Miriam wants barbers, cosmetologists regulated

MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago has filed a bill regulating barbering and cosmetology practices in the country.

Santiago said under Senate Bill 3557, she seeks to create a board of barbering and cosmetology in the Philippines as well as establish and enforce safety and sanitation standards.

The senator wants the board patterned after the United States where states such as California, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Virginia and Montana have a board that licenses cosmetologists, barbers, manicurists, aestheticians for skin care, and electrologists to ensure consumer welfare.

She said these boards handle complaints involving gross negligence or incompetence in cosmetology and inspect unsanitary conditions in establishments and schools of barbering, cosmetology and electrology, as well as unlicensed practice and misrepresentation or false advertising of cosmetic services.

“The practice of barbering and cosmetology must be regulated to protect and promote the right to health of consumers,” Santiago said. “There have been too many horror stories in the Philippines of barbering and cosmetology mishaps, ranging from scarring and infections to permanent disfigurement.”

Santiago proposes that the board of barbering and cosmetology shall consist of five members appointed by the president of the Philippines.

Members of the board shall be Filipinos and not connected directly or indirectly in the wholesale business of the manufacture, rental, sale or distribution of barber, cosmetology or electrolysis appliances or supplies.

At least two members of the board are required to be currently licensed, practicing cosmetologists in good standing and with at least five years practical experience; one member shall be a licensed physician and not be affiliated with any school teaching cosmetology, skin care, electrology or nail care.

The board shall also be mandated to administer the national examination for all engaged in barbering and cosmetology practice. The exam shall consist of a written and a practical component. Examination shall be administered twice a year.