Question & AnswerQ&A (PEZA MEMORANDUM ORDER NO. 2009-006)
The primary policy of the State is to protect and promote the right to health of the people, the welfare of the workers, and instill health consciousness among them.
PEZA conducts periodic inspections under Part IV, Rule VII, Section 7 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 7916, in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
All industrial and food service establishments within public economic zones are required to secure sanitary permits from PEZA.
The Fire and Industrial Safety Division (FISD) of the ecozone where the establishment is located is responsible for the issuance of sanitary permits.
Key requirements include designating a safety officer trained under DOLE standards, organizing a health and safety committee, maintaining sanitary facilities, keeping workplaces clean, controlling hazards, having appropriate occupational health programs, submitting mandated safety reports, and ensuring any onsite canteen has a sanitary permit.
Food service establishments must comply with safety and structural standards for their premises, ensure proper washing and storage of utensils, properly dispose of waste, have food handlers with valid health certificates, and meet other sanitation conditions under Chapter III of the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines.
Sanitary permits must be secured annually and are valid until December 31 of each year. Renewal applications must be filed within 30 days before expiration.
The ecozone locator must notify PEZA of any such changes that may require the issuance of a new sanitary permit.
Violations are subject to penalties imposed by PEZA according to prevailing laws, rules, and regulations on sanitation and occupational safety and health.
The guidelines take effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation and remain in force unless repealed by PEZA.