Legazpi City – After successfully passing the external audit conducted last year, the Department of Education Bicol officially received on August 31, 2021 its ISO 9001:2015 recertification from its commissioned external auditor, the Certification International Philippines Incorporated (CIPI).

The awarding ceremony was held at the Hotel St. Ellis attended by DepEd Bicol officials and employees. The ISO certificate was virtually handed-over by CIPI Chairman of the Board Renato Navarette to DepEd who was in Manila at the time of the Ceremony.

“This ISO recertification to DepEd Region V took effect last June 16, 2021. This is a remarkable achievement for DepEd for having maintained and continually improved your quality management system. “said CIPI Chair Navarette during his conferment talk.

The result of the external audit conducted by CIPI Auditors came out last June confirming DepEd Bicol’s recertification to ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System for another three years. The said recertification covers all management and service areas.

CIPI Chairman of the Board Navarette said that the recertification only affirms DepEd Bicol’s commitment to excellent and quality public service in the Region.

Meanwhile, DepED Bicol Regional Director expressed his gratitude to the DepEd Bicol Officials and employees, especially to the DepEd Regional Quality Management Team for their commitment in ensuring the organization’s compliance to the requirements of the ISO during his acceptance message.

“We were almost surrendering in this ISO recertification because of so many factors – one is the COVID19 pandemic. Good that we have partners who helped us continue with our journey. The doubts and fears were there but we have strong people who are committed to pursue this journey.” said Director Sadsad.

Director Sadsad also noted that applying and obtaining the ISO recertification for DepEd Bicol is part of the effort to streamline procedures and processes, while professionalizing its ranks. Director Sadsad emphasized its importance, especially in recent times when the COVID-19 pandemic hampered normal activities.

In 2017, DepEd Bicol was listed as one of the few government agencies in the region to have obtained the latest ISO 9001:2015.