Group photo during the in-person DTI-PAB LAD CAB’s Forum

Makati City, June 3, 2024 — The Department of Trade and Industry’s Philippine Accreditation Bureau (DTI-PAB) conducted its annual Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) Forum under its Laboratory Accreditation Division (LAD) at the Hotel 1898 in Makati City. This forum is a pivotal event aimed at ensuring that DTI-PAB-accredited CABs are well-informed about the latest accreditation policies and procedures. Additionally, it provides a platform to address any issues and clarifications that arise from the implementation of these policies.

Director James Empeño kicked off the forum with a welcome message, highlighting the significant agenda items of the event. A primary focus was on the draft Department Administrative Order (DAO) concerning the Revised Schedule of Fees and Charges for PAB services. Empeño emphasized the critical nature of stakeholder consultation due to the direct impact of these proposed changes.

“The active involvement of our stakeholders is crucial,” Empeño stated. “Their feedback will help shape policies that are fair and effective, ensuring that our accreditation services continue to meet global standards.”

In addition to the in-person forum, DTI-PAB also launched a series of Capacity-Building Programs designed to enhance the skills and competencies of its accredited CABs. These programs are crafted based on participant feedback from previous forums, ensuring they address the most pressing needs of the industry.

The topics covered in these webinars include:

Review of Strategies in the Computation and Evaluation of Uncertainty of Analytical Measurements: Presented by Mr. Admer Rey C. Dablio from the Department of Science and Technology-Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI), this session delved into reviewing the strategies and tools for accurate uncertainty of measurement evaluations.

Measurement Uncertainty for Microbiological Testing of Food and Beverages based on ISO 19036:2019: Ms. Marieson A. Trinidad, a lifetime member of the Philippine Society for Microbiology, Inc., provided insights into the nuances of measurement uncertainty in microbiological testing, crucial for ensuring food and beverage safety.

Beyond Rulers and Scales: Unveiling the World of Metrology and Global Measurement System: This session, led by Mr. Michael Jason A. Solis from the DOST-ITDI National Metrology Laboratory of the Philippines, explored the broad implications of metrology and the global measurement system.

Basic Measurement Uncertainty Concept for Calibration Laboratory: Ms. Maryness I. Salazar from the DOST-ITDI National Metrology Laboratory of the Philippines discussed fundamental concepts essential for calibration laboratories, ensuring precision and reliability in measurements.

These webinars aim to maintain and elevate the standards of DTI-PAB – accredited CABs, ensuring their continued competence in delivering accurate conformity assessment results.

The forum and the series of capacity-building programs underscore DTI-PAB’s commitment to fostering excellence and reliability among its accredited bodies, thereby contributing to the overall quality and safety standards within the Philippines.

Release Date: 14 June 2024