THREE groups have been granted the authority to conduct training for qualified service persons (QSPs) in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) services, the Department of Energy (DOE) said in a statement.The agency's Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) handed the training license to the LPG Industry Association (LPGIA), the LPG Marketers Association (LPGMA), and the Philippine LPG Association (PLPGA).These were the first groups to meet the requirements of DOE Department Circular DC2023-08-0025, which governs the accreditation of training organizations in the LPG sector.This is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the LPG industry and ensure the safe, efficient and professional delivery of services to the public, the DOE said, in compliance with Republic Act (RA) 11592 or the LPG Industry Regulation Act (LIRA).The law says individuals engaged in any activity or facility regulated by the DOE within the LPG industry must complete an approved training program conducted by DOE-accredited organizations.A QSP is an individual who has successfully completed an approved training course conducted by the DOE, the Department of Trade and Industry, and other relevant government agencies, or an organization duly accredited by the government.The training includes critical areas such as refinery operations, as well as in import terminals and depots, bulk and cylinder transport, refilling plant management, dealer and retail outlets, auto-LPG dispensing station management, and centralized LPG piping systems for bulk consumers.The DOE said the training programs aim to build a robust and skilled workforce capable of maintaining high standards in the LPG industry while prioritizing safety and reliability.OIMB director Rino Abad stressed the training programs' significance, noting the proactive approach of LPGIA, LPGMA and PLPGA in addressing the need for capacity building within the LPG sector."Their recognition as authorized training organizations is a crucial step towards professionalizing the industry. By empowering these associations to deliver QSP training, we are ensuring that more professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to uphold the highest standards of safety and service," Abad said."Going forward, we encourage these recognized organizations to adopt a collaborative and inclusive approach. Training should not be limited to members of their associations. By opening their programs to all interested individuals, we can raise the overall level of expertise in the industry, benefiting consumers and stakeholders alike."The DOE said it continues to accept applications for license to operate LPG businesses, with a five-year transition period allowing for in-house training.After this period, all LPG businesses seeking license renewals will be required to have their employees trained by DOE-certified training organizations.