The Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) in the Philippines reports that they have adopted several ASTM International standards this year.  This is according to a recent annual report submitted by BPS to ASTM International.

The Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) develops, implements and coordinates all standardization activities in the Philippines. 

BPS signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with ASTM in 2003.  Since that time, BPS has used hundreds of ASTM International standards from a wide variety of sectors for the development of Philippine national standards.  This includes standards for adhesives, cement and concrete, building construction, consumer products, steel, glass ceramics, adhesives and more.  This year, 61 ASTM International standards were adopted as identical Philippine national standards.

As a benefit of the MOU program, individuals from the Philippines have the opportunity to participate freely as full voting members in the ASTM standards development process. Currently, more than 250 Filipino technical experts serve on one or more of ASTM’s 141 technical standards development committees.

Initiated in 2001, ASTM International's MOU program promotes communication between ASTM International and national standards bodies worldwide, fostering awareness of the standardization systems of all parties involved. The purpose of the program is to increase greater worldwide participation in the ASTM standards development process and facilitate the development of national standards that will aid health, safety, and environmental and economic conditions. More information on the MOU program can be found on the ASTM International Web site (www.astm.org/GLOBAL).

ASTM Staff Contact: Teresa Cendrowska, Phone: 610-832-9718; tcendrow@astm.org

Release #8735