National Measurement Institute of the Philippines (Nmphil) Act

Senate Difter of the Secretary TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE ) REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES First Regular Session MAY 11 A9:07 SENATE 2126 RECEIVED BY. S. No. _ Introduced by Senator Manuel "Lito" M. Lapid AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE NATIONAL MEASUREMENT INSTITUTE OF THE PHILIPPINES, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR EXPLANATORY NOTE The proposed measure, to be known as the National Measurement Institute of the Philippines (NMIPhil) Act, seeks to modernize the country's metrological infrastructure to keep pace with the rapid advancements of the global economy. In an era where international trade and technical innovation depend heavily on precision, the Philippines must ensure that its measurement systems are accurate, consistent, and globally recognized. This bill addresses that need by transforming the existing National Metrology Division of the Industrial Technology Development Institute into a specialized and independent institute attached to the Department of Science and Technology. The core policy behind this transition is the development of a robust National Measurement System that aligns with regional and international standards. By elevating the status of our metrological body, the State reinforces the three pillars of National Quality Infrastructure: standards, accreditation, and measurement. This alignment is vital for enhancing the competitiveness of Philippine products and services, ensuring that a kilogram measured in Manila is recognized as a kilogram in any part of the world. Such integrity in measurement protects not only our exporters but also the domestic consumers who rely on accurate scales and meters in their daily lives.

The National Measurement Institute of the Philippines is envisioned as the highest technical authority on measurements in the country. It will be responsible for maintaining national measurement standards and providing traceability to the International System of Units. Beyond laboratory work, the NMIPhil is tasked with fostering a metrology culture through education and advocacy. By collaborating with the Department of Education and other academic bodies, the institute will integrate metrology into the national curriculum, ensuring that the next generation of Filipino scientists and engineers possesses a foundational appreciation for the science of measurement. To ensure the accessibility of these services, the bill formalizes the role of Regional Metrology Laboratories. While the NMIPhil will operate from its main headquarters in New Clark City, these regional extensions will serve as vital links for local industries and government agencies. This tiered system ensures that high-level expertise is balanced with local responsiveness. The bill provides a clear roadmap for modernization through a ten-year Capacity Enhancement Plan, supported by significant initial funding from the national government's share in gaming revenues. This financial commitment is necessary to acquire the state-of-the-art equipment and facilities required to perform world-class calibration and research. Ultimately, this Act provides the legal and institutional framework necessary to secure the Philippines' place in the global scientific community. It empowers the NMIPhil to represent the country in international organizations and to enter into cooperation agreements that will further enhance our technical capabilities. By professionalizing our metrological workforce and providing them with a dedicated institution, we are investing in a future where Philippine science and industry are synonymous with precision and quality.

In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought. MANUEL "LITO" M. LAPID Senator

Senate Office of the secretary TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE ) REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES First Regular Session 26 MAY 11 A9:07 SENATE 2126 RECEIVED BY S. No. _ Introduced by Senator Manuel "Lito" M. Lapid AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE NATIONAL MEASUREMENT INSTITUTE OF THE PHILIPPINES, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled:

SEC. 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "National Measurement

5 Institute of the Philippines (NMIPhil) Act."

SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State to:

1) Develop the National Measurement System (NMS) to advance scientific and technical progress in the national economy and ensure measurement integrity in the Philippines while aligning with the regional and international standards; 2) Support the National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) institutions, namely, the National Standards Body, Standards Development Organization (SDO), National Accreditation Body, and National Metrology Institute, to uphold standards, accreditation, and measurement accuracy to enhance the competitiveness of Philippine products and services; and 3) Promote the adoption and/or integration of international standards and best practices in metrology.

SEC. 3. Establishment of the National Measurement Institute of the Philippines.

2 The National Metrology Division of the Industrial Technology Development Institute 3 of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-ITDI) is hereby transformed as 4 the country's national metrology institute to be known as the National Measurement Institute of the Philippines (NMIPhil). The NMIPhil shall be attached to the DOST for 6 policy, program coordination, and administrative supervision. The existing buildings, equipment, and facilities of the National Metrology 8 Division of DOST-ITDI shall be transferred to the NMIPhil.

SEC. 4. Objectives of the Institute. - The objectives of the Institute are:

1) To adopt and establish metrological standards according to the international and regional standards; 2) To develop competencies and strengthen the implementation of legal metrological controls in the country; 3) To disseminate knowledge on measurement standards development; 4) To foster a metrology culture that shall instill an appreciation of metrology; 5) To provide the highest measurement accuracy in the country, necessary advice, and technical support for the government, industry, academe/research institutions, civil society organizations, commerce and the public in measurement related issues; and 6) To represent the country in international organizations and ensure international recognition of measurements.

