PhilSA sustains ISO certification, earns consecutive ‘Very Satisfactory’ DBM rating

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) said it has successfully maintained its ISO 9001:2015 certification and secured a “Very Satisfactory” rating from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for the second straight year, underscoring the agency’s continued push to strengthen institutional systems supporting the country’s growing space sector.

In a statement released Wednesday, May 14, PhilSA said it passed its first ISO 9001:2015 surveillance audit while also receiving a 4.02 “Very Satisfactory” score in the DBM’s Annual Agency Performance Report (AAPR) for Fiscal Year 2025.

According to PhilSA, the achievements reflect the agency’s efforts to institutionalize quality management systems, improve operational efficiency, and ensure responsible use of public funds as it expands the country’s space science and technology initiatives.

“PhilSA’s maintenance of the ISO 9001:2015 certification and a consecutive ‘Very Satisfactory’ rating from DBM recognize the Agency’s consistent efforts to institutionalize robust systems and processes that support the effective delivery of our outputs and services, while fostering an enabling workplace for our scientists and engineers,” said Gay Jane P. Perez.

“It also reflects our commitment to continuous improvement as we advance the Philippines’ goal of becoming a space-capable and spacefaring nation,” Perez added.

The ISO surveillance audit was conducted by TÜV Rheinland, an international testing, inspection, and certification provider. The assessment verified that PhilSA’s Quality Management System remains compliant with ISO 9001:2015 standards across several operational areas, including space science and technology applications, policy and planning, research and development, education and capacity building, public access and resource-sharing, and international cooperation.

PhilSA said the audit also recognized the agency’s collaboration with stakeholders in delivering space data and services supporting government programs and national initiatives.

The agency processes satellite data for multiple applications including disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM), agriculture, environmental monitoring, and other science-driven public services aimed at supporting national development.

According to PhilSA, its performance management and monitoring systems were likewise commended for aligning with oversight agencies.

The agency first obtained its ISO 9001:2015 certification in May 2025 through the Government Quality Management Program of the Development Academy of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, PhilSA’s “Very Satisfactory” DBM rating reflected its performance in operational management, fiscal accountability, and public service delivery.

The DBM reportedly cited PhilSA’s timely submission of reports and its consistent achievement of physical targets since the agency’s establishment in 2021.

“We remain steadfast in upholding global standards and the responsible utilization of public funds as we deliver programs that bring the benefits of space to Filipinos,” Perez said.

PhilSA said the recognition reinforces its broader commitment to accountability, transparency, and expanding the practical use of space technologies and satellite data for Filipinos.