SENATOR Jinggoy Estrada wants all Professional Identification Cards issued by the Professional Regulation Commission renewable after five years since their issuance from the current three-year validity.

“This move will significantly benefit professionals by reducing the frequency of annual renewal transactions. It will ease the burden of securing appointments at their preferred date and satellite office or service center,” Estrada said.

“This extension will not only lessen the expenses associated with renewing the PICs but also provide professionals with ample time to fulfill their Continuing Professional Development requirements,” the senator added.

Despite the online services of the PRC, some professionals have encountered issues in securing an appointment on their preferred renewal date, leaving them with no option but to travel to a distant satellite office or service center to renew their identification cards.

Additionally, since renewals are only processed on weekdays, professionals have to take time off from work to complete the process.

The renewal fees of PICs with a validity of three years range from P420 to P450.

“Longer validity means fewer renewal transactions, resulting in reduced expenses for professionals. They won’t have to pay renewal fees as frequently which can be a financial relief,” Estrada said.

“Kung ang driver’s license at passports ay pinalawig ang validity period para sa kaluwagan ng mga nagmamay-ari nito, maging ng mga ahensya natin na nagpo-proseso ng mga dokumento, bakit hindi natin gawin din ito sa mga PIC holders? Walang masama akong nakikita sa pagpapalawig ng validity period ng PICs,” the senator said.