SEC. 5. Powers and Functions of the Institute. The Institute shall be responsible

for maintaining and disseminating the national measurement standards of the country, and it shall: 1) Maintain and update the national measurement standards, ensuring compliance with international requirements to support the compliance of all stakeholders of metrology;

2) Provide metrological traceability to the International System of Units (SI) and authorize other units as needed non-SI units for measurements done in the country; 3) Facilitate international harmonization of measurements through participation in relevant metrological activities and collaborate with metrology stakeholders and other metrological bodies for capacity building and protocol harmonization; 4) Conduct research and development, and innovation to provide measurement solutions for the country; 5) Appoint designated institutes for specific tasks to hold and maintain specific measurement standards and provide services that are not covered by the national metrology institute; 6) Conduct or adopt a system of type evaluation/approval activities for regulated measuring instruments, including accepting capabilities from recognized international metrology institutes; 7) Enhance the country's metrological human resources through education and capacity-building programs; 8) Represent the Philippines in international and regional metrology organizations and committees; 9) Levy fees and charges for products and services; 10)Support the National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) activities related to metrology; 11)Promulgate internal policies, rules, and regulations and disseminate guidelines, as well as create programs/projects related to the National Measurement System. The DOST Secretary may assign additional powers and functions to the Institute: Provided, That it shall be in accordance with the POLICY objectives of the Institute as stated in this Act.

SEC. 6. Organizational Structure. The NMIPhil shall be headed by an Executive

30 Director, to be appointed by the President upon the recommendation of the Secretary 31 of the DOST, and shall receive the benefits, privileges, and emoluments equivalent to

1 the rank of Executive Director V. The Executive Director shall be responsible for 2 promulgating and implementing policies, rules, and regulations and directing the 3 activities of the NMIPhil. The Executive Director shall be assisted by three (3) Deputy Executive Directors 5 for, scientific metrology, industrial metrology, legal metrology, quality management 6 system, regional metrology operations, technological services, operations 7 management, planning, administration, and finance who shall likewise be appointed by the President and shall receive the benefits, privileges and emoluments equivalent 9 to the rank of Executive Director IV. The Executive Director and the Deputy Executive Directors must be Filipino 11 citizens, with advanced degrees in metrology, physical, chemical and biological sciences, engineering or related fields of study, with at least five (5) years of related supervisory experience. The NMIPhil, in coordination with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC), shall determine its organizational structure, including the specialized, technical and administrative personnel complement necessary for its effective and efficient operations.

SEC. 7. Main Office, Regional Metrology Laboratories, and Other Centers and

Facilities. - The NMIPhil shall have its Main Office in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac under the administration of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA). 21 A parcel of land shall be leased exclusively for the NMIPhil offices, laboratories and training center based on the terms and conditions agreed upon by the NMIPhil and BCDA, and in accordance with existing laws, rules and regulations. The Regional Metrology Laboratories (RMLs) of the DOST Regional Offices shall operate and provide calibration and measurement services at a level lower than those offered by the National Measurement Institute of the Philippines (NMIPhil), making them more accessible and responsive to the needs of local industries, government agencies, and academic institutions. The RMLs shall remain under the supervision and administrative control of the DOST Regional Offices but shall operate under the

1 technical oversight and guidance of the NMIPhil. This arrangement ensures that the 2 RMLs' services, procedures, and quality systems are consistent with national 3 requirements and are coherent, consistent and traceable to the International System 4 of Units (SI) through the NMIPhil. By serving as the regional extensions of the NMIPhil, 5 the RMLs strengthen the country's metrology, address the demand for basic and 6 intermediate-level calibration services, and help build capacity in the regions. To sustain these functions and continuously improve their capabilities, the 8 DOST, in coordination with the DBM and CSC, shall strengthen and provide the necessary requirements for the upgrading of the RML's calibration and measurement 10 services capability, including sufficient manpower and other resources, to ensure their 11 knowledge and capabilities align with the specific metrological requirements and needs 12 of their specific regions. A National Metrology Training Center under the NMIPhil shall be established to undertake training on metrology for building the competence and capabilities of metrology-related entities and implementing legal metrological controls in the country. The NMIPhil shall integrate the OneLab Laboratory Referral Network, under the Department of Science and Technology as a strategic platform for delivering calibration, testing, and analytical services within the framework of the National Measurement Institute of the Philippines

SEC. 8. Interagency Cooperation. - The NMIPhil shall establish a cooperation

and collaboration mechanism with all relevant government agencies, representative from the local government units, and private sector organization to achieve the policy objectives of this Act.

