The profession of forestry plays a crucial role in the sustainable management of forests and natural resources. In the Philippines, individuals engaging in various forestry services are considered to be practicing the forestry profession. This includes activities such as scientific conservation, management of forests, logging, timber estimation, identification of woods, and more.
General Practice of Board of Foresters:
Any person offering or performing services related to forestry, such as consultation, investigation, planning, and implementation of management plans for forest areas, falls under the jurisdiction of the Board of Foresters. This also encompasses the administration, management, and supervision of forest plantation and tree farm leases within public forests, protection of wildlife, and the execution of reforestation and afforestation plans.
To ensure the quality of services, individuals with at least three years of practical experience in the field or those who have completed a two-year Forestry Course may be employed. However, they must work under the supervision of a duly registered forester.
Becoming a Licensed Forester:
The term “forester” refers to a natural person registered with the Board of Examiners either as exempt from the board examination due to qualifications or as someone who has successfully passed the Forestry Board Examination.
To become a licensed forester in the Philippines, individuals must undergo the Foresters Board Exam, also known as the Foresters Licensure Examination. This nationwide exam, administered by the Board of Foresters, is exclusive to graduates of forestry degrees.
Requirements for Board Examination:
To apply for the Foresters Board Exam, candidates must submit the following documents to the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC):
- Notarized Application Form
- Birth Certificate
- Marriage Certificate/Contract (for married female applicants)
- College Diploma and Transcript of Record (TOR) with a scanned picture and remarks “For Board Examination Purposes”
- National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
Successfully passing this rigorous examination and meeting the specified requirements will grant individuals the prestigious title of a licensed forester, allowing them to contribute significantly to the responsible management of the nation’s forests and natural resources.