How to Apply for a Philippine Product Standard (PS) Mark
The Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and/or Safety Certification Mark is a product certification scheme administered by the Department of Trade and Industry - Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS). The PS Mark certifies that a locally manufactured product has been tested and found to conform to a relevant Philippine National Standard (PNS). It assures Filipino consumers that a product meets minimum quality and safety requirements set by the government. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire PS Mark application process -- from understanding which products require the mark, to preparing documents, undergoing product testing and factory inspection, and finally receiving your PS License.
PS Mark Application at a Glance
Processing Time
45 to 60 working days from the date of submission of a complete application, assuming the product passes testing and the factory passes inspection on the first attempt.
Validity
The PS License is valid for 3 years from the date of issuance. After 3 years, the manufacturer must apply for renewal to continue using the PS Mark.
Where to Apply
DTI-Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), 3rd Floor, Trade and Industry Building, 361 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City, Philippines.
Cost
Varies by product. Includes an application fee (P1,500), product testing fees (P5,000 - P50,000+ depending on the product), and an annual license fee (P3,000 - P10,000).
What is the PS Mark?
The Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and/or Safety Certification Mark is a government certification that indicates a product has been tested and found to conform to a relevant Philippine National Standard (PNS). The PS Mark is administered by the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), an agency under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
The PS Mark is mandatory for certain products that are deemed critical to consumer safety, such as electrical/electronic products, construction materials, and LPG-related equipment. For other products, the PS Mark is voluntary -- manufacturers may choose to apply for certification to demonstrate the quality of their products and gain a competitive advantage in the market.
What the PS Mark Means
- The product has been tested by an accredited laboratory and found to comply with the applicable Philippine National Standard (PNS)
- The manufacturer's factory has been inspected by BPS and has adequate quality control systems in place
- The manufacturer is licensed by DTI-BPS to use the PS Mark on the specific product
- The product undergoes regular surveillance and monitoring by BPS to ensure continued compliance
Legal Basis
- Republic Act No. 4109 -- the law that created the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) and authorized it to establish Philippine National Standards and implement product certification schemes
- Republic Act No. 7394 -- the Consumer Act of the Philippines, which mandates product quality and safety standards to protect Filipino consumers
- DTI Department Administrative Orders (DAOs) -- various DAOs that designate specific products under mandatory certification and set the rules for the PS Mark scheme
Products Requiring Mandatory PS Mark
The following categories of locally manufactured products are required by law to bear the PS Mark before they can be sold in the Philippine market. Selling these products without a valid PS Mark is a violation of RA 7394 (Consumer Act) and may result in penalties, product seizure, and criminal charges.
| Product Category | Examples | Applicable PNS |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical & Electronic Products | Wires and cables, circuit breakers, switches, outlets, plugs, lighting fixtures, extension cords, ballasts, electric fans | PNS 35, PNS 38, PNS 44, PNS 97, and others |
| Construction Materials | Steel bars (rebars), Portland cement, steel pipes, GI sheets, plywood, hollow blocks, roofing materials | PNS 49, PNS 07, PNS 26, PNS 61, and others |
| Household Appliances | Electric stoves, rice cookers, water heaters, washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioning units | PNS IEC 60335 series and related standards |
| LPG-Related Products | LPG cylinders, LPG hoses, LPG regulators, LPG valves, LPG stoves and burners | PNS 03, PNS DOE-related standards |
| Fire Safety Equipment | Fire extinguishers, fire hoses, smoke detectors, fire alarm systems, fire doors | PNS 1486, PNS ISO 7240, and others |
| Automotive Parts | Tires, batteries, brake fluids, automotive lamps, safety glass | PNS 148, PNS 12, and others |
| Consumer Chemicals | Household detergents, bleach, disinfectants, insect repellents, paints and coatings | Various PNS standards per product type |
Note: The complete list of products under mandatory certification is updated periodically through DTI Department Administrative Orders (DAOs). Check the BPS website at bps.dti.gov.ph for the most current list. Products not in the mandatory list may still apply for voluntary PS Mark certification.
