the Philippines cannot be exercised by, or extended to, those who are candidates for or are occupying any public office in the country of which they are naturalized citizens and/or those who are in active service as commissioned or non-commissioned officers in the armed forces of the country which they are naturalized citizens.
3. Those seeking elective public office in the Philippines shall meet the qualifications for holding such public office as required by the Constitution and existing laws and, at the time of filing of the certificate of candidacy, make a personal and sworn renunciation of any and all foreign citizenship before any public officer authorized to administer an oath.
4. Those appointed to any public office shall subscribe and swear to an oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines and its duly constituted authorities prior to their assumption of office; provided, that they renounce their oath of allegiance to the country where they took that oath.

16. Can I now acquire land and other properties or engage in business?
As provided for under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, a Filipino citizen is entitled to purchase land and other properties and engage in business. There is no limit in terms of area or size of land or real property he/she could acquire/purchase under his/her name. This right would now apply to former natural-born Filipinos who have re-acquired Philippine citizenship under RA 9225.

17. Can I now reside in the Philippines without having to apply for entry visa?
Former natural born Filipinos who have re-acquired Philippine citizenship may now reside in the Philippines continuously without having to apply for entry visa. If the foreign spouse and/or child wish to also reside permanently in the Philippines, they may opt to apply for naturalization as a Filipino citizen or apply for a permanent resident visa.

If he/she does not wish to reside permanent in the Philippines, he/she could visit the country as a Balikbayan (refers to a Filipino citizen who is out of the country continuously for at least one year). The foreign spouse or child may enter the country and stay for up to a year visa-free provided the spouse or child is accompanying or traveling with the Balikbayan when the Balikbayan goes home to the Philippines.

18. As a dual citizen, how long can I stay in the Philippines?
Having reacquired your citizenship, you can stay in the Philippines for as long as you want without having to pay an immigration fees. You can even choose to retire or permanently settle back in the Philippines. As a Filipino citizen, you are subject to duties and other obligations imposed on other ordinary Filipinos, such as paying the necessary community tax residence and other tax liabilities in accordance with the tax laws of the Philippines.

19. Will I now be required to pay income tax and other taxes? Am I exempt from paying the travel tax?
In accordance with existing laws, income earned in the Philippines is subject to the payment of tax. Filipinos who re-acquire citizenship and opt to reside and work in the Philippines will pay the income tax due at the end of each fiscal year. They are also subject to other obligations and liabilities, such as the community tax and residence tax.

Countries routinely forge bilateral agreements in order that their respective citizens who earn income overseas do not pay income tax twice.

Filipinos who have re-acquired citizenship, as long as they reside permanently overseas, also enjoy the travel tax exemption extended to Filipino citizens permanently residing in other countries, the OFWs and their dependents.

20. As a dual citizen, am I allowed to practice my profession in the Philippines (e.g. doctor) ?
Under the law, those intending to practice their profession in the Philippines shall apply with the proper authority for a license or permit to engage in such practice.

21. If I need to get more details on the rules and procedures for the implementation of RA 9225, which government office do I contact in the Philippines?
Under Administrative Order No. 92 Series of 2004 dated 12 January 2004, the Bureau of Immigration has been designated as the government agency in charge of formulating the rules and procedures for the implementation of Republic Act No. 9225. The contact details of Immigration Commissioner Alipio F. Fernandez are as follows: Office of the Commissioner, Bureau of Immigration, Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, Manila, Philippines. Tel. No. (63) 2 527-3265 / Fax No. (63-2) 527-3279

December 1, 26 and 29 are nonworking holidays

2008-11-19T06:57:00.002+08:00

December 1, 26 and 29 have been declared nonworking holidays by Malacañang in compliance with Republic Act (RA) 9492, which rationalizes the celebration of national holidays.

RA 9492, dated July 24, 2007, provides that with the exception of religious holidays, all other holidays are moved to the nearest Monday unless otherwise modified by law, order or proclamation.

Since Bonifacio Day, celebrated on November 30, falls this year on a Sunday, the special day will be observed on the nearest Monday, or December 1.

Additional special nonworking days to be observed this year are on the day after Christmas, December 26, since it is between Thursday and Saturday; and December 29, 2008, a Monday.

