:' r r Oi-'
TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
F/irst Regular Session
)
SENATE
EC
I 0
25 JUL16 P4:10
RITMvll ;
Introduced by Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong"T. Go
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE PRACTICE OF MIDWIFERY AS A PROFESSION IN THE 
PHILIPPINES, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFORE, REPEALING FOR THE 
PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7392 OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
PHILIPPINE MIDWIFERY ACT OF 1992
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Midwives, through their specialized skills and compassionate care, play an 
irreplaceable role in delivering preventive and promotive health services, thereby 
fostering healthier generations and stronger communities.
Republic Act No. 7392, or the "Philippine Midwifery Act of 1992," was once a 
significant step in advancing the midwifery profession. However, it no longer reflects 
the current realities and demands of midwifery practice. With the profession 
continuously evolving, there is a clear need for updated policies and regulatory 
frameworks that align with modern standards.
This measure seeks to strengthen the practice of midwifery as a vital allied 
medical profession, recognizing its essential role in safeguarding the lives of mothers 
and newborns. It is rooted in the fundamental principle that no woman should suffer 
preventable harm during childbirth, and that every child deserves a healthy start in 
life, the measure aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality by enhancing the 
quality, accessibility, and reach of midwifery care across the country.


This measure not only aims to elevate the status of the midwifery profession 
but also seeks to establish an enabling environment where midwives are empowered 
to carry out their duties with excellence, integrity, and compassion. By enhancing 
education, training, and support systems, it aspires to cultivate a highly skilled and 
responsive workforce capable of addressing the diverse healthcare needs of our 
communities.
This legislative initiative is a testament to our unwavering dedication to 
maternal and child health, underscoring the pivotal role that midwives play in shaping 
a brighter and healthier future for all Filipinos.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill Is earnestly sought.
SENATOR CHRISTOPHER LAWRENCE


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ol 1 ’i'
TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
25 JUL16 P4-.10
SENATE 
S. No. ^>7!^
RITE;'. Ojr
Introduced by Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" T. Go
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE PRACTICE OF MIDWIFERY AS A PROFESSION IN THE 
PHILIPPINES, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFORE, REPEALING FOR THE 
PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7392 OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
PHILIPPINE MIDWIFERY ACT OF 1992
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled:
ARTICLE I 
TITLE
Section 1. Short Tide. - This Act shall be known as the "New Philippine 
Midwifery Act."
ARTICLE II
DECLARATION OF POLICY AND DEFINITION OF TERMS
Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State to 
assume responsibility for the protection and enhancement of the midwifery profession. 
The state shall adopt measures that will continuously improve the knowledge, skills 
and competence, and ethical standards of midwives to prevent the increase in 
maternal and infant mortality rates. It is further declared a policy of the State to 
strengthen the practice of midwifery as an allied medical profession so that no mother 
will die or be injured in the process of giving life to a healthy newborn.


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The State also recognizes the critical role of midwives in the provision of 
preventive and promotive health care services for women, children and other 
members of the community.
Sec. 3. Definition of Terms. - As used in this Act.
a) Accredited Integrated Professional Organization (AIPO) - refers to the 
concerned Board and PRC Accredited Integrated Professional 
Organization for a given profession which is specifically mandated 
by the provision of Professional Regulatory Law (PRL) to integrate the 
professionals into one national organization and where the 
membership therein by the professional is automatic and mandatory.
b) Accredited Professional Regulation (APO) - refers to the duly accredited 
professional organization of registered and licensed midwives as per 
Republic Act No. 8981 or the "PRC Modernization Act of 2000", where 
membership therein is voluntary.
c) 
Bachelor of Science in Midwifery - refers to a four (4) year degree 
program consisting of general education and professional courses 
leading to a Bachelor's degree in Midwifery.
d) Code of Ethics — refers to the set of principles of practices and 
standards of behavior that shall govern the ethical conduct, moral 
obligations and professional duties to be observed by all registered and 
licensed midwives.
e) DOH Clinical Practice Guidelines - refers to the evidence-based 
document developed by Department of Health (DOH), in consultation 
with relevant public and private stakeholders, that presents the 
appropriate health care for specific clinical circumstances, with the goal 
of delivering the optimal care to clients.
f) 
Life Saving Drugs - refers to the drugs such as oxytocin, magnesium 
sulfate, antenatal steroids and antibiotics among other medicines used 
to prevent and manage pregnancy related complication.
g) Medicine Delivery Network - refers to the network of organizations that 
provides or makes arrangements to provide equitable, comprehensive.


