The Philippine Society for Microbiology, Inc. (PSM) and the Philippine Academy of Microbiology (PAM) joined legislative discussions on Wednesday, August 5, at the House Committee on Civil Service and Professional Regulation, chaired by Rep. Amado Carlos Bolilia IV. The committee officially began deliberations on the substitute measure for House Bills 7312, 8026, and 10159, which seeks to establish a Professional Regulatory Board of Microbiology, set professional standards, and grant registered microbiologists formal legal standing and signatory authority.
PSM was represented by President Dr. rer. nat. Crisanto M. Lopez, alongside PAM Chair Dr. Ena A. Bernal. Both expressed full support for the bill and affirmed that their respective organizations will submit Position Papers to help refine the legislation. Also representing PSM at the hearing were Dr. Howell T. Ho (Liaison Officer), Dr. Ursela G. Bigol (Past President), Mr. Emerson M. Cruz (Auditor), and Ms. Hannah Jane F. Din (Business Manager). Joining Dr. Bernal from PAM were Council of Regents (COR) members Dr. Jessica F. Simbahan (Secretary), Dr. Francisco B. Elegado (Auditor), Dr. Pierangeli G. Vital (PRO), and Dr. Saturnina C. Halos (Member, Committee on Micro Bill).
During the deliberations, lawmakers and government agencies stressed the importance of state recognition for the discipline. HB 8026 author Rep. Audrey Zubiri highlighted microbiology’s vital role in public health, food safety, and scientific innovation, while HB 7312 author Rep. Ramil Hernandez emphasized the need to eliminate the current “gray area” of the practice by giving practitioners legally recognized signatory authority. The Department of Agriculture (DA-BAFS) also voiced support, noting that the bill will help build a strong pool of scientific experts for risk profiling and standards development. Feedback from the PRC and PAMET regarding scope of practice and functional authority was recorded as the committee prepares to refine the substitute bill upon receiving official position papers. PSM remains steadfast in working alongside lawmakers and partner agencies to advance the professionalization of microbiology in the Philippines.
Sources:
Press and Public Affairs Bureau. (2026, August 5).
Panel starts discussions on microbiology regulation. House of Representatives of the Philippines.
https://www.congress.gov.ph/media/press-releases/10004