Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika

06/10/2026

The 22nd Industry Advisory Committee (IAC) meeting was held on September 28, 2026, via Zoom, under the leadership of Dr. Annabelle Briones, Ph.D., Director of the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI). The session brought together key industry and technology leaders to discuss strategic initiatives and strengthen collaboration for the upcoming years.

The meeting opened with the introduction of new IAC members, notably Engr. ALDRICH BENTILANON, President of the Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (S**K), together with representatives from PCAPI, EPAP and Steel Asia, who were warmly welcomed into the committee. Also attending from S**K was Engr. Gretchen Fontejon Enarle, MSc, CBP, SSChE, Director of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), reflecting the committee’s growing focus on sustainable and responsible industry practices.

During the meeting, participants reviewed ITDI projects planned for 2027 and 2028, aiming to drive innovation and enhance industry capabilities. A highlight presentation from GS1 Philippines showcased efforts to enable trusted identification and accelerate digital transformation across multiple sectors, reflecting the committee’s commitment to advancing technology adoption.

Updates on IAC engagements were shared, followed by discussions on other relevant matters and scheduling of the next meeting. The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the IAC’s role as a vital platform for dialogue between industry leaders and technology developers, spearheaded by Dr. Briones.

The 22nd IAC meeting brings industry and technology leaders together to advance innovation, collaboration, and digital transformation.

06/10/2026

The Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (S**K), in collaboration with PCAPI National and the PMTLAI Association, recently convened a pivotal seminar on the “Overview of Dangerous Goods Handling in Maritime Transport (IMDG).” This event was specifically designed to address the critical needs of companies operating within the chemical sector and maritime transport industry, where the safe handling of hazardous materials is paramount.

The seminar opened with a welcome address by Engr. Aldrich F. Bentilanon, President of S**K, who emphasized the importance of strengthening industry knowledge to enhance safety and regulatory compliance in the handling of dangerous goods. Her remarks set the tone for an engaging and informative day focused on best practices and international standards.

Through comprehensive sessions led by industry expert Mr. Marlon F. Velasco, participants gained an in-depth understanding of the IMDG Code, covering essential topics such as dangerous goods classification, packing, marking, testing, storage, stowage, segregation, and emergency response protocols. These areas are vital for ensuring operational safety, environmental protection, and adherence to global maritime regulations.

This initiative underscores the importance of building robust knowledge and practical skills to prevent accidents, protect lives and cargo, and support sustainable growth in the chemical and maritime industries. S**K’s leadership in organizing this seminar reflects its commitment to advancing industry standards and fostering a culture of safety and environmental stewardship across sectors.

The seminar concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Doris P. Torres, Executive Director of PMTLAI, who highlighted the critical role of continued education and collaboration in promoting safer maritime transport and sustaining the integrity of hazardous materials handling.

By equipping participants with the latest knowledge and best practices, the seminar significantly reinforces safety frameworks and promotes responsible handling and transport of dangerous goods by sea.

S**K conducted an IMDG seminar to promote safe and responsible handling of dangerous goods in maritime transport.

30/09/2026

At the 87th Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (PIChE) National Convention held in Baguio City, S**K proudly participated in the Leap: Chemical Engineering in the Era of Digital Transformation Process Safety Symposium. S**K was invited to present alongside key panelists from the PIChE Process Safety Committee, the Bureau of Working Conditions (BWC), and fellow industry representative, underscoring its vital role in advancing process safety within the chemical sector.

The presentation, titled “Strengthening Process Safety in the Philippine Chemical Industry through Responsible Care,” highlighted S**K’s commitment to promoting a robust safety culture amid the complex operations characteristic of the industry. Recognizing the significant safety risks that come with such complexity, S**K has adopted the globally recognized Responsible Care Program. This voluntary initiative fosters rigorous risk management, transparency, and continuous improvement by encouraging member companies to implement internationally aligned standards spanning process safety, employee training, and community engagement.

S**K’s proactive collaboration with regulatory bodies ensures that local policies keep pace with evolving global best practices, especially in light of rapid digital transformation and the increasing sophistication of chemical processes. Despite inherent challenges, the Responsible Care framework serves as a compass guiding the industry toward sustainable operations that prioritize the protection of people, the environment, and broader national development goals.