SEC. 9. Human Resource Development Program. - The NMIPhil shall formulate

a continuing human resource development program on the different aspects of the national measurement system to recruit and maintain a cadre of highly proficient personnel in its roster. It shall include a scholarship and financial assistance mechanism. Not later than three (3) years from the enactment of this Act, scholarship and financial assistance

1 grants shall be provided for undergraduate and graduate studies in metrology and 2 related fields, as well as for specialized training programs, in coordination with the 3 DOST, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills 4 Development Authority (TESDA), Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), and other entities providing support for metrology development in the country. Cooperation with 6 international organizations on human resources development and capacity 7 enhancement shall also be undertaken.

SEC. 10. Capacity Enhancement Plan. The DOST Secretary and the Executive

9 Director of the NMIPhil, in consultation with the Secretary of the DBM, shall formulate 10 the NMIPhil Capacity Enhancement Plan. The plan, to be implemented within ten (10) years, shall indicate, among others: 1) The Objectives and Key Performance Indicators; 2) Requirements in terms of equipment, facilities and personnel, and the concomitant technical expertise necessary to attain the plan's objectives; 3) The projects to be undertaken, which shall indicate the equipment and technology acquisitions, including major construction or upgrade of facility and; 4) The schedules and estimated cost of each project. Through its sectoral planning councils, the DOST shall be responsible for, among others, facilitating the development of the National Metrology Research and 22 Development Roadmap and ensuring continuous fund support for its implementation. To fund the establishment of NMIPhil, an amount of Three Billion Pesos (P3,000,000,000.00) shall be taken from the share of the national government in the gross income of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation. For three (3) years from the start of the effectivity of this Act, a minimum amount of One Billion Million Pesos (P 1,000,000,000.00) per year shall be released to the NMIPhil. The entire amount, including any interest income thereon, shall be used exclusively for the 29 construction and purchase of facilities, equipment, information technology systems,

1 and instruments for metrology research and development, calibration purposes, 2 implementation of the resource development and capacity building program, and 3 other activities outlined in the capacity enhancement plan.

SEC. 11. Acquisition, Maintenance and Upgrading of Physical Resources and

5 Operational Techniques. - To efficiently and effectively address the expanding measurement needs of society, industry, research institutions, and the academe, the 7 acquisition and/or upgrade of state-of-the-art instruments, equipment, facilities, and 8 systems shall be immediately pursued and complemented with technical capability- 9 building programs for NMIPhil personnel.

SEC. 12. Multi-year Contracts and Other Contractual Arrangements. - The

11 NMIPhil may enter into multi-year contracts or other contractual arrangements with suppliers and contractors in the implementation of the NMIPhil capacity enhancement plan and other programs and projects provided with appropriations by Congress. For multi-year contracts, the Congress shall, upon issuance of the multi-year obligational authority by the DBM, make the corresponding appropriations for the ensuing fiscal years: Provided, that the NMIPhil and the DBM shall jointly issue the implementing guidelines to ensure consistency with the NMIPhil capacity enhancement plan and existing guidelines on the contracting of multi-year projects.

SEC. 13. Public Information and Advocacy. - The NMIPhil, in collaboration with

other concerned government agencies and stakeholders, shall engage in information campaigns and advocacy programs to increase the public's awareness on metrology and instill greater appreciation of metrology by the public.

SEC. 14. Education and Curriculum Development. The NMIPhil, Department of

Education, CHED, TESDA and other public and private agencies shall formulate the design and details of a curriculum on metrology and its inclusion in all levels of the Philippines' education system. The NMIPhil shall have a close collaboration with the public and private higher education institutions including state universities and college in metrological research

1 and development, including creating specialized subjects or courses related to 2 metrology.

SEC. 15. Memberships. The NMIPhil shall maintain and participate as a

4 Member-State and represent the Philippines' interests in international and regional 5 metrology organizations, consultative committee meetings and working groups, including, but not limited to, the International Bureau of Weights and Measures 7 (Bureau International des Poids et Mesures, BIPM) the General Conference on Weights 8 and Measures (Conférence Générale des Poids et Mesures, CGPM), the International 9 Organization for Legal Metrology (Organisation Internationale de Métrologie Légale, 10 OIML), the International Measurement Confederation (IMEKO), the Asia Pacific 11 Metrology Programme (APMP), the Asia Pacific Legal Metrology Forum (APLMF), and 12 ASEAN Consultative Committee on Standards and Quality - Working Group on Legal 13 Metrology (ACCSQ-WG3) and ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology, and 14 Innovation - Expert Group on Metrology (COSTI-EGM), and other relevant metrology 15 organizations. The NMIPhil shall perform its obligations to these international 16 organizations.

