Newsletter
DLSU-SoLL Partners with PACSSM to Standardize Sterile Processing Education in the Philippines
June 6, 2025 – A significant step toward advancing healthcare education was taken during the 25th Annual Convention of the Philippine Association of Central Services and Sterilization Management, Inc. (PACSSM), as De La Salle University – School of Lifelong Learning (DLSU-SoLL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a standardized course program for Central Services and Sterilization Technicians and Healthcare Leaders.
The agreement was formalized by:
Dr. Rodiel Ferrer, Dean of the School of Lifelong Learning, De La Salle University
Ms. Arnefelina Tamayo, President of the Philippine Association of Central Services and Sterilization Management (PACSSM)
This collaboration unites the academic excellence of a premier university with a professional association committed to sterile processing excellence. The initiative aims to standardize and formalize training programs for Central Services and Sterile Processing Technicians, equipping them with cutting-edge competencies that align with global standards in medical device reprocessing and infection control.
The new course program will establish a strong foundation for professional advancement, while elevating patient safety standards in healthcare institutions nationwide.
Strategic Meeting with De La Salle University – School of Lifelong Learning on Central Services and Sterilization Techncian Program
Manila, Philippines – June 03, 2025 – The Philippine Association of Central Services and Sterilization Management (PACSSM) and De La Salle University – School of Lifelong Learning convened to finalize the timetable and course design for the Certification Program for Central Services and Sterilization Technicians. This strategic meeting marks a significant advancement in establishing standardized education for sterile processing professionals in the Philippines.
This program is specifically designed to meet the needs of Filipino healthcare workers by combining internationally recognized sterilization standards with local best practices. It adheres to the highest ethical principles, including the fundamental commitment to ‘do no harm,’ ensuring both technical excellence and patient safety in all training modules.
Philippine Surgical Infection Society Congress 2025: “Closing the Loop in Surgical Infection
Manila, Philippines – The Philippine Surgical Infection Society (PSIS) successfully convened its annual congress on July 12, 2025, with the theme “Closing the Loop in Surgical Infection.” The event was held in partnership with leading healthcare organizations including:
Philippine College of Surgeons (PCS)
Perioperative Registered Nurses Association of the Philippines (ORNAP, Inc.)
Philippine Hospital Infection Control Nurses Association (PHICNA, Inc.)
Philippine Hospital Infection Control Society (PHICS, Inc.)
The congress invites Ms. Arlene Tamayo, President of the Philippine Association of Central Services and Sterilization Management (PACSSM), as an expert speaker on medical reprocessing and sterilization.
Ms. Tamayo’s session provided valuable insights into the critical role of proper sterilization in preventing surgical site infections, complementing the congress’s focus on infection control protocols.
This multidisciplinary gathering highlighted the importance of collaboration between surgeons, nurses, infection control practitioners, and sterilization professionals in achieving optimal patient outcomes.
Post-Convention Momentum: Monthly Meeting
Manila, Philippines – Following the successful 25th Annual Convention, PACSSM officers from various healthcare institutions convened for the regular monthly meeting, reaffirming their commitment to excellence in sterile processing. United in the advocacy for the highest standards in medical device reprocessing and sterilization, the group reviewed ongoing initiatives and strategized upcoming events aimed at further advancing the shared goals. These dedicated professionals continue to collaborate closely to enhance sterile processing practices, contributing to continuous improvements in patient safety and healthcare quality across medical facilities in the Philippines.
The Philippine Association of Central Services and Sterilization Management (PACSSM) successfully held its first two Board meetings for the new term, marking a strong start to continued collaboration and progress in the field of sterile processing.
The first meeting, held on June 29, 2025, at Dad’s Buffet in Quezon City, with the collaboration of Saviour MeDevices, gathered officers and their families in a celebratory atmosphere. The event served as both a welcome to the new term and a reaffirmation of PACSSM’s commitment to excellence in medical device reprocessing and sterilization.
The second meeting, conducted on July 19, 2025, at UMU Japanese Restaurant in Dusit Thani, Makati, featured a meaningful collaboration with Health Collective, who introduced an innovative healthcare product aimed at enhancing patient care and outcomes.
These meetings underscore PACSSM’s dedication to advancing sterilization standards through strategic partnerships, continuous education, and innovation. The association looks forward to more productive engagements in the months ahead, all in service of improving healthcare quality and patient safety across the country.