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integrated, and continuous good quality health services to a defined 
population, with minimum duplications and inefficiencies."
h) Midwife - refers to a person who has successfully completed midwifery 
education, program and, who is registered and licensed to practice by 
the Professional Regulatory Board of Midwifery and the Professional 
Regulation Commission as defined under R.A. No. 7392 or the 
"Philippine Midwifery Act of 1992."
i) 
SkiiiedHeaith Professionais - refers to the providers such as midwives, 
doctors or nurses who were educated, licensed and trained to 
proficiency in the skill needed to manage pregnancies, childbirth and 
the immediate newborn period and in the identification, management 
and referral of complications in mothers and newborns.
ARTICLE III
THE BOARD OF MIDWIFERY
Sec. 4. Composition of the Board. - There shall be a Board of Midwifery, 
hereinafter referred to as the Board, which shall be under the direct supervision of 
the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). It shall be collegial body composed 
of a chairperson and four (4) members to be. appointed by the President of the 
Republic of the Philippines.
Sec. 5. Quaiifications of the Chairperson and Members of the Board. -
A. The Chairperson of the Board of Midwifery shall at the time of appointment 
must have the following qualifications:
a) A natural born citizen and resident of the Philippines;
b) Of good moral character;
c) A graduate registered midwife;
d) Have at least 10 years in practice as a midwife; and
e) A holder of master's degree or doctorate degree in any of the following 
fields: public health, maternal and child health (MCH), community


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health, primary health care, health services administration, health 
systems or health care management;
B. The three (3) members of the Board of Midwifery shall at the time of the 
appointment must have the following qualifications:
i. A natural born citizen and resident of the Philippines;
a) Of good moral character;
b) A graduate registered midwife;
c) Have at least ten (10) years In practice as a midwife; and
d) A holder of master's degree or doctorate degree in any of the following 
fields: public health, maternal and child health (MCH), community 
health, primary health care, health services administration, health 
systems or health care management;
e) Have at least ten (10) years in practice as a midwife prior to their 
appointment7
C. One (1) member of the Board of Midwifery shall at the time of the 
appointment must have the following qualifications:
a) A natural born citizen and resident of the Philippines;
b) Of good moral character; and
c) Have at least five (5) years in practice as an obstetrician-gynecologist 
preferably diplomate prior to the appointment.
Sec. 6. Disqualifications of the Board Members:
a) Member of the faculty, whether full time or part time or lecturer of any 
school, college or university where a regular course is midwifery;
b) Those who have pecuniary interest, directly or indirectly in any school, 
college or university during their term of office as member of the Board;
c) Officer or member of the Board of Trustees of Midwifery Organization; 
and
d) Those who hold positions which violate the provisions of Republic Act 
No. 6713 Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and 
Employees or which violates Incompatibility of office under items a to c.
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Sec. 7. Terms of Office. - The Chairperson shall hold office for six (6) years 
without reappointment. Two (2) members shall hold office for four (4) years without 
reappointment. Two (2) members shall hold office for three (3) years subject for 
reappointment for only one term. Any vacancy in the Board occurring within the 
term of a member shall be filled for the unexpired portion of the term only.
Sec. 8. Compensation of Board Members. -The Chairperson, and members of 
the Professional Regulatory Board of Midwifery shall receive compensation and 
allowances or other benefits pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act No. 8981 
otherwise known as the "PRC Modernization Act of 2000", and other pertinent laws 
and comparable to the compensation and allowances received by the chairperson and 
members of existing professional regulatory boards.
Sec. 9. Removal of Board Members. - Any members of the Board may be 
removed by the President of the Republic of Philippines, upon the recommendation of 
the Professional Regulation Commission, for neglect of duty incompetence or 
unethical, immoral and dishonorable conduct after having been given the opportunity
to defend oneself in a proper administrative investigation conducted by the 
Commission.