In a highlight of the convention, Engr. Gretchen F. Enarle, Director of S**K’s Environmental, Social, and Governance Committee, was honored with two prestigious awards: the Outstanding Chemical Engineer for Environment and Sustainability Category and the Nuna E. Almanzor Award for the Most Outstanding Chemical Engineer of the Year. These accolades affirm S**K’s leadership and dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable growth within the Philippine chemical engineering community.

The 87th PIChE National Convention not only provided a platform for insightful discourse on digital transformation and process safety but also celebrated the achievements of industry champions like S**K and its members, reinforcing their indispensable contributions to the nation’s economic and environmental well-being.

Process Safety takes center stage as S**K advances Responsible Care at the 87th PIChE National Convention in Baguio City.

28/09/2026

On September 12, 2026, the municipality of Bauan, Batangas became a hub of environmental action as over 400 dedicated volunteers gathered to participate in the annual Coastal Clean Up. Led by Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (S**K), this significant event saw the combined efforts of S**K members, industry partners, government agencies, and the local government unit in a powerful demonstration of collective responsibility for our oceans.

This initiative was part of the global celebration of the International Coastal Clean Up (ICC) held every September, an event that underscores the urgent need to address the mounting threat of marine pollution. S**K proudly champions this cause, acknowledging that while clean-ups are a vital step, they alone cannot resolve the immense scale of waste contaminating our oceans.

The 2026 Coastal Clean Up reinforced S**K’s commitment to a holistic approach—one that calls for multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and intradisciplinary collaboration. By uniting diverse expertise and fostering cooperative action among scientists, industry leaders, policymakers, and communities.
“Are we progressing in the right direction?” This question resonates deeply as we confront the formidable challenge of marine pollution. Yet, the dedication shown by every volunteer in Bauan ignites hope. Through innovation, persistent effort, and partnership, we possess the power to turn the tide for the future of our planet.

Every piece of litter collected, every awareness raised, and every collaborative effort made matters. The Coastal Clean Up in Bauan serves as a reminder that safeguarding our oceans is a shared responsibility—one that requires ongoing commitment from every sector and every individual. Together, S**K, under the leadership of Engr. Gretchen Fontejon- Enarle, MSc, CBP, SSChE, Director of Environment, Social and Governance Committee, and its partners continue to drive forward the mission of restoring ocean health, fostering a cleaner, safer environment for generations to come.

400 volunteers joined P*K in Bauan, Batangas for the 2026 Coastal Clean Up, promoting sustainable action against ocean pollution.

24/09/2026

The National Industrial Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Stakeholder Workshop, held on 3 September 2026 in Quezon City, opened with welcoming remarks by Atty. Michael Drake Matias, Director of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB). Emphasizing the critical importance of collaboration and partnership, Atty. Matias underscored that effective management of hazardous chemical substances requires a unified approach among government agencies, industry stakeholders, and international bodies. He highlighted that only through concerted multi-sectoral cooperation can the Philippines achieve sustainable environmental governance and fulfill its international obligations under the Stockholm Convention and related treaties.

The workshop was crafted as a strategic platform to address the complex regulatory and operational challenges associated with the management and phase-out of Short-Chain Chlorinated Paraffins (SCCPs) and Medium-Chain Chlorinated Paraffins (MCCPs). Key representatives from the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), as well as the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm (BRS) Secretariat, participated, ensuring a comprehensive dialogue across governmental and international spectrums. Engr. Gretchen Fontejon- Enarle, MSc, CBP, SSChE, Director of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) at the Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (S**K), served as one of the distinguished panelists. Her participation brought an essential industry perspective to the discussions, emphasizing the practical challenges and collaborative opportunities for chemical manufacturers navigating evolving regulatory demands.

A critical topic of deliberation was the challenge of securing accurate and complete chemical information across supply chains while safeguarding proprietary and confidential business information.

The workshop also underscored the necessity for enhanced governmental support, including clear regulatory guidance, expanded technical assistance, increased testing capacity, and structured transition frameworks. These resources are vital to support industries in the responsible phase-out of hazardous substances, aligning domestic practices with global environmental and public health objectives.

