The orientation is based on the directive of Regional Director Arnel V. de Mesa to have the DA CALABARZON ISO 9001:2015 certified in pursuance with Executive Order No. 605, series of 2007, which requires offices under the Executive Branch of the government to adopt the ISO Quality Management Systems as part of the implementation of a government-wide quality management program.

According to Regional Director de Mesa, the said ISO certification or at least the efforts to have one will ensure that services provided by the regional office to the farmers and other stakeholders are of quality and very satisfactory.

Romeo M. Ramirez of CRR Management System Consultancy served as the sole resource person for the whole day orientation. By way of an overview, he introduced and explained key concepts and principles of ISO 9001:2015 and discussed its key areas and the management’s role, responsibilities and authorities.

He noted that the ISO Certification is a long journey and that the orientation is only a first step.

On this note, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Division Chief Ma. Ella Cecilia B. Obligado said that a series of seminar will be held to specifically tackle each key areas of ISO 9001:2015. In his closing remarks, Assistant Regional Director for Operations and Extension Milo D. delos Reyes said “Let’s continue to strive hard for quality and excellence in our services for our farmers!”