The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA), through its Fertilizer Regulations Division, successfully conducted the Training-Workshop on the Preparation of Certificate of Analysis (COA) and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for Locally Manufactured Fertilizer Products on June 16–17, 2026, in the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija. The activity forms part of the Authority’s continuing efforts to strengthen regulatory implementation and promote consistency in the evaluation of fertilizer product applications.

The two-day training brought together 80 participants from the FPA Central Office, Regional Field Units, and local fertilizer manufacturers from Luzon. It aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge and technical capacity in the preparation, interpretation, and regulatory significance of COAs and SDSs in support of the gradual implementation of regulatory guidelines for locally manufactured fertilizer products.

In his message, FPA Director Glenn D.C. Estrada shared that the training-workshop had been planned as part of the Authority’s efforts to assist local fertilizer manufacturers in the proper preparation of COA and SDS. He emphasized that it is not intended to create unnecessary burdens. Rather, it is designed to build understanding and provide practical guidance and to strengthen trust in locally manufactured fertilizers.

The activity was also graced by OIC Deputy Executive Director for Fertilizer Gerardo T. Santiago, who acknowledged the vital role of local fertilizer manufacturers in advancing the Philippine fertilizer industry and reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to supporting the sector through capacity-building initiatives and collaborative engagement.

To provide participants with technical background on the preparation and interpretation of COA and SDS, the Authority invited resource speakers from SGS Philippines. One of the key topics discussed was the evaluation of COAs. Emphasis was placed on ensuring that COAs accurately reflect the quality and composition of products submitted for registration. Participants were guided through the essential information required in a COA, common deficiencies encountered during document evaluation, and best practices for determining compliance with existing regulatory requirements.

The training also highlighted the importance of SDS as essential references for information on chemical hazards, safe handling procedures, storage requirements, emergency response measures, and proper disposal considerations. The resource speaker discussed the 16 sections of a SDS, highlighting their conformity with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) and compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.

To reinforce learning, participants actively engaged in interactive discussions and hands-on exercises involving the preparation and evaluation of sample COAs and SDSs. These practical activities provided opportunities to apply the concepts discussed during the lectures and address common issues encountered during regulatory review.

An open forum provided participants with an opportunity to raise technical and regulatory concerns and seek clarification from FPA resource persons. The session also enabled the Authority to orient stakeholders on its regulatory framework and policy directions concerning locally manufactured fertilizer products, while gathering valuable inputs to support the continuing development and enhancement of policies and guidelines governing local fertilizer production.

Through initiatives such as this training-workshop, the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the country’s regulatory system through continuous capacity building, stakeholder collaboration, and the adoption of best regulatory practices that safeguard public health, protect the environment, and uphold the integrity of the fertilizer and pesticide industry.

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Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team

Writer: Lopez, MGG; Teodoro, TAS