Requirements for PS Mark Application
Before submitting your application, you must prepare all the required documents. Incomplete submissions will be returned and will delay the processing of your application. Make sure all documents are complete, accurate, and up to date.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| BPS Application Form | The official PS Mark Application Form (BPS Form No. 301) available at the BPS office or downloadable from the BPS website. Must be filled out completely and signed by the authorized representative of the manufacturing company. |
| Business Registration Documents | Certified true copies of the following: DTI Certificate of Business Name Registration (for sole proprietors), SEC Registration (for corporations/partnerships), or CDA Registration (for cooperatives). Also include the company's Articles of Incorporation or Partnership, if applicable. |
| Business/Mayor's Permit | A valid and current Business Permit (Mayor's Permit) from the local government unit (LGU) where the manufacturing facility is located. The permit must reflect the manufacturing activity. |
| List of Raw Materials | A complete list of all raw materials, components, and subassemblies used in the manufacture of the product. Include the source/supplier for each material, the material specifications, and the applicable standards the raw materials comply with (if any). |
| Production Process Flow | A detailed flowchart or written description of the manufacturing process from receipt of raw materials to finished product. Must include all production stages, in-process inspections, and quality checkpoints. Include the factory layout plan showing the arrangement of production equipment and work stations. |
| Quality Control Procedures | Documentation of the company's quality control and quality assurance procedures. This includes incoming material inspection, in-process quality checks, final product inspection, testing procedures, equipment calibration records, and non-conformance handling procedures. Companies with ISO 9001 certification should include a copy of the certificate. |
| Test Reports from Accredited Laboratory | Product test reports from a BPS-recognized or internationally accredited testing laboratory. The test report must show that the product conforms to the applicable Philippine National Standard (PNS). Test reports must be recent (typically within 1 year of application). If no accredited lab is available locally, BPS may arrange for testing at its own laboratory or recommend partner laboratories. |
| Product Samples | Representative samples of the product being applied for. The number and size of samples required depend on the product type and the applicable testing standard. BPS will specify the exact number of samples upon receipt of your application. Samples may be destructively tested and will not be returned. |
| Product Labels and Markings | Samples or mock-ups of the product label, packaging, and markings. Labels must include the product name, manufacturer name and address, model/batch number, and comply with the labeling requirements of the applicable PNS and RA 7394 (Consumer Act). Submit for BPS review. |
Step-by-Step PS Mark Application Process
The PS Mark application process involves several stages, from document preparation to final issuance of the PS License. The entire process typically takes 45 to 60 working days if all requirements are complete and the product passes testing and inspection on the first attempt.
Prepare All Required Documents
Before visiting the BPS office, gather all the documents listed in the requirements section above. Ensure your business registration is current and valid, your manufacturing process documentation is complete and accurate, and your quality control procedures are well documented. If your company has ISO 9001 certification, include a copy as it may expedite the factory inspection process.
Tip: Before preparing your application, consult with BPS to confirm which specific Philippine National Standard (PNS) applies to your product. This will help you prepare the correct test reports and ensure your product is tested against the right parameters. You can call BPS at (02) 8751-3120 or email them at bps@dti.gov.ph for guidance.
Submit Application to DTI-BPS
Submit your completed BPS Application Form (BPS Form No. 301) along with all supporting documents to the Bureau of Philippine Standards office. You may submit in person at the BPS office located at the 3rd Floor, Trade and Industry Building, 361 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City. BPS staff will review your application for completeness. If any documents are missing or incomplete, your application will be returned with a list of deficiencies.
Important: BPS will only begin processing your application once it is deemed complete. Make sure to submit all required documents in one package to avoid delays. You will receive an acknowledgment receipt upon successful submission.
Pay the Application Fee
Upon acceptance of your complete application, you will be assessed the application fee of P1,500. Payment can be made at the BPS cashier or through the DTI payment channels. You will receive an official receipt. Keep this receipt as it will be required throughout the process. The application fee is non-refundable, even if your product fails testing or your application is eventually denied.
Product Testing at an Accredited Laboratory
BPS will coordinate with an accredited testing laboratory to test your product samples against the applicable Philippine National Standard (PNS). You are responsible for providing the required number of product samples and paying the testing fees directly to the laboratory. The testing fees vary widely depending on the product type and the complexity of tests required, ranging from P5,000 to P50,000 or more.
The testing process typically takes 15 to 30 working days, depending on the type of product and tests involved. Common tests include safety tests, performance tests, durability tests, and material composition analysis. The laboratory will issue a formal test report indicating whether the product passed or failed each test parameter.
Note: If your product fails any test parameter, you may need to modify the product and submit new samples for retesting. This will incur additional testing fees and extend the processing timeline. It is advisable to conduct pre-testing at an accredited laboratory before submitting your formal application to identify and address any non-conformities.
