DTI, ULSE Tackle Safety Codes, Standards

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and UL Standards and Engagement (ULSE) convened a successful joint roundtable session on safety codes and standards. The event aimed to enhance the Philippine quality infrastructure system by exchanging best practices and technical expertise.

“By engaging local and global experts together to discuss safety codes and standards, this joint roundtable reinforces the foundation of the country’s national safety framework. This collaboration ensures that safety serves as a driving force behind the nation’s sustained innovation and development,” said DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

The roundtable facilitated in-depth knowledge-sharing on emerging regulatory advancements, and cooperation in standardization. It also offered a strategic platform to strengthen regulatory frameworks, foster cooperation, and address critical safety challenges.

During the discussions, DTI-Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS) Standards Mainstreaming Division Assistant Division Chief Catherine Antonio and ULSE Regional Representative Kolin Low emphasized key initiatives in safety code development and implementation, as well as the collaboration between the two agencies.

Furthermore, Mr. Low and Ma. Theresa Espejo, Program Manager of Codes and Regulatory Services at UL Solutions Canada Inc., shared their expertise on safety codes, battery safety, fire protection, and electrical standards. Their insights played a crucial role in aligning Philippine standards with global best practices.

Local experts, including Bureau of Fire Protection Regional Chief FSupt. Gerard Venezuela and Engr. Rey Santiago of IIEE, further explored national safety standards and fire protection, with a particular focus on the Fire Code of the Philippines (Republic Act 9514) and the Philippine Electrical Code.

The roundtable culminated in a dynamic open discussion, where participants raised questions about testing fire safety systems, fire inspection processes in Canada and Singapore, electric vehicle charging, and other related topics.

Since 2020, the DTI-BPS has partnered with ULSE through a series of joint activities and meetings to advance Philippine National Standards. This session is a significant part of their broader collaboration program for 2025.

For more information on standards, technical regulations, and conformity assessment procedures, visit the DTI-BPS website at www.bps.dti.gov.ph or email inquiries to bps@dti.gov.ph.