17 Oct SPIK’s Chemical Industry Night 2024: Celebrating Sustainability and Partnerships

The Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (SPIK) recently hosted its 3rd Chemical Industry Night at the Citadines Bay City in Manila. The event, themed “Driving Sustainability and Partnerships Toward Progress,” brought together business leaders, chemical industry associations, academe, professional organizations, and government partners to celebrate and bolster the sector’s commitment to responsible and sustainable practices.

Engr. Gretchen F. Enarle, SPIK President, warmly welcomed the attendees and emphasized the pivotal role of the chemical industry in shaping the nation’s future and emphasizing the need for collective innovation and responsibility.

The evening’s highlight was the signing of the Declaration to the Responsible Care Global Charter by thirty SPIK member companies, signifying their dedication to the highest safety, health, and environmental standards. This collective pledge underscores the industry’s commitment to the responsible management of chemicals and their contributions to sustainable development.

Ms. Doris P. Torres of Stamm International, Inc., and Mr. Romeo Dela Cruz of Mabuhay Vinyl Corporation delivered the Pledge of Commitment on behalf of the signatories, reaffirming their intent to integrate Responsible Care principles into their business strategies and daily operations.

The event also saw the launch of SPIK’s unique and enhanced Responsible Care logo, designed by 18-year-old senior high school student Anna Mikaela Benitez. The new logo reflects the association’s renewed focus on global Responsible Care initiative and in driving safety and sustainability, in line with the International Council of Chemical Associations’ (ICCA) updated guidelines.

Undersecretary and Executive Director of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center, Ma. Cynthia C. Hernandez, delivered an enlightening keynote address, discussing the PPP Center’s role and its efforts in advocating for policy reforms to bolster the chemical industry’s contributions to the country’s GDP.

Meanwhile, Mr. Ronaldo DC Buluran, Director of the Board of Investments’ Manufacturing Industries, recognized the chemical manufacturing sector’s substantial contribution to the country’s GDP and applauded SPIK’s efforts in the implementation of the Philippine Chemical Industry Roadmap.

Awards were given to member companies who have exemplified their dedication to the Responsible Care initiative through the submission of Self-Assessment Reports and Key Performance Indicators. Twenty-seven corporations received certificates for their one-time, two-time, or three-time submissions over three years.

Notably, Atlantic Coatings, Inc., JG Summit Olefins Corporation, Mabuhay Vinyl Corporation, and Pacific Paint (Boysen) Philippines, Inc., were honored with commemorative plaques for their consistent annual submissions over a five-year period.

Following the awarding ceremony, Engr. Albert A. Samuela, the Vice President for External Affairs, presented a comprehensive update titled “Philippine Chemical Industry Roadmap: Strategic Updates and Growth Imperatives for a Thriving Future.” Throughout his presentation, Engr. Samuela highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Small Working Groups, which are  working towards the realization of the PCIR’s seven key strategies.

SPIK also launched the Human Reliability Program (HRP) Manual, a project funded by the Health Security Partners (HSP) in 2023. This manual is a significant tool for advancing chemical security within the industry. Engr. Ma. Arlene V. Ramirez of Dow Chemical Philippines Inc., Mr. Pio Ramirez, and Engr. Gretchen F. Enarle of Atlantic Coatings, Inc., were recognized as key contributors to the HRP Manual. Their work is vital in ensuring the industry’s continuous improvement in safety and security standards.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Engr. Dennis G. Tirthdas, Director and SPIK Ways and Means Committee Chairman. Following the successful night, the SPIK Golf Tournament took place at the Manila Golf and Country Club, serving as an excellent networking opportunity for the chemical industry’s key stakeholders.

The Chemical Industry Night 2024 was a resounding success, serving as a powerful platform and showcasing the collective efforts of SPIK members and their commitment to fostering sustainable growth and enhancing the lives of all stakeholders. Through initiatives like the Responsible Care Global Charter and the Human Reliability Program, the chemical industry in the Philippines continues to lead the way in responsible chemical management and innovation.