Other holidays in December are:
December 25 – Christmas Day
December 30 – Rizal Day
December 31

Partial Listing of Regular Holidays / Special Non-Working Holidays for 2008

2008-11-17T07:34:00.002+08:00

December 1 is a holiday in the Philippines by virtue of Proclamation #1464. Here's the complete list of the 2008 Regular/Special Non-Working Holidays:

New Year's Day	January 1
22nd Anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution	February 25 (Monday)
Maundy Thursday	March 20 (Thursday)
Good Friday	March 21 (Friday)
Araw ng Kagitingan
Monday nearest April 9	April 7
Labor Day	May 1 (Thursday)
Independence Day
Monday nearest June 12	June 9
Ninoy Aquino Day
Monday nearest August 21	August 18
National Heroes' Day (Last Monday of August)	August 25
Eid'l Fitr (Feast of Ramadhan)	October 1
All Saints' Day (special holiday)	November 1
Bonifacio Day
Monday nearest November 30	December 1
Christmas Day	December 25 (Thursday)
Additional special (non-working day)	December 26 (Friday)
Additional special (non-working day)	December 29 (Monday)
Rizal Day	December 30 (Tuesday)
Last Day of the Year (Special Holiday)	December 31 (Wednesday)

Medical Assistance to Indigents: Request for Dialysis

2008-11-10T23:07:00.003+08:00

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, through its various programs, provides medical assistance to indigents. The following are the requirements to be submitted to the Fund Allocation Department for processing of requests for assistance. Check out the PCSO Offices and current Board of Directors. For inquiries, contact PCSO Main Office E. Rodriguez Sr. Ave., Quezon City / Trunkline : (632) 781-9701

Request for Dialysis

Letter of request addressed to the Hon. Chairman and/or General Manager
Original/or certified true photocopy of medical abstract duly signed by the attending physician. (Note: Include physician's license number)
Endorsement letter from a Dialysis Center or Hospital where PCSO allots an Endowment Fund
Official Price Quotation from the Dialysis Center/Hospital
Certification of Acceptance from Dialysis Center/Hospital

In cases wherein dialysis solution and/or post-operative medicines is unavailable from the hospital, a Certification on unavailability of the dialysis solution and/or post-operative medicines from the hospital must be submitted to the PCSO.

Photocopy of identification card with latest picture of the requesting person with his/her signature indicated at the back.

Medical Assistance to Indigents: Request for Implants/Prosthetic Devices/Wheelchair

2008-11-10T23:04:00.001+08:00

Letter of request addressed to the Hon. Chairman and/or General Manager

implant/phosthesis request
- Original or certified true photocopy of medical abstract duly signed by the attending physician. (Note: Include physician's license number)

wheelchair request
- Original or certified true photocopy of medical abstract or medical certificate with wheelchair specification signed by the attending physician. (Note: Include physician's license number)

Two (2) official price quotations from two (2) different companies
One (1) whole body picture of requesting patient for request for wheelchair and prosthetic devices.

Medical Assistance to Indigents: Request for Hearing Aid

2008-11-10T23:02:00.000+08:00

Letter of request addressed to the Hon. Chairman and/or General Manager
Original copy of Audiological Evaluation Report duly signed by Audiometrist
One or two price quotations from any hearing aid centers
Photocopy of identification card with latest picture of the requesting person with his/her signature

Medical Assistance to Indigents: Request for Payment Hospitalization

2008-11-10T23:00:00.000+08:00

Letter of request addressed to the Hon. Chairman and/or General Manager
Original/or certified true photocopy of medical abstract duly signed by the attending physician. (Note: Include physician's license number)
Statement of Account/Hospital Bill certified by the billing Officer/Credit Supervisor.
Endorsement letter from the hospital's Social Service if there is any, or from the Credit and Collection Officer for Pay patients.

Medical Assistance to Indigents: Request for Laboratory/Diagnostic Procedures

2008-11-10T22:56:00.003+08:00

Letter of request addressed to the Hon. Chairman and/or General Manager
Original/or certified true photocopy of medical abstract duly signed by the attending physician. (Note: Include physician's license number)
Request from the attending physician duly signed (Note: Include physician's license number)
Official Price Quotation from the Laboratory Section/Department of the Hospital

In cases wherein Laboratory/Diagnostic Procedure is unavailable from the hospital, a Certification on unavailability of the procedure from the hospital must be submitted to PCSO.

Photocopy of identification card with latest picture of the requesting person with his/her signature indicated at the back.

Medical Assistance to Indigents: Request for Medicines

2008-11-10T22:52:00.002+08:00

Letter of request addressed to the Hon. Chairman and/or General Manager
Original/or certified true photocopy of medical abstract duly signed by the attending physician. (Note: Include physician's license number)
Prescription duly signed by the attending physician with costing from the hospital pharmacy included:

In cases wherein medicines are unavailable from the Hospital Pharmacy, a Certification on unavailability of medicines from the Hospital Pharmacy must be submitted to PCSO.

