The Philippine National Police-Firearms and Explosives Office (PNP-FEO), through the Explosives Management Division (EMD), recently provided crucial updates on the Regulations and Control of Explosives, Explosive Ingredients (EEIs), Controlled Chemicals (CCs), and Firecrackers and Pyrotechnic Devices (FCPDs).
The EMD highlighted their Accomplishments for the CY 2023. Notably, there was a significant increase in the issuance of licenses and permits, totaling 5,924 and amounting to PHP 28,164,221.38. This represents a noteworthy surge compared to the fees collected in 2022, which amounted to PHP 25,798,680.88.
Furthermore, the EMD introduced advancements in the regulation and control of EEIs. They extended the validity of renewed licenses for manufacturers and dealers with a reputable standing to three years, thereby alleviating the burden of yearly renewal applications. Similarly, the regulation and control of CCs now provide licensed individuals or entities with an extended validity period of up to three years under Annex F of the IRR of RA No. 9516, contingent upon obtaining a Certificate of Good Standing with specific conditions. Related government regulatory or investment promotion agencies should endorse the certificate.
Looking ahead, the EMD outlined future initiatives for the industry. They assured stakeholders of ongoing efforts to streamline the processing of permits, particularly for the importation and transportation of EEIs and CCs. Additionally, the division is actively pursuing the digitalization of processing for the issuance of licenses and permits for EEIs, CCs, and FCPDs. While the operationalization of the Research and Development (R&D) team is under discussion, the budget for its implementation is pending clearance.
The stakeholders present at the meeting welcomed the newly appointed Chief of the PNP-FEO, PBGEN Lyndon A. Mencio, as of December 23, 2023. He thanked all the participants and assured them of the office’s commitment to continuous improvement and efficient service delivery. The PNP-FEO remains dedicated to upholding regulations and ensuring the safety and security of the public in handling explosives and related materials. AGPM