Factory Inspection by BPS
While your product is being tested, BPS will schedule an on-site factory inspection of your manufacturing facility. A team of BPS inspectors will visit your factory to evaluate your production processes, quality control systems, testing equipment, and overall manufacturing capability. The inspection typically takes 1 to 2 days depending on the size and complexity of your operation.
Important: The factory must be in operation during the inspection so that BPS inspectors can observe the actual production process. Make sure all production areas are accessible and that quality control personnel are available to answer questions. BPS will provide the inspection report with findings and any required corrective actions.
Evaluation of Test Results and Inspection Report
Once both the product test report and factory inspection report are available, BPS will evaluate the results. If the product passes all required tests and the factory meets the quality standards, BPS will recommend the application for approval. If there are non-conformities in either the test results or the factory inspection, BPS will issue a notice requiring corrective action. You will be given a reasonable period (usually 30 days) to address the non-conformities and submit evidence of corrective action.
Issuance of PS License
Upon successful evaluation, BPS will issue the PS License, which authorizes the manufacturer to use the PS Mark on the certified product. The PS License includes the license number, the product description, the applicable PNS, the manufacturer's name and factory address, and the validity period (3 years from date of issuance). You will also need to pay the annual license fee (P3,000 to P10,000 depending on the product category and production volume).
Affix the PS Mark on Products
Once you receive your PS License, you are authorized and required to affix the PS Mark on your certified products. The PS Mark must be displayed prominently on the product itself, the product packaging, or both, as specified in the applicable PNS. The mark must include the PS Mark logo and your assigned license number. The PS Mark must be legible, durable, and not easily removed or defaced.
Important: The PS Mark can only be used on the specific product covered by the PS License. Using the PS Mark on products not covered by the license is a violation and may result in revocation of the license and criminal penalties under RA 7394.
PS Mark Fees
The following are the standard fees associated with the PS Mark application and maintenance. Actual fees may vary depending on the product type and testing requirements.
| Fee Type | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | P1,500 | One-time fee paid upon submission of a complete application. Non-refundable even if the application is denied or withdrawn. |
| Product Testing Fees | P5,000 - P50,000+ | Paid directly to the accredited testing laboratory. The amount varies significantly depending on the product type, number of tests required, and the laboratory used. Electrical products and construction materials typically have higher testing fees. |
| Factory Inspection Fee | P3,000 - P5,000 | Covers the cost of the BPS factory inspection. For factories located outside Metro Manila, additional travel expenses may be charged to the applicant. |
| Annual License Fee | P3,000 - P10,000 | Paid annually for the duration of the 3-year PS License. The amount depends on the product category and the manufacturer's production volume. Failure to pay the annual fee may result in suspension of the PS License. |
| Surveillance Fee | P2,000 - P5,000 | BPS conducts periodic surveillance inspections and market sampling during the validity period of the license. The surveillance fee covers these activities. Surveillance is typically conducted once or twice a year. |
| Renewal Fee | P1,500 | Paid when applying for renewal of the PS License after the 3-year validity period. Renewal also requires updated test reports and a follow-up factory inspection. |
Factory Inspection: What BPS Looks For
The factory inspection is a critical part of the PS Mark application process. BPS inspectors will evaluate your manufacturing facility to determine if you have the capability to consistently produce products that conform to the applicable Philippine National Standard. Here is what they will assess:
Quality Management System
- Documented quality policy and objectives
- Quality manual and procedures
- Record-keeping and document control systems
- Management review process
- Internal audit procedures
- ISO 9001 certification (not mandatory but highly favorable)
Production Controls
- Incoming raw material inspection and testing
- In-process quality control checkpoints
- Final product inspection and testing
- Calibration of measuring and testing equipment
- Non-conforming product handling and disposition
- Traceability of materials and finished products
Facilities and Equipment
- Adequacy of manufacturing equipment and machinery
- Maintenance schedules for production equipment
- Testing laboratory and equipment (if in-house)
- Storage conditions for raw materials and finished goods
- Housekeeping and cleanliness of production areas
- Safety and environmental compliance
Personnel and Training
- Qualified quality control manager or supervisor
- Training records for production and QC personnel
- Awareness of applicable PNS requirements
- Competency of testing and inspection personnel
- Organizational structure with defined QC responsibilities
Complete Example: ABC Manufacturing Applies for PS Mark for Electrical Wires
ABC Manufacturing Corporation is a medium-sized company based in Valenzuela City that manufactures THHN/THWN electrical wires and cables. Since electrical wires are under mandatory PS Mark certification (PNS 35), the company must obtain a PS License before selling their products. Here is how they went through the entire process:
Document Preparation and Pre-Application Consultation
ABC Manufacturing's Quality Assurance Manager, Mr. Santos, contacted BPS to confirm the applicable standard (PNS 35 for electrical wires). He gathered all required documents: SEC registration, Mayor's Permit from Valenzuela City, detailed list of raw materials (copper rods, PVC insulation, nylon jacket), production process flowchart, and the company's quality manual. He also prepared samples of 3 wire sizes (14 AWG, 12 AWG, and 10 AWG) for testing.
