THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  Page 1 of 25    
 
DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO.  ______   
Series of _________  
 
 
SUBJECT:  THE NEW TECHNICAL  REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY 
PRODUCT CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  
 
 
WHEREAS ,  the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is the primary coordinative , 
promotive, facilitative and regulatory arm of government in the area of trade, industry and 
investments.  
 
WHEREAS , the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) [formerly known as Bureau of 
Product Standards] is mandated  to establish standards for all product s of the Philippines and 
to ensure the manufacture, production, and distribution of quality products for the products for 
the protection  of the consumer   
 
WHEREAS , the same mandate is reiterated in RA 7394 or the Consumer Act of the 
Philippines declared that it is  the duty of the State to develop and provide safet y and quality 
standards for consumer products, including performance or use -oriented standards, codes of 
practice and methods of tests;  
 
WHEREAS , to implement the above -cited laws and by virtue of the rule -making power of the 
DTI Secretary under Executive Order  (EO)  292 or the Administrative Code  of 1987 , 
Department Adm inistrative Order (DAO) No. 4, the Rules and Regulations Concerning the 
Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and/or Safety Certification Mark scheme of the BPS, and 
DAO No. 5, entitled the New Rules and Regulations Concerning the Issuance of the Import 
Commodi ty Clearance Under the Product Certification Scheme of the BPS were issued in 
2008;  
 
WHEREAS , under Section 9, Article XVI of the 1987 Constitution  provides that  the State shall 
protect consumers from trade malpractices and fro m substandard or hazardous products.” 
Thus,  the continuous updating  of all existing standards and  policies and pr ocedures  
regarding the mandatory implementation . 
 
NOW, THEREFOR E, pursuant to Section 9, Article XVI of the 1987 Philippine Constitution ;  
RA 4109 ; R.A. 7394 ; E.O.101, Series of 1967 ; EO 913, Series of 1983 ;  and EO  292, Series 
of 1987 , Sec 10 (4),  Chapter 3,  Title X, Book IV, the following technical regulations governing 
the BPS Mandatory Product Certification Sche mes for plywood  are hereby prescribed and 
promulgated for the compliance, information and guidance of all concerned.  
 
 
 
  
Page 2 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  Rule 1.  OBJECTIVE  
 
This DAO aims to strictly ensure that plywood  meet the specified safety and/or quality 
require ment/s  as required under Philippine National Standards . 
 
 
Rule 2.  SCOPE  
 
This DAO prescribes the Technical  Regulations for Mandatory PS Licensing Scheme for  
plywood   covered by the PNS ISO 12465 :2017 and its future amendments , whether locally 
manufactured or imported . 
 
 
Rule 3.  DEFINITION OF TERMS  
 
For purposes of this Order, the following definitions shall apply:  
 
3.1 Audit  - a systematic, independent and documented process for obtaining audit 
evidence, and evaluating it objecti vely to determine th e extent to which the audit 
criteria are fulfilled. 1 
 
3.2 Audit criteria  – set of policies, procedures or requirements used as a reference 
against which audit evidence is compared. 2 
 
3.3 Attestation  – issuance of a statement of conformity bas ed on a decision fol lowing 
review of an audit report, that fulfillment of specified requirements has been 
demonstrated. 3 
 
3.4 Accredited Conformity Assessment Body (CAB)  – inspection body, testing 
laboratory or certification body accredited under PNS ISO/IEC 17020,  PNS ISO/IEC 
17021,  PNS ISO/IEC 17025 or PNS ISO/IEC 17065, respectively, in its relevant 
updated version/edition by the Philippine Accreditation Bureau (PAB) or by an 
accreditation body that is a signatory to regional/international agreements entered 
into by the Govern ment of the Republic of the Philippines through DTI [(i.e. A sia-
Pacific Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (APLAC) , International Laboratory 
Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) , International Accreditation Forum (IAF)]  
 
3.5 BPS – Burea u of Philippine Stan dards of the  DTI. 
 
3.6 BPS Recognized Conformity Assessment Body (CAB)  – the CAB (inspection 
body, testing laboratory, or certification body) duly recognized by BPS to have the 
scope and competence to conduct activi ties relevant to the requirements set forth by 
BPS, to include but not limited to, CABs accredited by the PAB, CABs recognized by 
BPS under the A ssociation of South East Asian Nations Mutual Recognition 
Arrangement (ASEAN MRA) , Asia-Pacific Economic Cooper ation (APEC)  MRA and 
other regional and bilateral MRAs entered into by the Government of the Philippines 
through the DTI. BPS shall issue Recognition Certificate upon completion of all 
requirements for  application for recogn ition.      
 
 
                                                                 
1 ISO 19011:2011  
2 Ibid.  
3 ISO/IEC 17000  
  
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THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  3.7 Certification Body  – third party conformity assessment body operating a certification 
scheme.  
 
3.8 Certificate of Conditional Release  – a documen t issued to an importer allowing the 
temporary release of goods from Custom’s custody , upon complianc e with the BOC 
and BPS requirements, while awaiting BPS decision on the issuance of SOC.  
 
3.9 Certificate of Exemption  – a document issued to importer of plywood  product s that 
are not w ithin the scope of PNS ISO 12465 :2017 
 
3.10 Confirmation  – an action, declaratio n, document, or statement that corroborates, 
ratifies, verifies, gives formal approval, or assures the validity of something.4 
 
3.11 Conformity Assessment Body (CAB)  – a third party inspection body, testing 
laboratory and certification body operating within its  scope of competence.  
 
3.12 Conformity  – fulfillment of a requirement.5 
 
3.13 Critical Testing  – verification testing of plywood product’s conformance to dimension 
and tolerances and physical properties . 
 
3.14 DTI – Department of Trade and Industry  
 
3.15 Determination  – include assessment activities such as testing, measuring, 
inspection, design appraisal, assessment of servic es, and auditing to provide 
information regarding the product requirements as input to the review and attestation 
functions.  
 
3.16 Evaluation  – systematic examination of the extent to which a product, process, or 
service fulfills specified requirements. 6 
 
3.17 Form aldehyde (HCHO)  – colorless, poisonous, highly water -soluble gas with an 
obnoxious odor, used in the manufacture of wood -based panels.  
 
3.18 International Standard  – a standard developed under the WTO principles for 
international standards development such as those developed by inter national bodies 
like the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), International 
Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and 
those developed by foreign standards bodies under these principles.  
 
3.19 Inspection – examination of a product, process, service, or installation or their design 
and determination of its conformity with specific requirements, or, on the basis of 
professional judgment, with general requirements.7 This includes inven tory and 
sampling.   
 
3.20 Inspection body  – a body that performs inspection. 8 
 
3.21 ISO/IEC 9000  - Quality Management System - Fundamentals and Vocabulary  
 
                                                                 
4 Webster’s New World Law Dictionary  
5 ISO/IEC 17000  
6 Ibid.  
7 ISO/IEC 17020  
8 Ibid.  
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THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  3.22 ISO/IEC 9001  – Quality Management Systems – Requirements  
 
3.23 ISO/IEC 17020  – Conformity assessment – Requireme nts for the operation of  various 
types of bodies performing inspection . 
 
