On April 7, 2026, SPIK, in partnership with the Association of Petrochemical Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (APMP) and the Philippine Plastic Industry Association, Inc. (PPIA), met with the Bureau of Customs – Imports and Assessment Services (BOC-IAS) to discuss rising concerns over increased commodity valuations. The meeting was attended by BOC-IAS Director Eduardo Rey Joson, Valuation and Classification Chief Chisa-Hasiena Mamowalas, SPIK Vice President for External Affairs and concurrent National Issues on Trade and Industry Committee (NITIC) Chair Danrina Begonia, and representatives from APMP and PPIA.

During the dialogue, industry representatives raised challenges and expectations linked to the new valuation adjustments. In response, Director Joson proposed establishing a Technical Working Group to address these issues more effectively. He also requested that the industry prepare a detailed presentation of its key concerns and challenges for the subsequent meeting, to enable a comprehensive and informed response from the Bureau.

Chief Mamowalas expressed interest in gaining deeper insight into the industry’s importation processes, especially the timelines involved, to identify ways to prevent delays that could lead to costly demurrage fees.

This productive engagement created an important platform for dialogue, allowing the industry to voice its concerns directly to BOC-IAS and work collaboratively toward practical solutions that benefit both parties.