SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has strengthened its reputation for world-class governance and workplace safety after securing the prestigious ISO 45001:2018 certification, making it the first Freeport authority in the Philippines to hold three major international management system certifications.
The certification, awarded by DQS Philippines, recognizes SBMA’s compliance with internationally accepted standards for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS).
DQS Philippines Managing Director Romeo Zamora formally presented the certification to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño during a ceremony held August 3 at the SBMA corporate boardroom in Building 662.
Aliño described the achievement as more than another institutional distinction, saying it reflects SBMA’s responsibility to protect its workforce while delivering better public service.
“I stand proud of all of you for this achievement. Securing another ISO certificate is more than an institutional milestone—it is a sincere public service commitment. This recognition is for the people; undertake it with dedication and heart,” Aliño said.
He stressed that earning an international certification is only the beginning, noting that its real value depends on how consistently the standards are practiced throughout the organization.
“The true value lies in implementing these standards earnestly and consistently—not only for the agency but for our country, our locators, workers, and the community we serve,” he said.
ISO 45001:2018 provides organizations with a systematic framework for identifying workplace hazards, managing occupational risks, preventing injuries and illnesses, and continuously improving employee health and safety.
The latest certification adds to SBMA’s existing ISO 9001:2018 certification for Quality Management Systems and ISO 14001:2018 certification for Environmental Management Systems, both issued by DQS Philippines.
According to SBMA Total Quality Management Office Lead Auditor Lolita Bondoc, the three certifications place SBMA in a unique position among Freeport authorities in the country.
The agency is now working toward integrating its quality, environmental, and occupational health and safety systems into a single management framework by 2028, a move expected to streamline processes and further strengthen accountability and operational efficiency.
Zamora lauded SBMA’s sustained commitment to international management standards and cited the long-standing partnership between the Freeport authority and DQS Philippines.
“It is an honor to support the SBMA in achieving certification across QMS, EMS, and OHSMS. We look forward to further fostering this partnership to support effective management system implementation,” Zamora said.
DQS Philippines is the local representative of Germany-based DQS Group, an international certification organization with a network spanning around 60 countries.
SBMA also recognized its internal auditors during the ceremony for their role in maintaining stringent audit programs, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring the agency remains prepared for independent third-party assessments.
Aliño said the accomplishment ultimately belongs to the employees whose daily work keeps the standards alive beyond the certification process.
“For government employees, adhering to these standards is essential. I salute the dedicated men and women whose efforts made this achievement possible,” he said.
With its latest ISO recognition, SBMA is positioning the Subic Bay Freeport not only as a competitive investment destination, but also as a benchmark for safer workplaces, stronger environmental stewardship, and internationally aligned public-sector management.