Photocopy of identification card with latest picture of the requesting person with his/her signature indicated at the back.

Renewing Driver’s License if out of the country

2008-11-10T22:35:00.001+08:00

LTO accepts driver’s license renewals while abroad. Administrative Order (AO) No. 88-002 dated 08 November 1988 entitled: “Validating the Expired Driver’s License of Overseas Workers” provides the following requirements and procedure to wit:

1. Certificate of Employment
2. Photocopies of Passport (first page, visa-page & departure page-indicating the date of last departure in the Phil. & date of last arrival overseas);
3. Letter of Authority to authorized representative;
4. Photo-copy of driver’s license and driver’s license receipt (DLR), if available;
5. Venue are:

LTO, License Section Central Office – within National Capital Region
Any LTO District Offices / Licensing Centers – Outside Metro Manila

6. The driver’s license shall be validated by issuing a driver’s license receipt (DLR) which will serve as temporary driver’s license (TDL);
7. The license shall present himself/herself within thirty (30) days upon arrival to the same office where the renewal was made for photo-taking and to submit the following;

driver’s license
drug-test result
medical certificate
TIN
photo-copy of passport

8. Fees:
Non-Professional - P 180.00
Professional - P 240.00
Penalties:
Non-Professional - P 30.00 (1 year), P 60.00 (2 years), P 90.00 (3 years)
Professional - P 40.00 (1 year), P 80.00 (2 years), P 120.00 (3 years)

Please take note however, that such DLR issued to you is acceptable to Automotive Association of the Philippine (AAP), a private company which caters the issuance of International Driving Permit located at #683 Aurora Blvd., QC, For more details, you may call at this no. (02) 723-08-08.

Invention Patent Application

2008-11-10T19:19:00.004+08:00

1. Application for Invention Patent
The application for a grant of Philippine Patent (for Invention) must be filed with the Bureau of Patents (BOP) of the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) through the Receiving Section/Counter of the Administrative, Financial and Human Resource Development Services Bureau (AFHRDSB) located at the ground floor of the IPO Building. To obtain a filing date, the following has to be submitted:

Properly filled-out Request Form for a Grant of Philippine Patent (download it here);
Name, address and signature of applicant(s); for non-resident applicant, the name and address of his/her/their resident agent; and
Description of the invention and one or more claims.

NOTE: It is advised that any drawing/s necessary to understand the subject invention should be submitted at the time of filing so that there would not be a possible change in filing date due to late submission/filing of said drawing/s . (Rule 602 of the IRR)The other formal requirements, which are not needed to obtain a filing date, but maybe included at the time of filing are:

A filing fee (for big or small entities) which maybe paid during application filing or within one month from the date of filing. The application shall be deemed automatically cancelled/withdrawn in case of non-payment of such fees;
Drawing(s) necessary to understand the invention;
An abstract; and
If the priority of an earlier filed application is being claimed, the details of the claim, i.e. filing date, file number and country of origin.

2. Formality Examination
Upon receipt of the application, the examiner checks if the application satisfies the formal requirements needed for the grant of a filing date. The date of filing is very important under the present “first-to-file” system because it serves to determine, in case of a dispute with another applicant for the same invention, who has the right to the patent.

3. Publication of Unexamined Application
After the formality examination, search and the classification of the field of technology to which the invention is assigned, the application together with the results of the search (which contains a list of published patent applications or issued patents for inventions, which are identical or equivalent to those claimed by the application), will be published in the IPO Gazette (after the expiration of 18 months from the filing date or priority date). After the publication of the application, any person may present observations in writing concerning the patentability of the invention. Such observation shall be communicated to the applicant who may comment on them.

4. Request for Substantive Examination
Substantive examination is conducted upon request. The request for substantive examination of the application must be filed within six (6) months from the date of the publication. The application is considered withdrawn if no request is made within that period. If the examiner finds reason to refuse the registration of the application, i.e. the application is not new, inventive or industrially applicable, the Bureau shall notify the applicant of the reason for refusal/rejection giving the applicant the chance to defend or amend the application.

5. Decision to Grant Patent Registration or Decision of Refusal
If the examiner finds no reason for refusal of the application, or if the notice of reason for refusal is satisfactorily complied with by amendment or correction, the examiner issues a decision to grant the patent registration. Otherwise, the examiner refuses the application.

