On June 4, officers from the Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (SPIK), led by President Aldrich Bentilanon, convened with key officials from the Bureau of Customs Enforcement Group – Enforcement and Security Services (EG-ESS) to discuss strategies aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of the country’s chemical industry.

The SPIK delegation included Vice Presidents Danrina Begonia (External Affairs) and Jahzon Lih (Internal Affairs), Directors Gretchen Enarle, Romeo Dela Cruz, Reinier Jay Bagabay, representatives from Mr. Adrian Evangelista of Henkel Philippines and Ms. Suzette Silva of STAMM International, and Executive Officer Tonette Fallarme.

The Bureau of Customs team was led by Deputy Commissioner PBGen Nolasco K. Bathan (Ret.), accompanied by Director Noel Estanislao, SP/Lieutenants Allan Escueta and Jonathan Belmonte, SP/Captain Fred Andrew Agpaoa, Ms. Divina Lagodgod and Atty. Judy Lopez, Chief of Staff of EG.

Key topics of discussion included implementing capacity-building initiatives to elevate expertise in chemical trade compliance, Responsible Care, and establishing a dedicated working group to address industry-specific challenges effectively. Furthermore, Deputy Commissioner Bathan underscored the importance of transparency and collaboration, encouraging open, continuous dialogue to align SPIK’s efforts with the Bureau of Customs’ broader goals.

This partnership marks a significant step forward in fostering a cooperative environment between industry stakeholders and regulatory authorities. SPIK and the Bureau of Customs Enforcement Group are committed to paving the way for a safer, more compliant, and efficient chemical industry in the Philippines.