Corporate CompliancePhilippine Standard License: A Guide

February 21, 2025

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Philippine Standard License: A Guide to Compliance and Certification

The Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS) is critical to ensuring product quality and safety in the Philippines. Two key certification programs—the Philippine Standard (PS) License and the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC)—help regulate goods in the market. These programs ensure that both locally manufactured and imported products comply with Philippine National Standards (PNS), giving consumers confidence in the safety and reliability of what they purchase.

What is the Philippine Standard (PS) License

The Philippine Standard License is a certification issued to manufacturers whose products consistently meet the requirements of PNS. The PS mark, which can be found on certified products, proves that a manufacturer’s production process and quality management system adhere to strict standards set by the DTI-BPS.

Essential Features of the PS License

Applicable Products: The PS License is required for various goods, including electrical appliances, steel products, cement, and other regulated items.
Certification Duration: The PS License typically remains valid for three years, provided the manufacturer maintains compliance.
Periodic Audits: To renew and maintain the PS License, manufacturers must undergo regular assessments and product testing to confirm continued adherence to PNS.

What is Import Commodity Clearance (ICC)

The ICC is a necessary certification for imported goods that ensures products meet the same stringent quality and safety benchmarks as locally manufactured items. The ICC is granted after a thorough inspection and testing process that verifies that the imported products comply with Philippine regulations.

Key Characteristics of the ICC

Regulated Imports: The ICC applies to specific imported products, such as electrical equipment and construction materials, that are subject to mandatory certification.
Application Process: Before an ICC certificate is issued, importers must submit their goods for testing and provide the necessary documentation.
Shipment-Based Certification: Unlike the PS License, which applies to manufacturers, the ICC is granted on a per-shipment basis, meaning importers must secure clearance for every batch they bring into the country.

Steps to Apply for a Philippine Standard License

For manufacturers seeking PS certification, the process involves a series of steps to evaluate compliance with national quality standards. The steps are as follows:

Submission of Application Documents
- Articles of Incorporation or Business Name Registration.
- Quality Manual outlining production standards and procedures.
- Description of manufacturing methods and quality control protocols.
- Inventory of testing and measuring equipment with calibration records.
- Sample product labels and packaging details conforming to PNS.
- Location map of the production facility.
Preliminary Document Review
- The DTI-BPS examines the submitted paperwork to verify completeness and compliance.
Factory Inspection and Product Sampling
- Auditors conduct an on-site visit to assess the manufacturing process and collect product samples for testing.
Laboratory Testing
- Product samples are analyzed in accredited laboratories to ensure they conform to PNS requirements.
Certification Decision
- The DTI-BPS determines whether to grant the PS License based on audit findings and test results.
Issuance of Certification
- If approved, the manufacturer is awarded the PS License and permitted to display the PS mark on their certified products.

Process of Applying for an Import Commodity Clearance (ICC)

Importers must follow a detailed application process to obtain ICC certification for their goods:

Document Submission
- Packing List and Commercial Invoice.
- Import Entry Declaration and Customs Clearance documents.
- Bill of Lading or Airway Bill.
- Summary of Serial Numbers or Batch Numbers.
- Business Registration Certificates from relevant Philippine agencies.
Document Evaluation
- The DTI-BPS verifies that all documents meet the regulatory requirements.
Product Testing and Inspection
- Samples from each shipment are tested to determine compliance with PNS.
Assessment and Approval
- The DTI-BPS reviews test results and documents before granting ICC certification.
ICC Mark Issuance
- Approved products receive the ICC certification, authorizing their sale in the Philippine market.

Advantages of Securing the Philippine Standard License and ICC

Having the appropriate certifications provides numerous benefits for businesses and consumers alike. These include:

Increased Consumer Confidence: Certified products are recognized for their quality and safety, fostering trust among buyers.
Easier Market Access: Many retail outlets and government projects require PS-certified or ICC-cleared products, making certification essential for market entry.
Enhanced Competitive Edge: Businesses with certified products differentiate themselves from competitors by adhering to national and international standards.
Regulatory Compliance: Certification ensures companies adhere to Philippine laws, avoiding fines and legal repercussions associated with non-compliance.

Best Practices for Sustaining Compliance

To maintain PS or ICC certification, businesses must adopt the following best practices:

Routine Quality Control: Regularly update manufacturing procedures to align with evolving standards.
Employee Training Programs: Educate staff on quality management and compliance protocols.
Internal Audits: Conduct periodic evaluations to identify and correct potential compliance issues before official inspections.
Stay updated on Regulations: Monitor changes in product standards to ensure continued compliance with DTI-BPS requirements.

Closing Remarks

The Philippine Standard License and Import Commodity Clearance are crucial in maintaining product quality and consumer safety in the Philippines. Businesses that obtain these certifications comply with national regulations and gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

Is Assistance Available?

Yes, BusinessRegistrationPhilippines.com can help. Our team of experts simplifies the certification process, guiding businesses in obtaining PS Licenses and ICC clearances efficiently and effectively.

Reach out today to schedule an initial consultation with one of our experts.