Overall, the National Industrial POPs Stakeholder Workshop showcased the indispensable role of multi-sector collaboration and the collective commitment to advancing sustainable chemical management. The workshop laid a strong foundation for ongoing partnership and dialogue, essential for the Philippines to sustainably navigate the complexities of hazardous chemical regulation within an interconnected global context.

The National Industrial POPs Stakeholder Workshop promotes collaboration on sustainable chemical management and hazardous substance phase-out.

23/09/2026

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The 31st Meeting of the AMEICC Working Group on Chemical Industry (WG-CI) was held on August 27-28, 2026, in Manila, Philippines, hosted by the Philippines through the Department of Trade and Industry – Board of Investments (DTI-BOI) and co-chaired by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). The event brought together key stakeholders from ASEAN countries and Japan to advance cooperation in the chemical sector. The meeting opened with welcoming remarks from Ms. Ma. Corazon Halili-Dichosa, Executive Director of Industry Development Services at the Philippine BOI, and Mr. Kikuo Take, Director for International Affairs at METI. Their addresses set an optimistic tone, emphasizing continued partnership to strengthen the region’s chemical industry amid shared challenges such as geopolitical tensions impacting global supply chains.

A major segment of the meeting featured comprehensive updates on the current status of chemical industries, policies, and regulatory landscapes across ASEAN member states and Japan. METI shared insights on Japan’s chemical sector and relevant international issues, including the repercussions of Middle East tensions. ASEAN countries then presented their latest developments and emerging regulatory trends, with special focus on sustainability topics such as extended producer responsibility, PFAS regulations, circular economy initiatives, energy transition, and low-carbon strategies.

Further advancing regional cooperation, Singapore showcased the ASEAN Regulatory Cooperation Platform (ARCP), which aims to harmonize regulatory frameworks, while Japan’s National Institute of Technology and Evaluation explained the ASEAN-Japan Chemical Safety Database (AJCSD), emphasizing its role in maintaining effective communication and data sharing among member countries and Japanese agencies.

Overall, the meeting laid a strong foundation for continued cooperation in promoting sustainable development in the ASEAN chemical industry. By sharing regulatory updates and tackling sustainability challenges, participants aligned on balancing environmental protection with growth. Focus on circular economy and microplastic research showcased commitment to sustainable manufacturing. Collaborative discussions and visits strengthened trust and coordination, advancing harmonized standards crucial for a resilient, competitive, and environmentally responsible chemical sector.

https://spik.com.ph/31st-ameicc-working-group-on-chemical-industry-meeting-held-in-manila-philippines/

23/09/2026

The Scenario Building Workshop for the development of the DOST-PCIEERD Toxic and Hazardous Waste (THW) R&D Roadmap was successfully facilitated by Project Managers Ms. Liz Ahren C. Penaflor and Engr. Marybhel M. Alsua. The workshop brought together key stakeholders to validate the roadmap’s scope, review thematic areas, and formulate strategic goals to guide the future direction of THW research and development in the Philippines.

Representing the Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (S**K), Engr. Gretchen F. Enarle, Director of the ESG Committee, and Ms. Lyn Valdez, Director of S**K, actively contributed to the discussions and collaborative exercises. Their participation ensured that industry perspectives were integrated into the roadmap’s strategic planning phase.

This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of DOST-PCIEERD and its partners, including S**K, to create a future-ready, responsive, and strategic framework addressing toxic and hazardous waste challenges. The outcomes of this workshop will directly inform the next stages of the roadmap formulation and support the advancement of sustainable and innovative solutions in the sector.

S**K joins the DOST-PCIEERD THW R&D Roadmap Workshop, contributing industry insights to advance sustainable waste management solutions.

23/09/2026

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) invited S**K to participate in its Stakeholders’ Consultation on the DENR Optimization Plan, held virtually via Zoom on 18 August 2026.

The consultation opened with remarks from Atty. Jonas R. Leones, Undersecretary for Policy, Planning and International Affairs, who welcomed the participating stakeholders and emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement in the DENR’s organizational and operational initiatives.

The consultation provided stakeholders with an overview of the DENR’s proposed Optimization Plan pursuant to Republic Act No. 12231, or the Government Optimization Act. The law mandates departments and agencies of the Executive Branch to review their organizational mandates, structures, functions, and staffing, and to optimize their operations to ensure the delivery of effective, responsive, and efficient public services.
The presentation on the DENR Optimization Plan was delivered by Atty. Analiza Rebuelta-Teh, Undersecretary for Finance, Information Systems, and Climate Change, who discussed the proposed organizational and operational improvements of the Department in line with the requirements of the Government Optimization Act.