3.24 ISO/IEC 1702 1 – Conformity assessment – Requirements for bodies providing audits 
and certification of management systems . 
 
3.25 ISO/IEC 17025  – General requirements for the competence of t esting and calibration 
laboratories . 
 
3.26 ISO/IEC 17065  – Conformity assessment – Requirements for bodies certifying 
products, processes and services.  
 
3.27 ISO 19011  - Guidelines for Auditing . 
 
3.28 Lot No . /Batch No . /Serial No.  – an identification number permanent ly marked on 
the sheet/piece  of plywood  products . This is used to identify production batch of any 
other product for quality control purposes.  
 
3.29 PAB – Philippine Accreditation Bureau of the  DTI. 
 
3.30 Philip pine National Standards (PNS)  – Standards promulgated by the BPS.  
 
3.31 Product Certification  – the provision of impartial third -party attestation that fulfillment 
of specified requirements have been demonstrated.  9 
 
3.32 PS License  – authority given by BPS to a loc al/foreign manufacturer , authorizing the 
use of the PS Certification Mark on its product.  
 
3.33 Review  – verification of the suitability, adequacy and effectiveness of selection and 
determination activities, and the results of th ese activities, with regard to  fulfillment of 
specified requirements. 10 
 
3.34 Sampling  – a method of getting a representative sample of a product shipment 
according to a specified procedure.  
 
3.35 Standard - a document approved by a recognized body, that provides, for common 
and repeated use, rules, guidelines or characteristics for products or related 
processes and production methods, with which compliance is not mandatory  
 
3.36 Statement of Confirmation  (SOC)  – a document stating  that the imported plywood  
product was sourced from a manufacturer with a valid PS License and that the 
imported plywood  product  from said manufacturer  complies  with specified 
requirements after undergoing inspection and verification  and  should  contain the 
batch number and manufacturing date of the imported plywood . 
 
3.37 Surveillance – a systematic iteration of conformity assessment activities as a basis 
for maintaining the validity of the statement of conformity.11 
 
                                                                 
9 ISO/IEC 17065  
10 ISO/IEC 17000  
11 ISO/IEC 17000   
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THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  3.38 Technical Regulation  - a document which lays do wn product characteristics for their 
related processes and production methods, including the applicable administrative 
provisions, with which compliance is mandatory . 
  
3.39 Test Report  – a document that presents test results and other information relevant to 
a test.  
 
3.40 Testing Laboratory  – a laboratory which measures, examines, or determines the 
characteristics of performance of mater ial or product s. It may also be a laboratory that 
calibrates inspection, measuring and test equipment.  
 
3.41 Third Party  – a body that is independent of the organization that provides the 
product/service and is not the user of the product/service (testing, insp ection, and 
sampling). 13 
 
3.42 Trade name  – any registered name or designation identifying or distinguishing an 
enterprise  
 
3.43 Verification – confirmation, through the provision of  objective evidence, that specified 
requirements have been fulfilled.14 This may include product testing.  
 
3.44 Warehouse – secured premises built purposely for storage of products  and to 
preserv e the quality and integrity of the same . 
 
 
Rule 4.  THE PHILIPPINE STAND ARD (PS) QUALI TY MARK  
 
For safety, traceability and accountability purposes, only plywood  sourced from plywood 
manufacturing plant(s) hold ing a valid  PS Quality and/or Safety Certification Mark License(s) 
shall be permitted  to be distributed , sold and used  in the Philippines.  
 
4.1. The PS Quality Mark Licensing Scheme  – the PS Quality and/or Safety Mark 
Licensing Scheme (PS Licensing Scheme for brevity) shall be available  to both local 
and foreign manufacturers selling or distributing plywood  in the Philippine market.  
The License to use the PS Certification Mark shall be granted to  a company found to 
be compliant with the requirements. To ensure compliance  of the certified products, 
regular surveillance activities as per existing DTI rules shall be conducted as follows, 
as may be applicable:  
 
4.1.1  Local companies holding a valid PS license ; 
 
4.1.1.1  Annual system and product audit at the factory; and  
 
4.1.1.2  Random  product audit at the warehouse/market . 
 
4.1.2  Foreign companies holding a valid PS license ; 
 
4.1.2.1  Annual system and product audit at the factory; and  
 
4.1.2.2  Regular product audit per shipment . 
 
 
                                                                 
13 Ibid.  
14 ISO/IEC 9000   
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THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  Rule 5.  DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES FOR THE PS 
LICENSING SCHEME  
 
5.1 Application for PS Licensing Scheme shall be s upported  by the following : 
 
5.1.1  Duly accomplished application form, subscribed and sworn to by the applicant, 
or his duly authorized management representative. In case of an overseas 
applicant, the application form shall be duly authenticated by the Philippine 
Consulate in the country where the manufacturing plant to be audited is 
located. The requirement of authentication may be waived subject to reciprocity 
arrangements between the Philippines and the exporting country;  
 
5.1.2  For a sole proprietor ship: latest  Income Tax Return  or latest audited financial 
statement, permit issued by the local gover nment unit having jurisdiction  over it , 
and certification of an accountant  on the net worth of the business, submitted 
once  unless an amendment has been m ade within the current year ; or 
 
For a corporation or partnership: Latest SEC Registration and Articles of 
Incorporation /Partnership  and By -Laws . 
 
5.1.3  Quality Mana gement System (QMS) Manual covering the product being applied 
for PS License , including the product/s’ production process; and  
 
5.1.4  Oath of undertaking to abide by the Terms and Conditions of the License , 
respectively signed by the manu facturer / local office or agent/ importer . 
 
 
5.2 PS License Application Process  
 
5.2.1  Processing of application s under this scheme replace s the PS Scheme under 
DAO 4:2008 , subject to the requirements and transitory provision stated herein.  
 
5.2.2  Each PS License application shall be factory, plant or site-specific  and importer , 
local office  or agent -specific. For foreign manufacturers, only one local importer 
per license shall be allowed.  However, a  specific factory or plant may apply for 
multiple licenses. As such, a separate PS  License  application shall be filed by  
importer , local office  or agent .  
 
5.2.3  Conduct of Factory and Product Audit  
 
5.2.3.1  Upon submissi on and confirmation of the completeness and compliance 
of the documentary requirements , an assessment   of the Quality 
Management System ’s conformity  to PNS ISO 9001 and product 
specifications ’ conformity  to specific applicable version of PNS shall be 
conducted ;  
 
5.2.3.2  Audit shall be undertaken by either the BPS, DTI Reg ional/Provincial 
Office, or BPS -recog nized auditing bodies  based on  established audit 
procedure . Only recognized auditing bodies  in the BPS official list may 
be designated as auditors; and  
 
5.2.3.3  During the audit, samples shall be d rawn for  all types/sizes of the 
product to be certified for the purpose of  in-plant and independent 
testing. Independent testing shall be conducted only by BPS-recognized 
testing laboratory.   
Page 7 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD   
5.2.4  If the applicant is a foreign -based manufacturer, the application shall, for 
purposes of accountability, be  made and  filed by its local branch or 
representative office or representative agency who must be duly registered in 
accor dance with Philippine laws;  
 
5.2.5  The PS License shall only be issued upon satisfactory evaluation of the factory 
audit and determination of product conformance to specific PNS and updated 
version of the product thereof based on pertinent test reports;  
 
5.2.6  If the evaluation of the factory audit report showed unsatisfactory results, the 
PS License shall not be issued. Only after the re -assessment and subsequent 
product compliance shall the BPS issue the PS License;  
 
5.2.7  The PS License shall be effect ive from the da te of issuance and with full force 
and effect for a period of three (3) years, subject to the surveillance audits 
prescribed herein.  PS License can be suspended, withdrawn or cancelled at 
any time for cause  and after due process ; 
 
5.2.8  For renew als, t he PS License holder must, through written notice,  coordinate 
with BPS or the DTI Regional/Provincial Office for a schedule of the re -
certification audit at least six (6) months before the expiration da te. Otherwise, 
the PS License shall be considered expired immediately after the end period of 
its validity.  
 