6. Inspection of Records
The grant of a patent together with other information shall be published in the IPO Gazette within six (6) months. Any interested party may inspect the complete description, claims, and drawings of the patent on file with the Office.

7. Appeal

Every applicant may appeal to the Director of Patents the final refusal of the examiner to grant the patent within two (2) months from the mailing date of the final refusal. The decision or order of the Director shall become final and executory fifteen (15) days after receipt of a copy by the appellant unless within the same period, a motion for reconsideration is filed with the Director or an appeal to the Director General is filed together with the payment of the required fee.
The decision of the Director General may be appealed to the Court of Appeals. If the applicant is still not satisfied with the decision of the Court of Appeals, he may appeal to the Supreme Court.

Patent Application for Utility Model /Industrial Design

2008-11-10T19:05:00.004+08:00

1. Application for Utility Model or Industrial Design Patent
The application for registration of a Utility Model or Industrial Design (UM/ID) must be filed with the Bureau of Patents (BOP) of the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) through the Receiving Section/Counter of the Administrative, Financial and Human Resource Development Services Bureau (AFHRDSB) located at the ground floor of the IPO Building.

To obtain a filing date, the following has to be submitted:

Properly filled-out Request form for a Registration of Utility Model or Industrial Design. Download it here.
Name, address and signature of applicant(s); for non-resident applicant, the name and address of his/her/their resident agent, and;
Description of the Utility Model or Industrial Design and one or more claims; for Industrial Design, drawing/s and a "design" claim.

NOTE: For Utility Model application, it is advised that any drawing/s necessary to understand the subject utility model should be submitted at the time of filing so that there would not be a possible change in filing date due to late submission/filing of said drawing/s. (RULE 203 of the IRR)

The other formal requirements, which are not needed to obtain a filing date, but maybe included at the time of filing are:

A filing fee (for big or small entities) which maybe paid during application filing or within one month from the date of filing. The application shall be deemed automatically cancelled/withdrawn in case of non-payment of such fees;
Drawing(s) necessary to understand the invention, and;
If the priority of an earlier filed application is being claimed, the details of the claim, i.e. filing date, file number and country of origin.

2. Formality Examination
The utility model or industrial design shall be examined as to the completeness of the requirements for the grant of a filing date. Under the present “first to file” system, the date of filing is very important because it determines, in case of a dispute with another applicant for the same or similar utility model or industrial design, who has the prior right and is therefore entitled to the registration of the utility model or industrial design.

3. Formality Examination Report/Search Report
The application is classified and examined as to completeness of formal requirements, and a report thereon is sent to the applicant.

4. Applicant’s Action on the Formality Examination Report
Within two (2) months from the mailing date of the formality examination report and the search report, the applicant may:

convert the utility model application to an application for an invention patent; or
withdraw the application; or
amend the application; or
request for a registrability report

The registrability report shall be given to the applicant within two (2) months from receipt of the request and payment of fee from the applicant. The report shall contain citations of relevant prior art documents with appropriate indications as to their degree of relevance which will serve as an aid to the applicant in the determination of the validity of the utility model or industrial design claim(s) in respect to newness.

not act in any way If the application meets all the formal requirements for registration and the Bureau does not receive any action from the applicant, the utility model or industrial design shall be deemed registered provided all the required fees are paid.

5. Publication Upon Registration of the Utility Model or Industrial Design
Registration of the utility model or industrial design shall be published in the form of bibliographic data and representative drawing, if any, in the IPO Gazette within six (6) months after registration.

Professional Licensure Examination Results

2008-11-06T11:26:00.003+08:00

Here's the PRC website for your official licensure exam results.

Steps for Over-the-Counter Applications for PRC Licensure Examinations (for batch/manual based examinations)

2008-11-06T11:11:00.005+08:00

STEP 1. Secure Application Form from the PRC Customer Service Center (CSC) and accomplish the same. Download Application Form.

STEP 2. Submit the Application Form for processing and evaluation at any of the Processing Windows together with the following:

Original and photo/xerox copies of Transcript of Records with Special Order and Date of Graduation with SCANNED PICTURES AND WITH REMARKS "FOR BOARD EXAMINATION PURPOSES ONLY". View Res.2004-200. (Graduates of government schools and institutions/programs accredited by recognized accredited agencies under the FAAP are exempted from SO [B]). Graduates of New Schools/Degree Programs must submit School Recognition and/or Permit to Operate.
Original and photo/xerox copy of NSO-issued Birth Certificate (in (NSO) security paper; if NSO copy not very clear, bring copy from the Local Civil Registrar)
Original and photo/xerox copies of NSO-issued Marriage Contract in NSO security paper (for married female only; if NSO copy not very clear, bring copy from local civil registrar).
Four (4) passport size colored pictures in white background with complete name tag.
Current Community Tax Certificate (Cedula)
Other specific requirements as required by the Commission or the Professional Regulatory Board.

