Is CPD an Act of burden or a blessing?

By Dr. Herman M. Lagon

THE CONTINUING Professional Development (CPD) Act of 2016 was supposed to promote and improve professional practices in the country. However, its implementation has created burdens for licensed professionals instead of facilitating their growth. Many professionals find it financially challenging to attend costly seminars and workshops to earn CPD units, especially those with limited resources. Inadequate employer support and limited subsidies make it even more difficult for professionals to access valuable learning opportunities. Additionally, the requirement to accumulate many CPD units adds stress and time constraints for professionals already balancing work and personal lives.

For example, when renewing my Guidance Counseling license recently, I was asked to provide my active membership certificate from the Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association (PGCA). Thankfully, since it was my first renewal, I didn’t need to submit CPD units. I was fortunate to have attended the PGCA’s International Conference last month, earning 24.5 CPD points, ensuring my future renewal and active membership certificate.

While some teachers and, occasionally, guidance counselors have their seminars and training expenses covered by their schools, professionals in other fields often need more support. Limited access to subsidized seminar workshops and high participation costs create significant challenges, especially for fresh graduates or those with low salaries. This inequality in CPD opportunities hampers the professional growth of individuals in various sectors.

Although the CPD law allows professionals to engage in research, publications, and academic studies, the financial burden of these activities, such as paying for research publications, is limited in their full utilization. Additionally, the requirement for institutions or organizations to apply as CPD providers add unnecessary redundancy as CHED-accredited colleges and universities still need separate CPD accreditation.

The CPD law unintentionally encroaches on professionals’ work and rest time. Teachers, already burdened with responsibilities like lesson planning and classroom management, are sacrificing their weekends for CPD activities. These additional demands hinder professionals from balancing work, rest, and growth, potentially affecting their overall well-being.

Recognizing these challenges, lawmakers have started discussions to amend or repeal the CPD law. Proposed amendments include addressing accessibility, cost, availability, and quality of CPD programs. Suggestions include (1) incorporating regular in-service teacher training, (2) temporarily suspending compliance during exceptional circumstances, (3) granting exemptions for specific groups, and (4) providing free or inexpensive training programs.

It is essential to assess and consider the CPD law thoroughly to ensure the effectiveness of professional development initiatives and uphold the well-being of professionals. It is crucial to address concerns regarding accessibility, cost, and redundancy, with the possibility of recalibration or even repeal. By doing so, professionals can thrive in a supportive environment that fosters growth and development. Achieving a harmonious equilibrium between work, rest, and personal growth will pave the way for a sustainable and flourishing professional community throughout the country.

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Dr. Herman Lagon fondly describes himself as a ‘student of and for life’ who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world that is grounded in social justice. He is an ISUFST professor, a USLS student, an Ateneo retiree, and an alumnus of UP, UI, and WVSU.