14 February 2024 

The UPLB Business Affairs Office (BAO) held a refresher webinar on FDA Regulatory Systems and Requirements. Speakers from the FDA recapitulated the processes on obtaining required documentations, and the common deficiencies and how to correct them. The webinar was held on February 14, 2024 which was joined by UPLB-OTOP MSMEs suppliers and concerned EUPs.

The program was opened with warm welcome remarks and program rationale by the UPLB BAO Director, Asst. Prof. Eugene Raymond P. Crudo. Then, it was followed by the introduction of the speakers from the Food and Drug Administration by Dr. Florencio Reginio, Jr., BAO Program Development Associate.

UPLB BAO Director Asst. Prof. Eugene Raymond P. Crudo during the welcome remarks

The first topic was presented by Ms. Joan P. Molina, Food-Drug Regulation Officer I of the Field Regulatory Operations Office – Regional Field Office IV-A. She focused on the licensing requirements for securing license to operate (LTO) for food business operators (manufacturers). She was followed by the Division Chief of the Policy and Planning Service – Policy Dissemination and Training Division, Ms. Estrellita B. Pastolero. She expounded the LTO requirements and processing specifically for non-manufacturers.

Resources speakers from the Food and Drug Administration

The third speaker, Melody N. Borlagdatan, Health Program Officer I of the Policy and Planning Service – Policy Dissemination and Training Division, presented the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for food manufacturers and traders. She tackled the GMP 12 modules, and pointed out the common deficiencies and how to correct them. Lastly, the presentation proper was concluded with the procedures for filing an application for Certificate of Product Registration by Ms. Maria Luisa C. Aquilizan, Food-Drug Regulation Officer II, Center for Food Regulation and Research – Licensing and Registration Division.

Dr. Florencio C. Reginio, Jr., UPLB BAO Program Development Associate, during the closing remarks

BAO PDA Dr. Reginio wrapped up the webinar session, “we hope that this webinar will serve as a motivational boost, energizing our MSMEs to prioritize and complete their application.” He also left a reminder for the MSMEs/food manufacturers that compliance with registration requirements is essential. “The BAO, and even the FDA, are here to assist you in navigating the registration process effectively.” Dr. Reginio concluded. AAArriesgado