EMB Annual Narrative Report 2021
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Transcript of EMB Annual Narrative Report 2021
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Message of the Head of Agency
As the pandemic continues to spread challenges in the country and all over the world, 2021 has proven to be a year of innovation and exhibition for EMB as it highlights all its physical and financial accomplishments made possible by the commitment and expertise of its workforce nationwide.
This accomplishment report underscores the results of all the enhancements and streamlined processes that we have implemented this year to serve the public better.
As we look back and learn from the lessons of this year, let us be inspired and be
further motivated to work together and hurdle once more the challenges of this pandemic, and to show our commitment to protect the environment with integrity, transparency and accountability.
ENGR. WILLIAM P. CUÑADO Director
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II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) is a line bureau of the DENR mandated to implement and enforce six (6) major environmental laws:
1. PD 1586 (Environmental Impact Statement System of 1978)
2. RA 6969 (Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act of 1990)
3. RA 8749 (Clean Air Act of 1999)
4. RA 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000)
5. RA 9275 (Clean Water Act of 2004)
6. RA 9512 (National Environmental Awareness and Education Act of 2008).
Pursuant to Executive Order No. 192, EMB is also mandated to provide research and
laboratory services, and secretariat services to the Pollution Adjudication Board and the National Solid Waste Management Commission.
Out of the ten (10) priority programs under the management of Secretary Roy A. Cimatu,
three (3) programs are being implemented by the Bureau and these are the Clean Air
Program, Clean Water Program and Solid Waste Management Program.
The year 2021 is another challenging year as work processes using online platform is
more efficient than the traditional or manual submissions hence build up of processing of
applications were inevitable. Moreover, meetings were easier to organize with the “new normal”
mode being resorted due to travel and other restrictions. Almost two (2) years since the onset of
pandemic, and with the implementation of community quarantine, services offered by the
Bureau were constrained in compliance with the guidelines implemented by the Inter-Agency
Task Force (IATF). These include travel restrictions, limited face-to-face meetings, and
alternative workforce arrangements, among others. Nevertheless, despite the pandemic, the
Bureau still endeavored to provide a more efficient service to the public.
One of the highlights of the Bureau’s accomplishment this CY 2021 is the closure of all
illegal dumpsites in the country. Through the initiative and political will of the DENR
Secretary, the DENR through the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) successfully
closed all remaining illegal dumpsites in the country since the passing of the law in 2000.
In terms of policy development, the Bureau continued to formulate, amend and update
existing DENR Administrative Orders (DAOs), DENR Memorandum Circulars (DMCs), and
EMB Memorandum Circulars to address the current situation of the country’s environment.
One of the milestones of the Bureau in terms of Chemical Management is the recognition of
one of its policies by the World Future Council. The Chemical Control Order for Lead and
Lead Compounds was recognized and given a special award for the Future Policy Award.
Out of the fifty-five (55) policies from thirty-six (36) countries that were nominated, the
DENR's Administrative Order (DAO) 2013-24, or the Chemical Control Order for Lead and
Lead Compounds, was chosen as one of the 12 policies from five (5) continents that was
recognized with one of the special awards. This only shows the strong commitment of the
Bureau in protecting and preserving our environment. To efficiently and effectively manage the generation, treatment, storage and disposal of
hazardous wastes brought about by COVID-19 pandemic, particularly non-pathological infectious waste as provided in the Republic Act No. 6969, the Bureau amended DAO 2010-06 or the “Guidelines on the Use of Alternative Fuels and Raw Materials in Cement Kilns” which allows the co-processing of 1) non-pathological infectious healthcare wastes (used personal protective equipment (PPEs) such as protective clothing (coveralls), face masks and respirators, face shields, surgical gloves, etc. that are made of materials i.e. polyethylene, polypropylene, neoprene, butyl rubber, and nitrile); 2) treated non-pathological infectious healthcare wastes (non-pathological infectious healthcare wastes that have been certified as
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treated by an EMB-registered TSD facility); 3) Flame Retardant Combustible Plastics such as Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) and others-containing plastic wastes (dismantled and segregated plastics from Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) or e-wastes such as televisions, computers, laptops, etc.); and 4) municipal solid wastes which are segregated at source and/or at any intermediate collection, consolidation and/or sorting station to be alternative fuels in the cement processing.
Pursuant to Section 19f of Republic Act 9275, which states the Department shall review
and set effluent standards every five (5) years or as the need arises, the Department through the EMB formulated and approved the “Updated Water Quality Guidelines (WQG) and General Effluent Standards (GES) for Selected Parameters” under DAO 2021-19 dated 30 June 2021. This DAO aims to update the water quality guidelines for selected parameters based on the current classification of waterbodies and its beneficial use.
The status of air quality in the country are still within the air quality guideline value of 60
µg/Ncm for Particulate Matter 10 (PM10) and 25 µg/Ncm for Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5). However, a slight increase in concentration was observed due to gradual ease of restrictions as the country slowly opened its economy. An increase in the number of vehicles plying along major thoroughfares was reported by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) as they decided to bring back the number coding scheme within Metro Manila from 5:00PM to 8:00PM every weekdays.
Improvement and innovation were undertaken in the environmental statistics data of the
Bureau. Environmental Statistics Dashboard are now viewed and displayed at the Environmental Monitoring and Data Center and accessed by the public through EMB website. A management tool was also developed using Power Bi to visually track, analyze and display all the Online Permitting and Monitoring Systems (OPMS) of the Bureau. On the development of the DENR Control Map, assistance has been provided by the Bureau to standardize and integrate spatial data for policy development, planning and decision making.
Due to the heightened threat of COVID-19, the Bureau mainstreamed its information dissemination, environmental activities, and celebration using EMB website and social media platforms, specifically EMB Central Office’s Official Facebook Page. There has been a significant increase of 81% in the EMB’s Facebook Page followers/audience from 32,600 last 2020 to 57, 870 in December 2021.
During this time in which work from home is largely being implemented by both
government and industry, all permitting transactions of the EMB can be accessed online.
Evaluation and processing of permits can be done from practically anywhere with internet
connection. In CY 2021, the Bureau continuously improved and upgraded its OPMS to
strengthen the delivery of its services to the public.
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III. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS
A. OFFICE PERFORMANCE 1. GENERAL ADMINISTRATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES (GASS)
a. Human Resources Management
The EMB through the Human Resource and Management Section reviewed the
deliberation process of appointments of EMB Regional Offices and endorsed to the Appointing Authority.
A total of 131 appointments were issued in CY 2021. 120 appointments with Salary
Grade 23 and below were issued by EMB Director and 11 appointments are from DENR Secretary (SG 24) (See Table 1).
Table 1. Breakdown of Appointment Issued in CY 2021
Out of 1,583 approved plantilla positions, 1,407 (89%) have been filled-up while
176 (11%) are still vacant/unfilled positions as of December 2021 (See Table 2).
Table 2. Breakdown of Filled and Unfilled Positions of the EMB
OFFICE Newly Hired Promoted
Central Office 5 11
National Capital Region 4 5
Cordillera Administrative Region 2 8
Region I 6 7
Region II - 2
Region III 8 5
Region IV-A - 2
Region IV-MIMAROPA 1 -
Region V 2 2
Region VI 7 11
Region VII 1 5
Region VIII - 2
Region IX 8 6
Region X - 1
Region XI - 2
Region XII 2 4
Region XIII 5 7
GRAND TOTAL 51 80
OFFICE Filled Unfilled
Central Office 138 18
National Capital Region 93 9
Cordillera Administrative Region 74 9
Region I 84 11
Region II 75 6
Region III 102 8
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b. Records Management
The EMB continuously improves its records management using Quick Response (QR) code in the filing system. Using this QR Code enables the Bureau to easily track, index and store documents and information in a short span of time. It also helps the users determine the status of documents routed in the filing system.
For CY 2021, the EMB was able to process 64,310 documents (Received-19,784,
Released-42,106 Certified-2,420). These documents were processed through the EMB
Integrated Information System (IIS).
2. SUPPORT TO OPERATIONS (STO)
a. Policy Review and Analysis
The Policy, Planning and Program Development Division (PPPDD) serves as a Secretariat to the EMB Policy Technical Working Group (EPTWG) was able to conduct seventeen (17) EPTWG online Meetings (through Microsoft Teams) to review and evaluate new and existing policies. In CY 2021, there were twenty-three (23) approved policies and eight (8) of which was approved by DENR Secretary. Based on the data provided by the DENR Policy Studies Division, the Bureau has the greatest number of approved policies for CY 2021.
Figure 1 shows the number of approved policies in CY 2021. Out of twenty-four (24) approved policies, five (6) policies are from Chemicals Management Section (CMS), five (5) policies from Air Quality Management Section and Water Quality Management Section (WQMS), Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Division (EIAMD), Hazardous Waste Management Section (HWMS), and Legal Division and one (1) policy from Solid Waste Management Division (SWMD) and Administrative and Finance Management Division (AFMD) respectively.
OFFICE Filled Unfilled
Region IV-A 87 21
Region IV-MIMAROPA 67 12
Region V 78 1
Region VI 89 4
Region VII 75 18
Region VIII 71 10
Region IX 68 9
Region X 83 12
Region XI 82 11
Region XII 67 10
Region XIII 74 7
GRAND TOTAL 1407 176
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Figure 1. Number of Approved Policies per Division/ Section
The Bureau religiously attends and participates in the DENR Policy Technical
Working Group (DENR-PTWG) meetings to discuss new and amended policies (DAO, DMC, DMO, etc.). A total of sixteen (16) DENR-PTWG meetings have been attended and participated in CY 2021. As to the DENR-wide total number of approved policies, the Bureau has the greatest number of approved policies among DENR Bureaus with 8 (See Figure 2).
Figure 2. Number of Approved Policies per Bureau
b. Planning, Programming and Evaluation
In compliance with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP), the Bureau
finalized and submitted its inputs/comments to the Results Matrix and Socio-
Economic Report for CY 2021.
For the preparation of Work and Financial Plan (WFP), sixteen (16) WFPs from
central office and sixteen (16) WFPs from regional offices were prepared and
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
ADMIN
SWMD
LEGAL
HAZWASTE
EIAMD
WQMS
AQMS
CHEMICALS
Number
Div
isio
n/S
ecti
on
Number of Approved Policies per Division/Section
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reviewed during the conduct of Central Pre-Reprogramming Workshop on 28 – 30
September 2021 and National Pre-Reprogramming Workshop on 05 - 08 October
2021 respectively.
Performance Review and Audit
The Bureau carried out evaluation of the Central and Regional Offices’ performance through the Performance-Based Bonus (PBB), Office Performance Commitment and Review (OPCR), and the DENR-Environmental Awards for Governance and Leadership Excellence (EAGLE) with the support from divisions and sections of EMB-CO.
Physical accomplishment reports such as quarterly (4 reports), semi-annual (2
reports) and annual report (1 report) were prepared, consolidated, and evaluated
as well as accomplishment reports for the PBB, EAGLE, OPCR (1st semester) and
Means of Verifications (MOVs).
For the evaluation of PBB and EAGLE, the Bureau formulated the method and performance indicators based on the PBB eligibility criteria for the rating and ranking of 16 regional offices. Representatives from different divisions and sections of the EMB Central Office were invited to participate in the conduct of table validation which was held on 21-23 April 2021. The Bureau successfully prepared and submitted to the DENR-EAGLE Technical Working Group the evaluation report with recommendation of the Top 5 Regional Directors. The top 5 candidates were subjected to the Phase 2 evaluation of the program.
With regard to the OPCR, the Bureau in coordination with the DENR (Program Monitoring and Evaluation Division and Personnel Division), conducted a re-orientation workshop to the EMB Central and Regional Offices on 29-30 June 2021. One of the objectives of the activity is to enhance the understanding of the participants in the preparation of their respective OPCR, Division Performance Commitment and Review and Individual Performance Commitment and Review (proper formulation of performance indicators, identification of successful indicators (Quantity, Efficiency, and Timeliness), and assigning of appropriate points based on the approved DENR Strategic Performance Management System).
Further, the OPCR of the Bureau, both CY 2021 commitment and 1st semester,
were prepared and submitted to the DENR in accordance with the scheduled submission, and which was subsequently approved and signed by the DENR Undersecretary and Secretary. The overall rating of the Bureau for the first semester is 4.613 with equivalent adjectival rating of Very Satisfactory.
Budget Proposal Preparation
The Bureau prepared all budget-related documents (budget kit) and actively
attended the series of congress and senate budget hearings. The budget kit
contained power point presentation, accomplishment report, financial report,
justifications, and data (facts and figures), among others. Issues and concerns of
lawmakers were taken and coordinated with the concerned Central and Regional
Offices for the preparation of the response or additional information to clarify said
matters. Submission of the said additional information was done and sent through
proper channels. The additional information also formed part of the Budget Kit.
A consultation workshop for the preparation of the Forward Estimates for FY
2023-2025 was conducted on December 01 - 03, 2020. The said workshop gave
way to the presentation of the 3-year forward estimates of each office and
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discussion on the required supporting documents to ensure the completeness of
documentary requirements of the proposals for Tier 1 (regular program and
activities) and Tier 2 (new program and activities), including priority activities in
the Public Investment Program (PIP) and the Three-Year Rolling Infrastructure
Program (TRIP) FYs 2023-2025 which have been submitted to the PIPOL System
of National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
c. Project Management and International Affairs
The Bureau continuously monitored and facilitated the submission of quarterly progress reports to DENR-FASPS the following projects:
1. Implementation of PCB Management Programs for Electric Cooperatives
and Safe E-Wastes Management
2. Institutional Strengthening Project (ISP) Phase XII
3. Project on the Demonstration of Best Available Techniques (BATs) and
Best Environmental Practice (BEPs) in Open Burning Activities in
Response to the Stockholm Convention on POPs
4. The Technical Cooperation Project (TCP) for Capacity Development on
Improving Solid Waste Management through Advanced/Innovative
Technologies in the Republic of the Philippines 5. Global Partnership for Improving the Food Cold Chain in the Philippines Monitoring project implementation was done by facilitating the submission of
accomplishment report of the Project Management Offices concerned and through participation in the project activities such as meetings and workshops. Among the activities participated in were the following:
• Virtual Meetings for the JAIF-assisted Environmentally-Sound
Management of Mercury Project Meeting held on 21 and 25 January 2021
via Zoom
• Kick-Off Meeting for the JAIF Project entitled “Development of Capacity for
the Substitution and the Environmentally Sound Management (ESM) of
Mercury-Containing Medical Measuring Devices” which was held on 07
April 2021 via Zoom
• 3rd Sub-Group Meeting for Project Output 2 (Enhancement of Target
LGU’s Capacity Planning, Evaluation, Formulation and Supervision of
Waste-to-Energy Project) of the Technical Cooperation Project (TCP) for
Capacity Development on Improving Solid Waste Management through
Advanced/Innovative Technologies in the Republic of the Philippines,
which was held on 25 May 2021 via MS Teams
• 4th Inter-Agency Technical Working Group (ITWG) Meeting for DENR-
JICA TCP on WTE which was held on 08 August 2021 via MS Teams
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The Bureau facilitated the
endorsement of the four (4) Philippine nominated cities by the DENR to the 5th ASEAN Environmentally Sustainable Cities (ESC) Awards and 4th Certificate of Recognition 2021. Of these cities, two (2) were awarded by the ASEAN, namely: Marikina City for the ASEAN ESC Award and Parañaque City for the Certificate of Recognition. A news article was prepared on the awarding of 5th ASEAN Environmentally Sustainable Cities (ESC) Awards and 4th Certificate of Recognition 2021 which was held in virtually and in-person at Jakarta, Indonesia on October 21, 2021.
