Photo captured during the Stakeholder’s Gathering in Celebration of the World Accreditation Day on June 13, 2024

Makati City, June 13, 2024 — The DTI-Philippine Accreditation Bureau (PAB) celebrated World Accreditation Day 2024 with a Stakeholder’s Gathering held at Hotel 1898, Makati City. The event, themed “Accreditation: Empowering Tomorrow and Shaping the Future,” highlighted the significant role of accreditation in fostering economic growth and ensuring quality standards across various sectors.

The gathering was graced by DTI Fair Trade Group Assistant Secretary Agaton Teodoro Uvero, who delivered the welcome message. In his address, Asst. Secretary Uvero underscored the importance of accreditation in enhancing the competitiveness of Filipino products and services in the global market. “Accreditation not only assures quality and safety but also builds trust and credibility, which are essential in today’s interconnected world,” he stated.

PAB Director James Empeño further elaborated on the impact and benefits of accreditation in the Philippines. He emphasized how accreditation supports regulatory frameworks, facilitates trade, and contributes to consumer protection. “Our commitment to accreditation empowers industries, boosts consumer confidence, and shapes a better future for the Philippines,” Dir. Empeño said, aligning his remarks with the global theme of the celebration.

A key highlight of the event was the awarding of accreditation to sixteen (16) Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs). These bodies, recognized for their excellence in areas such as Product Certification, Occupational Health Safety and Management System Certification, Testing, Calibration, and Inspection, represent the high standards that the PAB upholds. The newly accredited CABs are expected to play a pivotal role in maintaining quality and safety standards in their respective fields.

In a significant move towards modernization, the PAB also introduced its Online Accreditation System (PAB OAS). This innovative platform is designed to streamline the accreditation application process, making it more efficient and transparent for stakeholders. Mr. Rick Valiente Jr. from Kalamansi Studios, Inc., the developer of the system, explained its features, highlighting the user-friendly interface and its potential to significantly enhance the stakeholder experience.

World Accreditation Day is an annual event celebrated globally to promote the value of accreditation. It serves as a reminder of the critical role that accredited conformity assessment bodies play in supporting trade, safety, and quality worldwide. The PAB’s celebration in the Philippines not only reinforced this message but also showcased the country’s dedication to upholding and advancing accreditation standards.

The event concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to continue supporting and advocating for accreditation, recognizing its power to shape a more prosperous and secure future.

Release Date: 18 June 2024