Int’l certifying body cites PhilRice integrated mgm’t system

PhilRice’s integrated management system has been recommended for certification after passing the second stage audit by TUV SUD Philippines Inc. or Technischer Überwachungs Verein (Technical Inspection Association), an internationally-accredited certifying body.

PhilRice implements and maintains an Integrated Management System (IMS) according to ISO 9001:2000 (Quality Management System), ISO 14001:2004 (Environmental Management System), and OHSAS 18001:1999 (Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series).

According to the audit team, PhilRice is the first government institution in the country to have an integrated quality, environment, health and safety management systems (QEHSMS), which unify all components that include the organization, resources, processes, and practices in one system to help achieve an organization’s purpose and mission. TUV SUD noted that other government institutions only have either one or two certifications.

PhilRice executive director Leocadio S. Sebastian is pleased that PhilRice employees have risen to the challenge of continuous innovation and improvement in their work and processes. "If you’re a leader of these very good people, you’ll be very happy," he said.

The scope of registration includes variety development, seed production, distribution, and marketing; machinery development; rice-based information and technology design and development; intellectual property and technology promotion, technical support services; and general administrative and support services.

IMS amplifies the awareness of all employees regarding quality of products and services, environmental protection, and health and safety of employees, subcontractors, visitors, and other stakeholders.