Sec. 10. Powers and Duties of the Board. - The Board shall supervise and 
regulate the practice of midwifery profession and shall have the following powers, 
duties and functions:
a) Enforce the provisions of this Act;
b) Conduct Professional Licensure Examination for midwives;
c) Administer oaths in accordance with the provision of this Act;
d) Issue, suspend or revoke certificates of registration for the practice of 
midwifery;
e) Maintain a registry of midwives in good standing in cooperation with 
AIPO;
f) Shall maintain and collect data of midwives in the country in coordination 
with PRC Information and Communications Technology Service and the


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DOH by requiring the registration of all midwives in the National Health 
Workforce Registry (HHWR) or other human resource for Health (HRH) 
data collection system of the government and during their initial 
registration and renewal of licenses;
g) Shall provide inputs on national and global midwifery practice to the 
commission on Higher Education (CHED) to be considered in the 
development and periodic updating of the midwifery curriculum;
h) Conduct hearings and investigations to resolve complaints against 
midwives for malpractice, unethical and unprofessional conduct and 
violation of this Act or its implementing rules and regulations and in 
connection therewith;
i) Issue subpoena ad testificandum and subpoena duces tecum and to 
punish with contempt persons obstructing, impeding or otherwise 
interfering with the conduct of such proceedings upon application with 
the court, or both;
j) Promulgate a Code of Ethics in coordination and consultation with AIPO 
and professional organizations representing registered and practicing 
midwives in the Philippines within one (1) year from the effectivity of 
this Act;
k) Conduct inspection and monitoring of educational institutions and 
facilities where midwifery services are offered or midwifery programs are 
taught to ascertain that the standards of midwifery education are 
properly complied with and maintained at all times;
l) Shall submit an annual report to the Commission at the end of each 
calendar year, giving a detailed account of its proceedings and the 
accomplishments and recommending measures to upgrade and improve 
the conditions affecting the midwifery practice and education;
m) To adopt an official seal to authenticate its official documents;
n) Attend meetings regularly;
o) Study the conditions affecting midwifery education and the practice of 
the midwifery profession in the Philippines;


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p) Mandated to assess the standards pertaining to the retraining and skills 
enhancement programs designed for midwives seeking advanced 
training or those in need of bridging education;
q) Undertake initiatives and establish support mechanisms aimed at 
enhancing the retirement preparedness of midwives, with the objective 
of ensuring their post-retirement years are marked by financial security, 
personal fulfillment, and strong support;
r) Adopt a proactive approach in actively engaging a diverse range of 
stakeholders within the sector to foster the advancement and 
development of midwifery practice in the Philippines;
s) Subject to the approval of the Commission, the Board, shall set ethical 
and professional standards for the practice of midwifery and adopt such 
rules and regulations as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of 
this Act. Such standards, rules and regulations shall take effect thirty 
(30) days after publication in two (2) national newspapers of general 
circulation; and
t) Represent the Board in sectoral management.
Sec 11. Meetings of the Board. — The Board shall hold a regular meeting at 
least once a month within the Commission premises or in such other places as may 
be agreed upon on such date and time fixed by the Board. A special meeting may be 
called by the chairperson or any of its two (2) members to consider, deliberate or act 
upon urgent and important matters. The Board Secretary shall keep the minutes of 
the regular and special meetings of the board. The minutes shall be signed and 
certified as correct by the members of the board present.
Sec. 12. Administrative Supervision of the Board and Custodian of its Records. 
-The members of the Board shall be under the general supervision of the Commission. 
All records, including examination paper, applications for examinations, administrative 
and other investigative cases conducted by the Board shall be under the custody of 
the Commission.


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ARTICLE IV
MIDWIFERY EDUCATION
S6C. 13. Standards for Midwifery Education. — To onsuro quality midwifery 
education in the Philippines, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has the 
following duties and responsibilities in coordination with the Professional Regulatory 
Board of Midwifery:
a) Establish standards for midwifery education, including the setting of 
minimum qualifications of faculty, and the facility requirements for 
training, and among others;
b) Develop and periodically review the basic curriculum in consultation with 
the Department of Health (DOH), the Board, AIPO, Association of 
Philippine Schools of Midwifery, and other midwifery organization;
c) Monitor and evaluate the performance of midwifery programs of schools, 
colleges, and institutions;
d) Examine the facilities of universities and colleges of midwifery, and those 
seeking permission to open the midwifery courses prescribed; and
e) Impose appropriate sanctions to institutions that do not fulfill the 
aforementioned standards, such as downgrading or withdrawal of 
accreditation, and termination of the program or school course, among 
others in coordination with the Board.