The Bureau also participated in the following preparatory meetings for the
proposed and pipeline projects as well as with the international donor partners:
• Meeting with USAID re: Clean Cities Blue Ocean Meeting with USAID re:
Clean Cities Blue Ocean held on 08 January 2021 via Zoom
• Preparatory Meeting and Briefing for the Upcoming Online Implementation
Survey (OIS) for the Project Proposal, “Enhancing Marine Litter
Management in the Philippines” (EMLM) held on 10 February 2021 and 03
March 2021 via Zoom and Google Meet, respectively
• Online Implementation Survey Kick-Off Meeting held on 05 March 2021 via
MS Teams
• Online Implementation Survey (OIS) Wrap-up Meeting for the Project
Proposal "Enhancing Marine Litter Management in the Philippines"(EMLM)
held on 24 March 2021 via Zoom
• Workplan of Rethinking Plastic Project Meeting held on 12 April 2021
• Meeting Re: Construction of Waste-to-Energy Facilities in Davao City
Project held on 26 May 2021 via MS Teams
• EMLM Project Design Matrix (PDM) Meeting held on 07 July 2021
• Meeting re: Rethinking Plastics, 3RProMar, and other Marine Litter updates
held on 15 July 2021 via MS Teams
• Project Proposal for a Roadmap on Circular Economy in the Philippines
held on 16 July 2021 via Google Meet
• Meeting on the Implementation Arrangements for the Project Proposal,
"Enhancement of Marine Litter Management in Manila Bay" (EMLM) held
on 07 September 2021 via Zoom
• ADB-DENR Consultation Meeting on Marine Plastic Pollution
Implementation held on 20 October 2021 via Zoom
Figure 3. News release posted in the
EMB website on October 28, 2021
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Moreover, meetings and workshops were attended and participated in relation to Multilateral Environmental Agreements and other International Commitments/Affairs:
• UN Environment Assembly
• ASEAN Working Group on Environmentally Sustainable Cities (AWGESC)
• Minamata Convention
• APEC Oceans and Fisheries Working Group (OFWG)
• Coordinating Body on the Seas of East Asia (COBSEA)
• Acid Deposition Monitoring Network in East Asia (EANET)
Being the DENR Focal Office on Marine Litter Management, the Bureau organized series of meetings for the development of the National Plan of Action (NPOA) on Marine Litter until its official launch on 26 November 2021 in Tacloban City.
d. Statistics
For the up-to-date information regarding the environmental data of the Bureau,
the Statistical and Geospatial Group (SGMG) established an auto-update of information from the databases to interface with the EMB Statistics Corner. Additional dashboard was created for all applicants to determine the status of their application (See Figure 4).
Figure 4. Dashboard of Online Application Status
One of the initiatives undertaken by the Bureau is to come up with a
management tool that visually tracks, analyze and displays all the Online Permitting Systems of the Bureau. Statistics Dashboard was also created as part of the module under the Integrated Information System (IIS) where all permits and clearances issued by the bureau were displayed and monitored (See Figure 5). This module tracks the status of every application. How many permits/ clearances assigned for every case handler, the average processing days, and the number of permits/ clearances issued within the prescribed timeframe were all determined at a glance (See Figure 6).
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Figure 5. Statistics Dashboard under Integrated Information System (IIS)
Figure 6. Clearance and Permitting Dashboard
The Bureau also integrated the maps of Environmentally Critical Projects
(ECPs) with Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) in the dashboard for ease of locating the projects and included other relevant information therein (See Figure 7). This will be enhanced to include all projects/ industries that are covered by environmental laws.
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Figure 7. Environmentally Critical Projects (ECP) Dashboard
Another activity is the support and participation of the Bureau in the DENR
Control Map which aims to standardize and integrate spatial data produced and maintained by the DENR, its bureaus, attached agencies and field offices for policy development, planning and decision-making. This will lead to holistic picture and comprehensive management plan of the environment and natural resources to improve the operation and implementation of DENR plans and programs (See Figure 8.1 and 8.2).
Figure 8.1. DENR Control Map
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Figure 8.2. DENR Control Map
e. Information Systems and Management
Online Systems
The Bureau developed and operationalized improved version of permitting and
clearance systems to further strengthen the delivery of services.
1. Provided round-robin for screening, auto-forwarding, and approval for Online Permitting and Monitoring System (OPMS) and EIA Systems to improve processing and issuance.
2. Upgraded the Hazardous Waste Manifest System to include tracking of treated waste.
3. Migrated the PCB Reporting System to more secured platform. 4. Upgraded system interfaces to improve monitoring and enforcement. 5. Improve data sharing and making significant dataset from various databases
visible under IIS and EMB website using PowerBi. 6. Improve linkages and data sharing with other agencies - (Bureau of Customs
and Land Transportation Office) (See Figure 9). 7. Improve support to ensure handling of request for both walk-in and remote
clients. 8. Upgraded IIS and continuous use of ICT technologies to fully support the
preparation of EMB activities during pandemic. 9. Improved Inventory Tracking, Chemical Control Order (CCO) Registration and
Importation for Sodium Cyanide to easily monitor the consumption of import, distribution, and use of NaCN. (See Figure 10)
10. Upgraded the online Permit to Operate (PTO) System (See Figure 11) 11. Developed Registration of Service Providers using ODS/HFCs equipment in
support for the implementation of EMB MC 2021-11. (See Figure 12) 12. Developed Registration of Cadmium and its Compounds, Chromium VI and
its Compounds in support for the implementation of DENR Administrative Order Nos. 2021-08 and 2021-09. (See Figure 13)
13. Integration of Company Registration System to OPMS. (See Figure 14)
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Figure 9. Linkage and Data Sharing with BOC and LTO
Figure 10. Improved Inventory Tracking for NaCN
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Figure 11. Upgraded Online Permitting and Monitoring System for PTO
Figure 12. Application for Registration for Service Provider ODS/HFC-using Equipment
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Figure 13. Application for Registration for Cadmium and Chromium(VI)
Figure 14. Integration of Company Registration to OPMS
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a. Policies Formulated and Approved
i. Title: Guidelines for Payment of Fines and Penalties for Violation of Environmental
Laws, Rules and Regulations during the Implementation of Community Quarantine (See Annex A) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-10
This Circular provides guidelines for the staggered payment of fines and penalties imposed against the establishments /development projects nationwide covered by Presidential Decree No. 1586 or the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System, Republic Act No. 6969 or the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act, and its respective Implementing Rules and Regulations which were found administratively liable for operation without a valid permit/clearance/certificate/registration and/or violation of the terms and conditions provided therein prior or during the implementation of community quarantine and provided further that the order, decision, or resolution imposing fines and penalties are issued within the duration of community quarantine.
ii. Title: Guidelines in the Enforcement, Execution, and Collection of Imposed Fines and Penalties by the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) (See Annex B) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-13
This MC is issued pursuant to the authority vested to EMB to impose fines and penalties for violation of environmental laws, rules and regulations in order to strengthen the Bureau’s legal capacity to implement and enforce environmental laws.
b. Investigation of Environmental and Administrative Complaints
Due to the gradual ease of restrictions mostly during the second semester of the year, investigations and/or site inspections were conducted. Through the assistance of other Divisions/Sections and Regional Offices, environmental and administrative complaints were addressed, and the Bureau’s laws and mandates were implemented. A total of twenty (20) investigations were conducted for CY 2021 (See Table 3).
Table 3. Investigations Conducted in CY 2021
Month Number of Investigations Conducted for CY 2021
January 0
February 0
March 2
April 0
May 0
June 3
July 4
August 4
September 0
October 2
November 5
December 0
Total 20 investigations
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Figure 15. Investigation on the Alleged Illegal Dumping of Infectious Waste along Roadside of Sitio Tag-Abaca, Barangay Balinsasayao, Abuyog, Leyte
Figure 16. Investigation regarding the environmental complaint lodge against Del Monte Philippines, Inc. in Cagayan De Oro, Misamis Oriental
Figure 17. Investigation regarding an administrative complaint and site water sampling within Sibuyan Island, Province of Romblon
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c. Pollution Adjudication
The Pollution Adjudication Board (PAB) which was created under Section 19 of Executive Order No. 192 is mandated to adjudicate pollution cases falling under R.A. 9275 or “Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004” and R.A. 8749 or “Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999”. For the year 2021, the Board was able to adjudicate 638 pollution cases and 597 issued orders.
The Secretariat, pursuant to the PAB instruction to establish the number of days for the issuance of sampling protocols for Temporary Lifting Order (TLO), had conducted two (2) TWG Workshop/Assessment of Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) for fast-food restaurant, accommodation services as well as the Wastewater Treatment Facility (WTF) for distilleries, piggery farms, manufacturing, etc., for TLO sampling days. It was also accompanied by actual ocular inspection with the invited firms to assess the technology they use in their STPs and WTFs. Report on the activity conducted was presented to the Board, along with the draft guidelines formulated, with the help and service of the private consultant.
The Board approved five (5) PAB Resolutions and four were published in the newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines.
1. Disbursement of Fund from the ERF for the Establishment of an Interim
Storage Facility; (not published-internal)
2. Procedure on the appeals filed with the Pollution Adjudication Board by
virtue of PAB Resolution No. 1 Series of 2019;
3. Guidelines for Payment of Fines and Penalties for Permitting and
Administrative Violations of R.A. 8749 and R.A. 9275 Imposed during the
Implementation of the Community Quarantine (CQ);
4. 2021 Revised Rules on Pleadings, Practice and Procedure of the Pollution
Adjudication Board in the Adjudication of Pollution cases; and
5. Guidelines on the Graduated Schedule of Penalty under R.A. 9275 and its
Implementing Rules and Regulations.
The Secretariat conducted a nationwide workshop and road show of the PAB
Resolutions on the revised rules on pleadings, practice, and procedure of the PAB in the adjudication of cases and the graduated penalty schedule under RA 9275 and its implementing rules and regulations which aimed is to guide and present to the EMB Regional Offices the revisions of PAB Resolutions to enable a uniform and consistent implementation of the new policies and procedures. d. Environmental Cases Handled
In CY 2021, Six Hundred Thirty-Eight (638) PAB Orders/Resolutions were issued. Out of the total resolutions issued, four hundred thirty-nine (439) cases were resolved (Final Lifting Order), forty-three (43) cases with fines imposed, forty-one (41) cases deferred, thirty-three (33) clearances issued, thirty-one (31) cases were issued Temporary Lifting Order (TLO), twenty-nine (29) were issued with Cease-and-Desist Orders (CDO) and twenty-two (22) denial/Non-denial (See Figure 18).
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Figure 18. Orders/Resolutions Issued CY 2021
e. Fines Collected
The collected fines for the year 2021 are in the amount of Php 14,574,576.70. These include the imposed fines for water and air exceedances and permitting violations adjudicated by PAB (See Figure 19).
Figure 19. Fines Collected in CY 2021
LAW FINES
COLLECTED (Php)
RA 9275 10,023,642.70
PD 984 3,870,934.00
RA 8749 680,000.00
RA 927569%
PD 98426%
RA 87495%
FINES COLLECTED (CY 2021)
439
43
41
33
31
2922
Orders/Resolution Issued (CY 2021)
FLO Fines Defer Clearances TLO CDO Denial/Non-denial
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f. Information, Education and Communication (IEC) With the prevalence of the COVID-19 pandemic, face-to-face interactions were limited.
However, to still educate and train EMB employees with regard to environmental laws, webinars were conducted with maximum participation from different regions. Ten (10) webinars were conducted throughout the year (through Microsoft Teams). Virtual technical meetings and conferences (the new normal platform modes) were held to discuss the violations issued to different proponents. A total of ninety-eight (98) technical conferences were conducted to address issues and concerns of the proponents pertaining to the implementation of environmental laws.
Figure 20. Webinar on Legal Research and Writing
Figure 21. Capacity-Building for Effective Monitoring and Enforcement of Environmental Laws in
Environmental Management Bureau
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3. OPERATIONS
I. Policies Formulated and Approved
One major factor considered in the implementation of most policies with regard to
industrial sources is the economic implications to the company. While such policies are intended to reduce the economic impacts to the industries, the Bureau, nonetheless, ensured that its mandates are enforced to provide a clean and healthy environment for the protection of public health and safety and general welfare.
Below are the policies that were approved in CY 2021:
a. Title: Adoption of Interim Protocols in the Conduct of Remote Site Activities in the Implementation of all laws under the Mandate of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) during the COVID-19 Pandemic (See Annex C) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-02
This MC was issued to effectively implement all environmental laws covered by the EMB through the use of remote technologies during field monitoring, validation, inspection, assessment and other field activities which may not be physically possible in view of the reasonable circumstances which may pose a great risk, otherwise prohibited by law.
b. Title: Adoption of the Manual for Siting and Design of the Philippine Air Quality Monitoring Stations (See Annex D) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-06 This MC aims to guide the EMB Regional Offices in selecting the appropriate site(s) for their respective Air Quality Monitoring Station, including its technical specifications.
c. Title: Adoption of the Manual on Data Handling Protocols for Criteria Air
Pollutants (See Annex E) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-07 This MC is issued to guide the EMB Regional Offices in evaluating the concentration of Criteria Pollutants measured from the Air Quality Monitoring Stations of EMB.
d. Title: Establishment of an Integrated Air Quality Network Center that Monitors and Serves as Repository of Real-Time Industrial Emission from Firms Required to Install Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS) / Continuous Opacity Monitoring System (COMS) through the Use of a Uniform Data Acquisition and Handling System (DAHS), and in Relation to Clarify Pertinent Provisions of Department Administrative Order No. 2017 – 14 (See Annex F) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-14
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This MC is issued to effectively and efficiently transmit emissions data from the CEMS/COMS of industrial sources to the EMB DAHS server for the purpose of monitoring its compliance with the emission standards set forth under the Philippine Clean Air Act.
e. Title: Clarifying the Requirements stated under Section 14, Rule XIX of
Department Administrative Order No. 2000-81 (See Annex G) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-15 This MC aims to clarify that source-specific monitoring and reporting requirements subsequently mandated upon the issuance of the permit, shall include a condition that sample results at the point of emission shall be corrected using a Standard Correction Factor describe in the MC.
