Manila, Philippines—Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual highlighted the critical role of quality management and continuous improvement in national development during the 2024 Philippine Quality Award (PQA) Conferment Ceremony held at Malacañan Palace on July 17.

“The PQA goes beyond mere recognition; it is a pivotal initiative designed to inspire and empower local organizations on a path of continuous improvement. Through the PQA, organizations can elevate their standards for quality and productivity, transforming their operational capabilities,” Secretary Pascual said as he underscored the significance of the PQA as a catalyst for elevating the standards of excellence across various sectors.

The ceremony honored decision-makers and policy implementors from 14 distinguished organizations, including ten educational institutions, two government offices, and two private corporations. This year’s awardees include:

Recognition for Commitment to Quality Management

  • Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT)
  • University of the Philippines-School of Urban and Regional Planning (UP-SURP)
  • Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology

Recognition for Proficiency in Quality Management

  • Central Bicol State University of Agriculture
  • Department of Science and Technology – Central Office
  • Ifugao State University
  • Philippine Normal University – Manila Campus
  • Balibago Waterworks System, Inc.
  • University of Perpetual Help System Dalta

Recognition for Mastery in Quality Management

  • Makati Development Corporation
  • Southville International School and Colleges
  • Cavite State University
  • Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
  • University of Southeastern Philippines

In education, quality management ensures high standards and fosters innovation. It also upholds rigorous standards of integrity and impact in research, enhancing the institution’s capacity for innovation.

Within government agencies, it ensures efficient public service delivery. By streamlining processes, optimizing resources, and prioritizing citizen needs, the government can effectively address inequality, enhance social cohesion, and increase citizen satisfaction.

Meanwhile, quality management also benefits the private sector, where it enhances competitiveness, drives technological advancements, and attracts foreign investments. This alignment with global standards positions the Philippines as a robust player in the international market.

“Quality management across all sectors leads to economic growth, job creation, and increased national income. It enables our beloved Philippines to build a solid foundation for inclusive and sustainable development, prosperity, and improved quality of life for our fellow Filipinos. It builds on our vision of ‘Bagong Pilipinas’,” said the trade chief.

The PQA is administered by the Development Academy of the Philippines and the Philippine Society for Quality Inc., with support from the PQA Foundation and the PQA Executive Committee members. These organizations play an essential role in fostering a culture of excellence and high performance across the nation.

As the nation’s highest distinction for organizational performance, the PQA provides an internationally comparable benchmarks aligned with the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program of the US. ♦

Date of release: 18 July 2024

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