DENR Adds 59 Chemicals

DENR Proposes 59 New Chemicals for 2025 PICCS Supplement

The Philippines’ Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), has released the Draft Administrative Order DAO-PICCS-2025 proposing the inclusion of 59 new chemical substances in the Philippine Inventory of Chemicals and Chemical Substances (PICCS) for 2025. The announcement was issued on 14 October 2025.

All proposed substances have completed the mandatory Pre-Manufacture and Pre-Importation Notification (PMPIN) process and have submitted a Notice of Commencement (NOC)—a key requirement under the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Waste Control Act (RA 6969), its Implementing Rules (DAO 1992-29), and Section 5 of DAO 2025-09.

PICCS: Core of Chemical Management in the Philippines

Established under RA 6969, PICCS serves as the official compilation of chemicals legally manufactured, processed, or imported in the Philippines. Initially published in 1995, the list distinguishes existing chemicals (listed) from new chemicals (unlisted). New chemicals must undergo PMPIN prior to legal introduction into the market.

PICCS updates are issued regularly. Supplements for 2022, 2023, 2024, and now 2025 continue to expand the inventory, with official publication of the 2024 and 2025 versions expected in 2026.

Understanding Eligibility for PICCS Listing

Only substances that pass PMPIN evaluation and submit NOC qualify for listing. PMPIN requires comprehensive data on toxicity, environmental impact, and chemical safety to ensure responsible market entry.

Exemptions

Some substances may legally enter the Philippines without immediate PICCS listing through:

• Small Quantity Importation (SQI) – for low-volume imports (e.g., under 1 ton/year) • Polymer Exemption – for polymers meeting specific safety and structural rules

Such substances remain unlisted unless exemption thresholds are exceeded and PMPIN is completed.

Compliance Guidance for Companies

Businesses handling chemicals in the Philippines should take the following steps:

The 2025 PICCS draft supplement demonstrates the Philippines’ ongoing commitment to strengthening chemical safety oversight. Companies must proactively review their chemical inventories and ensure that all substances comply with PMPIN, NOC, or exemption requirements. Maintaining compliance supports legal trade, environmental protection, and public health.

Reference: Philipines Release