If you’re bidding on government infrastructure projects in the Philippines, your PCAB license is non-negotiable. The Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) under the Department of Trade and Industry issues this license, and without it, you can’t legally undertake any public or private construction project. For government procurement, a valid PCAB license is a strict eligibility requirement under the IRR of RA 9184.
PCAB licensing is based on a contractor’s track record, financial capacity, technical capability, and equipment resources. The license determines the size and type of projects you’re allowed to bid on, so choosing the right license classification is critical. Here’s what the process looks like and what you need to prepare.
- PCAB licenses are categorized by size: AAA (unlimited), AA (up to PHP 1 billion), A (up to PHP 500 million), B (up to PHP 100 million), C (up to PHP 50 million), and D (up to PHP 20 million) — your license size limits what projects you can bid on
- Submit a completed PCAB application form along with: DTI or SEC registration, Mayor’s Permit, BIR registration, audited financial statements, and a list of completed projects with certificates of completion
- For first-time applicants, the minimum license is usually Category B or C depending on your track record and capital investment — you need at least one completed project of a similar nature
- The application fee ranges from PHP 5,000 to PHP 50,000 depending on the license category, and processing takes 15 to 30 working days from the date of complete submission
- Contractors must also submit a sworn statement of completed projects, equipment inventory, and list of key personnel including their PRC licenses and certificates
- Foreign contractors must secure a Special License from PCAB, which requires an additional DTI accreditation and a joint venture agreement with a Filipino contractor holding at least 75% of the project value
- PCAB licenses are valid for one year and must be renewed annually — late renewal incurs penalties and may disqualify you from ongoing or upcoming bids
The DTI-PCAB website has the complete list of requirements and downloadable application forms. Official guidelines and updates are posted on the DTI website at dti.gov.ph. Before applying for a PCAB license, make sure your PhilGEPS registration is in order since you’ll need both to qualify for infrastructure projects. You’ll also need to prepare your Omnibus Sworn Statement and other eligibility documents that go hand-in-hand with the contractor license.
For contractors just starting out, it’s worth noting that PhilGEPS registration and PCAB licensing are separate processes — you need both, but you can register with PhilGEPS first while your PCAB application is being processed. Many contractors get their PhilGEPS certificate first so they can start monitoring bid opportunities even before their PCAB license is approved.
CONTACT US
For more information or to visit us, here are our branch addresses:
- Branch 1: Naungayan Building, Aala Road, Barangay Mankilam, Tagum City, Davao Del Norte
- Branch 2: Sobrecary Street (In front of Velox Gas Station), Tagum City, Davao Del Norte
- Email: gracezelguerra22@gmail.com
- Phone: 09460480491
- Business Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (PH Time)
- Facebook Page: Visit our Facebook Page