5.2.9  In case of changes materially affecting the PS License and/or license holder’s 
ability to comply with BPS product certification requirements, the license holder 
shall inform BPS in writing at least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the date 
the changes will take effect. The notice must include a request for re -
certification audit. The validity of the PS License shall be deemed suspended 
from the date of changes taking effect as indicated in the notice until the 
release of re -certification audit results. Thereafter, the existing PS License shall 
be considered expired.  
 
5.2.9.1  Changes may include, but shall not be limited to, change in 
management or bus iness  name; transfer of plant site; modification of 
product design and/or specifications.  
 
 
Rule 6.  FILING / PROCESSING OF APPLICATION FOR STATEMENT OF CONFIRMA TION 
OF IMPORTED PLYWOOD   
 
6.1 To ensure that the imported plywood  was sourced from a PS License d manufacturer  and 
consistently conforms to  the requirements of the Standards, the importer shall apply for 
Statement of Confirmation (SOC) on a per product,  per Bill of Lading basis. The duly 
accomplished and subscribed application form shall be supported by the following:  
 
6.1.1  For sole proprietorship registered with DTI, the application shall b e 
accomplished and signed by the owner  and filed by the owner  or by a duly 
authorized representative  by virtue of a notarized Special Power of Atto rney 
(SPA) ; or 
 
For Corporation/Partnership registered with SEC, the application shall be 
accomplished  and signed,  and filed by any officer  or orga nic employee , duly  
Page 8 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  authorized by virtue of a notarized board/partnership resolution or Secretary’s 
Certificate ; 
 
6.1.2  Packing List;   
 
6.1.3  Commercial Invoice;  
 
6.1.4  Bill of Lading;  
 
6.1.5  Load Port Survey R eport;  
 
6.1.6  Summary of the productio n batch/lot and the corresponding manufacturing 
dates  duly certified by the manufacturer ’s Quality Management Representative 
or Quality Manager ; 
 
6.1.7  Production records reflecting the shipped production batch/lot verifiable during 
surveillance audits  duly certified by the manufacturer’s Quality Management 
Representative or Quality Manager;  
 
6.1.8  DTI Business Registration Certificate for sole proprietorship or Latest SEC 
Registration Certificate and Articles of Incorporation/Partnership for 
corporation/partnership ; 
 
6.1.9  Latest A udited Financial Statement  (AFS)  or a ny other valid financial 
report/certificate ; 
 
6.1.10  List of distributors/retailers with their complete addresses and contact details;  
 
6.1.11  Proof of ownership or contract of lease of warehouse;  
 
6.1.12  Import Entry (may be submitted later prior to release of the certifica te);  
 
6.1.13  Surety Bond;  
 
6.2 The application for Statement of Confirmation (SOC) shall be processed as follows:  
 
6.2.1  The applicant shall submit the duly accomplished and subscribed application  
form and requirements to t he BPS or to the nearest DTI regional/provincial office.  
 
6.2.2  Upon receipt of the application and complete requirements, a Certificate  of 
Conditional Release  shall be issued , subject to the conditions stated therein . 
Upon arrival of shipme nt at the port of entry, the following shall apply:  
 
6.2.2.1  The importer shall notify in writing the BPS/DTI regional/provincial office 
that the shipment has been transferred and/or is ready for inspection. 
The shipment shall be transferred only to the warehouse  address 
indicated in the application and shall not be used or offered for 
sale/retail.   
 
6.2.2.2  Product inspection and drawing of samples shall be conducted within 
sixteen ( 16) working hours from receipt of the notice at the port of entry, 
vessel, or the impo rter’s warehouse, whichever is applicable , as far as it 
is consistent with the Tariffs and Customs Code and applicable 
issuances by the Bureau of Customs . 
  
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THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  6.2.2.3  If inspection shows that the product shipped is consistent with the 
importation documents  (e.g. q uantity, markings, license number) , SOC 
shall be issued.  Otherwise, a Show Cause Order shall be issued and the 
provisions under Rule  13 shall apply.  
 
6.2.2.4  The drawn samples shall be submit ted by the applicant to the BPS -
recogni zed testing laboratory within twenty -four ( 24) working hours from 
the date of inspection and sampling for the conduct of critical testing.  
 
6.2.2.5  If the result of the critical testing  shows con formance, the company will 
be notified by the BPS . Otherwise, a re-testing  may be conducted , or the 
application  will be denied and exportation or destruction of the non -
conforming product shall be undertaken  within ninety (90) days , at the 
cost and option of the importer  whether to export or destroy the non -
conforming product . In addition, the PS License may be suspended, 
revoked or cancelled , subject to due process . 
 
 
Rule 7.  INSPECTION AND SAMPLING  
 
7.1. Inspection  and sampling shall be conducted by  the BPS, DTI RO/PO  or the BPS-
recognized  Inspection Body  within the prescribed time and i n accordance with 
existing BPS Inspection and Sampling Procedure.  
 
7.2. If inspection and sampling cannot be conducted within  the prescribed period , the 
concerned DTI RO/PO or the BPS -recognized Inspection  Body shall  inform the BPS  
in writing  of the reason /s thereof within sixteen ( 16) working hours  upon receipt of the 
notice to conduct inspection . Under justifiable reason s, inspection and sampling may 
be re -scheduled , otherwise, appropriate action shall be undertaken . 
 
7.3. Sampling Procedure  
 
7.3.1  The BPS, DTI Regional Office/P rovinc ial Office (ROs/POs), BPS -recognized 
auditing/inspection body and the PS appl icant/license holder and SOC applicant 
authorized representative shall ensure that the drawn samples shall be 
traceable to the particular lot where it was drawn.  
 
7.3.2  The BPS, DTI ROs /POs, BPS -recognized auditing/inspection body shall 
facilitate the preparation of  two (2) sets of t hirty (30) pieces per brand, per type, 
per thickness of plywood  for every sample drawn properly labeled as first set 
and second set . 
 
7.3.3  For PS initial, surveillance or recertification audits, additional sets of samples 
shall be rando mly drawn for in -plant/factory  testing purposes.  
 
7.3.4  Test samples drawn shall be packed/sealed and signed in the presence of 
authorized representativ es from BPS, DTI ROs/POs or BPS -recognized 
auditing/inspection body who shall ensure that the Request for Tes t form is 
properly filled -up and signed by the manufacturer or importer. The 
auditor/inspector and the manufacturer/importer  shall ensure that the samples 
are traceable  to the particular batch/lot  where it was drawn . 
 