II. Where are we now in terms of Air Quality?
a. Status of Nationwide Air Quality
i. Particulate Matter 10 (PM10)
In comparison with the baseline year 2011, nationwide PM10
concentration has significantly improved by 66% (from 76 µg/Ncm to 26 µg/Ncm) (See Figure 22). The observed reduction of PM10 concentration from CY 2020 to CY 2021 (from 27 µg/Ncm to 26 µg/Ncm) may be attributed to the stricter restrictions imposed in the declaration of community quarantine (granular lockdown) due to surge of COVID-19 cases in some areas in the country. Natural occurrence such as volcanic eruption from Taal Volcano contributed to the increase in monthly and annual concentration of PM10 in some areas of the country in CY 2020.
Figure 22. Nationwide PM10 Levels (CY 2011 – CY 2021)
76
5451 52
4639 41 39
35
27 26
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
µg/
Ncm
Year
Nationwide Air Quality Status (CY 2011 - CY 2021)
(In Particulate Matter 10 - µg/Ncm)
PM10 Standard Nationwide PM10 Level
25
ii. Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5)
The air quality in terms of PM2.5 has improved from 20 µg/Ncm in CY 2016 (Baseline) to 15 µg/Ncm in CY 2021. The data below shows the nationwide PM2.5 results from CY 2016 to CY 2021 (See Figure 23).
Figure 23. Nationwide PM2.5 Levels (CY 2016 – CY 2021)
b. Status of Metro Manila Air Quality
Air quality monitoring stations still needs human intervention for physical checking and maintenance. In CY 2020, 75% data requirement for air quality monitoring stations was not achieved due to the declaration of community quarantine and strict implementation of lockdowns in Metro Manila.
However, in CY 2021 with the gradual ease of restriction, the Bureau has
successfully monitored the air quality in Metro Manila in terms of PM10 and PM2.5.
i. Particulate Matter 10 (PM10)
The air quality in Metro Manila in terms of PM10 is still within the DENR guideline value of 60 µg/Ncm (See Figure 24). A 46% decrease in concentration was noted compared to CY 2011 baseline data.
2021
2024
15 15
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
µg/
Ncm
Year
Nationwide Air Quality Status (CY 2016 - CY 2021)
(In Particulate Matter 2.5 - µg/Ncm)
PM2.5 Standard Nationwide PM2.5 Level
26
Figure 24. Metro Manila PM10 Levels (CY 2011 – CY 2021)
ii. Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5)
In CY 2021, PM2.5 values remained within the air quality guideline value of 25 µg/Ncm (See Figure 25).
Figure 25. Metro Manila PM2.5 Levels (CY 2016 – CY 2021)
27
36
20
2318
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
µg/
Ncm
Year
Metro Manila Air Quality Status (CY 2016 - CY 2021)
(In Particulate Matter 2.5 - µg/Ncm)
PM2.5 Standard Metro Manila PM2.5 Level
Note: Less than 75% data
capture due to Pandemic
8074
69
51 50
46
53
47 45 43
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
µg/
Ncm
Year
Metro Manila Air Quality Status (CY 2011 - CY 2021)
(In Particulate Matter 10 - µg/Ncm)
PM10 Standard Metro Manila PM10 Level
Note: Less than 75% data capture due to
Pandemic
27
c. Status of Air Quality in Metro Manila during New Year’s Eve
During the CY 2022 New Year's Eve (NYE) celebration, a total of two (2) continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations in the National Capital Region (NCR) measured PM10 ambient air quality data, measured concentration were compared to the CY 2021 NYE.
i. Particulate Matter 10 (PM10)
Before NYE 2022 at 1:00PM to 12MN, the Marikina City Station and Manila
City Station measured an average concentration of 58 ug/NCM and 52 µg/Ncm which are below the PM10 24-hour National Ambient Air Quality Guideline Value (NAAQGV) of 150 µg/NCM, respectively.
After NYE 2022 at 12MN to 2AM, the average concentration in Marikina City
Station was 271 µg/Ncm with a maximum concentration of 347 µg/Ncm. In Manila City Station, the average concentration was 116 µg/Ncm with a maximum concentration of 156 µg/Ncm. Except for the average concentration of 116 µg/Ncm, the rest of the measurements were above the PM10 24-hour National Ambient Air Quality Guideline Value (NAAQGV) of 150 µg/NCM.
In the NYE of CY 2022, an average of 149% increase of PM10 concentration
were recorded in two (2) stations in Metro Manila (from 78 ug/Ncm in 2021 to 194 ug/Ncm in 2022) from 12MN to 2:00AM. The average new year concentration was 29% higher than the 24-Hour Guideline Value of 150 ug/Ncm (See Figure 26 and Table 4).
. Figure 26. 2022 New Year’s Eve Trend (PM10)
Below are the results of the monitoring activity (PM10) on NYE of CY 2021
and CY2022: Table 4. 2021-2022 New Year's Eve Celebration Average PM10 Concentration
from 12:00 MN to 2:00 AM in NCR
REGION STATION
PM10 (µg/NCM) %
Increase 2021
Concentration 2022
Concentration
NCR Marikina City 86 271 215%
City of Manila 69 116 68%
Average of two (2) Stations 78 194 149%
28
ii. Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5)
During the CY 2022 New Year’s Eve celebration, only one (1) station (City of Manila) in NCR measured PM2.5 ambient air quality data. (See Table 5).
Table 5. 2021-2022 New Year's Eve Celebration Average PM2.5 Concentration
from 12:00 MN to 2:00 AM in NCR
REGION STATION PM2.5 (µg/NCM)
% Increase 2021
Concentration 2022
Concentration
NCR City of Manila 49 84 71%
Below are the monitoring results for PM2.5 from 31 December 2021 (1:00PM) to 01 January 2022 (7:00AM) (See Figure 27).
Figure 27. 2022 New Year’s Eve Trend (PM2.5)
In NYE 2022 the were significantly higher concentrations of PM2.5 compared
to the NYE 2021,” particularly at the station in Mehan Garden in Manila City which posted an average of concentration of 84 µg/Ncm from 12 midnight to 2 AM of 01 January 2022. The reading accounts for a seventy-one (71%) increase from 49 µg/Ncm obtained for the same period in the previous year. The short-term limit for PM2.5 is 35 µg/Ncm under the NAAQGV of DENR Administrative Order 2020-14.
d. Status of Air Quality in the other parts of the Country during New Year’s
Eve (Outside Metro Manila)
A total of fourteen (14) and ten (10) continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations outside the National Capital Region (NCR) measured PM10 and PM2.5 ambient air quality data during the CY 2022 NYE celebration.
i. Particulate Matter 10 (PM10)
After NYE of 2022 at 12MN to 2AM, several air quality monitoring stations
recorded increase in average concentration of PM10 in the ambient air which are the following: Heroes Hall, San Fernando City, Pampanga at 77% (from 86 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 152 µg/Ncm in 2022), Antipolo City Station at 188% (from 16 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 46 µg/Ncm in 2022), Biñan City Station at 27% (from 11 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 14 µg/Ncm in 2022), Puerto Princesa City Station at 34% (from 32 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 43 µg/Ncm in 2022) and Calinan, Davao City Station at 55% (from 20 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 31 µg/Ncm in 2022). At the same time, some air quality monitoring stations recorded decrease in concentration of PM10 in the
29
ambient air which are the following: ADZU, Zamboanga City Station at 22% (from 9 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 7 µg/Ncm in 2022), Iligan City Station at 3% (from 34 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 33 µg/Ncm in 2022) and Davao International Airport, Davao City Station at 32% (from 25 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 17 µg/Ncm in 2022).
The average concentration of Heroes Hall, San Fernando City, Pampanga
is the only measurement that exceeded the 24-Hour Guideline Value of 150 µg/Ncm; other measurements are within the guideline value. Shown in Table 6 and Figure 28 are the comparison of New Year’s Eve Air Quality data in 2021 and 2022.
Table 6. 2021-2022 New Year's Eve Celebration Average PM10 Concentration from 12:00 MN to 2:00 AM Outside NCR
Note: *Stations with data in 2021 and 2022
In NYE of 2022, an average of 105% increase of PM10 concentration in eight (8) stations as compared to 2021 New Year’s Eve data outside Metro Manila (from 21 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 43 µg/Ncm in 2022) were recorded.
REGION STATION
PM10, µg/Ncm
2021 Concentration
2022 Concentration
% Increase
% Decrease
1 Batac City 39
3 Heroes Hall, San Fernando City, Pampanga*
86 152 77
4A
Antipolo City* 16 46 188
BIÑAN City, Laguna*
11 14 27
Sta. Rosa City, Laguana
22
4B Puerto Princesa City, Palawan*
32 43 34
5 Naga City 35
9
ADZU, Zamboanga City*
9 7 22
MSU, Zamboanga City
13
10 Iligan City* 34 33 3
11 Calinan, Davao City*
20 31 55
Davao Int. Airport, Davao City*
25 17 32
12 Koronodal City 71
13 Butuan City 5
Average of 8 Stations* 21 43
% Increase of PM10 Concentration Outside NCR in New Year’s Eve 2022
105%
30
Figure 28. Average concentration of PM10 on New Year’s Eve of 2021 and 2022
ii. Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5)
In terms of PM2.5 concentration after New Year’s Eve of 2022 at 12MN to 2:00AM, several air quality monitoring stations also recorded increase in average concentration. These are in Calinan, Davao City station at 217% (from 6 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 19 µg/Ncm in 2022), Iligan City Station at 67% (from 15 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 25 µg/Ncm in 2022) and ADZU-Zamboanga City Station at 13% (from 8 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 9 µg/Ncm in 2022). Likewise, some air quality monitoring stations recorded decrease in concentration of PM2.5 in the ambient air quality: Puerto Princesa City Station at 46% (from 37 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 20 µg/Ncm in 2022), Davao International Airport, Davao City Station at 20% (from 10 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 8 µg/Ncm in 2022) and Sta. Rosa City, Laguna station at 11% (from 27 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 24 µg/Ncm in 2022).
The 2022 New Year’s Eve average PM2.5 concentration of Antipolo City (45
µg/Ncm) and San Fernando City, Pampanga (89 µg/Ncm) Stations are only the measurements that exceeded the PM2.5 24-Hour Guideline Value of 35 µg/Ncm, while the other measurements are within the Guideline Value. Shown in Table 7 and Figure 29 are the comparison of New Year’s Eve Air Quality data in 2021 and 2022 at the different stations.
Table 7. 2021-2022 New Year's Eve Celebration Average PM10 Concentration from
12:00 MN to 2:00 AM Outside NCR
REGION STATION
PM2.5, µg/Ncm
2021 Concentration
2022 Concentration
% Increase
% Decrease
3 Heroes Hall, San Fernando City, Pampanga
89
4A
Antipolo City 45
BIÑAN City, Laguna
6
Sta. Rosa City, Laguana*
27 24 11
31
4B Puerto Princesa City, Palawan*
37 20 46
9
ADZU, Zamboanga City*
8 9 13
MSU, Zamboanga City
10
10 Iligan City* 15 25 67
11
Calinan, Davao City*
6 19 217
Davao Int. Airport, Davao City*
10 8 20
Average of 6 Stations* 17 18
% Increase of PM10 Concentration Outside NCR in New Year’s Eve 2022
6%
Note: *Stations with data in 2021 and 2022
In NYE of 2022, an average of 6% increase of PM2.5 concentration were
recorded for six (6) stations in 2022 New Year’s Eve data outside Metro Manila (from 17 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 18 µg/Ncm in 2022).
Figure 29: Average concentration of PM2.5 on New Year’s Eve of 2021 and 2022
e. Status of Air Quality Nationwide during New Year’s Eve
During the CY 2022 New Year's Eve celebration, a total of sixteen (16) and eleven (11) continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations nationwide measured PM10 and PM2.5 ambient air quality data, respectively.
i. Particulate Matter 10 (PM10)
After NYE of 2022 at 12MN to 2AM, several air quality monitoring stations
nationwide recorded an increase in average concentration of PM10 in the ambient air which are Marikina City Station at 215% (from 86 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 271 µg/Ncm in 2022), Manila City Station at 68% (from 69 µg/Ncm to 116 µg/Ncm), Heroes Hall, San Fernando City, Pampanga at 77% (from 86 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 152 µg/Ncm in 2022), Antipolo City Station at 188% (from 16 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 46 µg/Ncm in 2022), Biñan City Station at 27% (from 11 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 14 µg/Ncm in 2022), Puerto Princesa City Station at 34% (from 32
32
µg/Ncm in 2021 to 43 µg/Ncm in 2022) and Calinan, Davao City Station at 55% (from 20 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 31 µg/Ncm in 2022).
At the same time, some air quality monitoring station recorded decrease in
concentration of PM10 in the ambient air which are ADZU, Zamboanga City Station at 22% (from 9 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 7 µg/Ncm in 2022), Iligan City Station at 3% (from 34 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 33 µg/Ncm in 2022) and Davao International Airport, Davao City Station at 32% (from 25 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 17 µg/Ncm in 2022). Shown in Table 8 are the comparative New Year’s Eve Air Quality data in 2021 and 2022.
Table 8. Nationwide 2021-2022 New Year's Eve Celebration Average PM10
Concentration from 12:00 MN to 2:00 AM
REGION STATION
PM10, µg/Ncm
2021 Concentration
2022 Concentration
% Increase
% Decrease
NCR Marikina City* 86 271 215
Manila City* 69 116 68
1 Batac City 39
3 Heroes Hall, San Fernando City, Pampanga*
86 152 77
4A
Antipolo City* 16 46 188
BIÑAN City, Laguna*
11 14 27
Sta. Rosa City, Laguana
22
4B Puerto Princesa City, Palawan*
32 43 34
5 Naga City 35
9
ADZU, Zamboanga City*
9 7 22
MSU, Zamboanga City
13
10 Iligan City* 34 33 3
11 Calinan, Davao City*
20 31 55
Davao Int. Airport, Davao City*
25 17 32
12 Koronodal City 71
13 Butuan City 5
Average of 10 Stations* 32 73
% Increase of PM10 Concentration Outside NCR in New Year’s Eve 2022
128%
Note: *Stations with data in 2021 and 2022
In NYE of 2022, an average of 128% increase of PM10 concentration was
recorded for ten (10) stations as compared with 2021 New Year’s Eve data Nationwide (from 32 ug/Ncm in 2021 to 73 ug/Ncm in 2022).
ii. Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5)
After NYE of 2022 Nationwide at 12MN to 2:00AM, several air quality
monitoring stations nationwide recorded an increase in average concentration of PM2.5 in the ambient air quality which are the City of Manila Station at 71% (from 49 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 84 µg/Ncm in 2022), Calinan, Davao City station at 217% (from 6 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 19 µg/Ncm in 2022), Iligan City Station at 67% (from 15 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 25 µg/Ncm in 2022) and ADZU-Zamboanga City
33
Station at 13% (from 8 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 9 µg/Ncm in 2022). Likewise, some air quality monitoring stations recorded decrease in concentration of PM2.5 in the ambient air quality which are Puerto Princesa City Station at 46% (from 37 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 20 µg/Ncm in 2022), Davao International Airport, Davao City Station at 20% (from 10 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 8 µg/Ncm in 2022) and Sta. Rosa City, Laguna station at 11% (from 27 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 24 µg/Ncm in 2022).
