The Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (SPIK), a prominent chemical industry association, successfully held its 176th General Membership Meeting and Induction of New Officers and Board of Directors on February 18, 2025 in Paranaque City. The meeting’s central theme focused on the pivotal role of Triple Helix Synergy, which encapsulates the collaborative efforts between government, industry, and academia to bolster business practices, national security, and sustainability within the chemical sector.

Atty. Bernadette Cornel, Chief of the Investigation and Compliance Division at the Department of Trade and Industry – Strategic Trade Management Office (DTI-STMO), graced the event as the keynote speaker and inducting officer. In her address, she underscored the critical nature of collective action to safeguard the country’s security without compromising the robust development of the chemical industry. Atty. Cornel’s speech set the tone for a gathering that aimed to strengthen the bonds between regulators, businesses, and educational institutions.

Further elaborating on the significance of regulatory compliance, Engr. Jeric Ancheta from the same office presented a comprehensive overview of the goods registration and authorization process under the purview of Republic Act 10697. This legislation is essential for the secure and responsible management of strategic trade, ensuring that the chemical industry operates within the framework of international standards and security protocols.

The highlight of the meeting saw the formal induction of SPIK’s newest officers and board members, with Engr. Gretchen F. Enarle assuming the presidency. In her acceptance speech, Engr. Enarle underscored the association’s visionary stance and its commitment to strengthening ties between government, academia, and industry stakeholders.

The event also highlighted the induction of new officers into the Responsible Care Council, which signifies SPIK’s commitment to advancing the principles of Responsible Care within the industry. Engr. Enarle, the newly inducted SPIK President, presided over the ceremony, reaffirming the organization’s mission to promote environmental stewardship, safety, and community outreach among its constituents.

Mr. Romeo Dela Cruz, the Chair of the Membership Committee, together with Mr. Joel Malaluan, played a key role in the induction of new members into the SPIK fold. The latest addition to their corporate membership list was Nippon Paint Coatings Philippines, which was warmly welcomed and recognized for its contributions to the sector.

The meeting concluded with a stirring closing message from Engr. Aldrich Bentilanon, SPIK’s Corporate Secretary. His words underscored the importance of unity and shared knowledge in addressing the challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities that lie ahead for the chemical industry.

The event served as a testament to SPIK’s dedication to fostering an environment of collaboration, innovation, and growth that benefits not only its members but the nation as a whole. Through the Triple Helix Synergy approach, the association continues to pave the way for a more secure and sustainable future for the chemical industry in the Philippines.