The recognition of the role and contributions of the non-governmental organizations (NGO) sector in the Philippine development has led to the spectacular rise in the number of NGOs in the country. This rapid expansion in the number of NGOs has also given rise to concerns about the government’s ability to regulate all of these organizations and ensure that the resources they receive are actually being used for their declared goals and objectives.

This concern led the Department of Finance (DOF) to challenge the NGO community to establish a self-regulatory mechanism and body which would certify to the legitimacy, accountability, and transparency of NGOs, especially those receiving donations from individuals or corporations in the Philippines. Only those NGOs so certified would receive the status of donee institution, and donations to these certified donee institutions could be deducted from the donor’s income tax.

The PCNC was established to certify non-profit organizations that meet established criteria for financial management and accountability in the service to underprivileged Filipinos. Certification by PCNC is a "seal of good housekeeping" that funding partners and prospective donors may consider in their choice of organizations to support.

Aboitiz Foundation was the first NGO in the Visayas and Mindanao to be accredited by the PCNC. It currently enjoys a five-year accreditation that is due for renewal in 2013. Its EVP & Managing Trustee, Augusto P.I. Carpio III, also sits as the PCNC Vice-Chair.