NOTE:Secure the following from the processor upon approval of your application:

Permanent Examination and Registration Record card (PERRC). Download sample PERRC.
Notice of Admission (NOA).

STEP 3. Pay examination fee at any of the cashier Windows. Get Official Receipt.

Baccalaureate Degree - P900.00
Non-Baccalaureate Degree - P600.00
Removal - P450.00

STEP 4. Pay for metered documentary stamps and mailing envelope with metered documentary stamps at the CSC.

STEP 5. Accomplish the PERRC and NOA. Indicate the Application Number, Official Receipt number, date, and amount on the Notice of Admission.

STEP 6. Proceed to any of the Issuance Windows (Window 9, 10, 11, 12) for final review of qualifications and documents and issuance of NOA, Program of Examination, Examinee's Kit and Self-Instruction Sheet. Download "Examinees Self Instruction Sheet."

STEP 7. Keep the Notice of Admission and Official Receipt. Bring these with you on the first day of the examination. For further information, read the General Instructions at the back page of the NOA, Program of Examination, Examinee's Kit and Self-Instruction Sheet.

STEP 8. Bring your NOA when you verify with the PRC your school/building assignment which will be posted at the PRC premises two(2) or three (3)working days before examination date.

NO APPLICATION SHALL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE DEADLINE

PLEASE DO NOT APPLY IF YOU ARE NOT QUALIFIED. YOUR PAYMENT WILL BE FORFEITED.

APPLICATIONS WHOSE ENTRIES WITH RESPECT TO NAME, DATE OF BIRTH and SEX DIFFER FROM ENTRIES IN THE BIRTH CERTIFICATE, TRANSCRIPT OF RECORDS (TOR), and OTHER REQUIRED DOCUMENTS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

AFFIDAVIT OF DISCREPANCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

PRC's Online Exam Application Services

2008-11-06T11:00:00.003+08:00

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) now has its Online Exam Application Services. You can now apply for an exam, pay for and monitor your exam application status online.

The online application facility is currently available to maritime professionals only specifically the Officer-in-Charge of a Navigational or Engineering Watch . Since this is the first time the facility is being implemented, it has been decided to make it available initially to a select group of professionals to determine its reliability, stability and performance. As soon as this becomes stable then the same will be made available to the rest of the professions for which announcements will be made accordingly.

Procedures
1. Log In
Click here for instructions on Online Services. Once registered and logged in the PRC system will recognize who you are and automatically fill in the relevant data in your profile to the service form so that you do not have to key in the same information multiple times.

2. Requirements

Original and photo/xerox copies of Transcript of Records with Special Order and Date of Graduation with SCANNED PICTURES AND WITH REMARKS "FOR BOARD EXAMINATION PURPOSES ONLY". View Res.2004-200.(Graduates of government schools and institutions/programs accredited by recognized accrediting agencies under the FAAP are exempted from SO [B]) . Graduates of New Schools/Degree/Programs must submit School Recognition and/or Permit to Operate.
Original and photo/xerox copy of NSO-issued of Birth Certificate (in NSO security paper; if NSO copy not very clear, bring copy from local civil registrar)
Four (4) passport size colored pictures with complete name tag in white background
Current Community Tax Certificate (Cedula)
Original and photo/xerox copies of NSO-issued Marriage Contract in NSO security paper (for married female only;if NSO copy not very clear, bring copy from local civil registrar)
Other specific requirements as required by the Commission and/or the Professional Regulatory Board.

3. Application
Just choose what type of exam you are applying for and then choose the exam date and venue. This will then reserve a spot for you on. You must complete the requirements by submitting all the required documents to PRC.

4. Confirmation
A confirmation message will be shown, this includes all the order details including fees and next steps. At this point you can go back and change the number of copies or cancel your request.

5. Payment
Based on the type of payment option chosen, users pay accordingly. Online payment users will get the temporary OR by printing out the payment confirmation page.