7.3.5  The auditor or the inspector shall ensure that the request for test form together 
with the two (2) sets  of samples are directly submitted to the BPS -recognized 
testing laboratory within three (3) days from the date of audit/ inspection and  
Page 10 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  furnish BPS with a copy thereof within three  (3) days from submission. For 
foreign -based PS License Holders/Applicants, the auditor or inspector shall 
ensure that the samples drawn shall be shipped to the BPS -recognized testing 
laboratory within three (3)  days from the date of audit or inspection .  
 
7.3.6  The BPS -recognized t esting laboratory shall document properly the receipt of 
the product samples to include but not limited to taking pictures of the following:  
 
7.3.6.1  Request for Test;  
7.3.6.2  Packaging of the sampl es as submitted and receive d. 
 
 
Rule 8.  PRODUCT TESTING  
 
8.1. Product test ing shall be conducted by a BPS -recognized testing laboratory . 
 
8.2. Full product testing shall be conducted as follows:  
 
8.2.1  Dimensions and tolerances  
8.2.2  Classification by Surface Appearance  
8.2.3  Mechanical Characteristics  (tension, shear, compression)  
8.2.4  Physical Properties  (moisture content, density)  
8.2.5  Bonding Quality  
8.2.6  Formaldehyde Emission  
 
 
8.3. Critical test shall be limited to the following parameters:  
 
8.3.1  Dimensions and tolerances  
8.3.2  Physical properties  
 
8.4. To verify conformance to the aforementioned testing requirements, the test methods 
prescribed by the particular PNS shall be used. Considering the regular updating of 
standards,  the latest edition of the PNS shall be used as reference. It is understood 
that future amendments of the PNS used in this Order shall be effective one (1) year 
after its promulgation to provide ample time to all stakeholders to adjust and conform 
to the new requirements, if any.  
 
8.5. For initial, surveillance or recertification audits, samples drawn shall be tested in -
plant.  The manufacturer shall  have testing capability to conduct the critical  testing of 
plywood  products . Only after the result of in -plant tests showed conformance to the 
requirements of the standards shall the auditor prepare the Request for Test of the 
first and second sets of  samples for testing by the BPS -recognized testing laboratory.   
 
8.6. The first set of samp les shall be tested by the BPS -recognized testing laboratory  
while the second set of samples shall be kept by the testing laboratory for re -testing 
or future reference.  
 
8.7. Tested samples shall be retrieved by the manufacturer/importer upon receipt of 
notice of retrieval from the testing laboratory. Otherwise, the tested sa mples upon 
notice shall be disposed of accordingly.  
 
8.8. The manufacturer/importer shall have one (1) month from the receipt of the notice of 
disposal of test samples  to arrange for the pick up of samples from the concerned 
testing laboratory. After said period, the testing laboratory shall, with due notice to  
Page 11 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  BPS and the manufacturer/importer , dispose the samples in a manner deemed 
appropriate in accordance with existing accounting and auditing rules.  
 
8.9. Unused samples shall be retrie ved by the manufacturer/importer within fifteen (15) 
days from  receipt of notice of retrieval from the testing laboratory, copy BPS. 
Otherwise, they shall upon notice be disposed of in accordance with existing and 
applicable rules.  
 
8.10.  The original test reports shall be sent directly to the BPS by the BPS-recognized 
testing laboratory  together with the pictures of samples as received, pictures of 
samples showing the required markings, and copy of the Request for Test . 
 
The BPS reserves the right to  be present at any point of the certification process.  
 
 
Rule 9.  EVALUATION OF RESULTS  
 
Results of test s shall be evaluated to determine conformance of the product  to the relevant 
standard in accordance with the following:  
 
9.1. Results under the PS Licensing Scheme  
 
9.1.1 For initial audit, if the test results sh ow conformance, the PS License shall be 
issued. Otherwise, the applicant shall be advised accordingly and PS License shall 
not be issued. Only after re -assessme nt and sub sequent product conformance shall 
BPS issue the PS License.  
 
9.1.2 For surveillance au dit of local manufacturers, if the test results show 
conformance, the PS License shall be continued or renewed. Otherwise, re -
testing shall be conducted.  
 
If the result of a re -testing shows non -conformance, the PS License shall be 
suspended immediately up on written notice. The non -conforming batch shall be 
destroyed or reprocessed, at the option of the manufacturer, under the 
supervision of the BPS. Only after re -assessment and subsequent product 
conformance shall the BPS allow the continued use or renewal  of the PS 
License.  
 
 
9.1.3  For surveillance audit of foreign manufacturers, if the test results show 
conformance, the PS License shall be continued or renewed. Otherwise, re -
testing shall be conducted.  
 
If the result of a re -testing shows non -conformance , the PS License shall be 
suspended immediately upon written notice. The non -conforming 
shipment/ batch shall be destroyed  or exported to the Country of Origin , at the 
option of the manufacturer, under the supervision of the BPS. Only after re -
assessment an d subsequent product conformance shall the BPS allow the 
continued use or renewal of the PS License.  
 
9.1.4  For Statement of Confirmation (SOC) application , if the result of critical testing 
showed conformance, the applicant shall be notified by BPS accord ingly. 
Otherwise, full product testing shall be conducted on the second set of sample at 
the expense of the applicant . 
  
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THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  If the result of re -testing showed conformance, the shipment/batch will be 
declared as conforming and the company shall be notified by B PS accordingly. 
Otherwise, the PS License shall be suspended immediately upon written notice. 
The SOC application shall be denied and the non-conforming shipment/batch 
shall be destroyed or exported to the Country of Origin, at the option of the 
manufactur er, under the supervision of the BPS. Only after re -assessment and 
subsequent product conformance shall the BPS allow the continued use or 
renewal of the PS License.  
 
9.1.5  If the application is denied, BPS shall inform the importer and manufacturer of 
such denial. If the applicant fails to communicate with BPS within the period 
stated in the notice, a Show Cause Order shall be issued.  
 
9.1.6  Processing of succeeding applications filed by the importer of plywood  covered 
by the same PS License number against whom a Show Cause Order or Formal 
Charge was issued by BPS shall be suspended  until such issue/s is resolved. 
The BPS reserves the right to suspend all PS licenses issued to a 
manufacturer, blacklist importer and all guilty parties after due  process, if the 
nature of violation/s so warrant.  
 
 
Rule 10.  MARKIN G REQUIREMENTS  
 
For traceability and verification purposes, the required markings for imported or manufactured  
plywood  products  shall be available at all times for verification by the  BPS and DTI RO’s/PO’s, 
their authorized representatives, and by the duly authorized enforcement teams either at the 
manufacturer’s/importer’s warehouse or traders’/distributors’/ retailers’ warehouse , if 
applicable .  
 
The required markings in the per sheet  shall be as follows:  
 
10.1 Correct and registered trade name or brand name   
10.2 Duly registered trademark  
10.3 Duly registered Business Name and address of importer and    
manufacturer (if imported) or d uly registered Business Name and address  of 
manufacturer (if locally manufactured);  
10.4 Country of Origin  
10.5 Type (e.g. I or II)  
10.6 Thickness , mm  
10.7 Form aldehyde Emission  
10.8 Lot/Batch Number  or Serial Number  
10.9 PS License Number  
 
In the absence of any of the required markings or submission of incomplete markings, the 
applicat ion for PS License or SOC  shall not  be processed  until such time  that the required 
markings are submitted or corrected .  
 
