Chemist Pinky Tobiano, president of the Association of Veterinary and Agri-Quality Assurance Laboratories of the Philippines, Inc. (AVAQAL), led the organization in receiving an agriculture award from SINAG (Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura).
The recognition was given during SINAG’s 12th anniversary celebration in Quezon City, with the theme Pagawad at Pagkilala sa mga Tanglaw ng Kanayunan Sinag ng Kinabukasan.
AVAQAL was honored for its contributions to the agriculture sector, particularly in ensuring food safety through accurate and precise laboratory testing of raw materials, grains, crops, feeds, veterinary drugs, and supplements.
Tobiano emphasized AVAQAL’s commitment to raising quality assurance standards in agriculture, a mission she has championed through her leadership. Under her guidance, AVAQAL has grown into a globally recognized organization that provides vital support to Philippine agriculture.
A chemist for 37 years, Tobiano heads AVAQAL, which includes quality assurance laboratories from major companies and third-party testing firms such as SGS (Société Générale de Surveillance), Qualibet, Bureau Veritas, Intertek, Vitarich, Pilmico, Unahco, San Miguel Foods Inc., Progressive Laboratories, Lak Pue Drugs, and Arvet Chem.
The event gathered industry leaders, government officials, and experts to celebrate excellence and innovation in agriculture and science.