Sec. 14. Schools of Midwifery. - To become a duly accredited and legally 
constituted higher education institution for midwifery education and training as 
provided for in R.A. No. 7392 a school of midwifery shall have applied and secured a 
permit from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). The school shall operate a 
midwifery program in accordance with the existing policies, standards and guidelines 
for midwifery education.
Sec. 15. Qualifications of Faculty. —The faculty shall have academic preparation 
appropriate to teaching assignment, as follows:
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a) A holder of a Master's degree on Health and social sciences or doctor of 
medicine;
b) Has a proof of competence in the field of specialization assigned;
c) A registered nurse or registered midwife in the Philippines with at least one (1) 
year of satisfactory teaching experience or one (1) year of efficient performance 
in maternity ward. Provided, that a registered midwife may be allowed to follow 
up student midwives in the community ward provided that a person has at least 
two (2) years of experience in the area of assignment and has undergone 
training in the supervision of students; and
d) A member of good standing of AIPO or other national association of midwives.
Sec. 16. Mandatory Continuing Professional Deveiopment. - The 
implementation of the Continuing Professional Development programs and activities 
for the midwifery profession shall be governed by RA 10912 otherwise known as the 
Continuing Development Act of 2016 and its implementing rules and regulation.
ARTICLE V
EXAMINATION AND REGISTRATION OF MIDWIVES
Sec. 17. Examination Required. - All applicants for registration to the practice 
of midwifery in the Philippines, shall be required to pass a written examination which 
shall be given by the Board in such places and dates as may be designated by the 
Commission: Provided, That it shall be in accordance with R.A. No. 8981, otherwise 
known as the PRC Modernization Act of 2000: Provided further. That those who are 
graduates of a two (2) year diploma courses and are already registered midwives prior 
to the passage of this Act shall be given an equivalency to a four (4) year degree 
program. The parameters to such equivalency shall be based on the following:
a) Years of experience;
b) Ladderized education or training already taken; and
c) Continuing professional development requirements.
Upon compliance with the established parameters, the Commission shall issue the 
appropriate registration to the midwives. Those who fail to comply with the


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established parameters shall be allowed to take the Professional Board Examination 
for a four-year degree course.
Sec. 18. Scope of Examination. -The scope of Examination for the practice of 
midwifery shall consist of the following:
a) Newborn, infant and child health related procedures to midwifery;
b) Obstetrical anatomy and physiology;
c) Obstetrics including essential intrapartum and basic emergency obstetric 
care;
d) Principles of Microbiology and parasitology as applied to midwifery 
practice;
e) Pharmacology as applied to midwifery practice;
f) Midwifery procedures;
g) Primary Health Care which covers community care, public health, and 
preventive care;
h) Maternal nutrition, newborn, infant and young child feeding including 
breastfeeding and complementary feeding;
i) Responsible parenthood, family planning, adolescent health and 
reproductive health;
j) Ethics and legal jurisprudence of midwifery practice;
k) Professional growth and development, and entrepreneurship; and
l) Other subjects that the Board may deem necessary for inclusion from 
time to time.
Sec. 19. Prerequisite and Quaiifications of Appiicants for Examination. - In 
order to be admitted to the Professional Licensure Examination for midwifery all 
applicants must possess all qualifications and none of the disqualifications hereunder 
set forth as follows:
a) Is mentally, emotionally and physically sound with a certificate of good 
moral character signed by the Head of a recognized and duly 
government midwifery institution or midwifery school from where the 
applicant graduated;
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b) A graduate of midwifery in a government recognized and duly 
accredited institution. At the time of the issuance of a certificate of 
registration, the applicant shall be a citizen of the Philippines and at 
least eighteen (18) years of age.
For the purposes of admission to the midwives' professional licensure 
examination, the applicant must submit the following documentary reguirements:
a) Philippines Statistic Authority authenticated copy of the certificate of live 
births;
b) Certified true copy of the official transcript of records;
c) Duly accomplished form, certified as true and correct by the clinical 
instructor and dean or principal of the school of midwifery attesting to 
the applicant's:
1. Handling of at least twenty (20) actual deliveries
2. Suturing of at least five (5) perineal lacerations
3. Insertion of at least five (5) intravenous fluids
4. Conduct of at least ten (10) internal examinations
d) Other documents that the Board may require provided any additional 
requirement has been subject of prior consultation and is duly 
announced in a public document.