S**K’s participation in the consultation provided an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the DENR’s planned organizational and operational reforms and to contribute the perspective of the chemical industry as a stakeholder. The engagement also strengthens coordination between S**K and DENR on matters affecting the industry and promotes continued dialogue in support of effective environmental governance and efficient public service delivery.

The consultation concluded with closing remarks from USEC Ernesto D. Adobo, Jr., CESO I, Undersecretary for Legal, Administration, Human Resources and Legislative Affairs, who expressed appreciation to the participating stakeholders and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration and engagement in advancing the DENR’s mandate and organizational objectives.

S**K engages with DENR on its Optimization Plan, supporting stronger coordination and effective environmental governance.

30/08/2026

In advance of the critical global Responsible Care (RC) discussions scheduled for late 2026, the Japan Chemical Industry Association (JCIA), as Chair of the Asia-Pacific Responsible Care Organization (APRO), has taken a proactive role in organizing and leading a series of Roundtable Virtual Discussions. These coordinated sessions provide a platform to collect and harmonize diverse RC perspectives from APRO member associations ahead of the upcoming global Responsible Care Leadership Group (RCLG) meeting in October.

The virtual Roundtable discussions, held from August through early September 2026, are structured as preliminary one-on-one meetings between JCIA and each APRO member association. These sessions enable exchange of insights regarding Responsible Care efforts, priorities, and obstacles, while also pinpointing issues requiring attention in forthcoming global dialogues. JCIA’s leadership in orchestrating this process not only ensures thorough regional engagement but also effectively prepares associations for the APRO Regional Plenary Meeting scheduled for late September.

Chaired by JCIA’s Takeshi Asari, the virtual discussions have drawn meaningful participation from member associations, including S**K represented by Engr. Gretchen F. Enarle, Director of Environmental, Social and Governance. These deliberations reinforce APRO’s commitment to delivering unified, well-articulated regional input that will influence global Responsible Care strategies.

JCIA leads APRO discussions to strengthen regional coordination and shape global Responsible Care strategies in 2026.

28/08/2026

Preparations are in full swing for the International Coastal Cleanup set for September 12, 2026, as key stakeholders come together with a shared vision of a cleaner, healthier coastline. The Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (S**K) ESG Committee, under the guidance of Engr. Gretchen Fontejon Enarle, joined forces with PCAPI National led by Luzviminda Angeles, S**K member companies Philippine Prosperity Chemicals, Inc. and Coastal Bay Chemicals Inc. Recently, this group convened with representatives from Batagueno STAR Port Services, MENRO Bauan, the Coast Guard, and the LGU of San Miguel to map out a robust plan to make the cleanup initiative a success.

At the forefront of logistical coordination, Batagueṅo STAR Port Services has pledged essential support by providing the necessary equipment and manpower to facilitate efficient waste collection and transport. Their commitment goes beyond operations, emphasizing strict safety protocols to ensure a smooth, secure cleanup effort within the bustling port area.

Meanwhile, MENRO Bauan and Coast Guard take charge of environmental oversight, ready to monitor compliance and align cleanup activities with local environmental standards. Their role also includes conducting thorough post-cleanup assessments to gauge the positive impact on coastal health and local biodiversity, ensuring every effort contributes lasting benefits to the environment.

Community involvement is equally vital, and the LGU of San Miguel is spearheading efforts to engage residents through awareness campaigns and active participation drives. Their dedication doesn’t end with the cleanup day; they are committed to nurturing sustained environmental stewardship together with their partners, fostering a culture of conservation that will endure for years to come.

This united approach stands as a testament to S**K’s deep-rooted commitment to environmental responsibility. By collaborating across industries and sectors, they acknowledge that the chemical industry’s future is tightly interwoven with the health of our natural ecosystems. Through these collective actions, S**K and its partners reaffirm their pledge to protect and preserve coastal waters, ensuring a sustainable and thriving environment for generations to come.

S**K, coastal cleanup, International Coastal Cleanup 2026, environmental responsibility, coastal conservation