The Department of Energy (DOE) took a significant step towards advancing the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry by recognizing three industry associations as authorized training organizations for qualified service persons (QSPs).
This is part of the DOE’s efforts to strengthen the LPG industry and ensure the safe, efficient, and professional delivery of services to the public.
A QSP is defined as an individual who has successfully completed an approved training course for LPG service persons conducted by the DOE, the Department of Trade and Industry and other relevant government agencies, or an organization duly accredited by the government.
The DOE, through its Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB), granted certificates of recognition to the LPG Industry Association (LPGIA), the LPG Marketers Association (LPGMA) and the Philippine LPG Association (PLPGA).
These associations were the first to meet the rigorous requirements of DOE Department Circular No. DC2023-08-0025, which governs the accreditation of training organizations in the LPG industry sector. Alena Mae S. Flores
“Their recognition as authorized training organizations is a crucial step towards professionalizing the industry. By empowering these associations to deliver QSP training, we are ensuring that more professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to uphold the highest standards of safety and service,” said DOE OIMB director Rino Abad.
Abad emphasized the importance of inclusivity in training programs, urging the newly certified organizations to extend their services to individuals across the country, regardless of membership affiliation.
“We encourage these organizations to adopt a collaborative and inclusive approach. Training should not be limited to members of their associations. By opening their programs to all interested individuals, we can raise the overall level of expertise in the industry, benefiting consumers and stakeholders alike,” he said.
The DOE said the recognition is a vital element in the implementation of Republic Act (RA) No. 11592 or the LPG Industry Regulation Act (LIRA).
The law mandates that all individuals engaged in any activity or facility regulated by the DOE within the LPG industry must complete an approved training program conducted by DOE-accredited organizations.
The initiative aims to enhance industry standards, improve safety measures, and promote technical proficiency among LPG professionals.
The training programs address critical areas of LPG operations, such as refinery operations, import terminal and depot operations, bulk and cylinder transport operations, refilling plant management, dealer and retail outlet operations, auto-LPG dispensing station management, and centralized LPG piping systems for bulk consumers.
These programs aim to build a robust and skilled workforce capable of maintaining high standards in the LPG industry while prioritizing safety and reliability.
The DOE continues to accept applications for the license to operate (LTO) for LPG businesses, with a five-year transition period allowing for in-house training.
After this period, all LPG businesses seeking license renewal will be required to have their employees trained by a DOE-certified training organization.
This framework reflects the DOE’s commitment to fostering a safe, professional, and consumer-centric LPG industry.
The DOE said that by prioritizing the welfare of end consumers and establishing stringent standards for training and conduct, it aims to build a sustainable and reliable LPG ecosystem that supports economic growth and public safety.