 
Rule 11.  RECOGNITION OF CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT BODY  
 
11.1.  Only recog nized Conformity Assessment Bodies  (CAB s) shall be allowed to 
participate in this mandatory product certification scheme.  
  
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THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  11.2.  Any CAB that intends to be recognized shall accomplish the BPS Recognition 
Application Form together with the following:  
 
11.2.1.  Certificate of Accreditation from an Accreditation Body signatory to the 
ILAC/APLAC, to include the Scope of Accreditation;  
 
11.2.2.  Certified True Copy of the Articles of Incorporation. For foreign CAB, all 
incorporation documents shall be authenticated by the  Philip pine Consulate 
Office. T he authentication requirement may be waived subject to reciprocity 
agreement;  
 
11.2.3.  List of authorized signatories indicating their company position and the 
corresponding specimen signature;  
 
11.2.4.  An undertaking to abide by the terms and cond itions of the recognition.  
 
11.3.  For foreign CABs, the application shall be submitted by the local 
office/representative agency to ensure accountability. Applications of foreign CABs 
with no local office/representative agency shall be denied.  
 
11.4.  The requirement o n local office/representative agency may be waived subject to 
the provisions of any Mutual Recognition Agreement entered into by the Philippine 
Government through the Department of Trade and Industry.  
 
11.5.  The BPS may, at any time, conduct full verification of  the competence of the CAB 
to perform the conformity assessment activities  under the BPS Product 
Certification Schemes . 
 
 
Rule 12.  TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE PS LICENSE  
 
The PS License holders and importers shall abide by the following terms and conditions:  
 
12.1.  Consistently abide by R.A. No. 4109, E.O. No. 133: 1987, E.O. No. 913: 1983 and 
R.A. No. 7394 and their implementing rules and regulations, and orders which the 
BPS issues in pursuance with its authority under the law. 
 
12.2.  Ensure that the certified product confo rms at all times to a specific standard as 
amended/updated and its implementing rules and regulations.  
 
12.3.  Warrant that it has the authority to  use the brand name, trade name  and 
trademarks indicated in the application form.  
 
12.4.  Be held l iable for any  damages that its product might cause to their consumers.  
 
12.5.  The Product  Certification Mark shall not be affixed on any products not covered by 
the license or certificate issued by BPS.  
 
12.6.  Establish and maintain system s of product recall  and of addressing comp laints 
filed by its clients or customers concerning its certified products , and shall maintain 
records thereof.  
 
12.7.  Give duly -authorized representatives of the BPS or DTI Regional/Provincial Offices 
or, in the case of f oreign companies, by BPS or BPS -recogniz ed CABs, full access 
to the premises where the certified product is manufactured/assembled/stored ; to  
Page 14 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  relevant equipment, records, personnel and subcontractors for purposes of 
investigating  complaints or evaluating consistency of compliance with the 
requir ements of this technical regulation ; 
 
12.8.  Maintain a record of all complaints made known to it, relating to compliance with 
certification requirements and make these records available to the certification 
body when requested; take appropriate action with respe ct to such complaints and 
any deficiencies found affecting such product’s conformance to the requirements 
for certification; and, document the action taken, subject to verification by the 
certification body.  
 
12.9.  Submit itself to surveillance activities to ens ure consistent compliance with the 
BPS requirements o f the Product Certification Scheme.  
 
12.10.  In case  of subcontracts, shall assume full responsibility for its sub -assemblies’, 
semi -finished and finished products’ conformance to the specific requirements.  
 
12.11.  Inform BPS in writing of any changes that will  materially affect its PS License and 
its ability to comply with BPS product certification requirements at least fifteen (15) 
calendar days prior  to the date the change will  be made, such as, but not limited to 
change in management, business name ,, addition  of brand name , modification of  
product ’s designs and  specifications  and/or transfer of plant site . 
 
12.11.1  If the change involves addition of brand name and modification in the 
product’s design or specifications, BPS s hall facilitate the conduct of 
appropriate product certification activity;  
 
12.11.2  In case of transfer of plant site, BPS, DTI ROs/POs, or BPS -recognized 
auditing bodies shall conduct factory and product audit at the new site.  
 
12.12.  Pay the applicable fees and other charges as billed or stipulated by BPS, its duly 
recognized inspection and/or certification bodies.  
 
12.13.  Any incorrect references to the certification sc heme; misleading use of PS 
licenses, Statement of Confirmation, marks or any other mechanisms indicating 
that a product is certified found in documentation or publicity materials or any 
breach hereof, shall be a ground for the issuance of Show Cause Order.   
 
12.14.  Traders or retailers in possession of covered products whose PS Licenses have 
expired or have been suspended, recalled, withdrawn, revoked or cancelled shall 
be notified in writing of such suspension, recall, withdrawal, revocation or 
cancellation.  
 
12.15.  Upon suspension, recall, withdrawal, cancellation or revocation of the  PS License, 
the holder shall discontinue the manufacture and/or use of covered products 
including advertising materials relevant thereto and shall take action as may be 
required by the BPS .  
 
12.16.  The PS License and Statement of Confirmation are non -transferable.  
 
Any infractions of the foregoing shall be a ground for the suspension, withdrawal or 
cancellation of the license and/or certificate.  
 
 
Rule 13.  REQUIREMENTS IN CASE OF NON -CONFORMANCE   
Page 15 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD   
For c overed products that do not conform to the requirements of BPS rules and 
regulations/guidelines, the following provisions, on a per shipment basis, shall apply:  
 
13.1.  A SHOW CAUSE ORDER shall be issued by BPS or DTI -ROs/POs giving the PS 
License holder or the i mporter opportunity to  explain  why its surety bond shall not 
be forfeited in favor of DTI and/or why a formal charge shall not be filed. This may  
include a CEASE AND DESIST ORDER  addressed to the owner/manager of the 
individual or company conc erned, to refrain from supplying, distributing, selling or 
displaying for sale the products subject thereof until such time that the Show 
Cause Order is lifted.  
 
