Chemical Safety and Security is the primary activity related to the implementation of Article XI of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Through the industry –outreach activities, the International Cooperation Branch seeks to meet the needs of the OPCW Member States in the field of Chemical Safety and Security Management – an emerging and vital area in the peaceful use of chemicals and sustainable industrial development.

The Doha Regional Centre for CBRN Training and the Technical Secretariat of the National Committee for the Prohibition of Weapons (NCPW) in collaboration with the OPCW holds a Seminar on “Chemical Weapons Convention” and “Chemical Safety and Security Management” for the member states of the OPCW in the Asia Region. This was a 3-day seminar in Doha, Qatar. The participating countries were the following: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Fiji, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolian, Myanmar, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, SriLanka, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vietnam and Yemen. There are three representatives from Philippines. There were two representatives from SPIK namely Cynthia Reyes from InChem and Joy Manzo-Pena from Dow Chemical and one from government – Geri-Geronimo Sanchez from DENR.

The seminar intends to provide a platform for States Parties in the Asia Region to discuss specific safety and security management issues related to chemical processes, waste management, occupational health and safety and others that have direct bearing on effective implementation of CWC. It contributes to strengthen international cooperation through the exchange and sharing of experiences on the practical implementation of safety management programs.

The program facilitates opportunities for state parties to discuss specific issues relevant to their country and to address Chemical Safety and Security concerns in the region. This also includes informative presentations from internationally recognized experts in their respective fields. Our very own, Mr. Geri-Geronimo Sanez from Department of Environment and Natural Resources gave an overview on Chemical Management.

The seminar ultimately enables national capacity building through awareness raising among its Member States through emphasizing the importance and significance of creating safety culture. And it emphasizes the value of training and exchange of scientific knowledge among member states to promote sharing of best practices in chemical safety and security in the region.