Ilocos Norte first ISO 9001: 2015-certified Phl province

By Mizpah Grace G. Castro

LAOAG CITY -- As Ilocos Norte celebrated its 199th foundation anniversary Feb. 2, the provincial government was granted ISO 9001:2015 certification by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Tuesday, making it the first province nationwide to receive this accreditation.

 ISO is a non-governmental organization composed of experts in products, services, and systems who create standards of management to ensure quality, safety, and efficiency.

                In 2013, Ilocos Norte had also been the first province nationwide to receive ISO 9001:2008 certification.

"We are now truly world-class, observing the international standards of transparency, predictability, accountability, said" Gov. Imee R. Marcos

             Provincial treasurer and ISO facilitator Josephine Calajate said, "If not for Governor Imee's hands-on leadership, her vision, and her achievements, we never would have been inspired to do all of these things."

                  She added  it took collective effort from every capitol department to undergo and pass the accreditation process even amidst other PGIN activities.

 The external audit was conducted by Louisito "Louie" Arada, lead auditor of private consultancy KMAR Philippines Company, Lilibeth Rivera, and Joselito Olivenza.