PRC Oath taking dress code
Passing the licensure examination is one of the greatest milestones in the career of a Filipino professional. For nurses and teachers, the journey doesn’t end with passing the board exam, the next important step is the PRC oath taking ceremony. This event is more than a formality, it symbolizes entry into the professional community and commitment to ethical practice.
The Professional Regulation Commission, places emphasis not only on the conduct of the event but also on how new professionals present themselves. Proper attire is strictly required, as it reflects respect for the profession and the solemnity of the oath.
The Significance of the Dress Code
The oath taking is both a legal and symbolic rite of passage. Attire plays a role in three major ways:
Professional Image:- Wearing the prescribed uniform or attire shows readiness to uphold the responsibilities of a professional.
Respect for Tradition:- Professions like nursing and teaching have long standing traditions of formal or uniformed appearance, which PRC seeks to honor during the ceremony.
Uniformity and Equality:- A dress code ensures uniformity among inductees, removing unnecessary distractions and highlighting the shared achievement of passing the board exam.
Dress Code for Nurses
Nursing is a healthcare profession where discipline, cleanliness, and professionalism are highly valued. This is reflected in the oath taking dress code set by PRC and nursing associations.
For Female Nurses:
White Gala Uniform
The standard white nurse’s dress or skirt and blouse, tailored in simple, formal style.
The uniform should be neat, properly ironed, and not too tight or too short.Nurse’s Cap
Traditionally required for female nurses. It symbolizes the Florence Nightingale heritage. Some ceremonies may exempt this if explicitly announced.
Shoes
Closed white shoes or nursing shoes with low heels. Rubber shoes or sandals are not allowed.
Stockings
Flesh toned or white stockings are often prescribed.
Hair and Accessories
Hair neatly tied back, preferably in a bun. Minimal accessories no dangling earrings, large hair clips, or flashy jewelry.
For Male Nurses:
White Polo Barong or White Polo with Nursing Slacks
A plain white polo barong or polo shirt, paired with white trousers.
Shoes: Closed formal white or black shoes.
Grooming:- Hair neatly trimmed, no excessive styling, no earrings or flashy accessories.
Key Notes for Nurses:
PRC sometimes announces Nursing Gala Uniform explicitly in its oath-taking circulars.
White symbolizes purity, compassion, and cleanliness the core values of nursing.
The uniform also serves as an early reminder that they are now guardians of health and safety.
Dress Code for Teachers
Teachers are pillars of education and role models for the youth. Their oath taking ceremony emphasizes modesty, professionalism, and elegance.
For Female Teachers:
Formal Business Attire: A modest dress, skirt and blouse, or slacks and blouse combination.
Dresses should be knee length or longer, with sleeves or modest covering.
Colors:-Neutral, pastel, or professional colors. Avoid overly bright or flashy colors.
Shoes:- Closed formal shoes with low to medium heels. Sandals, slippers, or sneakers are not permitted.
Accessories:- Minimal jewelry; avoid oversized bags, flashy earrings, or distracting hair ornaments.
For Male Teachers:
Formal Business Attire
- Long sleeved polo or dress shirt, preferably with a tie.
- Dark colored slacks.
- Optional Barong Tagalog
The traditional Filipino barong is sometimes permitted and even encouraged as a cultural nod.
Shoes
Polished leather shoes. Rubber shoes are not allowed.
Grooming:- Hair neat and conservative; facial hair (if any) should be clean and trimmed.
Key Notes for Teachers:
Unlike nurses, teachers are not required to wear a uniform. Instead, business or corporate attire is the standard.
The idea is to present oneself as a dignified mentor, ready to face students and the community.
General PRC Dress Code Guidelines
While each profession has its own traditions, PRC releases general rules applicable to all oath taking ceremonies:
1. Strictly No Casual Attire: No jeans, T-shirts, sleeveless tops, mini Skirts, ripped pants, or rubber shoes.
2. Formal or Gala Attire Only:-PRC specifies “gala uniform” (for uniformed professions like nurses) or “business attire”.
3. Neat Grooming:- Hair should be combed and tidy; nails clean and trimmed.
4. Respectful Appearance:- Avoid anything that draws unnecessary attention flashy designs, loud colors, or improper accessories.
Why Nurses and Teachers Differ in Dress Code
Nurses: A uniform based profession where the white gala uniform is symbolic and practical. It reflects commitment to care, discipline, and purity.
Teachers: A role model profession where business attire emphasizes professionalism, dignity, and authority, suitable for future classroom roles.
The difference highlights how PRC respects each profession’s culture while maintaining overall solemnity during ceremonies.
Consequences of Not Following the Dress Code
While PRC does not always deny entry to oath takers who fail to follow attire rules, there are risks:
Being singled out by organizers or embarrassed in front of peers.
Possible exclusion from official photographs.
Delay or rescheduling of your oath-taking (in rare strict events).
Reflection of unprofessionalism, which can be noted by PRC or professional associations.
Simply put, following the dress code shows respect not only for PRC but also for your profession.
Tips for Preparing Your Oath Taking Attire
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Check PRC AnnouncementsAlways read the official PRC circular for your profession’s oath taking dress codes are usually written clearly.
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Prepare Early: Have your attire ready at least a week before the event to avoid last minute issues.
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Choose Comfort and Fit: You may be seated for hours, so wear clothes that fit well but are comfortable.
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Polish Your Shoes: Clean shoes make a strong impression.
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Minimalist Accessories: Keep jewelry and makeup simple professional, not flashy.
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Practice Grooming
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Hair neatly styled, nails trimmed, and overall look neat.
Important Link
Please visit the Official Website of PRC for more infor
