By I. Inojales | 08:58 AM February 05, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — The Philippine Physical Therapy Association (PPTA) Bohol Chapter has raised alarm over the reported presence of unlicensed individuals and establishments offering physical therapy services in the province, warning that such practices pose serious risks to public health and violate existing laws.
In an official statement, the PPTA Bohol Chapter said it has verified information that several practitioners are providing physical therapy services without the required professional registration and license, in violation of Republic Act No. 5680, or the Physical and Occupational Therapy Law, and Republic Act No. 8981, or the PRC Modernization Act of 2000.
The association stressed that under RA 5680, only duly licensed physical therapists are authorized to perform the duties and functions of the profession.
It also cited Section 7(j) of RA 8981, which empowers the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to prohibit and sanction the practice of regulated professions by unlicensed individuals.
PPTA Bohol said the illegal practice of physical therapy undermines the integrity of the profession and endangers patients, as offenders may face criminal liability, including fines and imprisonment, as provided by law.
The group said it will work closely with the PRC, the Department of Health, and local government units across Bohol to identify and prosecute violators. It also plans to strengthen monitoring and reporting mechanisms, conduct public information campaigns, and promote ethical, safe, and evidence-based physical therapy care in the province.
The association called on the public to seek services only from licensed physical therapists whose names appear in the official PRC registry and to report suspected illegal practitioners to the PRC or the PPTA Bohol Chapter.
“This is not about competition. This is about public safety,” the group said, reaffirming its commitment to uphold professional standards and protect the welfare of every Boholano.
