The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Philippines has released an advisory and circular for Pest Control Operators (PCOs) who engaged in non-agricultural pest control. Important revisions on licencing, training, and duties are outlined in this advisory.
Pest Control Operators (PCOs) in the Philippines can now apply for a License to Operate (LTO) online through the ‘FDA eServices Portal System’ since June 2023. This applies to all PCOs regardless if they offer commercial, in-house, or government services. As per FDA Circular No. 2022-010, having an LTO becomes mandatory starting January 1, 2025.
While specific certifications for Pesticide Handlers and Supervising Pesticide Handlers are still under development, PCOs can submit proof of attendance to training from reputable organizations for their staff in the meantime.
Responsibilities of Pest control operators:
- Use only FDA-registered household/urban pesticide products
- Ensure appropriate ‘Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)’ is worn during pest control activities.
- Provide safety advice to clients, including re-entry periods after application.
- Display signage at treated premises to warn the public before re-entry.
- Maintain records of pest control activities, including product inventory, equipment maintenance, and pest control reports.
- Report adverse events, pesticide leaks/spills, and related health issues to the FDA.
This update is all for concerned Household/Urban Pesticide Stakeholders. Those who have already filed their applications in Philippines and are ready to register their household pesticides there.
Reference: https://www.fda.gov.ph/fda-advisory-no-2024-0749-pest-control-operators-pco-regulatory-updates/