The 2022 New Year’s Eve average PM2.5 concentration of Manila City Station (84 µg/Ncm), Antipolo City (45 µg/Ncm) and San Fernando City, Pampanga (89 µg/Ncm) Stations are only the measurements that exceeded the PM2.5 24-Hour Guideline Value 35 µg/Ncm, the other measurements are within the Guideline Value. Shown in Table 9 is the comparison of New Year’s Eve Air Quality data in 2021 and 2022.
Table 9: Nationwide 2021-2022 New Year's Eve Celebration Average PM2.5
Concentration from 12:00 MN to 2:00 AM
REGION STATION
PM2.5, µg/Ncm
2021 Concentration
2022 Concentration
% Increase
% Decrease
NCR Manila City* 49 84 71
3 Heroes Hall, San Fernando City, Pampanga
89
4A
Antipolo City 45
BIÑAN City, Laguna
6
Sta. Rosa City, Laguana*
27 24 11
4B Puerto Princesa City, Palawan*
37 20 46
9
ADZU, Zamboanga City*
8 9 13
MSU, Zamboanga City
10
10 Iligan City* 15 25 67
11
Calinan, Davao City*
6 19 217
Davao Int. Airport, Davao City*
10 8 20
Average of 6 Stations* 22 27
% Increase of PM10 Concentration Outside NCR in New Year’s Eve 2022
23%
Note: *Stations with data in 2021 and 2022
In the NYE of 2022, an average of 23% increase of PM2.5 concentration were recorded for seven (7) stations with 2021 New Year’s Eve data Nationwide (from 22 µg/Ncm in 2021 to 27 µg/Ncm in 2022).
f. Assessment of Air Quality Nationwide during New Year’s Eve
Overall, in NYE of CY 2022, an average of 128% Increase in concentration
of air pollutants during the 2022 New Year’s Eve celebration may be attributed to relaxed implementation of Executive Order No. 28 Series of 2017 (Which only allows a community fireworks display and should not be held in a venue other than place of residence) in some areas in Metro Manila and other parts of the country.
Further, it was also observed in the radiosonde stations in (1) Laoag, Ilocos
Norte (2) Baguio City (3) Tanay, Rizal (4) Legaspi City, Albay (5) Puerto
34
Princesa, Palawan and (6) Davao Airport recorded around 8:00 PM of December 31, 2021 and 8:00 AM of January 1, 2022 showing inversion layer at around 1.5km to 2.5km, thereby trapping air pollutants in the country.
III. Status of Air Quality Monitoring Stations Nationwide
The EMB has a total of One Hundred Six (106) Air Quality Monitoring Stations
throughout the Philippines. There are Four (4) kinds of Air Quality Monitoring Stations (AQMS); (1) Open-Path Station, (2) Particulate Matter Monitoring System (PMS) Station, (3) Conventional Monitoring Station and (4) Manual Monitoring Station. As of December 2021, approximately 80% of the air quality monitoring stations are functional / operational while 20% are not operational or for repair / replacement (See Table 10).
Table 10. Status of Air Quality Monitoring Nationwide in CY 2021
Type of Station
Total No. of Stations
Functional/Operational Not
Operational
CAAQMS – PMS
28 22 6
CAAQMS – Conventional
6 3 3
CAAQMS – Open-path
20 11 9
Manual Reference
Method 55 51 4
Total 109 87 22
Percent Functional/Operational 80%
Percent Not Operational 20%
IV. Motor Vehicle Emission Monitoring Program (Bantay Tambutso)
With an agreement with the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Metro Manila to ensure
that the equipment used would generate accurate results in the apprehension of
vehicles, the Bureau conducts calibration of opacimeters. A total of thirty-four (34) units
were calibrated as of December 2021 (See Table 11).
Table 11. Monthly Breakdown of Opacimeter Calibrated for CY 2021
Month No. of Opacimeter
Calibrated
January 10
February 3
March 2
April 1
35
May 2
June 2
July 8
August -
September 6
October -
November -
December -
Total 34
As mandated by the Section 22 of the RA 8749, any imported new or locally-assembled new motor vehicle shall not be registered unless it complies with the emission standards set pursuant to this Act, as evidenced by a Certificate of Conformity (COC) issued by the Department. For FY 2021, a total of four hundred thirty – two (432) certificates have been issued (See Table 12).
Table 12: Certificate of Conformity Issued for CY 2021
As an innovation in the issuance of COC, it was recommended to include in the certificate the emission test results from the country of origin for transparency purposes. In addition, by virtue of EMB MC 2018 – 05 inspection of COC applicants was commenced to verify the components declared in their application.
Anti-Smoke belching operations for the year 2021 in Metro-Manila were suspended due to the strict implementation of health protocols issued by the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) to prevent the spread of COVID-19 Virus.
Month Motorcycle/ Motor
Vehicle
January 20
February 36
March 45
April 29
May 38
June 49
July 40
August 29
September 33
October 37
November 41
December 35
Total 432
36
V. Industrial Emission Monitoring Program (Bantay Tsimneya)
To monitor the emissions from Air Pollution Source Installations (APSI) of industries nationwide, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) has established the Sampling Assessment Team (SAT).
To date, a total of twenty-two (22) firms with forty-six (46) teams have been accredited as per accreditation procedures as stipulated in DAO 2013 – 26.
In relation to the monitoring of CEMS / COMS there are ten (10) firms connected to the Air Quality Monitoring Network Operations Center (AQMNOC) to closely monitor its emissions. The said emissions will be assessed using the excess emission averaging time patterned to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) 40 CFR Part 60.
VI. Compliance Monitoring of Firms
Table 13. Percentage of Compliance of Firms for 2021 (Air Quality)
Details CY 2020 CY 2021
Permit to Operate issued 9,999 11,239
Monitored Firms 19,521 18,143
Notices of Violation Issued 2,713 3,840
Percentage of Compliance 86% 79%
VII. Designation of Attainment and Non-Attainment Areas in Airshed
Based on the developed Airshed assessment checklist, as of to date, there is a total
of seven (7) Category 1 (Inactive Airshed) and fifteen (15) Category 2 (Active Airshed).
Table 14. Category and Status of 22 Airsheds Nationwide
REGION AIRSHED CATEGORY
NCR National Capital Region Airshed Category 1 - Inactive Airshed
CAR Blist Airshed Category 2 - Active Airshed
1 Northeastern Pangasinan (Nepa) Airshed
Category 2 - Active Airshed
2 Metro Tuguegarao (Piestta) Airshed Category 2 - Active Airshed
3 Bulacan - Pampanga - Bataan Airshed
Category 2 - Active Airshed
4A Cavite - Laguna - Rizal Airshed Category 1 - Inactive Airshed
Makiling - Banahaw (Mak-Ban) Geothermal Airshed
Category 1 - Inactive Airshed
4B Baco-Calapan City-Naujan Airshed Category 2 - Active Airshed
5 Naga City Airshed Category 2 - Active Airshed
Bacon-Manito (Bac-Man) Geothermal Airshed
Category 2 - Active Airshed
37
Legazpi City Airshed Category 2 - Active Airshed
6 Metropolitan Iloilo Airshed Category 2 - Active Airshed
7 Metro Cebu Airshed Category 2 - Active Airshed
Southern Negros Geothermal Airshed Category 1 - Inactive Airshed
8 Leyte Geothermal Airshed Category 1 - Inactive Airshed
Tacloban City Airshed Category 2 - Active Airshed
9 Zamboanga City Airshed Category 2 - Active Airshed
10 Metro Cagayan De Oro Airshed Category 2 - Active Airshed
11 Davao City Airshed Category 2 - Active Airshed
12 North Cotabato Geothermal Airshed Category 1 - Inactive Airshed
South Cotabato Airshed Category 1 - Inactive Airshed
13 Agusan Del Norte - Butuan City Airshed
Category 2 - Active Airshed
VIII. Information, Education and Communication (IEC)
a. Online Permitting and Monitoring System – Permit to Operate (OPMS-PTO)
As part of its commitment of promoting environmental protection, particularly
addressing air pollution, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) launched the new and improved Permit to Operate (PTO) Air Pollution Source Equipment and Installation Version 2.0, as part of its Online Permitting and Monitoring Systems on August 18, 2021. The following are the system improvements and salient features on the new version of OPMS-PTO:
I. Distinction between the four (4) PTO application types:
1. Temporary PTO is required for applicants which require source emission testing. TPTO is valid for 90 days;
2. Once you have conducted source emission testing, you must apply for Temporary to Regular. This is valid for 4 years and 9 months;
3. If your source is not required to conduct source emission testing you may apply for a New Regular PTO which is valid for 5 years; and
4. Thirty (30) days before the expiration of your permit, you must apply for its Renewal (valid for 5 years).
II. The applicant may now view the requirements to be upload in Step 1 by clicking the “View Requirements”.
III. In Step 3, the applicant may now view the list of Accredited Third-Party Source Emission Testing Firms (TPSETF) and list of DENR Recognized Laboratories by clicking buttons linked to the EMB website.
IV. If the plant information is the same as the establishment information, the proponent may tick the “Same as Establishment?” drop down.
V. APSI and APCD has been improved to include a “Delete All” button and forces the applicant to view the “Instruction” before downloading the CSV template.
VI. The APSI and APCD pictures are displaying correctly again. VII. The Sampling and Analysis Methods have been streamlined to approved
methods as per policies. VIII. The requirements have been streamlined based on the size of the APSI.
38
The launch, which was attended by officials and employees of the EMB Central and
Regional Offices, partners, and stakeholders, was conducted through Zoom and streamed live over the EMB Central Office Facebook Page.
b. Consultation on the Draft National Air Quality Status Report (NAQSR) 2019 –
2020
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through the
Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), facilitated the online consultation on 27 November 2021 on the development of National Air Quality Status Report. The consultation served as a venue for the government agencies to incorporate their accomplishments and challenges in the implementation of the Philippine Clean Air Act in the draft National Air Quality Status Report 2019-2020.
c. Clustered Online Workshop on Continuous Emission Monitoring System
(CEMS) / Continuous Opacity Monitoring System (COMS) Relative Accuracy
Test Audit (Luzon and National)
To support the capacity building for EMB Regional Offices (EMB ROs), the DENR
Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) held a 2-day Continuous Emission Monitoring System (CEMS) Online Workshop on 15-16 September 2021 which aims to capacitate the technical individuals of EMB Regional Offices in the assessment and observation of the different CEMS-COMS-CERMS audit procedures.
I. Policies Formulated and Approved
a. Title: Clarification on the Implementation of Section 10 of DENR Administrative
Order No. 2016-08 (See Annex H) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-01
This MC is issued to clarify Section 10 of DAO 2016-08 particularly on the
grace period.
b. Title: Clarification on the Issuance of Certificate of Accreditation as Pollution Control Officers (PCO) (See Annex I) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-16
39
This MC clarifies that the authorized signatory of the training organization shall be sufficient to allow the processing of accreditation of PCO and that all applications for PCO accreditation held in abeyance due to absence of Regional Directors’ signature in the certificate of training shall be processed and issued with a Certificate of Accreditation, provided that all requirements have been complied with.
II. Where are we now in terms of Water Quality?
a. Status of Water Quality
i. Monitoring of Priority Recreational Waters (Bathing Beaches)
The Bureau identified forty-four (44) priority recreational waters to be
monitored in CY 2021. Out of forty-one (41) priority recreational monitored for Fecal Coliform, seventeen (17) or 39% passed the 100MPN/100mL standard while out of forty (40) recreational monitored for pH, thirty-eight (38) or 86% bathing beaches were within pH criteria.
ii. Monitoring of Other Recreational Waters
There are one hundred-seventeen (117) bathing beaches being monitored
in CY 2021. Only 46 bathing beaches (39%) were within the Water Quality guideline (WQG) for Fecal Coliform, and 84 (72%) were within the WQG for pH. Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, there were stations that were not accessed by the Regional Offices, thus, some have no data for fecal coliform (14 bathing beaches) and pH reading (32 bathing beaches). There were more water quality monitoring stations with no pH monitoring due to lack of water quality checker which is used to monitor in-situ parameters.
iii. Monitoring of Priority Waterbodies
To improve water quality and comply with the water quality standards,
monitoring of priority rivers was conducted by the Bureau. In CY 2021, the Bureau identified fifty (50) priority waterbodies for close monitoring of their water quality. Out of forty-four (44) rivers monitored, thirty-nine (39) waterbodies passed the water quality standard for Dissolved Oxygen (DO) while thirty-seven (37) waterbodies passed the water quality standard for Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD).
iv. Monitoring of Other Waterbodies
In CY 2021, One Hundred Forty-Seven (147) rivers were monitored
throughout the Philippines. Out of 147 waterbodies, only 140 were monitored for DO and 145 for BOD.
In terms of DO, a total of 111 waterbodies or 79% were within the water
quality guideline. For BOD, 117 waterbodies or 81% passed the water quality standard.
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III. Classification of Waterbodies
The Bureau has two major activities for the conduct of waterbody classification.
The EMB Regional Offices submit reports on the waterbodies for classification and the EMB Central Office reviews and endorse these submissions for approval. The approved classification of waterbodies will be compiled and endorsed for the issuance of DENR Memorandum Circular.
In CY 2021, the Bureau endorsed forty-four (44) additional waterbodies for
classification according to their best usage and water quality to be maintained.
IV. Water Quality Management Area
The Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 (RA 9275) states that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, in coordination with National Water Resources Board shall designate certain areas as water quality management areas (WQMA) using appropriate physiographic units such as watershed, river basins or water resources regions. Said WQMA shall be governed by a Governing Board (GB) composed of representatives of mayors and governors of member LGUs and representative of relevant national government agencies, duly registered Non-Governmental Organizations, water utility sector, and business sector. The academe and other concerned sectors were also included as GB members, as the need arises.
In CY 2021, additional two (2) WQMA were designated thru DENR Administrative
Orders namely Bolo River System and Panglao Island and Coastal Waters. To date, there are thirty-nine (39) WQMAs designated including the areas within the jurisdiction of the Laguna Lake Development Authority which was designated as one WQMA by virtue of Section 5 of RA 9275).
V. Adopt-an-Estero Waterbody Program
With the continuous implementation of the Adopt-an-Estero Waterbody Program,
decrease in floating garbage is noticeable in some of our water bodies and creeks. Other achievements of the program include, among others, the following: increased frequency of dredging/de-clogging activities, improved waste collection efficiency, quicker flooding subsidence, complementary local policies and programs and employment to some communities along the adopted waterbodies.
Out of two hundred forty-eight (248) esteros/waterbodies monitored in CY 2021, one hundred (100) waterbodies exhibited significant improvement in terms of BOD while seventy-six (76) waterbodies showed water quality improvement in terms of DO.
