THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is seeking stronger backing from lawmakers for a proposed measure that would establish a National Measurement Institute of the Philippines aimed at improving industrial standards, consumer protection and trade competitiveness.
The proposed National Measurement Institute of the Philippines (NMIPhil) Act seeks to create a centralized authority for measurement science and calibration systems, which the agency said is critical to ensuring accuracy and reliability across industries.
The DOST said officials recently met with legislative representatives from both the Senate and the House of Representatives to encourage support for the measure and identify potential congressional sponsors.
Among those consulted were legislative staff from the offices of Speaker Martin Romualdez, Sen. Francis Escudero and Sen. Bam Aquino, according to the agency.
The initiative is being led by the DOST’s Legislative Liaison Office together with the National Metrology Division of the Industrial Technology Development Institute.
Michael Jason Solis of the National Metrology Division said the country’s lack of a dedicated national measurement authority has contributed to inconsistent standards and limited access to calibration and measurement services.
He said weak measurement infrastructure affects sectors ranging from agriculture and manufacturing to public health and trade.
The DOST said inaccurate or poorly regulated measurements can lead to economic losses, weaken product quality assurance and create barriers for Philippine exports trying to comply with international standards.
Lita Suerte Felipe, director of the DOST Legislative Liaison Office, said a stronger national measurement system would also improve public trust by ensuring measuring devices and systems meet globally accepted standards.
Under the proposal, the NMIPhil would serve as the country’s lead institution for research and development in metrology, the science of measurement. The institute would oversee national standards used in commerce, science, industry, energy, health and environmental monitoring.
The DOST said the proposed measure is aligned with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, particularly the government’s push to strengthen research, technology and innovation capacity.
The bill has already secured approval from the House Committee on Science and Technology and is awaiting endorsement to the committees on Ways and Means and Appropriations.
Metrology plays a critical role in manufacturing, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, aerospace and advanced engineering industries where precise measurements are essential for safety, quality control and international compliance. DOST
