1 Exploring the Practices, Trends, and Future Directions of Forensic Psychology in the Philippines: A Preliminary Study Gino A. Cabrera ORCID 0000-002-8119-0779 Southern Luzon State University Argel B. Masanda ORCID 0000-002-5395-9212 Central Luzon State University Mary Grace L. Daliva ORCID 0000-0002-0408-6249 Philippine Women’s University Alyana Fae R. Balbuena ORCID 0000-001-9088-2729 University of Perpetual Help System DALTA Abstract Forensic psychology is an emerging feld in the Philippines. In view hereof, this study investigated the common qualifcations and credentials of working professionals in forensic psychology in the country. Tis included the necessary career-related skills, areas of professional practice, ways of engagements, the various issues and challenges faced by the practitioners, and the necessary improvements for forensic psychology in order to advance as a professional practice in the country. Tis descriptive study utilized questionnaires in online and printout forms. A total of 35 professionals from diverse background engaged in forensic psychological practice participated in this study. Majority (42.86%) were master’s degree holders with 1 to 5 years of practice (51.43%). Twelve (12) of them were registered social workers; fve (5) were registered guidance counselors; nine (9) were registered psychologists, and another nine (9) were registered psychometricians. Results revealed that psychological testing skills, clinical strengths, and ethical uprightness are the necessary skills for forensic psychological practice. Meanwhile, the major lines of practices were in VAWC-related cases, child custody evaluations, competency to stand trial, and annulment cases. Tey practiced through referrals from other professionals. Te challenges and issues facing the feld were concerns on confdentiality, mental health-related concerns, lack of graduate and post- graduate training, appropriate assessment skills, professional fee concerns, and confict of interest among and between allied professionals and the referring party. Measures for the professional advancement included