Sec. 20. Fees for Examination. -The Applicants for examination for the practice 
of midwifery shall pay an examination fee as prescribed by the Professional Regulation 
Commission.
Sec. 21. Ratings in the Board Examination. —To be qualified as having passed 
the professional licensure examination for midwives, the examinee must obtain a 
general rating of seventy-five percent (75%) in the written test with no grade lower 
than fifty percent (50%) in any of the examination subjects.
Sec. 22. Report on the Results of the Board Examinations. - As a result of fully 
computerized examination, the Board shall, within a maximum of thirty (30) days after 
the examination, report the ratings obtained by each examinee to the Commission.
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The Commission shall, after days from receipt, release to the public the results of the 
Board examinations.
Sec. 23. Oath of Profession. -All successful examinees shall be required to take 
an oath of profession before the Board or any government official authorized to 
administer oaths prior to entering the midwifery practice.
Sec. 24. Issuance of Certificate of Registration / Professionai License and 
ProfessionaiIdentification Card. —A certificate of Registration and Professional License 
as a midwife shall be issued to an applicant who passed the application upon payment 
of the prescribed fees. Every certificate of registration and professional license shall 
show the full name of the chairperson of the Commission and of the members of the 
Board, and the official seal of the Commission.
Sec. 25. Registration of Nurse Midwife. - A Certification of Registration may be 
issued to registered nurses who passed the examination for midwives: Provided, that 
the nurse, before being allowed to take the examination submit written evidence to 
the Board that one has handled at least twenty (20) delivery cases as certified by the 
municipal, city or Provincial Health Officer or chief of a duly registered or recognized 
hospital, DOH and PhilHealth accredited birthing centers.
Sec. 26. Inhibition against the Practice of Midwifery. —No person shall practice 
or offer to practice midwifery in the Philippines, as defined in this Act without holding 
a valid Certificate of Registration and Professional License as midwife.
Sec. 27. Foreign Reciprocity. - A certificate of registration and professional 
license maybe issued to midwives registered under the laws of a foreign country or 
state. Provided, that the requirements for registration or licensing of midwives in said 
country are substantially the same as those prescribed under this Act. Provided 
further, that the laws of such state or country grant the same privileges to registered 
midwives of the Philippines.
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Sec. 28. Exemption in Taking a Bridging Course, — Midwives who possess 0 
diploma degree and obtained a PRC license prior to the implementation of this Act 
shall be no longer required to undertake bridging courses for the eventual attainment 
of a Bachelor's degree. Their status as midwives with valid licenses shall be 
maintained. Conversely, midwives with a diploma degree who acquired their PRC 
license after the implementation of this Act are obligated to successfully complete 
bridging courses leading to the conferment of a Bachelor's degree while retaining their 
license to practice.
ARTICLE VI
PRACTICE OF MIDWIFERY
Sec. 29. Practice of Midwifery Defined. -The practice of midwifery consists of 
performing, rendering or offering for a fee, salary or other reward or compensation 
services requiring an understanding of the principles and application of procedures 
and techniques in:
a) Managing normal and uncomplicated pregnancies and deliveries;
b) Identifying pregnancy complications and danger signs, and immediate referral of high- 
risk pregnancy woman to the appropriate facility in the service delivery network;
c) Caring for the newborn, and proper assessment initial management, and immediate 
referral of newborn complications;
d) Carrying out the written order of physicians on natal, ante-natal, intra-natal 
and post-natal care of the normal pregnant mother which includes the 
following:
1. oral and parenteral dispensing of oxytocic drug before or after delivery 
of placenta as a measure to prevent postpartum hemorrhage. Provided 
the delivery is normal spontaneous and single birth; and
2. Suturing of 1st degree (small, skin-deep tears which usually heal 
naturally) and 2nd degree (deeper tear affecting the muscle of the 
perinium as well as the skin this require stitches) of perineal 
lacerations to control bleeding and giving of intravenous fluid insertion
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during obstetrical emergencies provided they have been trained for that 
purpose.
