DTI, Standards Australia host two-day CET-SEA workshop and first university roadshow on critical and emerging technologies

A large group of people, including DTI-BPS experts, Mr. Lachlan Parsons, Second Secretary of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, experts from Standards Australia, and Dr. Hasmin Ignacio, Vice President for Academic Affairs of the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), are gathered in a spacious room with high ceilings and fluorescent lighting. The group consists of TUP faculty and students, all posing for a group photo during the CET-SEA University Roadshow.
In photo: DTI-BPS experts, Mr. Lachlan Parsons, Second Secretary of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, experts from Standards Australia, and Dr. Hasmin Ignacio, Vice President for Academic Affairs of the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), joined TUP faculty and students for the CET-SEA University Roadshow

Taguig and Manila City—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) conducted a stakeholder engagement and communication strategy workshop, coinciding with its first university roadshow, from February 19 to 20. This represents a significant step in the country’s bid to actively participate in the development of international standards for critical and emerging technologies (CET), ultimately shaping the future of these vital technologies.

“With the rapid advancement of new technologies and the evolving industrial landscape, it is crucial for the Philippines to take an active role in shaping global standards. This initiative not only reinforces our country’s participation in international discussions on CET but also highlights the importance of raising awareness on CET and standards among our experts and institutions,” underscored Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

In partnership with Standards Australia (SA), the Critical and Emerging Technologies – Southeast Asia (CET-SEA) Workshop on Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Strategy laid out initiatives for strengthening stakeholder engagement. It engaged participants in an interactive activity focused on the Stakeholder Engagement Strategy Framework to enhance participation and alignment with the BPS-CET Action Plan.

Four individuals are standing in a room with wooden panel walls, engaged in conversation. The individuals are dressed in business attire, suggesting a formal or professional setting.
A group of individuals in formal attire is participating in a workshop or seminar. One person is placing or adjusting sticky notes on a board with several sheets of paper and additional sticky notes. The setting is professional, indicating a collaborative and interactive session.

In photo: DTI-BPS experts, Mr. Lachlan Parsons, Second Secretary of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, experts from Standards Australia, and Dr. Hasmin Ignacio, Vice President for Academic Affairs of the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), joined TUP faculty and students for the CET-SEA University Roadshow

During the workshop, BPS was represented by its Standards Development Division (SDD) Assistant Chief Engr. Myra Magabilin. Experts from Standards Australia presented key updates on the DTI-Bureau of the Philippine Standards (BPS)-CET Action Plan. The event saw strong support from Standards Australia (SA), including Claire McFarland, Summer Lamont, Alexandra Dunn-Delvaen, and Mr. Patrick Kennedy.

As part of the CET-SEA workshop, the DTI-BPS and Standards Australia launched the first-ever CET-SEA University Roadshow at the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), which gathered more than 100 engineering students from the academic institution. This initiative served as a crucial platform for expanding awareness and participation in international standards development among academic institutions and future industry leaders.

Experts from Standards Australia, including Mr. Lachlan Parsons, Second Secretary of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, engaged students in discussions about the role of standards. They covered the mandate of DTI-BPS as the national standards body, examined the Philippine CET landscape, and emphasized the important role students play in the standardization process.

These successful initiatives demonstrate DTI and Standards Australia’s dedication to enhancing stakeholder engagement, promoting international standards, and fostering regional cooperation, positioning Southeast Asia as a leader in critical and emerging technology advancements.

The DTI-BPS serves as the National Standards Body authorized to promulgate Philippine National Standards (PNS). These standards are voluntary and can be used as reference materials by any interested parties. Either in full or in part, compliance with PNS becomes mandatory only when cited in technical regulations issued by regulatory authorities.

For the latest updates and information, visit the BPS website at bps.dti.gov.ph or the official BPS Facebook page at DTIPH.Standards. For other concerns, send an email to [email protected] or [email protected]. ♦

Date of Release: 27 February 2025