Makati City, Philippines—On October 07, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) officially launched the 50th National Standards Week (NSW) with an awards ceremony recognizing industry leaders, alongside a products fair showcasing high-quality products.

Happening from October 07 to 14, the NSW, organized by the DTI-Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS), is aimed at emphasizing the crucial role of national standards in consumer protection and product excellence. Held annually as mandated by Proclamation No. 1327, series of 1974, the NSW coincides with World Standards Day (WSD) and is part of the Consumer Welfare Month (CWM) celebrated every October.

This year’s NSW theme, “Shared Vision for a Better World: Spotlight on SDG 9–Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure in the Age of AI,” aligns with the global focus on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9. This goal seeks to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.

ROG Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona delivers her opening speech for the NSW celebration

“Standards are more than technical guidelines—they set the benchmark for the quality of products and services across various industries to ensure trust, safety, quality, and efficiency for Filipino consumers,” said Regional Operations Group (ROG) Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona.

“By upholding these standards, we help them make informed choices while building a culture of accountability among businesses. This dedication enables the entire nation to confidently navigate the challenges of an increasingly complex and fast-changing global market,” she added.

(L-R) BPS Director Neil P. Catajay, FTG Supervising Head and Assistant Secretary Agaton Uvero, representatives from Nippon Sanso Ingasco, Inc., ROG Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona, and BPS Assistant Director Ferdinand L. Manfoste during the awarding of Oldest PS License Holders.

The NSW kick-off ceremony honored five longest-serving BPS Technical Committee members from industry sectors. The awardees were:

  • Ms. Cecilia Ramos from Meycauayan Jewelry Industry;
  • Mr. Alex Loinaz from Clean Air Advocates;
  • Engr. Ramon Cuizon from Red Clover Consultants Inc.;
  • Mr. Wellington Tong from PISI – Pag-asa Steel;
  • Engr. Gem Tan from Fujihaya Electric.

Additionally, 10 of the oldest Philippine Standards (PS) License holders were recognized for their longstanding compliance and dedication to quality. These companies include:

  • Nippon Sanso Ingasco, Inc.;
  • Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning;
  • Republic Cement and Building Materials Inc. by CRH-Aboitiz Company;
  • Panasonic;
  • Steel Asia Manufacturing Corporation;
  • Yokohama Tire Philippines Inc.;
  • Phelps Dodge Phils;
  • Linde Philippines;
  • Hocheng Philippines Corporation; and
  • Cathay Pacific Steel Corporation (CAPASCO).

“We commend our awardees for their invaluable contributions to championing our campaign against substandard products. Their dedication to ensuring quality and compliance sets an example for industries across the country and continues to promote a healthier and safer nation for our fellow Filipinos,” said Fair Trade Group Supervising Head Assistant Secretary Agaton Teodoro O. Uvero.

PS Licensees showcasing their certified products for sale during the BPS Certified Fair

In addition to recognizing BPS stakeholders, the event marked the opening of the Certified Products Fair, which showcased compliant and high-quality products such as helmets, Christmas lights, and various household appliances available for public purchase from October 07 to 10.

Samples of defective uncertified products exhibited during the BPS Certified Products Fair

“We urge consumers to remain vigilant when making purchases from the market. Your family’s well-being should never be compromised for the sake of saving money. Always look for the required PS mark and Import Commodity Clearance sticker to ensure the products you buy meet essential safety standards,” said BPS Director Neil P. Catajay.

Established on 20 June 1964, through Republic Act 4109, also known as the Standards Law, the DTI-BPS is mandated as the National Standards Body of the Philippines to develop, promote, and implement standards for all products in the country. The bureau also plays a vital role in safeguarding public welfare by conducting standardization efforts to ensure that manufacturing, production, and distribution comply with quality for consumer protection.

For the latest updates and information on standards, technical regulations, and conformity assessment procedures (STRACAP), visit the BPS website at www.bps.dti.gov.ph or send an email to bps@dti.gov.ph. ♦

Date of release: 10 October 2024

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