On March 14, 2025, a significant stride in government-industry collaboration took place at the Department of Health (DOH), as Atty. Vida Aquino, the Head Executive Assistant to Health Secretary Ted Herbosa, met with key figures from the Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (SPIK), the Philippine Paint and Coatings Association, Inc. (PPCAI), the Philippine Stationers Association, Inc. (PSAI), and the DTI-Board of Investments (DTI-BOI). This meeting, focused on the regulation of Household Urban Hazardous Substances (HUHS), highlighted the commitment of the DOH to work hand in hand with stakeholders to ensure policies remain both practical and in line with global standards.

Attendees from SPIK, PPCAI, and PSAI presented their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities inherent in the production and handling of HUHS. These industry leaders emphasized the importance of science-based regulations that consider the unique characteristics and realities of their respective sectors. They also shared best practices and innovations that could contribute to the continuous improvement of safety measures and environmental stewardship. The DTI-BOI, for its part, offered insights on how the investment climate could be affected by the proposed regulatory changes and the potential impact on the competitiveness of the Philippines in the global market. 

Atty. Aquino expressed her appreciation for the constructive engagement and assured the representatives that their inputs would be carefully considered in the ongoing review and refinement of the HUHS policies. This collaborative effort signifies the government’s recognition of the industry’s vital role in shaping policies that affect their operations. 

By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the DOH is fostering a culture of shared responsibility and inclusive decision-making. The meeting concluded with a positive note, as all parties acknowledged the importance of maintaining an open and transparent dialogue to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.