The Truth About “DOH Recognized” FSCO Training Courses: What You Need to Know
If you are a food business operator, a designated compliance officer, or part of the culinary industry in the Philippines, you know how crucial it is to secure proper food safety training. Recently, there has been significant confusion surrounding the term “DOH recognized FSCO training course.”
Institutions may claim to hold exclusive rights or official Department of Health (DOH) accreditation to provide Food Safety Compliance Officer (FSCO) certification. At LeadSmart PH, we prioritize transparent, fact-based food safety education, which is why we reached out directly to the authorities to get a definitive answer.
Here is the official clarification based on the DOH’s response to our inquiry on May 25, 2026.
Is There an Officially Accredited FSCO Training Provider?
The short answer is no.
According to the official communication from the DOH, there is presently no existing national policy or set of guidelines regarding the accreditation or recognition of any third-party training service provider for FSCO certification under DOH.
This means that the Department of Health does not officially mandate or exclusively recognize any single private entity, agency, or training center as an FSCO provider.
This means that the Department of Health does not officially mandate or exclusively recognize any single private entity, agency, or training center as an FSCO provider.
What About Previous MOAs and Agreements?
You might have seen marketing materials referencing past agreements, such as the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the DOH and certain training service provider.
The DOH has explicitly clarified this matter: Any previous agreements, including the MOA with a certain service provider, have already expired and remain non-renewed.
More importantly, the DOH states that these expired agreements do not confer any current recognition, accreditation, or exclusivity to those organizations. The landscape is open, and the focus should remain strictly on the quality of the training and its alignment with the Food Safety Act of 2013, rather than outdated claims of exclusivity.
How to Handle False Claims of DOH Recognition
Make no mistake, Integrity in food safety training is just as important as integrity in the kitchen. Misleading marketing not only confuses food businesses but also undermines the national effort to standardize food safety practices.
Above all, If you encounter any training center claiming or strongly implying that the DOH solely recognizes or accredits them for FSCO certification. the authorities encourage you to report them.
Where to report misleading claims: Please direct your reports and evidence to the Food Safety. Regulation Coordinating Board (FSRCB) via email at: fd**********@*****ov.ph
Choosing the Right Food Safety Training
Lastly, Understanding the facts protects your business from misleading claims. Stay informed, stay compliant, and keep your kitchens safe.
What is a Food Safety Compliance Officer (FSCO) and is it legally required?
Yes, it is a legal mandate. The Food Safety Act of 2013 (Republic Act No. 10611) requires every food business operator to designate an FSCO. This individual oversees the implementation of food safety programs, ensures the business meets hygiene standards, and acts as the bridge between the business and regulatory bodies.
Are there any training centers currently holding exclusive DOH recognition for FSCO certification?
No. As clarified by the DOH on May 25, 2026, there is presently no existing national policy or guidelines regarding the accreditation or recognition of any third-party training service provider for FSCO certification. No private entity holds exclusivity.
I saw a training provider claiming they have a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the DOH. Does this mean they are officially recognized?
No. The DOH explicitly stated that previous agreements, including the past MOA with Certain training provider, are already expired and non-renewed. These expired agreements do not confer any current recognition, accreditation, or exclusivity to any provider.
What should I do if a training provider falsely claims to be the “solely recognized” or “DOH accredited” FSCO provider?
Misleading marketing undermines food safety education. The authorities urge the public to report any individual or organization making these false claims. Given these facts, You can report them directly to the Food Safety Regulation Coordinating Board (FSRCB) by emailing fd**********@*****ov.ph.