During the periodic community clean-up of esteros conducted by the EMB, donor
partners, LGUs and surrounding communities, a total of 5,420 sacks, 2,504 kgs of mixed solid waste were recovered by the participants in the said activity composed of 998 individuals.
VI. Compliance Monitoring of Firms
Table 15. Percentage of Compliance of Firms for CY 2021 (Water Quality)
Details CY 2020 CY 2021
Discharge Permit issued 6,477 7,720
Monitored Firms 10,222 8,934
Notices of Violation Issued 3,928 6,607
Percentage of Compliance 62% 26%
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I. Technical Assistance in the Closure and Rehabilitation of Illegal Dumpsites
After 20 years upon approval of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, the DENR through the Environmental Management Bureau closed all illegal dumpsites in CY 2021. For the safe disposal of solid wastes, there is a total of 245 operational Sanitary Landfills servicing 478 LGUs nationwide (See Figure 30).
Figure 30. Disposal Facilities Nationwide (CY 2010 – CY 2021)
II. Facilitation and Approval of the 10-Year Solid Waste Management Plans (SWMPs)
A total of 1,171 Ten-Year SWM Plans had been approved (44 from BARMM) by the
National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC), 111 of which was approved in CY 2021. 193 SWM Plans have undergone final review and evaluation by the Bureau by conducting coaching and mentoring to the LGUs through the NSWMC Secretariat.
III. Support in the Establishment of Materials Recovery Facility (MRF)
The establishment of Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) is a scheme to reduce the
amount of garbage being disposed and the production of GHG (methane) coming from domestic and commercial biodegradable wastes through the process of composting/vermi-composting instead of disposing to landfills thus would lead to increase in wastes diversion.
In CY 2021, additional ninety-one (91) MRFs were established which brings the total
of number of MRFs established to 11,637 servicing 16,418 barangays nationwide (See Figure 31).
1174
1025945 923 900
553511
385304 331
261
033 38 45 72 86 101 118 135
165 187237
245
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Nu
mb
er
of
Dis
po
sal F
acili
tie
s
Year
DISPOSAL FACILITIES (CY 2010 - CY 2021)
Illegal Dumpsites Sanitary Landfill
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Figure 31. Established Materials Recovery Facility (CY 2010 - CY 2021)
IV. Maintenance of Old San Mateo Landfill (SLF)
As part of the regular post closure maintenance of the Old San Mateo Sanitary
Landfill, the following activities were completed in CY 2021:
a. Monthly monitoring activities b. Water sampling and analysis c. Reporting of incidence such
as grass fires in coordination with the LGU
d. Inventory of trees e. Feasibility assessment on
the conduct of bamboo planting and re-greening as part of the rehabilitation activities
f. 10 workers were hired in September 2021 for the preparation of the site for the bamboo planting activity. In relation to this, the team conducted a capability building with the help of Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau for the technical knowledge on the establishment of Bamboo Park. The team also invited to the council meeting of Barangay Pintong Bukawe, San Mateo and it tackled the problem related to the waste picking and animal grazing inside the site.
g. 400 bamboo with twenty-seven (27) different species were planted during the launching of EMB Bamboo Garden and Eco-Park. Usec. Benny Antiporda, Vice-Govenor of Rizal, Regional Director of CALABARZON and EMB Director are the guest speaker on the event.
h. A total of 700 bamboos were planted in CY 2021.
6,9577,327
7,7138,486 8,656
9,3359,883
10,052 10,340 10,72211,546 11,637
7,938 8,3238,843
9,63410,327
12,60713,155 13,324 13,612 13,994 14,450
16,418
01,0002,0003,0004,0005,0006,0007,0008,0009,000
10,00011,00012,00013,00014,00015,00016,00017,000
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Nu
mb
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of
MR
Fs
Year
Materials Recovery Facility (CY 2010 - CY 2021)
Established Brgy. Served
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V. Solid Waste Enforcement and Education Program (SWEEP)
The Solid Waste Enforcement and Education Program (SWEEP) that started in 2017
was designed to augment the existing capacity of the regional offices to validate, monitor, and improve reported unclean sites, as well as monitor and inspect Solid Waste Management (SWM) facilities such as EMB Funded MRFs and Sanitary Landfills, among others. Consequently, the program calls for the hiring of Environmental Monitoring Officers (EnMOs) to accomplish the targets of the SWEEP.
Despite the restrictions and challenges brought about by the pandemic, all 326 EMB
EnMOs nationwide completed the monitoring of 28,671 sites and facilitated the clean-up of 23,180 unclean sites in 2021. The EnMOs were also able to assist in the inspection and monitoring of SWM facilities, initial review of Ten Year SWM Plans and monitoring of approved 10-year plans, information and education and communication (IEC) campaign, and enforcement of other environmental laws such as monitoring of sewage treatment plants (STPs).
In CY 2021, the EMB engaged a Geologist and Civil Engineers to ensure that the
technical assistance needed by the LGUs within the regions on site assessment of proposed sanitary landfills as well as on the design of Categorized SLF are effectively and efficiently provided.
VI. Information, Education and Communication (IEC)
a. Capacity Building on the Management of COVID-19 related Healthcare Waste
for LGUs
The Capacity Building on the Management of COVID-19 Related Healthcare Wastes
for LGUs was done in three batches: March 19, 2021 for Luzon LGUs, March 23, 2021
for Visayas LGUs, and March 26, 2021 for Mindanao LGUs. These were participated
by more around 1,500 participants from LGUs, EMB Regional Offices, PEMOs, DENR
Regional Offices, PENRO, private sector, and other institutions.
The DILG Undersecretary for Plans, Public Affairs and Communication of the
Department of the Interior and Local Government, Usec. Jonathan E. Malaya discussed
the Memorandum Circular issued by the DILG in to facilitate LGU Compliance with
NSWMC Resolution 1364, Series of 2020 or the NSWMC Resolution Adopting the
Interim Guidelines on the Management of COVID-19 Related Healthcare Waste.
b. Seminar on Assessment of Sanitary Landfills Development, Operation and
Monitoring
In order to capacitate the newly hired EnMO Geologists and Civil Engineers on how
to accomplish their tasks, a Webinar on Assessment of Sanitary Landfills Development,
Operation and Monitoring was conducted by the SWMD on May 11, 2021. This activity
was participated by the EMB Regional Offices, EnMO Geologists, Civil Engineers, MGB,
and other stakeholders.
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Continuous enhancements /improvements are being implemented mostly in defining
and streamlining the procedures and standardizing requirements for the conduct and review of the EIA report and in compliance monitoring and reporting.
For CY 2021, six thousand two hundred-four (6,204) ECCs were issued which
translates to a total project cost of Php 1,940,770,554,968.62 with 2,228,412 employment generated. I. Policies Formulated and Approved
a. Title: Documentary Requirements for Minor Amendment (Non-Technical) of
Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) under the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System (See Annex J) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-05 This MC is issued to ease the application and requirement for the ECC minor amendment (e.g., Change of Project Name, Proponent/Company Name, Change of Ownership, Typographical Error, Extension of Deadlines for submission of post ECC requirements and Extension of ECC validity) pursuant to Ease of Doing Business Act of 2018.
b. Title: Amendment of EMB Memorandum Circular No. 2014-05 (Annex A) relative to the Reclassification of Steel and other Steel-related Projects as Metal Industries (See Annex K) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-12 This aims to regroup steel and other steel-related projects into metal industries for easy referencing of the proponents applying for Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), provide a technical definition of projects under metal industries and update the project thresholds of projects under metal industries.
II. Environmentally Critical Projects (ECPs)
As of December 2021, thirty-five (35) projects were issued with Environmental
Compliance Certificate (ECC). Activities necessary for the processing of ECC applications such as Project Screening, Public and Technical Scoping, Procedural Screening, EIA Review and Evaluation through the conduct of EIARC Meetings, and Public Hearing and process documentation have been conducted and within the target.
Due to the community quarantine imposed in several areas in view of the COVID-19
pandemic, site inspections were not done. Instead, proponents were requested to provide latest drone shots of the proposed project areas for verification of the condition of the area as declared in their EIA reports.
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III. Compliance Monitoring of Firms
Out of seventeen thousand six hundred sixty-seven (17,667) firms/projects
monitored, four thousand six hundred seventy-six (4,676) projects/firms were issued with Notice of Adverse Findings/ show cause orders for failure to comply with their ECC conditions (See Table 16).
Table 16. Percentage of Compliance of Firms for CY 2021 (EIA)
Details CY 2020 CY 2021
ECC issued 5,374 6,204
Monitored Firms 18,955 17,667
Notices of Violation Issued 3,332 4,676
Percentage of Compliance 82% 74%
I. Policies Formulated and Approved
Policy review and development is one of the major programs of the Chemical
Management Section. It forms part of the implementation of Title II of RA 6969 which
focuses on the sound management of chemicals. Policy development is the backbone
of the other programs under Chemical Management such as permitting, monitoring,
inter-agency linkages and project development and implementation. Policies are
developed either proactively or reactively. When situations and incidents arising from
mismanagement of chemicals which may become a potential source of human
exposure or environmental contamination, the chemical management section reacts by
formulating corrective actions through MCs or even DAO to prevent such incidents from
happening again in the future. On the other hand, emerging global or local issues on
chemical management trigger a proactive response through policies formulation and
implementation to prevent any adverse incident or exposure from happening. The
following are the approved policies under chemicals management n CY 2021:
a. Title: 2021 Updated Philippine Inventory of Chemicals and Chemicals
Substances (See Annex L) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-08 This MC is issued to expand the present number of chemicals listed in the Philippine Inventory of Chemicals (PICCS).
b. Title: Guidelines in the Implementation of Globally Harmonized System (GHS) Classification and Labelling Requirements for Chemical Mixtures (See Annex M) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-09 This aims to provide the necessary guidelines for the proper implementation of DAO 2015-09 with regards to chemicals mixtures, guide the chemical industry sectors to comply with the requirements under DAO 20115-09 and EMB Memorandum Circular 2015-011 on the preparation of Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and labelling of toxic chemical mixtures, and provide the
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EMB Central Office and Regional Offices with the required mechanism for the monitoring of compliance of the chemical industry sector for chemical mixtures.
c. Title: Registration of Service Providers of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS)
using Equipment (See Annex N) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-11 This MC is issued to properly implement Section 10 of DENR Administrative Order No. 2013-25 entitled “Revised Regulation on Chemical Control Order for ODS” which requires the registration of Service Providers of ODS using equipment with the DENR through the Bureau to ensure their capability to properly handle and manage said substances.
A bonus to the policy development program is the recognition of the CCO for Lead
and Lead Compounds limiting Lead in paints to less than 90ppm standard. The
recognition was given by the World Future Council as one of the special awardees for
the Future Policy Award (See Figure 33).
Figure 33. Future Policy award for the CCO for Lead and Lead Compound
A video message was provided by the DENR Secretary to thank the World Future
Council for the Recognition and emphasized that the award will inspire the Department
to further strengthen its policies to protect human health and the environment. The CCO
for Lead and Lead Compound is one of the policies of the government to eliminate Lead
in products most especially in children’s toys and products. In some cases, it also
served as local catalyst for other agencies to develop their policies on Lead in paints
or Lead in products. Among the Lead related policies of the Government are:
• Memorandum No. 2013-058, “Guidelines on the Manual Notification of Toys
and Childcare Articles (CCAs)” (DOH-FDA)
• Bureau of Product Standard using Philippine National Standards
(PNS)/BHDT ISO 8124 Part 3 relating to Safety of Toys shall be
implemented and enforced.
• Inclusion of the 90 ppm Lead threshold in the Philippine National Standards
for paints through the Technical Committee 25 (TC-25) of the Bureau of
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Product Standards under the Department of Trade and Industry.
• DepEd Order 2017-04 – Mandatory Use of Lead-safe Paints in Schools
II. Permits Issued
Table 17. Permits Issued by Central Office
Certificates/ Clearances/ Permits CY 2020 CY 2021
PCL Compliance Certificate 606 628
PCL Exemption Certificate 112 243
PMPIN 91 74
PSIC (ODS) 166 397
Certificate of Registration (ODS) 371 211
CCO Registration 69 88
CCO Importation Clearance 223 310
Polymer Exemption 62 148
TOTAL 1700 2,099
Table 18. Permits Issued by Regional Offices
Certificates / Clearances CY 2020 CY 2021
Small Quantity Importation (SQI) 2,687 2,700
Importation Clearances (Asbestos, Cyanide, Mercury and ODS)
361 233
Registration Certificates (CCO) 244 163
3,292 3,096
III. Compliance Monitoring of Firms
Table 19. Percentage of Compliance of Firms for CY 2021 (Chemicals) Details CY 2020 CY 2021
Monitored Firms 1,189 1,480
Notices of Violation Issued 112 106
Percentage of Compliance 91% 93%
IV. Information, Education and Communication (IEC)
For 2021, two capacity building activities were conducted, one was held in May
2021 for EMB Regional Offices. This involved discussion of new policies and
consultation of upcoming policies. This capacity building activity also included a virtual
tour and presentation of the Bataan Non-Com Pops facility. A facility tour has been a
part of the CMS capacity building. It showcases the best chemical management
practices of industries which may not be found in other Regions. Due to travel
restrictions, this year’s facility tour was done virtually.
Another capacity building activity was conducted for industry in July 2021. This
activity included presentation of new policies for chemical management. It also served
as consultation on existing and draft policies being developed. The activities provided
a better understanding of the policies under chemical management and how they are
being implemented. Likewise, they serve as venues to discuss issues encountered by
stakeholders as well as regulators (ROs) on the implementation of policies.
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I. Policies Formulated and Approved
a. Title: Guidance on the Registration Requirements for Category A Hazardous
Waste Treatment, Storage and Disposal (TSD) Facility (See Annex O) Policy Number: EMB MC 2021-03 This MC is issued to clarify the permitting requirements for registration as Category A Treatment, Storage and Disposal (TSD) Facilities. It covers the following hazardous waste generators that will treat and dispose of their own generated wastes and will be required to register as Category A TSD facilities: i) Generators that own and operate the equipment which will treat their own generated wastes; and ii) Generators that will acquire the services of mobile treatment of hazardous wastes owned and operated by a third-party service provider.