13.2.  If the explanation to the Show Cause Order is not acceptable, the BPS or DTI -
ROs/POs shall direct the manufacturer and/or importer concerned to submit a 
sworn affidavit undertaking to do the following  as directed whichever is applicable : 
 
13.2.1  Permanently cease and desist from supplying, distributing, selling or 
displaying for sale the non -confo rming products subject thereof ; 
 
13.2.2  Effect  a full product recall  to account such  products that are already in 
circulation  through publication in a newspaper of national circulation, 
giving the public a period of thirty (30) days from publication within  
which to return subject products . The product recall shall specify the 
basis or ground therefor. The manufacturer/importer/distributor shall 
keep BPS informed in writing on the progress of the recall.  Such 
publication shall include  a NOTICE  warning the pu blic that the product 
subject thereof is not compliant with the sa fety and/or quality 
requirement ; and 
 
13.2. 3 Recognize BPS authority to forfeit the Surety Bond in such amount as 
prescribed herein .  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rule 14.  PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR PRODUCT RECALL  
 
After the  product is declared by the BPS to be non -conforming,  the BPS shall immediately  
notify the manufacturer and importer. The manufacturer and/or importer  shall within  fifteen (15)  
days from receipt of notic e implement product recall  in accordance with the following:    
 
14.1.  The recall order shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation for at least 
two (2) consecutive Saturdays/Sundays ; 
 
14.2.  The layout, content, font and size of the recall order shall be prescribed by the BPS;  
 
14.3.  The recall period shall be for a minimum of thirty (30) days from date of the second 
publication;  
 
14.4.  Proof of publication of the recall orders shall be submitted to the BPS or the DTI 
Regional/Provincial Office;  
  
Page 16 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  14.5.  Inventory of the re called products shall be submitted to BPS or DTI 
Regional/Provincial Office;  
 
14.6.  Recalled products shall be condemned, destroyed, or otherwise disposed  of in 
accordance with applicable rules on disposal issued by the DTI, Department of 
Budget a nd Management a nd Commission on  Audit.  
 
14.7.  The manufacturer and/or importer shall compensate parties availing of the recall 
order.  
 
 
Rule 15.  FEES, CHARGES, BOND REQUIREMENT AND OTHER EXPENSES  
 
15.1.  All corresponding fees, charges, costs, and other related expenses shall be for the 
acco unt of manufacturer/importer.  
 
15.2.  Fees and charges to be paid by the applicant in accordance with Annex A shall be 
as follows:  
 
15.2.1.  Application Fee;  
 
15.2.2.  Audit/inspection fees ; 
 
15.2.3.  Transportation/ travelling expenses, and board and  lodging costs of 
auditor/s and inspecto r/s during audit/ inspection, subject to existing  rules 
and regulations or third -party provision ; 
 
15.2.4.  Processing Fee of Statement of Confirmation on imported products 
(non-refundable, payable upon filing of the application on per product , 
per shipment, per Bil l of Lading/Airway Bill basis, assessed by the BPS 
based on the amount declared in the Invoice) ; 
 
15.2.5.  PS License fee for manufactured products ; 
 
15.3.  For imported  plywood , a Surety  Bond shall be posted on a per shipment basis 
equivalent to Ten percent (10%) o f the declared value or dutiable value of the 
imported product in Philippine Peso, whichever is higher to guarantee that the 
applicant shall perform its duties and obligations stated herein.  
 
15.4.  Any violation of the terms and conditions of the Product Certifi cation Scheme shall, 
upon notice, result in the motu proprio  forfeiture of the bond based on the degree of 
non-conformity or non -compliance stated herein.  
 
 
Rule 16.  SHOW CAUSE ORDER AND BOND FORFEITURE  
 
16.1 A Show Cause Orde r shall be issued against a manufacturer or importer who fail s to 
comply with legal and technical requirements or whose product/s failed t o conform 
to such requirements .  
16.2 A Cease and  Desist Order may be issued simultaneously  with the Show Cause 
Order directing the manufacturer and/or importer to refrain from selling,  distributing 
or disposing  the products  in any manner .  
Page 17 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  16.3 The surety bond may be forfeited partial ly or in full , depending on the degree of the 
non-conformity or non -compliance as follows:  
16.3.1  Minor – This level or degree can be the subject of corrective action as 
allowed under applicable PNS/rules hence, may not be  the subject 
of a Show Cause Order.  
16.3.1.1  Inconsistencies in the markings/tags is up to five percent (5%) of the 
total number of sheets/pieces ; 
16.3.1.2  Transfer of products from a declared warehouse to another declared 
warehouse with prior notice to DTI ; 
16.3.1.3  Up to fifteen (15) days d elay in responding to notices/letters ; 
16.3.1.4  Delivery of products covered by a Conditional Release from the Bureau 
of Customs ( BOC ) to one of the declared warehouses but not in the 
warehouse declared in the current application with notice to BPS prior 
to such delivery ; 
16.3.1.5  Number of missing plywood  products is not more than one percent 
(1%) of the total  number of  sheets/pieces ’ 
16.3.1.6  Number of missing markings/ tags is up to  five pe rcent (5%) of the total 
number of sheets/pieces ; 
16.3.1.7  Typographical errors in documents or responses submitted ; 
16.3.1.8  Other circumstances analogous to the above.  
16.3.2  Significant – This level or degree fell short of being considered justifiable.  
16.3.2.1  Inconsistencies in the markings/tags is more than five percent (5%) up 
to twenty percent (20%) of the total number of sheets/pieces ; 
16.3.2.2  Transfer of products from a declared warehouse to another declared 
warehouse without prior notice to BPS ; 
16.3.2.3  More than fifteen (15) up to thirty (30) days delay in responding to 
notices/letter s; 
16.3.2.4  Delivery of products covered by a Conditional Release from the BOC to 
one of the declared warehouses but not in the warehouse declared in 
the current application without prior notice to BPS ; 
16.3.2.5  Number of missing  plywood products is more than one p ercent (1%) up 
to two point five percent ( 2.5%) of the total number of sheets /pieces ; 
16.3.2.6  Number  of sheets  without marking  is more than  five (5) percent up to  
twenty percent (20% ) of the total number of  sheets /pieces ; 
16.3.2.7  Other circum stances analogous to the above.   
Page 18 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  16.3.3  Major - This level or degree may still be the subject of corrective action but the 
quantity involved is no longer justifiable hence, shall be the subject of 
a Show Cause Order.  
16.3.3.1  Inconsiste ncies in the markings/tags is more th an twenty percent (2 0%) 
but less than fifty percent (50%) of the total number of sheets/pieces ; 
16.3.3.2  Transfer of products from a declared warehouse to another declared 
warehouse without notice at all ; 
16.3.3.3  More than thirty (30) up to sixty (60) days delay i n responding to 
notices/letters ; 
16.3.3.4  Delivery of products with Certificate of Conditional Release from the 
BOC to a non -declared warehouse ; 
16.3.3.5  Delivery or transfer of products to a declared but unsecured/uncovered 
warehouse ; 
16.3.3.6  Release of products covered by a Co nditional release whose 
quality/safety passed the test from the declared warehouse for 
commercial distribution but was made prior to the resolution of S how 
Cause Order ; 
16.3.3.7  Number of m issing quantity is more than  two point  five percent ( 2.5%) 
up to five pe rcent (5 %) of the total number of sheets/pieces ; 
16.3.3.8  Number of sheets/pieces  without markings/ tags is more than twenty 
percent (20%) but less than fifty percent (50%) of the total quantity 
declared ; 
16.3.3.9  Other circumstances analogous to the above.  
16.3.4  Critical – Corrective actions or remedial measures shall no longer be 
accepted for this level or degree of infraction.  
16.3.4.1  Inconsistency in the markings/tags is fifty percent (50%) or mor e of the 
total number of sheets/pieces ; 
16.3.4.2  Transfer of products from  a declared warehouse to a non -declared 
warehouse, with or without notice to DTI ; 
16.3.4.3  More than sixty (60) days delay in responding to notices/letters ; 
16.3.4.4  Delivery of products from the BOC to a declared or undeclared 
warehouse prior to the release of the Condi tional release ; 
16.3.4.5  Release of products whose quality/safety did not pass the test from the 
declared warehouse pending resolution of S how Cause Order  or prior 
to the issuance of the required Clearance Certificate/License ;  
Page 19 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  16.3.4.6  Inconsistency in the markings and the quantity of products with 
deficiency is less than fifty percent (50%) of the total quantity declared 
but the same has been committed more than once ; 
16.3.4.7  Number of m issing quantity is more than five percent (5 %) of the total 
number of  sheets /piece s; 
16.3.4.8  Number of sheets /pieces  without marking s/tags  is more than fifty 
percent (50%)  of the total quantity declared ; 
16.3.4.9  Misrepresentation of material facts in the application or succeeding 
correspondence/s ; 
16.3.4.10  Other circumstances analogous to the ab ove. 
16.4 Bond s shall be for feited  in accordance with the following:  
Degree of Non -conformity or 
Non-compliance  Amount of Bond  
to be Forfeited  
1. Minor  None  
2. Significant  25% of the total bond posted  
3. Major  50% of the total bond posted  
4. Critical  100% of the total  bond posted  
 