e) Providing family planning services which include modern and natural family 
planning method including counseling on informed choices to women of 
reproductive age;
f) Administering recommended vaccines related to Maternal and child health care 
and as vaccinator as stated in Sec. 9 of RA 115251 otherwise known as the 
"Vaccination Program Act";
g) Providing primary care in the community, with emphasis on preventive and 
promotive health care services;
h) May perform the following procedures to a newborn, infant or young child:
1. Four core-time bound interventions during the first 60- 90 minutes of 
life of the newborn in accordance to the Essential Newborn Care (EINC)
a. Immediate and thorough drying;
b. Early skin to skin contact;
c. Properly-timed clamping and cutting of the cord after 1 to 3 
minutes; and
d. Non-separation of the newborn from the mother for early 
breastfeeding initiation and rooming in.
2. Administration of the following after the first full breastfeeding of the 
newborn:
a. Recommended dose of Intramuscular Vitamin K to prevent 
Hemorrhagic disease of the newborn;
b. Ophthalmic prophylaxis ointment to prevent neonatal 
conjunctivitis;
c. Intramuscular administration of Hepatitis B vaccine;
d. Intradermal administration of Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) 
vaccine;
e. Newborn Screening; and
f. 
Performing other tasks or procedures to be determined by the
Department of Health (DOH). Provided, that the scope,
requirements and interpretation of said functions shall be 
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specified in the Clinical Practice Guidelines to be jointly 
promulgated by the Department of Health (DOH) and the 
Professional Board of Midwifery in consultation with AIPO and 
other midwifery organizations.
Sec. 30. Revocation and Suspension of Certificate of Registration and 
Canceiiation. -The Board shall have the power to revoke or suspend the validity of a 
certificate of registration of a midwife for any of the causes mentioned in the preceding 
section, or on cases of: (a) unprofessional conduct, (b) professional malpractice, (c) 
clear professional incompetence, (d) serious ignorance or negligence, (e) assisting or 
performing abortion in the practice of midwifery or (f) using fraud, deceit or false 
statements to obtain a certificate of registration. From the final decision of the Board, 
appeal maybe taken to the Professional Regulation Commission whose decision shall 
be final and executory.
Sec. 31. Refusal to Issue Certificate of Registration. -The Board shall refuse 
to issue a certificate of registration to any person convicted by the court of competent 
jurisdiction of any criminal offense involving moral turpitude, and to any person guilty 
of immoral or dishonorable conduct. The Board shall give the applicant a written 
statement setting forth the reason or reasons for its action, which statement shall be 
incorporated in the records of the Board.
Sec. 32. Reissuance and Replacement of Revoked Certificates. - The Board 
may for reasons of equity and justice and upon proper application therefor issue 
another copy of the certificate upon payment of dues, and in so doing, it may exempt 
the applicant for the requisite examination.
Sec. 33. Midwives Positions in Public Health facilities. -All public health facilities 
such as Government Owned and Controlled Corporation (GOCC) with original charter, 
DOH-retained hospitals. Local Government Unit managed hospitals at the district level, 
shall have plantilla positions for midwives. Provided, that the compensation of 
midwives working in public health shall not be lower than Salary Grade 15 as entry
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salary for midwives, pursuant to Republic Act No. 6758 otherwise known as the 
"Compensation and Position Classification Act of 1989; Also, as provided for under the 
Civil Service Law, a government employee has to work eight (8) hours a day or forty 
(40) hours a week. Provided further, that for midwives working in health facilities 
under local government units, adjustments to their compensation shall be in 
accordance with Section 10 of the same Act; Furthermore, other benefits and 
entitlements shall also be provided to midwives by their public health employers in 
accordance with existing laws.
Sec. 34. Midwives in Private Health facilities. - Midwives employed or 
contracted by private health facilities shall have salaries, benefits not lower than the 
minimum wage set by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Government 
midwives who practice in private facilities after their regular office hours shall comply
with the existing guidelines being set by the Civil Service Commission and Department 
of Health.
Sec. 35. Midwives with Birthing Centers. - Midwives who shall establish and 
manage their own birthing centers shall comply and be properly guided with the 
regulatory standards and operating procedures as defined by the Department of 
Health. This shall take into consideration certain requirements such as to number of 
facilities providing maternal care services in a particular geographic or territorial
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jurisdiction and based on an assessment of actual maternal care service requirement
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in a particular community.
