A published specification for the origin and quality of Philippine ube — Dioscorea alata. The Standard defines what may be recognized as genuine, how it is graded, and how recognition is assessed.
The Standard applies to the tuber and processed forms of Dioscorea alata cultivated within the Republic of the Philippines. It does not apply to chemically dyed substitutes, to taro (Colocasia esculenta), or to ube products in which colour and flavour derive from artificial sources.
A consignment may be recognized as Philippine ube only where the tuber is cultivated, harvested, and first processed within Philippine territory, and where the chain of custody from farm to point of recognition is documented to the satisfaction of the Association.
Recognition is reserved for established Philippine cultivars of Dioscorea alata, including but not limited to the kinampay lineage of Bohol and other regional heritage varieties documented by the Association's heritage register.
The Standard defines three grades — Premium, Standard, and Industrial — assessed against visual, textural, and compositional criteria. Grading is performed by recognized assessors against the published rubric, and is independent of price.
Members in good standing whose consignments meet the Standard may use the Association's mark of recognition in connection with those consignments. The mark is a statement of conformity, not an endorsement, and may be withdrawn for cause.
Assessment is documentary and physical. The Association may request production records, custody documentation, and samples, and may conduct or commission inspection. The full assessment protocol is maintained as a separate technical annex.