The Ministry of Public Works of El Salvador has officially received certification under the international ISO 37001:2016 standard for its Anti-Bribery Management System, marking another step in El Salvador’s efforts to strengthen transparency, institutional ethics, and accountability in public administration.
The certification was awarded by AENOR, one of the most recognized international certification firms. During the official ceremony, Minister of Public Works Romeo Herrera highlighted that the recognition aligns with the requirements established under Article 16 of El Salvador’s Public Procurement Law, which mandates anti-bribery certification for public institutions.
According to Herrera, the certification represents the beginning of a continuous improvement process focused on maintaining zero tolerance for corruption and bribery, while reinforcing transparency, institutional integrity, accountability, and whistleblower protection within government operations.
The Ministry also emphasized the existence of multiple anonymous reporting channels designed to encourage citizens and employees to report potential irregularities without fear of retaliation. Authorities confirmed that complaints can be submitted through a dedicated WhatsApp line, telephone hotline, and official email system managed by the institution.
During the event, Arnulfo Pino stated that anti-bribery management systems not only help protect institutions from corruption risks, but also strengthen credibility, public trust, and international reputation. He added that El Salvador is becoming a regional pioneer by legally requiring the implementation, maintenance, and certification of anti-bribery systems across government institutions.
The ISO 37001:2016 certification was formally delivered to Minister Romeo Herrera on behalf of the Ministry of Public Works, reinforcing El Salvador’s broader strategy to modernize public administration and promote international standards of governance and transparency in 2026.