United Marine Training Center (UMTC) has become certified in Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) by SGS, a leading Swiss-based third party certification and verification organisation.
This makes UMTC the first and currently only maritime training centre in the Philippines to achieve this certification. HACCP and GMP are both international quality systems provided by independent third party organisations.
“HACCP certification enhances our food safety management systems and product quality, whilst GMP ensures the integrity of food manufacturing process, as well as our compliance with food safety regulations,” stated Managing Director, UMTC, Donald Bautista.
“These achievements represent the culmination of two and a half years hard work by the entire Culinary Team, led by CTD Manager, Chef Jose Gabriel Prats and the Quality Assurance Team, led by QA Manager, Jeniffer Remoroza, together with our Training Director, Anthony Noakes,” he added.
HACCP certification is an international standard defining the requirements for effective control of food safety. In its systematic and preventive approach to food safety it goes beyond inspecting finished food products, but detects, corrects and prevents hazards throughout the food processing process. It addresses the food safety culture of the whole organisation - from top Management to the cook trainees and culinary staff preparing and serving meals at UMTC.
GMP provides independent verification and certification that the basic manufacturing practices and prerequisites necessary for the implementation of an effective HACCP food safety program are being followed. It is a system addressing the hazards associated with personnel and environment during food production, such as premises, equipment or personal hygiene of staff.
“These international certifications further demonstrate to clients and partners the commitment to producing and trading in safe, high quality food, as well as training in these areas. Well done to the UMTC team for their ongoing professionalism and excellence,” said Training Director, Marlow Navigation, Joern Clodius.