Drug Test Procedure

2008-11-06T10:44:00.004+08:00

When a client enters a Drug Test Center (DTC), he has to show a request and valid ID
The DTC Clerk checks the request and provides client a Client Information Sheet (CIS)
Client fills up the CIS including vital data like Name (Last Name, First Name and Middle Name), Date of Application, Birthdate/Age, Sex, Civil Status, Address and others
DTC Clerk checks accomplished CIS and client’s valid ID
DTC Clerk forwards CIS for verification
DTC Laboratory Aide verifies client from the DTOMIS, if client is included in the pending transactions
If client has a pending transaction, the client is rejected from taking the Drug Test
If client has no pending transaction, the client is issued a Custody and Control Form (CCF) and is informed of the amount for Drug Test Fee
The client pays the corresponding Drug Test charge fee or has to go to the Cashier to pay the amount.
Specimen Collector verifies the identity of the client and informs the client of the procedures of specimen collection
Client provides specimen and hands specimen to specimen collector
Specimen Collector observes specimen container one at a time and accepts and seals specimen container and provides specimen ID
Specimen Collector affixes signature on the seal together with the date and time of collection
Client affixes signature on the seal of the specimen container
Specimen Collector accomplishes steps 1, 2 and 4 of CCF
Client accomplishes step 5 of CCF
Specimen Collector releases 1st copy of CCF to client and forwards the 2nd and 3rd copy of CCF to the Laboratory Aide
Laboratory Aide decodes and provides a unique Accession No.
Laboratory Aide inspects specimen and CCF and forwards both to the Analyst
Analyst verifies completeness of CCF and volume of specimen
Analyst conducts test and interprets results
Analyst accomplishes Step 6 of CCF
Analyst retains the specimen (5 days for negative, 15 days for positive, adulterated, substituted or invalid result)
Analyst forwards CCF to Laboratory Aide
Laboratory Aide encodes CCF
If result is positive, go to step no. 33
If result is negative, generate drug test report (DTR) and forward CCF and DTR to analyst for signature
Analyst signs DTR and forwards CCF and DTR to Laboratory Head
Laboratory Head reviews test result and signs CCF and DTR
Laboratory Head files the 2nd and 3rd copy of the CCF and forwards the DTR to the clerk
DTC clerk logs the DTR and gives it to the client
Client signs logbook and receives DTR
For positive drug test result, the Laboratory Aide generates letter of request for confirmatory, Initial Laboratory Report for Confirmatory Laboratory, Initial Laboratory Report for Client – Pending Transaction
Laboratory Aide forwards letter of request and reports together with the 2nd and 3rd copy of CCF to Analyst for signature
Analyst signs letter of request and reports forwards it together with the 2nd and 3rd copy of CCF to the Head of Laboratory
Head of Laboratory reviews test result, signs CCF, letter of request and reports
Head of Laboratory files the 3rd copy of CCF and forwards specimen the 2nd copy of CCF, letter of request and initial laboratory report to a confirmatory laboratory
Head of Laboratory forwards the signed initial laboratory report – pending transaction to DTC Clerk
DTC Clerk logs the initial laboratory report and provides a copy to the client
40. Client signs the logbook and receives the copy of initial laboratory report –pending transaction
Confirmatory Laboratory accepts specimen and documentary requirements
Confirmatory Laboratory conducts test and interpret laboratory results
Confirmatory Laboratory accomplishes step 7 of CCF
Confirmatory Laboratory retains specimen (positive or negative)
Confirmatory Laboratory prepares and signs Confirmatory Drug Test Report (CDTR) and informs Drug Test Center of the result
Drug Test Center gets the CDTR and CCF from the Confirmatory Laboratory
DTC Head of Laboratory accepts and reads the CDTR
DTC Laboratory Aide encodes results and generates drug test report DTR
Analyst signs DTR
Head of Laboratory signs DTR and files 2nd copy of CCF and forwards DTR to DTC clerk
DTC Clerk logs the DTR and provides copy of DTR to client
Client signs logbook and receives copy of DTR
If client challenges DTR, client gets court order
DTC Head of Laboratory retrieves CCF, other documents and specimen and forwards to the National Reference Laboratory (NRL)
NRL reviews documents and inspects volume and condition of specimen
NRL conducts test and interprets the result
NRL accomplishes Step 8 of the CCF
NRL prepares Drug Test Report and provides one copy to the court, and the Drug Test Center
DTC Head of Laboratory accepts and reads the drug test result
DTC Laboratory Aide encodes results and generates drug test report DTR
Analyst signs DTR
Head of Laboratory signs DTR and files 2nd copy of CCF and forwards DTR to DTC clerk
DTC Clerk logs the DTR and provides copy of DTR to client
Client signs logbook and receives copy of DTR