Midwives offering services in these facilities should likewise comply with 
PhilHealth Certification and Accreditation standards. Midwives with birthing facilities 
and offering pregnancy and other reproductive health related services shall both be 
accredited as service provider and a Modern Family Planning accredited facility to 
comply with quality standards. Claims on maternal and newborn care package and
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family planning service must be paid on time.
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Sec. 36. Creation of National Midwifery Office in the Department of Health. - 
There shall be an establishment of a National Midwifery Office (NMO) under the 
Department of Health. The NMO in the DOH shall have the following functions:
1. The midwifery office shall be responsible for overseeing, and coordinating 
strategic management, financial and resource allocation, policies and 
Standard development, professional and organizational development to 
address midwifery personnel supply, demand, and distribution;
2. Provide expert advice to inform policy and decision makers relative to 
midwifery practice;
3. Ensure adequate demand with respect to health service delivery for primary 
health care and other population health priorities (1 midwife in every 
barangay) attract, recruit and retain midwives they are most needed;
4. Estabiish and strengthen senior leadership for midwifery workforce 
governance and management; and
5. Develop and share midwifery knowledge through a variety of process such 
as peer review and research. Interpret and critically apply appropriate 
research findings to ensure that midwifery practice is evidence - based.
ARTICLE VII
PROBIHITED ACTS AND PENALTIES
Sec. 37. Prohibited Acts: No person shall:
a) Practice midwifery in the Philippines within the meaning of this Act without 
a certificate of registration issued in accordance herewith;
b) Presenting or using the certificate of registration of another;
c) Giving any false or forged evidence to the Professional Regulation 
Commission in order to secure a certificate of registration;
d) Using a revoked or suspended certificate of registration;
e) Assuming, using or advertising, as a registered midwife or a registered 
nurse midwife or appending to one's name the letters R.M. without having 
been conferred such title by the Professional Regulation Commission;
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f) Advertising any title description tending to convey the impression that one 
is a registered midwife
Sec. 38. Pena! Provisions. - Any person who shall violate any of the provisions 
stated in Section 37 of this Act or any of its implementing rules and regulations as 
promulgated by the Board, subject to the approval of the Commission, shall upon 
conviction, be punished to a fine of not less than Fifty thousand pesos (Php 50,000) 
nor more than One hundred thousand pesos (Phpl00,000), or to suffer imprisonment 
for a period of not less than to two (2) years nor more than seven years, or both such 
fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court.
ARTICLE VIII 
FINAL PROVISIONS
Sec. 39. Enforcement of this Act. - It shall be the primary duty of the 
Commission and the Board to effectively implement this Act. Any duly law
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enforcement agencies and officers of national, provincial, city or municipal
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governments shall, upon written or request of the Commission or the Board, render 
assistance in enforcing the provisions of this Act and to prosecute any persons 
violating the same.
Sec. 40. Appropriations. - The Chairperson of the Professional Regulation 
Commission shall immediately include the funding necessary to implement the 
provisions of this Act in the General Appropriations Act.
Sec. 41. Impiementing Ruies and Reguiations. - Within 90 (days) after the 
effectivity of this Act, the Board and the Commission, in coordination with the 
accredited Integrated Professional Organization (AIPO) and national organization of 
Midwives, the Department of Health (DOH), the Department of Budget and 
Management (DBM) and other concerned government agencies, in consultation with 
relevant stakeholders in the private sector, shall formulate such rules and regulations
necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. The implementing rules and
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regulations shall be published in the Official Gazette or in any newspaper of general 
circulation.
Sec. 42. Separability Clause. - If for any reason, any part or section of this Act 
shall be declared unconstitutional or invalid, other sections or provisions hereof which 
are not affected thereby shall continue to be in full force and effect.
Sec. 43. Repeating Clause, — Republic Act No. 2644, otherwise known as the 
"Philippine Midwifery Act of 1992" is hereby repealed and all laws, decrees, orders, 
instructions, rules and regulations and other issuance or parts therefor inconsistent 
with this Act are likewise repealed or amended accordingly.
Sec. 44. Effectivity Clause. — This Act shall take effect upon completion of its 
publication in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation.
Approved,
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