Application Submission and Payment
Mr. Santos submitted the complete application package to the BPS office in Makati City. BPS staff reviewed the documents, confirmed completeness, and accepted the application. Mr. Santos paid the P1,500 application fee at the cashier and received an official receipt and application reference number. BPS advised that product samples should be submitted to the DOST-ITDI (Industrial Technology Development Institute) testing laboratory in Bicutan, Taguig.
Product Testing at DOST-ITDI Laboratory
ABC Manufacturing submitted wire samples to DOST-ITDI for testing. The tests included conductor resistance measurement, insulation thickness measurement, voltage withstand test, insulation resistance test, and flame retardant test. Testing took approximately 20 working days. Total testing fees paid: P25,000 (for all 3 wire sizes). All samples passed the required tests under PNS 35.
Factory Inspection in Valenzuela City
While testing was underway, two BPS inspectors visited ABC Manufacturing's factory in Valenzuela City for a 2-day inspection. They reviewed the quality management system, observed the wire drawing and insulation processes, checked calibration records for measuring instruments, and verified the traceability system for copper raw materials. The factory passed inspection with minor findings that were corrected on the spot (updating calibration labels on two micrometers). Factory inspection fee paid: P4,000.
BPS Evaluation and PS License Issuance
BPS compiled the test reports and factory inspection results. Since all test results were satisfactory and the factory inspection was passed, BPS recommended the application for approval. The PS License was issued within 5 working days after evaluation. ABC Manufacturing paid the annual license fee of P5,000 and received the official PS License certificate with license number PS-XXXX-2025.
PS Mark Applied to Products
ABC Manufacturing began printing the PS Mark on all their electrical wire products, including the PS logo and license number on the wire insulation (embossed at regular intervals) and on the product packaging. The company is now legally authorized to sell PS-marked electrical wires nationwide. BPS will conduct surveillance inspections approximately once a year to verify continued compliance.
Cost Summary for ABC Manufacturing
Total timeline: approximately 9-10 weeks from application to license issuance. Ongoing annual costs include the license fee (P5,000/year) and surveillance fee (approximately P3,000/year). Actual costs may vary depending on the product and testing laboratory.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the PS Mark license valid?
The PS License is valid for 3 years from the date of issuance. During this period, the manufacturer is authorized to use the PS Mark on the certified product. The manufacturer must pay the annual license fee each year and comply with BPS surveillance requirements. At least 90 days before the expiration date, the manufacturer should file a renewal application with BPS. Renewal requires updated test reports, a follow-up factory inspection, and payment of the renewal fee. If the license expires without renewal, the manufacturer must immediately stop using the PS Mark on their products.
What happens if my product fails testing?
If your product fails any test parameter during the laboratory testing, BPS will notify you of the specific non-conformities. You will have the opportunity to modify or improve your product to address the failures, and then submit new samples for retesting. Retesting incurs additional testing fees, and the processing timeline will be extended. There is no limit to the number of retests allowed, but each retest adds cost and time. It is strongly recommended to conduct informal pre-testing before submitting your formal application to identify potential issues early. If the product repeatedly fails, BPS may recommend that you consult with the testing laboratory for technical guidance on how to achieve compliance.
Can imported products get a PS Mark?
No. The PS Mark is exclusively for locally manufactured products. Imported products that are covered by mandatory standards must instead obtain an Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) Mark from DTI-BPS. The ICC scheme is the import equivalent of the PS Mark -- it certifies that imported products conform to Philippine National Standards. The processes are different: PS Mark involves factory inspection of the local manufacturer, while ICC involves testing and certification of the imported product lot or model. If you are an importer, refer to the ICC Guide for details.
What is the difference between the PS Mark and the ICC Mark?
