BOI, PNP set to tackle rules on controlled chem

MANILA, Philippines - The Board of Investments is meeting with stakeholders this week to discuss the proposed Philippine National Police memorandum circular that outlines the implementing regulations for controlled chemicals.

The PNP has suspended for 60 days its rule requiring companies to secure a license or permit to import or transport commonly used chemicals.

The moratorium took effect on Dec. 9 and will end on Feb. 9.

PNP’s current list of controlled chemicals include common household chemicals, including those that are used by electronics and semiconductor manufacturers. 

Upon completion of the review process, the draft PNP circular is expected to be signed by mid-February, the BOI said.

“The government and private sector have been working together to address barriers to enhance the ease of doing business in our country. We are seeking a balanced solution to regulate the industry while simplifying the processes involved in securing PNP permits and licenses,” Trade and Industry Undersecretary and BOI managing head Ceferino Rodolfo said.

The PNP circular includes the list of controlled chemicals, the proposed procedures to streamline regulation, including storage, handling and transport, and the accreditation guidelines for third party logistics providers, and company-owned vehicles.

The BOI is working closely with stakeholders in processing a list to identify which controlled chemicals may be deregulated and which ones must be kept in the regulated list.

It aims to simplify the processes in securing PNP permits and licenses.  

The Philippine chemicals industry is currently the third largest subsector of the country’s manufacturing industry.