Question & AnswerQ&A (DENR ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 2000-18)
The policy of the State is to regulate, restrict or prohibit the import, export, use, manufacture, transport, processing, storage, possession or sale of ozone-depleting substances to minimize risks and hazards to the ozone layer, public health, and the environment.
The CCO covers substances listed in Groups I and II of Annex A, and Groups I, II, and III of Annex B of the Montreal Protocol, including specific CFCs, Halons, carbon tetrachloride, and 1,1,1-trichloroethane among others as detailed in the order.
Substances listed in Annex C and Annex E of the Montreal Protocol are not covered by Section 3 of the CCO until the Philippine Senate ratifies the amendments starting from the Fourth Meeting of the Parties onwards, except for methyl bromide regulated by the Department of Agriculture.
Starting January 1, 2000, no person can manufacture the substances listed under Section 2.1 either alone or in mixtures, and their use in product manufacture is prohibited unless certified as essential by DENR-EMB until December 31, 2010.
Importation of banned substances is prohibited except for essential uses like medical applications and servicing existing equipment. Annual import quotas based on 1996 consumption are strictly enforced with a phase-out schedule from 1999 to 2010, after which importation is absolutely prohibited.
Importers must be registered with the DENR-EMB and provide proof of understanding ozone depletion, capability to handle substances safely and phase out use, absence of violations of environmental laws, and submit specific documents including SEC registration and Environmental Compliance Certificate if warranted.
The DENR-EMB grants accreditation upon proof of understanding ozone depletion effects, capacity to handle the substances safely and phase out their use, and submission of required documents including an Environmental Compliance Certificate and company registration documents.
Any registered importer must secure importation clearance from DENR-EMB before bringing ozone-depleting substances into the Philippines; shipments without clearance are illegal and confiscable. Applications require detailed information and supporting documents as prescribed.
Violators are subject to administrative and criminal liabilities under DAO 92-29 and Republic Act No. 6969, including fines, cancellation of certificates, and possible confiscation of illegal substances.
The CCO takes effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two newspapers of general circulation.