16.5 In case of multiple non -conformities or non -compliance, the amount of bond 
corresponding to the higher degree shall be forfeited.  
16.6 Pending resolution of the Show Cause Order  involving a particular shipment, 
applications filed after the issuance of the S how Cause Order  by the same importer 
may be processed, provided, a sworn undertaking to abide by the decision on said 
SCO shall be submitted prior to the issuance of the necessary Certificate/License for 
succeeding application/s.  
 
Rule 17. SUSPENSION, WITHDRAWAL, AND CANCELLATION OF PS LICENSE  
 
17.1 A duly issued PS License shall be suspended, recalled, withdrawn, cancelled or 
revoked based on any of the following grounds:  
 
17.1.1  That the product bearing the PS Mark failed to conform to the req uirements of 
a specific PNS as amended/updated ; 
 
17.1.2  That licensee failed to comply with monitoring, surveillance or enforcement 
notices/directives/orders;  
 
17.1.3  That the licensee failed to comply with the terms and conditions of the license;  
  
Page 20 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  17.1.4  That the licensee made fa lse statements or alterations in connection with its 
application for or re-certification  of the license;  
 
17.1.5  That the licensee violated any of the provisions of this Order;  
 
17.1.6  That an Order of Execution vis -a-vis a decision finding the licensee liable for 
violation of a trade and industry law/s or rules and regulations directing BPS to 
suspend/cancel or revoke the PS License issued in favor of said licensee;  
 
17.2 The license shall be suspended, recalled, withdrawn, cancelled or revoked after the 
BPS Director has ser ved the license a notice of his intention to do so, stating therein 
the grounds for the contemplated action, granting the licensee the opportunity to be 
heard within fifteen (15) days from the date of notice.  
 
17.3 If there is a final finding that a product doe s not conform to the specified technical 
requirements, the license shall, upon mere notice be immediately suspended, 
withdrawn, recalled, cancelled or revoked.  
 
17.4 Notwithstanding the preceding provisions, the BPS Director may direct that a Formal 
Charge be filed against the party concerned pursuant to E.O. 913 Series of 1983, 
DAO No. 7, Series of 2006 and DAO No. 2, Series of 2007.  
 
17.5 In cases of suspen ded, withdrawn or cancelled PS License, the manufacturer shall 
not be allowed to manufacture or produce in a ny manner the products covered by the 
particular PS License . The suspension, withdrawal or cancellation shall take effect 
immediately upon receipt of the notice  until the  suspension is lifted or the 
withdrawn/cancelled PS License is reinstated.   
 
 
Rule 18.  PROHIBITED ACTS  
 
The following acts are hereby declared prohibited, in addition to those listed in DAO No. 2, 
Series of 2007 and its future amendments, viz:  
 
18.1 Use of the Product Certification Mark in any misleading manner;  
 
18.2 Manufacture or production of covered products  after the license is  suspended, 
withdrawn or cancelled;  
 
18.3 Sale,  offer for sale using over the counter or on -line mode or any form of 
advertisement of any plywood  products not complying with the particular technical 
regulation or correspondin g standards;  
 
18.4 Non-compliance, neglect or resistance to effect the product recall as directed by 
BPS;  
 
18.5 Misrepresentations,  misleading or unauthorized statements and/or claims made in 
the application, letters/replies/forms in relation to product certificatio n. Such include 
unauthorized reproduction of product certification documents, or any part thereof;  
 
18.6 Non-compliance or failure to comply with the provisions hereof.  
 
 
Rule 19 .  COMPLAINTS/APPEAL HANDLING PROCESS  
  
Page 21 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  19.1 BPS shall implement a system of handling co mplaints/appeals related to the product 
certification process.  
 
19.2 Remedies for the action or decision of a BPS personnel/chief/director relative to an 
Application for PS License shall be the following:  
 
19.2.1  In case of denial of the PS License  application,  the applicant may file a motion 
for reconsideration with the BPS Director within ten (10) working days from 
receipt of the letter of denial.  No second motion for reconsideration shall be 
allowed;  
 
19.2.2  In case of suspension, recall, withdrawal, cancellation or revocation of  the PS 
License , a motion for reconsideration may be filed  with the BPS Director by 
the applicant within ten (10 ) working days from receipt of the notice. No 
second motion for reconsideration shall be allowed.  
 
19.3 In case the motion for reconsideration is denied, an appeal may b e filed with the DTI 
Secretary within fifteen (15) calenda r days from receipt of denial of the motion  for 
consideration . The appeal shall be based solely on grounds of grave abuse of 
discretion amounting to lack or excess of ju risdiction committed by the official who 
rendered the decision.  
 
19.4 The filing of a Motion for Reconsideration shall suspend the period to file an appeal.  
 
Rule 20.  PENALTIES OR SANCTION S 
 
The follo wing shall be imposed upon any manufacturer, importer, foreign testing laboratory/ 
facility, or any other person or entity found in violation of any provision hereof after due 
process, as may be appropriate:  
 
20.1 Administrative fine as per existing  DTI Rules and Regulations/Department   
Administrative Orders and E.O. 913.  
 
20.2 Cancellation or revocation of PS License pursuant to a final and executory decision 
rendered by an administrative agency or the regular courts.  
 
20.3 Watch -listing and/or blacklistin g of importers/manufacturers.  
 
20.4 In any case of failure in product testing for post shipment verification or surveillance:  
 
20.4.1  The manufacturer or importer concerned shall, in addition to the penalties 
provided herein including but not limited to product recall  and/or forfeiture of 
surety  bond, lose the option for pre -shipment testing in all subsequent que or 
importation which henceforth shall undergo post shipment testing by 
accredited Philippine testing facilities ; 
 
20.4.2  The foreign testing laboratory or facility concerned shall lose the re cognition 
by BPS to conduct pre -shipment testing.  
 