II. Permits Issued
Table 20. Permits Issued by the Central Office
Certificates/ Clearances/ Permits CY 2020 CY 2021
TSD registration/renewal/amendment 190 169
Transporter registration/renewal/amendment
219 203
Importer registration/amendment 6 7
Importation Clearance 264 307
Notification 43 60
Export Clearance 36 45
TOTAL 758 791
Table 21. Permits Issued by the Regional Offices
Certificates / Clearances CY 2020 CY 2021
Hazardous Waste Generators (HWGs) 8,743 8,459
Transport Permit 6,742 8,101
TOTAL 15,485 16,560
III. Compliance Monitoring
Table 22. Percentage of Compliance of Firms for CY 2021 (Hazardous Waste)
Details CY 2020 CY 2021
Monitored Firms 14,930 13,581
Notices of Violation Issued 4,207 3,528
Percentage of Compliance 72% 74%
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IV. Information, Education and Communication (IEC)
To strengthen and enhance the awareness and compliance of the stakeholders or regulated community, the HWMS staff acted as resource speakers in various seminars, trainings and workshops organized or convened by individual industries, industrial or business associations, and academe. Technical various seminar-training for waste transporters, as one of the requirements for its registration, were supported by HWMS in collaboration with training institutions.
a. Orientation Workshop on the Online Hazardous Waste Management System for Hazardous Waste Generators, Transporters and TSD Facilities
The Orientation Workshop on the Online Hazardous Waste Management System for Hazardous Waste Generators, Transporters and TSD Facilities was conducted on 25-28 May 2021. Batches 1 to 3 were for generators and Batch 4 was intended for transporters and TSD facilities. HWMS personnel demonstrated the step-by-step procedure on how to use the online system. This also served as a platform for the regulated community to raise their questions and concerns regarding the system. This was followed by a Meeting among EMB Central and EMB Regional Offices regarding the issues on the online system.
b. Annual Assessment of the Online Hazardous Waste Management System
The Annual Assessment of the Online HWM System and Updating of
Policies and Activities was conducted on 27-29 October 2021. The objectives of the Assessment are to:
o Present the additional or new features of the Online HWMS o Collate your observations, suggestions, and feedback to improve the
system o Harmonize the procedures in the review, evaluation, and processing of
applications for registrations (Generators, Transporters, and TSD) and Permit to Transport
o Provide updates on recently issued policies and proposed o Present foreign assisted projects on hazardous waste management
I. Special Environmental Events
a. Zero Waste Month
As mandated by Presidential Proclamation no. 760, dated May 5, 2014, January is also known as the Zero Waste Month. This is also the 20th signing anniversary of the Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 with the theme “Bouncing Back from the Pandemic to a Greener and Healthier Environment.”
Zero waste is an advocacy that promotes the designing and managing of products
and processes to avoid and eliminate the volume and toxicity of waste and materials.
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This CY 2021, amidst the pandemic and despite the increase of healthcare and special wastes, the Bureau encouraged everyone to keep in mind that the pandemic is not a set-back from the Zero Waste advocacy.
The Department of Environment
and Natural Resources thru the Environmental Management Bureau provided guidance on the proper management of all COVID 19-related health care waste in all health facilities, community quarantine units, and temporary treatment and monitoring facilities. The EMB shall continue the strengthening of its IEC campaign on the proper management of solid waste management as well as the campaign to a sustainable lifestyle.
Figure 34. Conducted the Zero Waste Trivia Contest all throughout the month of January.
b. Philippine Water Week and World Water Day Celebration
From March 15-18, and
March 22, 2021, the Environmental Management Bureau supported two events that focused on the importance of water: Philippine Water Week and World Water Day. This year’s theme is about Valuing Water.
World Water Day celebrates water and raises awareness of the 2.2 billion people
living without access to safe water. It is about taking action to tackle the global water crisis. The central narrative of 2021’s campaign is designed to encourage people to contribute their stories, thoughts, and experiences on the value of water. In support of the celebration, the Bureau conducted the following activities:
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Figure 35. Kwentong H20 Vlog Contest, Greenviro Games, and Trivia
c. Earth Day / Earth Month Celebration
In the 51st
celebration of Earth Day, the Bureau spearheaded the campaign to #RestoreOurEarth.
The COVID-19 pandemic persists to this day, and this global disruption has
brought about several effects on the environment and climate. This includes the increased usage of face masks, face shields, and other personal protective equipment not only in hospitals but also in households and the workplace. This also led to quarantine protocols that aided in the rise of online shops that use plastic in their packaging. The continuous disinfecting of roads, commercial, and residential areas also negatively affected non-targeted beneficial species which may create ecological imbalance (US National Library of Medicine).
Despite the negative effects of the virus, the DENR-EMB is one with the
celebration of Earth Day and its theme to #RestoreOurEarth. It advocates to make a difference in every industry, which can only happen when everyone works together to help the Earth recover. In support of Earth Day, the Bureau conducted the following:
Figure 36. Earth Day Trivia/ Infographics
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E-Doodle Mo, Kid is a doodle art contest in solidarity of Earth Day 2021 celebration.
In line with Earth Day’s
theme, Restore Our Earth, this contest aims to inspire children ages 5-12 years old to cultivate their care for the Earth and the environment through art from the safety of their homes amidst the pandemic.
Mind Your Business is a
webinar that would help MSMEs improve business enterprises’ relationship with the environment thru responsible interaction with the planet to maintain natural resources and not jeopardize the ability for future generations to meet their needs.
d. World Environment Day
In the Philippines, to complement the celebration of World Environment Day, the
month of June every year is also declared the Philippine Environment Month, by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 237, signed in 1988.
The EMB invites everyone to revive the natural world that sustains us all by
imbibing the local theme, Sama-samang Pagkilos, Sama-samang Paghilom, (Ikaw, Ako, Tayo ang Kalikasan).
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In the past years up to date, there has been a rising number of MSME inclined to sustainable and ecofriendly living. This further influences communities and individuals in shifting to sustainable practices. United Nations Organization study shows that MSMEs in general, and women-led MSMEs, have been especially vulnerable to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the pandemic has also caused a dramatic shift in the business-as-usual approach and paved the way for innovations, green growth, and sustainable development.
The presence of MSMEs is important in sustaining the communities especially
women by providing essential services. They also help in providing alternative sources of livelihood for men and women who lost their jobs because of the pandemic and quarantine protocols. MSMEs served as engines driving local economies, and a key for post-pandemic recovery and rebuilding.
In this purpose, the EMB viewed MSMEs as important partners to continuously
increase environmental awareness and promote climate action through their business, products and services, clients, and communities.
The Earthpreneur Award is a recognition award that aims to reward MSMEs
initiatives and actions to promote sustainable living through MSMEs.
Aside from highlighting Filipino’s artistic talent, this Digital Poster Making Contest 2021, aims to showcase various interpretations of environmentalism and encourage more youth to join the action to restore the earth.
Sama-samang Pagkilos,
Sama-samang Paghilom also encompasses the challenges we encountered during these trying times. A united movement brings forth a ripple of change leading to the helm of restoration.
All entries to this contest must be created with digital technology and presented in
the following formats: Graphic Poster, Vector Art, 2D3D Digital Painting, Vector Art, 2D/3D Computer Graphics.
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e. International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies
The theme for this
year’s International Day of Clean Air for blue skies is “Healthy Air, Healthy Planet” which emphasizes the health effects of air pollution, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Day aims to
prioritize the need for healthy air for all while
keeping conversations broad enough to encompass other critical issues such as climate change, human and planetary health as well as the Sustainable Development Goals. It serves as a rallying call to action to collectively align efforts and claim the right to clean air.
Everyone is encouraged to take action to reduce air pollution and bring a
transformative change in our lifestyles. In support of the celebration, the Bureau also posted trivia/infographics on the EMB Facebook Page.
f. World Ozone Day The Montreal Protocol
started life as a global agreement to protect the ozone layer, a job it has done well, making it one of the most successful environmental agreements to date.
A united global effort to
phase out ozone-depleting substances means that today, the hole in the ozone layer is healing, in turn protecting human health, economies and ecosystems. But, as this year’s World Ozone Day seeks to highlight, the Montreal Protocol does so much more – such as slowing climate change and helping to boost energy efficiency in the cooling sector, which contributes to food security.
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The 16th of
September 2021 marks the 36th Anniversary Celebration of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, a Multilateral Environmental Agreement (MEA) created on 16 September 1987. Member countries of the Montreal Protocol committed to gradually reduce and eventually
eliminate production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) following a phase-out schedule for different chemicals. It is considered as the most successful international agreement to date because all 197 countries of the world have ratified the Protocol. The theme for this year's celebration is Montreal Protocol – keeping us, our food and vaccines cool.
In line with this, the Department of Environment and Natural Resource, the
Environmental Management Bureau-Philippine Ozone Desk and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization conducted a Webinar Session entitled “OZONE PROTECTION, CLIMATE ACTION AND SDGs”.
#GreenViroGames Quiz Bee Challenge is back
on its second year with the theme: Ozone to Climate. This virtual quiz bee supports the celebration of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer and aims to increase the youth's awareness on ozone protection and preservation.
g. International Coastal Clean-Up and National Clean-Up Month Presidential Proclamation No. 470
series of 2003 declares the third Saturday of September of each year as the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) Day in observance of the Global Coastal Clean-up celebrations.
International Coastal Cleanup is the
largest annual gathering of volunteers dedicated to cleaning our shores, rivers, waterways and underwater dive sites to remove trash and record information on the debris collected.
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h. World Environmental Health Day
In celebration of World Environmental Health Day, the EMB held a webinar
entitled, K-onnect²: Kalikasan at Kalusugan Para sa Likas-Kayang Kinabukasan on September 28, 2021.
The webinar was livestreamed on Zoom and Facebook Live and was joined by
experts which include Dr. Geminn Louis C. Apostol, MD, MBA, Environmental Health Specialist Center for Research and Innovation of the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health and Mr. Jon Alfonoso P. Horvidalla, Coastal Resources and Ecotourism Research, Development and Extension Center-ERDB DENR.
i. International E-Waste Day
E-waste is any kind of discarded electronic devices, such as cellphones, computers, keyboards, game consoles, TVs, and households. Tossing these things out in the open can cause hazardous and toxic chemicals to seep into the environment.
This growing crisis poses a threat to our environmental well-being. Toxic waste
can contaminate water and soil, affect our health, and contribute to carbon emissions. This year’s International E-Waste Day will focus on the crucial part each of us has
in making circularity a reality for e-products, with the theme "Consumer is the key to Circular Economy!"
j. International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week
International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is an initiative of the Lead Paint
Alliance and takes place every year during the last week of October. The purpose of the campaign week is to raise awareness of the need for action to
address the human health effects of exposure to lead, especially in relation to children. A particular focus of the campaign week is to urge further action by governments, industry and consumers to eliminate lead paint.
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k. National Clean Air Month/ National Environmental Awareness Month and Climate Change Consciousness Week
This November, the DENR-EMB celebrates a triple environmental event:
Environmental Awareness Month, National Clean Air Month, and Climate Change Consciousness Week. This month’s theme is “Nurture Nature for a Sustainable Future”.
The event’s idea is captured in the following lines: “When we were young, we were
taught to be compassionate, sympathetic, and kind, not just to our inner circle of friends and families, but to others as well. This November, let us reconnect with our roots and extend our nurturing nature to our environment and create a sustainable future for the next generation”.
The Luntiang Puso Awarding Ceremony aims to honor and recognize the Youth
Sector and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises for their outstanding contribution in environmental management and protection and in promoting sustainable living. The ceremony featured the winners of the various environmental education contests conducted by the Bureau such as: Greenviro Games Quiz Bee 2021, Digital Poster Making Contest, Pagkaing Local Plant-Based Recipe Contest: Healthy Food from Scrap, Earthpreneur Award 2021 and 2021 EMB Youth Envi Icon.
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II. Support to Solid Waste Management
A Webinar on Household Healthcare Wastes and Special Waste Management in partnership with Engr. Gerardo Mogol of the Department of Health was conducted thru Zoom last January 8, 2021 and attended by various stakeholders
Produced and promoted the Waste-To-Energy Guidelines Webinar Series.
III. Support to Air Quality Management
Launching of the Online
Permitting and Monitoring System (OPMS) Permit to Operate (PTO) last August 18, 2021. Aside from hosting the event, the EEID also produced and released a walkthrough video (AVP) of the OPMS for PTO. The video may be viewed on the EMB Facebook Page and its Youtube channel.
A Study Presentation: Air Quality Impact of the Jeepney Modernization Program
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IV. COVID-19 Information Drive
During the celebration of World Environmental Healthy Day #WEHD2021, the EMB put to spotlight the status of generated healthcare waste in the Philippines. Healthcare wastes have increased tremendously during COVID-19 pandemic. It advocated for the proper disposal of face masks, face shields, and other personal protective equipment.
V. EMB National Champions on Environmental Management (The Game Changer Communities Award
Launched by the Environmental
Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural resources (EMB-DENR) in April 2021, the EMB Regional Champion on Environmental Management or the Game Changer Communities Award aims to recognize regional champions on solid waste, air quality, water quality management, and climate change mitigation, compile and update good practices on ENR management database of EMB, and to further encourage innovative projects, programs, and activities on environmental management. After the nomination period, the EMB received a total of 46 entries.
The Game Changer Communities Awarding Ceremony was held last September 1,
2021, via Zoom app and Facebook Live. The winners were San Carlos City Environmental Management Office (1st prize), Provincial Government of South Cotabato (2nd prize), City Government of Santiago, Isabela and 7 consolation prize winners.
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I. Policy Development
The Environmental Research and Laboratory Services supports the Bureau through
generation of good quality scientific data and information to support formulation of environmental policies, standards, rules and regulations on existing and anticipated environmental issues; formulate, develop, coordinate and implement short-term and long-term research programs and other environment-related activities at the national, and regional/ international levels. a. Land Based Sources of Pollution Study - Preparation of the National Action
Plan on Land-based Pollution (Report on the Multi-stakeholders' Consultation)
The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), through the Environmental Research and Laboratory Services Division (ERLSD) has initiated and started a preliminary activity last 2019. The purpose of the activity is for DENR-EMB to strengthen the participation of the Philippines in the upcoming Implementation of the Strategic Action Programme for the South China Sea and Gulf of Thailand (SCS-SAP Project), which is a project implemented by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF). Under the preliminary activity, DENR-EMB facilitated the conduct of preliminary data and information gathering through a survey and prepared a proposed outline and planned activities that will be considered in the National Action Plan.
In 2020, the Bureau initially targeted the preparation of the National Action Plan
on Land-based Pollution (NAP-LbP) in preparation for the implementation of the Strategic Action Program for the South China Sea (SCS-SAP) Project. Last 05 February 2021, a consultation meeting between the SCS-SAP Project Implementation Unit (PIU) and the EMB SCS-SAP Team was conducted, and during the said meeting it was emphasized that there is an urgent need to prepare the inputs to the overall NIR where particularly the EMB is tasked for the LbP, one of the six components of the SCS-SAP Project.
The SCS-SAP Project Implementation Unit (PIU) advised EMB SCS-SAP Team
to prioritize the preparation of a National Implementation Report on Land-based Pollution (NIR-LbP), which will be part of the overall country NIR to be submitted to the SCS-SAP Project Steering Committee for approval. The SCS-SAP Project is planned to be implemented from July 2021 to June 2023. Also, it was clarified that the Project guidance documents, including the methodology for the preparation of the NAP, are still under preparation and therefore the NAP-LbP preparation should be done at a later stage.
