Philippines Releases Second Draft of Chemical Control Order for Benzene

On June 5, 2025, the Philippines released the second draft of the Chemical Control Order (CCO) for Benzene and opened a public consultation period. This draft proposes the inclusion of benzene (C₆H₆, CAS RN 71-43-2) as a regulated substance under the CCO. A broad range of entities including importers, distributors, manufacturers, industrial users, and commercial users will be subject to the regulation. Covered entities must register with the competent authority, and importers will be additionally required to obtain import permits.