20.5 Any other sanctions or penalties as provided under existing DTI rules and 
regulations.  
 
 
Rule 21.  REQUIRED CAPITALIZATIO N 
  
Page 22 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD  All plywood  importers shall  be required  to have at least Twenty Million Pesos  (Php 
20,000,000.00) capitalization prior to importation. Proof of the same shall be submitted to BPS 
and/or DTI RO/PO as follows : 
 
21.1 Duly filed Articles of Incorporation showing m inimum  paid-up in capitalization  for 
corpo rations,  or business permit and proof showing minimum declared capitalization  for 
single proprietorship ; 
 
21.2 Copy of the latest Audited Financial Statement ; and 
 
21.3 Other documentary proof showing capitalization.  
 
 
Rule 22 . DISP OSAL OF SAMPLES  
 
22.1 All remaining samples, which were drawn for testing purposes, and complied with 
the requirements of the standard, shall be claimed by the importer/ manufacturer 
within five (5) days upon receipt of the PS License and Statement of Confirm ation. If 
the importer/manufacturer fails to claim the samples after receipt of PS License and 
Statement of Confirmation  or opted not to retrieve the sample at all, the laboratory 
shall dispose the samples as it may deem necessary, at the expense of the 
importer/manufacturer.  
 
22.2 Samples which fail to comply with the specified requirements shall be stored for a 
maximum of  six (6) months in the laboratory to ensure their availability in the event 
the importer/manufacturer contests the res ult of th e test including those subject of 
litigation.  
 
 
 
 
 
Rule 23 . ISSUANCE OF GUIDELINES/PROCEDURES  
 
BPS may issue such procedural guidelines as may be necessary in the implementation of this 
Order.  
 
Rule 24 . REPEALING CLAUSE  
 
All provisions of existing Depart ment Administrative Orders, circulars, and guidelines 
inconsistent with this Administrative Order are hereby repealed subject to the transitory 
provisions below.  
 
Rule 25. TRANSITORY PROVISIONS  
 
25.1 All manufacturers with existing valid PS License shall compl y with the procedures 
and requirements of this Order on the subsequent surveillance audit immediately 
upon effectivity hereof.  All pending  PS applications received prior to the effectivity of 
this Order shall be processed in accordance with DAO 04:2008  and after the 
issuance of its PS license, manufacturers shall comply with the procedures and 
requirements of this Order on the subsequent surveillance audit . 
 
25.2 All PS License applications  received after the effectivity of this Order shall be  
subject to the procedures and requirements prescribed herein.   
Page 23 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD   
25.3 All importation of plyw ood products covered by this Order sourced from a foreign 
manufacturer without a valid PS License sh all be allowed within  six (6) months after 
the date of effectivity of this Order . However, all importers shall be required to 
secure Certificate of Exemption from the Bureau of Philippine Standards.  
 
25.4 All manufacturers of plywood products covered by this Or der may apply for 
voluntary PS certification within six (6)  months after the date of effectivity of this 
Order.  
 
25.5 All manufacturers or importers of plywood covered by this Order shall be required to 
undergo the mandatory PS and SOC product certification pro cedures six (6) months 
after the date of effectivity of this Order.  
 
25.6 After eighteen (18)  months from the date of effectivity, all plywood products covered 
by this Order for distribution  or offered for sale in the market shall bear a valid PS 
Mark. Complian ce shall be verified thru the conduct of market monitoring and 
enforcement activities.  
 
26 EFFECTIVITY  
 
This Order shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in  two (2)  newsp apers of 
general circulation  at least once a week for a period of not less than one (1) month , a copy of 
which shall be submitted to the UP Office of National Administrative Register.  
 
Done in the City of Makati this ________ day of _________________  in the year 201 9. 
 
 
Recommended  by: 
 
_________________________                  _______________________________  
              NEIL P. CATAJAY                                     ATTY. RUTH B. CASTELO  
          Officer -in-Charge , BPS                             Undersecretary, CPG  
 
 
Approved:  
 
 
_____________________________  
RAMON M. LOPEZ  
                                                                   Secretary  
 
 
 
 
 
  
Page 24 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD   
ANNEX “A”  
 
 
 
  PARTICULARS  FEE PAYABLE TO  
1  Application Form  Php300.00  
DTI 
2  Quality Manual Review  Php5,000.00  
3  Pre-Audit / Audit / Surveillance  Audits per Man -Hour (Payable within 15 days after billing)   
 as per size of establishment based on Table 1A  
3.1  Micro  Php100.00 or as charged by 
Designated Auditing Body  
DTI / Designated 
Auditing Body  3.2  Small  Php300.00 or as charged by 
Designated A uditing Body  
3.3  Medium  Php400.00 or as charged by 
Designated Auditing Body  
3.4  Large  Php500.00 or as charged by 
Designated Auditing Body  
4  Original License Fee* (Payable within 15 days after billing)   
4.1  Micro  Php5,000.00  
DTI 4.2  Small  Php7, 500.00  
4.3  Medium  Php10,000.00  
4.4  Large  Php12,500.00  
5  Annual License Fee* (Payable within 15 days after billing)   
5.1  Micro  Php2,500.00  
DTI 5.2  Small  Php3,750.00  
5.3  Medium  Php5,000.00  
5.4  Large  Php6,250.00  
6  Transportation  As per a rrangement  
(if necessary)  DTI / Designated Auditing 
Body  
7  Hotel Accommodation  As per arrangement  
(if necessary)  DTI / Designated Auditing 
Body  
8  Testing Fee  As charged by Designated 
Testing Laboratory  BPS-Recognized Testing 
Laboratory  
9  Freight Char ges of Samples  As charged by Freight 
Forwarder  Freight Forwarder  
10  Market Sample  As per Official Receipts /  
Sales Invoice  Establishment   
Page 25 of 25 
THE NEW TECHNICAL REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE MANDATORY PRODUCT  
CERTIFICATION OF PLYWOOD   
TABLE 1 A: SIZE OF ESTABLISHMENT  
SIZE OF ESTABLISHMENT  ASSETS  
Micro  Up to Php3,000,000.00  
Small  Php 3,000, 001.00 up to Php 15,000,000.00  
Medium  Php 15,000,001 up to Php 100,000,000.00  
Large  Over Php 100,000,000.00  
 
TABLE 2: SCHEDULE OF FEES AND CHARGES FOR THE STATEMENT OF 
CONFIRMATION (SOC)  
PARTICULARS  FEE PAYABLE TO  
Application Fee  Php 300.00  DTI 
Proces sing Fee (depends on the value of the batch being applied for SOC  
Invoice/batch value up to Php 
500,000.00  Php 5,000.00  
DTI Invoice/batch value from Php 
500,001.00 to Php 1,000,000.00  Php 7,500.00  
Invoice/batch value above Php 
1,000,000.00  Php 10,000. 00 
Inspection Fee  As charged by the 
DTI / BPS Designated 
Inspection Body  DTI / Designated 
Inspection Body  
Transportation  As per arrangement 
(if necessary)  DTI / Designated 
Inspection Body  
Testing Fee  As charged by the 
BPS-Recognized 
Testing Laboratory  BPS-Recognized 
Testing Laboratory  
Freight charges of samples  As charged by Freight 
Forwarder  Freight Forwarder  
Market sample  As per Official 
Receipts/Sales 
Invoice  Establishment  
 
Notes: 
 
 Original and Annual License Fees depend on the size of establishme nt as stipulated on 
Table 1 A herein.  
 
 The Schedule of Fees and Charges in this DAO were adopted from DAO 4:2008 and 
DAO 5:2008.