SEC. 16. Loans, Grants, Bequests, and Donations, Whether from Local or

18 Foreign Sources. The Secretary of the DOST is authorized to manage loans, grants, bequests, and donations from local and foreign sources, including entering into loan agreements with foreign financial institutions, in compliance with relevant accounting and auditing regulations.

Section 17. Tax Exemptions. - Donations, grants, gifts, endowments, and

contributions actually, directly, and exclusively used for the purpose of the NMIPhil shall be exempt from donor's tax and shall be considered as allowable deduction from gross income for purposes of computing the taxable income of the donor, in accordance with Section 34 (H)(2)(a) of Republic Act No. 8424 or the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended.

SEC. 18. Appropriations. - The amount necessary to carry out the provisions of

this Act shall be included in the General Appropriations Act for the year following its 30 enactment and every year thereafter.

There shall be additional funds for the enhancement of the capacity and 2 capability build-up of the NMIPhil in the appropriations provided by the national 3 government for NMIPhil and shall be administered by the Executive Director in 4 accordance with existing government budgeting, accounting and auditing rules and 5 regulations in coordination and approval of the DBM. The funds appropriated therein shall be used exclusively for the construction 7 and purchase of facilities, equipment, information technology systems, and instruments for metrology research and development, calibration and maintenance 9 purposes, public information and advocacy, accreditation and certification fees, 10 representation, implementation of the resource development and capacity building 11 program, and other activities outlined in the Capacity Enhancement Plan. Fifty percent (50 %) of the fees and charges collected from, including, but not limited to, metrological work, calibration and measurement services, training fees, contract research, sales, shall be used by the NMIPhil, and the DOST-RMLs in the maintenance and enhancement of their capabilities and modernization of metrological and measurement standard activities. The remaining amount shall be remitted to the 17 National Treasury.

SEC. 19. Transitory Provisions. -

1) All offices and units under the DOST system whose functions are related to metrology shall be absorbed by the NMIPhil and shall be transferred accordingly within three (3) years. It shall include all functions, assets, capitals, records, funds, receivables, equipment, and facilities of the concerned DOST offices and units. The DOST shall conduct an audit and inventory of assets, liabilities, and human resources of the transferred offices and units under the DOST system to the NMIPhil. To the greatest extent possible and in accordance with Republic Act No. 6656 or "An Act to Protect the Security of Tenure of Civil Service Officers and Employees in the Implementation of Government Reorganization", and other existing laws, all employees of the affected

offices and units shall be absorbed by the NMIPhil. Personnel hired on a permanent basis and with appointments attested to by the CSC who may be affected by the transition of DOST offices and units to the NMIPhil, or who will not be absorbed in the new staffing pattern of the different offices and units in the NMIPhil, shall have the option to: a) Be transferred to other offices or units within the DOST in accordance with civil service law, rules, and regulations; or b) Avail of the applicable retirement benefits and separation incentives as provided under Republic Act No. 6656 and other relevant laws. 2) Incumbent DOST officials and employees may be considered to assume positions in the NMIPhil, subject to competency evaluation and CSC regulations. All project-based personnel of the DOST doing metrology related research and development shall be subject to the qualification standards provided for by laws and the rules and regulations of the CS. 3) Research grants acquired during the transition of DOST offices and units transferred to NMIPhil shall be utilized solely for the grants' intended purposes for each of the affected offices and units. 4) Existing contracts and agreements entered into by the affected personnel with third parties prior to the enactment of this Act shall remain valid.

SEC. 20. Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). - Within at least ninety

(90) days from the start of the effectivity of this Act, the DOST through ITDI, in consultation with the relevant national government departments and agencies, LGUs, the private sector, and other concerned organizations, shall issue the necessary implementing rules and regulations of this Act. Failure to promulgate the rules and 28 regulations of this Act shall not prevent its implementation upon effectivity.

SEC. 21. Separability Clause. - If, for any reason, any provision of this Act is

2 declared unconstitutional, the other section or provisions hereof which are not affected 3 shall continue to be in full force and effect.

SEC. 22. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules, and regulations

5 or portions thereof inconsistent with this Act, including Sections 5, 6, and 18 of 6 Republic Act No. 9236, are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC 23. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its

8 complete publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general 9 circulation, whichever comes earlier. Approved,