Philippines: A total of 38 laboratories that conduct proficiency tests on cement products have participated in the fourth round of the Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines' (CeMAP) proficiency testing programme. Twelve of the laboratories were from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), 15 from CeMAP members and 11 were non-member or private laboratories. These laboratories are subjected to proficiency test as a requirement for the renewal of their DPWH certificate of accreditation.

"Participation in the proficiency testing programme is a crucial component in our responsibility to ensure that only quality cement products are available in the market," said CeMAP president Ernesto Ordoñez.

Ordoñez disclosed that the programme's first round in 2006 only had CeMAP member laboratories, while rounds two and three involved both CeMAP member and DPWH laboratories. Round four was significant as all the private laboratories involved were required to seek DPWH accreditation. Ordoñez added that this proficiency testing is the first and only one in Southeast Asia. CeMAP intend to conduct the testing annually to monitor the competency and performance of the laboratories.