PRC Clarifies: Retakers Can Still Become Topnotchers — What Resolution No. 1814 Really Means
This article discusses the essential aspects contained in PRC Resolution No. 1814, Series of 2024. The resolution reiterates that individuals taking their licensure examination twice are qualified for the title of being a topnotcher. Contrary to the common myth believed by many individuals, ranking is assessed based on their present standing, rather than the number of attempts. Hence, the individual is considered for top ranking as long as he or she takes the whole examination and fulfills all of its requirements. Aside from providing information about the regulation, this article sheds light on the implications of the policy change. The rule change conveys a strong message, indicating that failure does not mean disqualification from attaining success.
Breaking the Misconception: Can Retakers Become Topnotchers?
For years, many board exam takers believed that once they failed a licensure exam, the opportunity to become a topnotcher was no longer possible. This misconception discouraged many capable examinees from aiming higher in their succeeding attempts. However, PRC Resolution No. 1814 directly addresses and corrects this belief.
According to the official guideline, repeaters or retakers are still eligible to be included in the list of top-ranked examinees. The only condition is that they must take the full examination and not just a removal or partial test. This clarification shifts the focus back to performance, ensuring that every examinee is evaluated fairly based on their latest results.
Understanding PRC Resolution No. 1814
This resolution serves as the standard in the dissemination and publication of the top-notchers in the licensure examinations. This will ensure transparency and uniformity in presenting the list of top-notchers with their ranks, names, schools, and general averages.
Furthermore, this resolution sets forth the specific standards for qualification. One must have a minimum of 80% general average and must also be part of a minimum of 50 passers within the examination year to be considered among the Top 10. In the event that such requirements are not fulfilled, the Professional Regulatory Board (PRB) may choose to withhold the publication of such a list.
Equal Opportunity: Performance Over Past Attempts
One of the major takeaways from this resolution is the importance placed on equality and opportunity. The PRC understands that the examinee has grown and improved throughout his journey, and that failing once does not determine whether he will excel in the future. With the implementation of this resolution, the PRC has acknowledged the improvements and effort of the examinee to become competent and skilled.
The examination should be viewed as an assessment of one’s present ability and capability to perform the job at hand. Regardless of being a first-time or repeat taker, all applicants are provided the same opportunity.
Rules That Safeguard Integrity and Credibility
On the other hand, while providing more chances, it will not tolerate anything less than stringent requirements in order to maintain the credibility of the rankings. Only those examinees who will pass through the full examination will be qualified to get into the top rankers. Examinations that are not taken in full are disqualified for the top ranking.
Another condition that should be mentioned is that those candidates who will violate any rule in the examination are automatically disqualified despite scoring high marks. Their names will be kept confidential until a proper investigation is made. This way, the credibility of the topnotchers will be maintained.
A Real Example: Proof That It’s Possible
A notable example that highlights this policy in action is the case of Erwin Ken Angcual Parchaso, who emerged as Top 1 in the March 2026 Physician Licensure Examination despite being a retaker. His achievement demonstrates that perseverance, combined with preparation, can lead to outstanding results.
Stories like his serve as powerful reminders that setbacks are not the end of the journey. Instead, they can become stepping stones toward even greater success, especially when paired with determination and continuous improvement.
PRC Resolution No. 1814 delivers a clear and empowering message: your past does not limit your future. Retakers are not only given another chance—they are given the same opportunity to excel and even reach the top.
For aspiring professionals, this serves as both reassurance and motivation. Whether it is your first attempt or a second chance, what matters most is how you prepare, perform, and push forward. In the end, excellence is defined not by how many times you try, but by how well you rise.