The Philippine Accreditation Bureau (PAB) is witnessing a growing trend of various sectors seeking accreditation. Within a month, PAB served two distinct sectors applying for initial accreditation: a regulatory body and the aviation industry.

From January 22-24, 2025, the journey of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau-Environmental Research & Laboratory Services Division (DENR-EMB-ERLSD)-Environmental Laboratory Services Section (ELSS) commenced. They underwent a rigorous three-day assessment process for ISO/IEC 17025 (Chemical Testing) accreditation, covering five scopes.

Within the Environmental Management Bureau-Environmental Research & Laboratory Services Division (EMB-ERLSD), high-quality data is generated for environmental policy-making and regulations. They address current and emerging issues, implement research programs, support environmental law enforcement, and enhance capabilities for detecting environmental pollution. ERLSD also recommends analytical methods and ensures data quality through continuous capacity building.

In parallel, the ERLSD-Environmental Laboratory Services Section (ELSS) supports other EMB divisions, DENR offices, and external customers in complying with environmental regulations. They develop and verify analytical methods for monitoring and measurement of environmental pollutants, implement the DENR-Environmental Laboratory Recognition Scheme with staff as technical assessors, and standardize testing activities to ensure consistency with regulatory limits and guidelines.

Shifting the focus to the aviation industry, Lufthansa Technik Philippines Calibration Shop has also applied for the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, with an assessment scheduled from February 17-19, 2025. This accreditation is seen to further enhance their credibility, operational efficiency, and service excellence in the local and international scene. Lufthansa Technik Philippines specializes in base maintenance and offers tailored line maintenance services. They support cost-efficient and reliable flight operations with integrated Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services.

DENR-EMB’s Testing Laboratories and Lufthansa Technik Philippines’ Calibration Shop were recommended for accreditation. Both entities must submit appropriate corrective actions for any non-conformities identified within a month from the last day of the assessment, as agreed during the closing meeting. Once granted, the accreditation from the PAB will be valid for five years, subject to surveillance visits to ensure their commitment to international standards and best practices.

ISO/IEC 17025 for Testing and Calibration enables laboratories to demonstrate competent operation and valid results generation, which significantly enhances a laboratory’s credibility by providing international recognition for its competence and reliability. It ensures compliance with regulatory requirements, improves operational efficiency, opens new business opportunities, increases customer satisfaction, and encourages continuous improvement.

Staff from the Promotion and Documentation Division (PDD), Ms. Sheena C. Dela Torre and Mr. Jenebert  P. Opinion, joined the assessments to immerse themselves in the accreditation process of the Laboratory Accreditation Division (LAD). This collaboration will enable PDD staff to effectively promote PAB’s accreditation and assist in the assessment process, ensuring continued service to the growing clientele.

For those interested in joining the PAB team without leaving their current jobs, you can become an external assessor or expert. Visit the “About Us” and “Join Us” sections of our website: www.dti.gov.ph/pab for further details.

Release Date: 03 March 2025.