The PS Mark (Philippine Standard Mark) is for locally manufactured products. It involves testing the product, inspecting the manufacturer's factory, and granting a license to use the PS Mark for 3 years. The ICC Mark (Import Commodity Clearance) is for imported products. It involves testing imported product samples and issuing a clearance that allows the importer to sell the product in the Philippines. Both marks certify that the product conforms to the relevant Philippine National Standard (PNS), but the PS Mark is a more comprehensive scheme because it includes factory inspection and ongoing surveillance of the manufacturing facility.
How do I renew my PS License?
To renew your PS License, you must file a renewal application with BPS at least 90 days before the expiration date of your current license. The renewal process requires: (1) a completed renewal application form; (2) updated product test reports from an accredited laboratory (showing the product still conforms to the applicable PNS); (3) a follow-up factory inspection by BPS; (4) payment of the renewal fee (P1,500); and (5) payment of the annual license fee. The renewal process typically takes 30 to 45 working days. If the manufacturer fails to apply for renewal before the expiration date, the PS License will lapse, and the manufacturer must stop using the PS Mark until a new license is issued.
What are the penalties for selling products without a PS Mark?
Selling products under mandatory PS Mark certification without a valid PS License is a violation of RA 7394 (Consumer Act of the Philippines) and the relevant DTI Department Administrative Orders. Penalties may include: (1) confiscation and seizure of non-compliant products from the market; (2) fines ranging from P5,000 to P300,000 or more depending on the severity and repeat nature of the offense; (3) imprisonment of 1 month to 1 year for criminal violations; (4) closure of the manufacturing facility; and (5) blacklisting from government procurement and trade programs. DTI and BPS regularly conduct market surveillance to detect and remove non-PS-marked products from the market.
Can I apply for PS Mark for multiple products at once?
Yes, you may submit applications for multiple products simultaneously. However, each product (or product category covered by a different PNS) requires a separate application, separate test reports, and a separate PS License. The factory inspection may be combined if the products are manufactured in the same facility, which can save time and reduce inspection costs. Discuss with BPS about coordinating multiple applications to optimize the process.
Important Reminders
- Check if your product requires mandatory certification: Before manufacturing and selling any product, verify with BPS whether it falls under mandatory PS Mark certification. Selling products under mandatory certification without a PS Mark is illegal and carries significant penalties. The list of mandatory products is available on the BPS website.
- Conduct pre-testing before applying: To avoid costly retesting and delays, have your product informally tested at an accredited laboratory before submitting your formal PS Mark application. Pre-testing helps identify design or material issues that could cause the product to fail formal testing.
- Maintain your quality management system: The PS Mark is not a one-time certification. BPS conducts regular surveillance of PS-licensed manufacturers. If your quality system deteriorates or your product is found to be non-compliant during surveillance, your PS License may be suspended or revoked.
- Pay annual license fees on time: The annual license fee must be paid every year during the 3-year validity of the PS License. Failure to pay on time can result in suspension of your license and the loss of your right to use the PS Mark.
- Apply for renewal at least 90 days before expiration: Do not wait until your PS License is about to expire before filing for renewal. The renewal process takes 30-45 working days, and if your license lapses, you must stop selling PS-marked products until the new license is issued.
- Do not use the PS Mark on uncertified products: The PS Mark can only be affixed to the specific product covered by the PS License. Using the PS Mark on other products -- even if they are similar to the certified product -- is a violation that can lead to license revocation and criminal penalties.
- Keep BPS informed of changes: If you make any significant changes to your product design, raw materials, manufacturing process, or factory location, you must notify BPS immediately. Changes that affect product quality or safety may require additional testing and factory inspection. Failure to report changes may void your PS License.
- ISO 9001 certification is an advantage: While not mandatory for PS Mark certification, having an ISO 9001 Quality Management System certification from an accredited certification body can streamline the factory inspection process and demonstrate to BPS that your company has robust quality controls in place.
Need Help?
Contact DTI - Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS)
- Address: 3rd Floor, Trade and Industry Building, 361 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City, Philippines
- BPS Phone: (02) 8751-3120
- DTI Hotline: 1-DTI (1-384)
- Email: bps@dti.gov.ph
- BPS Website: bps.dti.gov.ph
- DTI Website: www.dti.gov.ph
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (no noon break)
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. The requirements, steps, fees, and procedures mentioned here may vary depending on the DTI you visit. We recommend visiting your nearest DTI first to confirm the specific requirements and process before preparing your documents.