PRC denies cheating, but notes 'violations' of physicians licensure examinees

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on Friday denied receiving reports of cheating in the October 2025 Physicians Licensure Examination (PLE), but admitted it was taking action regarding supposed violations by several test takers.

In a statement to GMA News Online, the PRC said it "wishes to clarify that has not received any official reports of cheating" from its regional offices with regard to the recent PLE.

It did confirm, however, that it received information about violations by an undisclosed number of examinees.

The PRC statement likewise did not state the nature of the infractions, but indicated that the behavior went against its exam rules and regulations.

"The Commission, however, has received reports of violations committed by certain examinees against established rules and regulations on the conduct of licensure examinations, which are being dealt with in accordance with existing policies and procedures," the statement read.

Discussion threads have made rounds online regarding at least one examinee who was caught using his phone during the exam, triggering comments and reactions from other users and supposed co-examinees.

The PRC assured that it has "long-standing mechanisms and safeguards in place" to protect the integrity, fairness, and credibility of not just the PLE, but all of its licensure tests.

"The Commission remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold public trust and confidence in the country's professional regulatory and licensure systems," the statement read.

This month's 2025 PLE was conducted on October 4, 5, 11, and 12, with a total of 5,900 takers.

Results were released on October 16, with 4,570 confirmed passers. — VDV, GMA Integrated News