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In June 2025, the Philippines published an updated draft of the Chemical Control Order (CCO) for Benzene, inviting public comments. This draft CCO pertains to benzene and benzene-containing mixtures (with a benzene content exceeding 1%) and applies to a wide range of businesses, including importers, distributors, manufacturers, industrial users, and commercial users.
The Order prohibits the importation, manufacture, or use of benzene and benzene-containing mixtures in the following applications unless no technically and economically feasible alternatives are available:
Paints, varnishes, coatings, solvents, and thinners
Glues, contact cement, and rubber goods
Solutions for textiles, fabrics, and leathers
Inks and dyes
Cleaning and degreasing agents
Toys and other children’s products
Registration is mandatory for all regulated businesses, and importers must obtain an import clearance valid for six months. Applicants are required to submit management plans detailing how they will eliminate or minimize the risks associated with benzene and benzene-containing mixtures to human health and the environment, along with contingency and emergency plans. The CCO also outlines requirements for handling, storage, labeling, and manufacturing.
Existing CCOs
The Chemical Control Order (CCO) in the Philippines regulates the use, manufacture, import, export, transportation, processing, storage, possession, and wholesaling of priority chemicals deemed restricted, phased out, or banned due to their serious risks to public health and the environment. It is the most stringent chemical management system in the Philippines, currently covering 10 chemical groups. For details on CCOs, please visit the official website.
