Manila, Philippines - Today, leaders from the Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (SPIK) paid a courtesy call to Undersecretary Bernardo C. Florece Jr., the recently appointed Executive Director of the Anti-Terrorism Council Program Management Center (ATC-PMC) under the Office of the President. The meeting took place at the historic Mabini Hall Building in the Malacañang Complex.
SPIK President Gretchen E. Fontejon led the delegation, which included Reginald T. Yu, President of the Philippine Paint and Coatings Association, Inc. (PPCAI), representing the paint and coatings industry. The meeting was facilitated by Atty. Ser-Me L. Ayuyao, Chief of Staff of the ATC-PMC, and jointly moderated by Ms. Gayle G. Raagas and Mr. Louie B. Intalan, both officials within the ATC-PMC office.
The gathering served as an introduction for Undersecretary Florece to the key figures in the chemical and coatings industries and provided a platform for discussing the critical role of the ATC-PMC. The Council acts as a policy-making body from the Office of the President, tasked with assisting the Anti-Terrorism Council in fulfilling its mandates, including those related to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
Undersecretary Florece briefed the SPIK and PPCAI officers on the ATC-PMC's mandate, particularly its alignment with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) through the CWC. The Convention, to which the Philippines became a signatory in 1993 and ratified in 1995, prohibits the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons. The ATC-PMC also facilitates National Authority endorsements for OPCW-sponsored training for Filipino stakeholders, promoting capacity building and the peaceful uses of chemistry for economic and technological development.
One of the notable points discussed was the recent approval of House Bill 9571 on Third Reading, which introduces stringent penalties for the development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, use, or retention of chemical weapons. This legislative milestone underscores the Philippines' commitment to upholding the objectives of the CWC.
The ATC-PMC's initiatives also focus on reducing the accessibility of high-risk chemical materials to non-state actors and individuals with malicious intent. Through engaging with stakeholders like SPIK and PPCAI, the Council aims to enhance industry awareness of the CWC and ensure robust chemical safety and security practices.
During the meeting, SPIK President Gretchen E. Fontejon highlighted the industry’s concern about overregulation by government agencies, particularly during election seasons. Fontejon emphasized that excessive regulations severely impact the industry's bottom line, especially in times of sluggish construction activity. She sought the ATC-PMC's assistance in advocating for a more balanced regulatory environment.
SPIK's flagship Responsible Care advocacy was also discussed, emphasizing the industry’s commitment to sustainability throughout the chemical lifecycle. This initiative underscores the industry's dedication to preserving safety, health, and environmental standards, reinforcing the collaborative spirit between the chemical industry and regulatory bodies.
Undersecretary Florece expressed his support for a constructive dialogue between the government and industry stakeholders. He assured the SPIK and PPCAI officers that the ATC-PMC would work towards creating a regulatory framework that safeguards national security interests while also fostering industry growth and sustainability.
Today's meeting marks a significant step in strengthening the partnership between the government and the chemical and coatings industries, paving the way for enhanced collaboration and mutual understanding in achieving national and international security and safety objectives.
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