SEIPI seeks fast issuance of licenses for controlled chemicals

MANILA, Philippines – The Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Inc. (SEIPI) has called for fast issuance of licenses for controlled chemicals in line with President Duterte’s order to cut red tape.

SEIPI said the group has requested to collaborate with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and concerned agencies in simplifying and automating the application for permits and licenses on controlled chemicals.

The group cited identification of the automation project’s business model as a possible area for cooperation.

It said a study could be undertaken of similar systems already in place, such as the automated export documentation system and value-added service provider model, to see which one the PNP automation project can be patterned after.

At the same time, a one-stop shop for permit issuance could also be established.

In response, SEIPI said the PNP welcomed the idea and is considering the project.

Since the middle of 2015, PNP has imposed strict monitoring and control of common industrial chemicals due to the growing number of terrorist attacks worldwide.

As a result, companies have encountered production delays, canceled orders, and massive losses for affected industries.

In response to appeals from the business community, the government in December last year began issuing temporarily permits for controlled chemicals and extending their validity.

The government also created a technical working group to look into ways to fast-track and digitize the application procedure in preparation for the end of the validity period of the temporary permits.