The Bureau with the EMB SCS-SAP Team and Engr. David (the engaged
Resource Person) conducted a series of consultation meetings to plan the direction of EMB in preparing the NIR-LbP for the SCS-SAP Project (Figure 06). A consultation workshop for the preparation of the National Implementation Report on Land-Based Pollution was conducted last 23 March through Zoom. The activity was participated in by concerned Divisions of the EMB-CO and Regional Offices. The inputs gathered during the workshop are being consolidated which will be used for the preparation of NIR-LbP. Meetings were conducted for the gathering of relevant
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additional inputs and reviewed of NIR-LbP and attended by the EMB SCS-SAP Team, concerned Regional Directors with their staff and with the Resource Person.
The NIR-LbP was submitted and endorsed to Biodiversity Management Bureau
last October 2021. Figure 30 shows the cover and some the content of the NIR-LbP.
Figure 37. Excerpts from the Philippines: National Implementation Report on Land-based Pollution
b. Establishment of National Research and Development Program for the
Prevention and Control of Water Pollution (NRDP-PCWP) - (Initial Draft NRDP-PCWP)
To support the establishment of the NRDP-PCWP, the ERLSD with the
Environmental Quality Management Division - Water Quality Management Section (EQMD-WQMS) organized and facilitated the conduct of the Forum on Prevention and Control of Water Pollution last 13-14 November 2019. A report containing the forum highlights and way forward for the NRDP-PCWP was submitted by the Resource Person.
The establishment of national research and development program for the
prevention and control of water pollution is stipulated in RA 9275, the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004. The corresponding Implementing Rules and Regulations (DAO 2005-10) Rule 24 states that the Department through the Bureau, in coordination with the Department of Science and Technology, other agencies, the private sector, the academe, non-government organizations, and POs shall establish a National Research and Development Program for the Prevention and Control of Water Pollution.
The NRDP-PCWP Roadmap 2021-2030 along with the corresponding Complete
Staff Work was submitted last May 2021. Figure 31 shows the cover and one of its pages of the draft NRDP-PCWP Roadmap 2021-2030.
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Figure 38. Cover and one of its pages of the draft NRDP-PCWP Roadmap 2021-2030
b. Environmental Research Studies
a. Acid Deposition Monitoring and Research
Acid deposition monitoring and research in the Philippines are conducted in
accordance with the activities of the Acid Deposition Monitoring Network in East Asia (EANET). The Philippines is one of the 13 participating countries of the EANET and the EMB Central Office is the National Center.
The ERLSD conducted the following activities for Acid Deposition Monitoring and
Research:
➢ Weekly wet and dry deposition (WD and DD) monitoring to provide fundamental data for the temporal and spatial distribution of acid deposition at the established sites;
➢ Quarterly Inland aquatic environment (IAE) monitoring to gather data in assessing effects of acid deposition on the aquatic ecosystems;
➢ Monthly Catchment-scale (CS) monitoring to gather basic data in evaluating the effects of acid deposition qualitatively and quantitatively on a catchment scale; and
➢ Soil and vegetation (S&V) monitoring to gather data in assessing effects of acid deposition on terrestrial ecosystems. However, due to the implementation of ECQ and GCQ the scheduled S&V monitoring activities were not undertaken.
1) Wet and Dry Acid Deposition
For the wet deposition monitoring, samples collected included rainwater and
the field blank and raw blank samples while, for the dry deposition monitoring, samples are filter packs, each pack consists of four-stage filters. Wet Deposition (rainwater) and Dry Deposition (ambient air) Monitoring at the Metro Manila (MM) site located at the Manila Observatory Grounds, Ateneo de Manila University has been a continuing activity which is done on a weekly basis.
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A total of 59 rainwater samples for wet deposition monitoring and 47 filter pack samples for dry deposition monitoring were collected for CY 2021.
Figure 39. Wet and dry deposition monitoring located in Manila Observatory,
Ateneo de Manila University and filter-pack samples collected
2) Inland Aquatic Environment Monitoring
Quarterly monitoring of Lake Pandin, the monitoring site for IAE was
undertaken. A total of 8 lake water samples (including duplicates for quality assurance/quality control [QA/QC] purposes) were collected in CY 2021.
Figure 40. Sampling personnel conducting such disk for turbidity while another
sampling personnel conducts collected of water samples through grab sampling
3) Catchment-Scale (CS) Monitoring
Monitoring of stream water at Tower 1 Catchment Area in the La Mesa
Watershed is conducted monthly. CS monitoring includes the collection of stream water sample for the laboratory analysis of the required parameters; in situ measurement of basic water quality; and measurement of stream flow. CS monitoring is done to gather baseline data as input in the interpretation of seasonal changes in stream water chemistry based on atmospheric deposition and/or other biogeochemical pathways.
A total of 12 stream water samples were collected for catchment-scale
monitoring in CY 2021.
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Figure 41. Sampling personnel conducting in-situ measurement using a portable multi-parameter water quality checker and collection of water sample through grab sampling.
4) Soil and Vegetation Monitoring The Philippines, as a member of the network, monitors and reports changes
in vegetation and soil periodically at selected location in the country to determine the extent and impact of acid deposition in this part of the East Asian region. The frequency of M&V monitoring is 3-5 years. Three of the four sites established in the Philippines, were scheduled for the monitoring activities, namely, the Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve in the University of the Philippines, Los Baños College in Laguna; the UP Quezon-Laguna Land Grant in Siniloan, Quezon, both representing rural site, and the Boneco Long Term Ecological Research Station in Itogon, Benguet, which represents a remote site.
The monitoring activities were first scheduled during the 1st quarter of 2020,
however, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and changing restrictions in various municipalities, the monitoring for both rural sites will be rescheduled during the 2nd quarter of 2022.
5) Inter-Laboratory Comparison Project
The Inter-laboratory Comparison Project (ILCP) was conducted among the
analytical laboratories in the participating countries of the EANET based on the quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) programs of EANET.
Through the evaluation of analytical skills, analytical equipment and
operating condition and other practices of participating laboratories, the objectives of the ICP are: (i) to recognize the analytical precision and accuracy of the measurement in each participating laboratory, (ii) to give further opportunities to improve the quality of the analysis on the wet deposition, dry deposition (filter pack method), soil and inland aquatic monitoring of EANET and lastly, (iii) to improve the reliability of analytical data through the assessment of suitable analytical methods and techniques.
The ILCP is implemented by the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research
(ACAP), Network Center (NC) for the EANET annually for the following items: (a) wet deposition, (b) dry deposition, (c) soil, and (d) inland aquatic environment.
For this activity, four (4) reports of PH01 Laboratory Report for the Inter-
Laboratory Comparison Projects 2020 of the ACAP, namely Wet Deposition,
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Filter Pack, Inland Aquatic Environment, and Soil were prepared, checked and submitted for endorsement to the National Focal Point for EANET on 01 June 2021.
6) Updating of the Philippines’ National Monitoring Plan FY 2021
EANET participating countries review and update their individual National
Monitoring Plan (NMP) each year. The NMP contains the information of participating countries on the monitoring sites, sampling method and frequency, analytical methodology on each EANET monitoring activity that is being undertaken. The Philippines reviewed the NMP that was submitted last July 2020 then updated accordingly with the inputs from the AQMS, ERLSD and PPPDD in relation to the EANET monitoring activities being undertaken. The updated NMP for CY 2021 was submitted to the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP) last August 17, 2021.
b. Toxicity Testing
Toxicity tests provides information on the effects on growth, reproduction, and
survival of representative organisms due to exposure to test substances that could be chemicals, effluent, ambient water and sediment. It is also used in assessment of aquatic ecosystem as it complements physical and chemical characterization to provide an enhanced assessment of the environmental quality.
Last June 2021, zeolite samples were submitted to the EMB Central Office
Laboratory for toxicity tests. A total of four tests were performed to determine the toxicity of zeolite samples in bioluminescent test organisms, Vibrio fischeri and ostracod crustacean, Heterocypris incongruence.
Another activity under toxicity testing is the study on Toxicity Assessment of River Sediment. This aims to gather baseline toxicity data for river sediments through conduct of sediment toxicity tests. This activity is in support to the derivation of interim sediment quality guidelines (SedQG) for metals in freshwater sediment. Water, pore water and sediment samples collected from the study sites in Santa Cruz and Panalabauan River were subjected to 6-day direct-contact toxicity test using benthic ostracod (Heterocypris incongruens) to determine sub-lethal (growth inhibition) and lethal effects (mortality) of these samples to the test organisms.
Figure 42. A laboratory personnel conducts the toxicity testing using benthic ostracod (Heterocypris incongruens)
A total of sixty-one (61) samples were collected for this study. Sediment toxicity test entails a long process and takes eleven (11) days to complete, thus, samples were batched into 8 test runs to accommodate all collected samples. The first three batches of toxicity test were conducted, last September 20-27,2021 (nine samples),
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September 22-28,2021 (nine samples), September 24-30, 2021 (eight samples), while the rest were conducted last October 1-7, 2021 (seven samples), October 6-12,2021 (seven samples), October 14-20,2021 (nine samples), November 5-11, 2021 (nine samples), November 10-16, 2021 (three samples). Each batch were run along with a clean reference sediment and tests were conducted in triplicates. After toxicity test runs, the data gathered were computed, consolidated and evaluated for the preparation of the Report of Analyses.
c. Gathering of Baseline Data for Establishment of Polynuclear Aromatic
Hydrocarbons (PAHs) Levels in Ambient Air
This activity aims to develop guideline values for selected hazardous air pollutants. For 2021, one of the identified pollutants in which the guideline values will be developed was for Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in ambient air particulate matter.
Relative to this, capacity building was conducted to EMB Central Laboratory for the analysis of PAHs in such matrices early in 2021. The methods used as references included Compendium Method TO-13A: Determination of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Ambient Air Using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) and Method 16362: Ambient Air – Determination of particle-phase polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by high performance liquid chromatography of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
In coordination with the project’s Technical Service Provider, EMB focused its
efforts on establishing the instrument method for this analysis using Gas Chromatography with Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry. The developed method is suited for the analysis of 16 priority PAHs using the internal standard method.
The EMB Central Office is now waiting for the extracts of the samples to be relinquished to the laboratory for instrumental analysis and quantitation as part of the project’s arrangements. Since the project involved submission of ambient air filter samples from all EMB Regional Offices nationwide, it is expected that around 1,000 samples will be submitted to EMB Central Office Laboratory for PAH analysis after the samples are extracted at the University of the Philippines – Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology.
Figure 43. Instrument Method Development for PAHs Analysis in Ambient Air using GC/MS/MS
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d. Establishment of Enterococci & Escherichia coli as indicators of Environmental Fecal Contamination in water and wastewater using Multiple-tube Fermentation Technique and Fluorogenic Substrate Test (Enzyme Substrate)
A technical report entitled “Establishment of Enterococci & Escherichia coli as
indicators of Environmental Fecal Contamination in water and wastewater using multiple tube Fermentation Technique and Fluorogenic Substrate Test (Enzyme Substrate)” was prepared for this study. In support to this, a total of seven (7) Reports of Analyses were prepared.
c. Environmental Laboratory Services a. Analysis of Environmental Samples
Figure 44. Analysts conducting the tests
The Bureau was able to analyze a total of 56,487 environmental samples to
support the various monitoring activities and projects of the Bureau (i.e., Acid Deposition Monitoring, Catchment-Scale Monitoring, Inland Aquatic Environment Monitoring, Soil and Vegetation Monitoring, Air and Water Quality Monitoring, Manila Bay Rehabilitation Project, Pasig River Rehabilitation Project, etc.). The analyzed samples resulted in a total of 225,932 sample determinations, which include primary water quality parameters, cations (ammonia, potassium, calcium, sodium) anions (sulfate, nitrate), fecal coliform, phenol and phenolic substances, etc.
b. Establishment of New Analytical Testing Capabilities
i. Volatile Organic Compounds in Water, Volatile and Semi-volatile
Organics in Wastes and Polybrominated Diphenylethers in Electronic Wastes
For 2021, the EMB through the ERLSD – Environmental Laboratory Services
Section (Organics Laboratory Unit), targeted to establish analytical testing capabilities for a number of organic compound families in varied matrices in anticipation of future policies relating electronic and other hazardous wastes and in complementing present policies on water quality management. The EMB has completed the acquisition of the required resources in the 4th Quarter of 2021. Delay was due to the length of the procurement process and delay in the delivery of imported chemicals, standards, and equipment, especially because of the on-going COVID-19 pandemic.
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In the case of Volatile Organic Compounds in water, a Gas Chromatograph with Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer was acquired by the EMB Central Laboratory and was hyphenated with a Purge-and-Trap Automatic Sampler. The configuration is suited for the detection of trace-level VOCs in water samples. The method requirements to be used in the process will be based on US EPA Method 8260 and priority is given to benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes and trichloroethylene.
Figure 45. Shimadzu GC/MS with Purge-and-Trap Autosampler for VOCs
For volatiles and semi-volatiles in wastes, the EMB has acquired extractor
systems for these compounds that meet the requirements of US EPA Method 1311, or the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure. The method is designed to determine mobility of certain toxic components in the samples and mimic leaching processes in a landfill. This is used to evaluate toxicity of samples and establish whether the sample can be classified as a hazardous waste according to DENR Administrative Order No. 22, series of 2013. Presently, only metals are being tested through TCLP and organic compounds are not yet included in the panel of tests for hazardous waste characterization.
Figure 46. End-user training for the operation of the Zero-Headspace TCLP Extractor
Finally, another as Chromatograph with Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer was commissioned in the EMB Central Laboratory for use on the analysis of Polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs) in electronic wastes. Commissioning was completed also in the 4th quarter of 2021.
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Figure 47. Agilent GC/MS commissioned for PBDE and SVOC Analysis
ii. Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (NPK) analysis in soil and compost, and Bromide and Organic Acids in Water
This CY 2021, the EMB through the
ERLSD-Inorganics Laboratory Unit (ILU) is also programmed to establish the analysis of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (NPK) in soil and compost. This is to support the project of Solid Waste Management Division which is to prepare compost from backyard and kitchen wastes. The EMB had procured the necessary chemicals and standards to establish this analysis. At present, the chemicals were already acquired except for the certified reference material (CRM). This CRM is needed to evaluate the accuracy and precision of the test. On the other hand, the other target parameter of ILU to be establish are the analysis of Bromide and Organic Acids in water. This establishment of parameters is to support the Acid Deposition Monitoring Project to complete the mandatory analysis in Wet Deposition samples. At present, the EMB had acquired the necessary chemicals and consumables for the establishment of Bromide, hence this was established. As for the Organic Acids analysis, the ILU is currently waiting for the delivery of Ion Chromatograph column which is needed for this analysis.
iii. Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) Analysis in Ambient Air Particulate Matter
In support to Environmental Quality Management Division (EQMD) – Air
Quality Management Section (AQMS) to establish ambient air quality guideline values for PAHs, EMB through the Organics Laboratory Unit of ERLSD, targeted to establish analytical testing capability for PAHs in ambient air particulate matter. The established method is based on ISO 16362:2005 for the preparative method which makes use of different extraction processes such as Pressurized Fluid Extraction (PFE) followed by determination using Gas Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (GC/MSMS). The EMB acquired a copy of the ISO standard from the Bureau of Philippine Standards and acquired the required chemicals, standards, and equipment to perform the said analysis.
