Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) · DAO 2026-29
Chemical Control Order (CCO) for Benzene
DENR Administrative Order No. 2026-29
Subject: Chemical Control Order (CCO) for Benzene
Signed: June 22, 2026; Published: The Manila Times, September 24, 2026; Acknowledged: ONAR, UP Law Center, September 24, 2026
Legal Basis
RA 6969, DAO 1992-29 (IRR of RA 6969), RA 8749 (Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999), and DAO 2005-05 on toxic chemical substances for the issuance of CCOs.
Objectives
Reduce exposure to benzene in industrial processes, raise awareness of its toxicity and safer alternatives, strengthen prevention-based programs, and guide identification of potential releases in industrial facilities.
Coverage and Exemptions
Covers importers, distributors, manufacturers, industrial users, and commercial users. Exempt: fuels, fuel additives, and petroleum products under the DOE Oil Industry Management Bureau; FDA-regulated products; fertilizers, pesticides, and agricultural chemicals under the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority; and benzene in articles or as naturally occurring substances as defined in EMB MC 2020-005.
Allowed Uses
- Manufacture or production of benzene
- Use for chemical synthesis
- Use in motor fuel
- Laboratory analytical or research work
- Other industrial and commercial use of mixtures containing 1% or less benzene by volume
Prohibited Uses
Unless no technically and economically feasible alternative is available, benzene and benzene-containing mixtures are prohibited in:
- 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 and Importation
Covered entities register through the CCO Registration (CCOR) module of the EMB Online Permitting and Monitoring System and importers secure a CCO Importation Clearance (CCOIC), with documentary requirements comparable to other CCOs (ECC, chemical management plan, emergency plan, safety data sheet, and related records).
Other Provisions
- EMB Regional Offices monitor compliance.
- Issuance of CCOR and CCOIC will be devolved to EMB Regional Offices three years after effectivity.
- Non-compliant chemicals may be impounded or confiscated; violations are subject to sanctions under RA 6969, DAO 1992-29, and DENR MC 2005-003.
Effectivity
Takes effect fifteen (15) days after publication and upon filing of three certified copies with ONAR, UP Law Center.
Signed by Secretary Atty. Juan Miguel Cuna. Source: official DENR issuance (DAO-2026-29).
Important Notice
EnviSynergy exercises due diligence in researching and summarizing this policy. This summary is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice or an official interpretation of the issuance. The policy may have been amended, superseded, or clarified after publication, and this summary may not capture every provision of the original text. For the complete, accurate, and most current version, users are advised to consult the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) or the relevant issuing agency directly before making any compliance or project decision.
Policy Details
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