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Relative to the PAHs ambient air quality guideline values, the analysis of sample extracts by GC/MSMS is expected to commence in January 2022 according to the Technical Service Provider for this undertaking.
Figure 48. Pressurized Fluid Extraction and GC/MSMS Analysis of PAHs
iv. Coliforms in Sediments using Multiple Tube Fermentation Technique
This study is proposed to assess microbiological quality of environmental sediments in which it specifically, aims to: (1) detect and enumerate the Total and Fecal Coliforms in Philippine environmental sediments; (2) generate microbiological baseline data; (3) establish the bacteriological capability on the analyses for possible inclusions in the sediment analysis; (4) provide scientific basis that will support the establishment of Total and Fecal Coliforms in environmental sediments as the increasing accumulation of coliforms in the sediments present the human caused contamination also to assess whether a biological marker may also be used for long-term indication of coliform accumulation in marine systems. Research results will serve as scientific evidence in formulating standards and guidelines by the regulatory offices in the Philippines.
Sediments were collected from four (4) stations selected according to its
sediment characteristics and known contaminated land sources. Sampling was performed in April 2021 (Dry Season) and in October 2021 (Wet Season) were transferred in the field to sterile glass bottles then placed on ice and processed within 6 h of collection and analyzed for the detection of Total & Fecal Coliforms using Multiple-tube Fermentation Technique. A total number of eight (8) samples were taken from 4 sampling sites.
A total of two (2) laboratory reports was prepared to support the various
research and monitoring activities.
v. Coliforms in Biota Analysis
The study undertaken with the objectives of (1) determining the numbers of viable coliforms in shellfish samples, specifically mussels in terms of Total and Fecal Coliforms bacterial loads in Philippine environmental biota; (2) generate microbiological baseline data; (3) establish the bacteriological laboratory capability on the analysis biota tests; (4) provide scientific basis that will support the establishment of Total and Fecal Coliforms in environmental biota specifically shellfish-Mussels as the increasing accumulation of coliforms in shellfishes may present the human caused contamination also to assess whether a biological marker may also be used for long-term indication of coliform accumulation in marine systems. Research results will serve as scientific evidence in formulating standards and guidelines by the regulatory offices in the Philippines.
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Figure 49. Conduct of Coliforms in Biota Analysis
Shellfish samples were collected from one (1) station and selected according
to its known contaminated land sources. Sampling was performed monthly and
transported to the laboratory from the filed using sterile ice chest and processed
for analysis within 6 h of collection for the detection of Total & Fecal Coliforms
using Multiple-tube Fermentation Technique. A total number of seven (7)
samples were taken from 1 sampling site.
A total of seven (7) laboratory reports was prepared to support the various
research and monitoring activities.
vi. Metals in Air Particulates
In support to the derivation of criteria guidelines for selected Hazardous Air Pollutants (HazAP), the EMB had programmed to establish the analysis of Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury in air particulates. This year, the EMB acquired the X-Ray Fluoresence (XRF) Spectrophotometer which is the main equipment used to detect metals in air particulates (particulates bound in filters) quantitatively. The Bureau also acquired the necessary consumables and standards for the establishment of this analyses.
From September until December 2021, the Bureau had analyzed 558 filters
coming from various locations from the Philippines. The results were submitted to IESM for data analysis and for further statistical treatment.
Figure 50. Filters analyzed for metals using XRF Spectrophotometer
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c. Maintenance, Calibration and Upgrading of Laboratory Equipment
This activity is necessary in ensuring the accuracy of the instrument used for both
final determinative step and for measuring. A total of 1,105 (Central – 348 and Region – 757) equipment calibrated and maintained nationwide in CY 2021.
d. Environmental and Quality Management System (EQMS) Implementation
This activity aims to ensure compliance of EMB to pertinent environmental and
other applicable laws to the operation of a laboratory. a. EMB Laboratory Wastewater Monitoring
For the first semester of 2021, analysis of the 22 samples collected was done by
the EMB Central Office Laboratory (See Figure 51). For the second semester, the
24 samples collected were endorsed to a third-party testing laboratory based on one
of the recommendations during the ISO 14001:2015 external audits conducted
previously. OMLI Workplace Environment Monitoring & Allied Services, Inc. was the
subcontracting laboratory which was awarded Job Order for this activity after the
procurement process.
Figure 51. Sampling personnel conducted EMB CO Laboratory Wastewater Sampling
For 2021, a total of 46 samples was collected and analyzed as part of this
monitoring activity. Collection was facilitated by the designated Pollution Control
Officer with assistance from the Environmental Research and Laboratory Services
Division.
b. Submission of Reportorial Requirements (EMB, PDEA and PNP)
Concerning the reportorial requirements EMB for all permits and clearances
requiring this, the following were accomplished/ submitted:
1. FY 2020 Second Semester Compliance Monitoring Report with Project
Environmental Monitoring and Audit Prioritization Scheme (PEMAPS)
Questionnaire (2 reports)
2. FY 2021 1st to 3rd Quarter Self-Monitoring Reports (3 reports)
3. Updated Impact Management Plan (1 report)
4. Updated Environmental Monitoring Plan with Environmental Quality
Performance Levels for PD 1586 compliance (1 report)
5. Monthly consumption reports for PNP-regulated chemicals (12 reports)
6. Semi-annual report for PDEA-regulated chemicals (2 reports)
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c. Renewal of Permits and Clearances
For CY 2021, the permits initially targeted for renewal include PNP Purchaser’s
License for Controlled Chemicals and PDEA License to Handle Controlled
Precursors and Essential Chemicals (CPECS). The PNP License was renewed on
September 10, 2021 and will expire until May 17, 2021. The PDEA License, on the
other hand, was renewed on October 29, 2021 and is set to expire on October 30,
2022.
Other permits secured this 2021 include three Permits to Transport (PTTs) for the hazardous wastes of EMB Central Office following the requirements of DENR Administrative Order No. 22, series of 2013.
Figure 52. 2021 Hauling of EMB CO Hazardous Wastes
e. Implementation of DAO 98-63 (Environmental Laboratory Recognition
Scheme)
The ELR scheme covers 44 parameters and 118 analytical methods for water and wastewater, 8 parameters and 8 analytical methods for ambient air, 14 parameters and 14 analytical methods for stationary source emissions, 16 parameters and 2 analytical methods for waste characterization, 1 parameter group and 1 analytical method for transformer and waste oil, and 12 parameter groups for sediment and biota.
The following activities were carried out for CY 2021:
• Assessment of 49 environmental laboratories o Initial assessment of two (2) applicant laboratories; o Level 2 assessment of 32 laboratories; and o Monitoring and Reassessment of 15 laboratories
• Evaluation and review of laboratory documents conducted by the TAG-LR for 43 environmental laboratories; and
• Assessment of 16 EMB regional laboratories.
21 of these applicant laboratories were issued a Certificate of Recognition (CoR) this year, and 12 laboratories with amendment to Certificate of Recognition, were also issued.
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4. GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT (GAD)
I. Women’s Month Celebration In celebration of Women’s Month
and International Women’s Day, the EMB Central Office launches its Gender and Development Corner in the official website. Visitors of the DENR-EMB Central Office Website can now interact with the following features: Gender and Development (GAD) Report from different EMB Regional Offices, GAD Laws and Policies, GAD Focal Point System, GAD Plans and Budgets, GAD Information, Education, and
Communication Materials, The website also contains news, announcements, and GAD trivia.
In support of the celebration of
Women’s Month, Environmental management Bureau – DENR produced series of infographics about Gender and development – Women for their contribution to environmental protection.
Figure 54. Greenvirogames – Womens Month Edition In support for the celebration of Women’s Month. This Greenvirogames was posted in EMB Facebook Page.
Figure 53. The EMB-DENR also revamped the GAD Corner found in every bulletin in the Office’s buildings.
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II. “From Vacant to Vibrant: Urban Gardening Webinar Ft Hydroponics,
Aquaponics, and Square-Foot Gardening”
This event was part of the Environmental Management Bureau's celebration of Women’s Month with the theme Juana Laban sa Pandemya: Kaya!. This webinar From Vacant to Vibrant: Urban Gardening Webinar Ft Hydroponics, Aquaponics, And Square-Foot Gardening also aims to inspire and empower participants to successfully design and implement sustainable urban gardening in their homes or in their communities held last April 13, 2021, via Zoom app and Facebook live.
The resource speakers were Mr. Jomar
Tabor Agricultural Training Institute of the Department of Agriculture demonstrated an online training- workshop on basics of urban gardening, how to plant using recycled materials, and square foot gardening and Dr. Chito Sace of Agricultural Training Institute of the Department of Agriculture demonstrated an online training- workshop the Hydroponics and aquaponics. This webinar attended by 256 participants.
III. “Put Waste in the Right Place: An Ecofriendly Option for Used Cooking Oil”
Gender and Development of Environmental Management Bureau – DENR conducts a webinar about “Put Waste in the Right Place: An Ecofriendly Option for Used Cooking Oil”. The webinar included learning how to dispose your hazardous household waste facilitated by Engr. Geri-Geronimo Sañez, Chief of the Hazardous Waste Management Section Environmental Quality Management Division-EMB. It also involved the presentation of the best practices of the Marikina City LGU on household hazardous waste through a presentation by Mr. Oliver Villamena, City Environmental Officer, CEMO Marikina. Mr. Jett Severa and Mr. Jerome Dueñas of Renergy System Inc also shared their Community Livelihood Training on Used Cooking Oil via Zoom app and Facebook Live last October 12, 2021. This webinar was attended by 563 participants.
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IV. “Cracking the Mushroom Farming Secret Webinar”
Gender and Development of Environmental management Bureau – DENR conducts a webinar about “Cracking the Mushroom Farming Secret”. The objectives of this webinar are to inform community leaders on the basic ways and techniques of mushroom farming and how it can contribute to a clean and healthy environment and to provide knowledge on how mushroom farming can provide a source of livelihood and sustainable income, with the resource speaker Ms. Hazel Pacis of Department of Agricultural- Bureau of Plant and Industries via Zoom app and Facebook live last November 23, 2021. This webinar was attended by 116 participants.
B. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (ALLOTMENT, OBLIGATION AND DISBURSEMENT)
The Bureau faced various challenges regarding maximizing the rate of utilization and disbursement. As we have gone through a series of lockdowns due to COVID-19 pandemic delays were incurred in the processing of financial documents. Out of the total allotment of the Bureau amounting to Php 3,926,040,654.05, the following are the Bureau’s Budget Utilization Rate:
C. POLICIES ISSUED (SUBMITTED AND APPROVED BY THE PTWG)
1. Title: Chemical Control Order for Cadmium and Cadmium Compounds (See Annex P) Policy Number: DAO 2021-08
This policy aims to reduce the risk of exposure to human health and the
environment of cadmium and cadmium compounds used in industry processes, increase awareness on the toxicity of cadmium and its compounds, as well as the availability of technically superior and safe alternatives, ensure the proper implementation of the existing framework and appropriate prevention-based programs to mitigate, reduce and eliminate risks from the use of cadmium and cadmium compounds and provide guidelines to identify potential cadmium release/exposure in industrial facilities to reduce workers’ cadmium exposure.
2. Title: Chemical Control Order for Chromium(VI) and Chromium(VI) Compounds (See
Annex Q) Policy Number: DAO 2021-09
Details Amount Percentage
Total Obligations 3,834,135,223.85 98%
Total Disbursements 3,480,482,646.56 91%
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This DAO is issued to reduce the risk of exposure to human health and the environment of chromium(VI) compounds used in industry processes, increase awareness on the toxicity of chromium(VI) compounds and the availability of technically superior and safe alternatives, ensure the proper implementation of the existing framework and appropriate prevention-based programs to mitigate, reduce and eliminate risks from the use of chromium(VI) compounds and provide guidelines to identify potential chromium(VI) compounds release/exposure in industrial facilities.
3. Title: Amendment of Some Provisions of DAO 2010-06: Guidelines on the Use of
Alternative Fuels and Raw Materials in Cement Kilns (See Annex R) Policy Number: DAO 2021-14
This DAO addresses the increasing generation of waste specifically Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE). The guideline allows Non-Pathological Infectious Healthcare Wastes (PPEs, face masks and respirators, face shields, surgical gloves, etc. that are made of polyethylene, polypropylene, neoprene, butyl rubber, and nitrile) and Treated Non-Pathological Infectious Healthcare Wastes (non-pathological infectious healthcare wastes that have been certified as treated by an EMB-registered Treatment, Storage, and Disposal (TSD) facility) to be co-processed as alternative fuel and raw materials in cement kilns.
4. Title: Updated Water Quality Guidelines (WQG) and General Effluent Standards
(GES) for Selected Parameters (See Annex S) Policy Number: DAO 2021-19
This DAO is issued to update the water quality guidelines for selected
parameters based on the current classification of waterbodies and on tis beneficial use. In addition, the effluent standards for selected parameters are updated based on its perceived impact to the activities in the area and to the environment.
5. Title: Designation of Bolo River System as Water Quality Management Area and
Creation of its Governing Board (See Annex T) Policy Number: DAO 2021-23
This DAO aims to manage sustainably the Bolo River through stakeholders’
engagement to protect its other water resources and improve its water quality that is necessary for long-term support to agriculture, industries, fisheries and households that are all dependent on the river.
6. Title: Designation of Panglao Island and Coastal Waters as a Water Quality Management Area and Creation of its Governing Board (See Annex U) Policy Number: DAO 2021-24
This DAO is issued to improve and maintain the water quality of Panglao Island
Costal Waters and thereby contribute to the enhancement of Tagbilaran City and the municipalities of Dauis and Panglao as tourism and economic destinations and serve the best interest of the communities and stakeholders.
7. Title: Adoption of the National Plan of Action for the Prevention, Reduction and Management of Marine Litter (NPOA-ML) (See Annex V) Policy Number: DMC 2021-10
This Department Memorandum Circular aims for the NPOA-ML to provide
guidance to enhance the current efforts of the country in resource and waste management and to bring the additional perspective to marine litter issues and the control of additional leakage of waste into bodies of water.
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IV. BUREAU/AAS MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF PRIORITY PROGRAMS/PROJECTS
Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022 The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is part of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) Chapter 20: Ensuring Ecological Integrity, Clean and Healthy Environment. The key outcome of this chapter is to ensure ecological integrity and improve the socio-economic condition of resource-based communities through sustainable integrated area development. Under the subsector outcome on “environmental quality improved”, the Bureau has three (3) indicators implemented/monitored from air quality, water quality and solid waste management.
1. Air Quality: Percentage of highly urbanized and other major urban centers within ambient air quality guideline value increased
2. Water Quality: Percentage of priority water bodies within water quality guidelines increased
3. Solid Waste: Solid waste diversion rate increased
During the PDP midterm assessment held in CY 2020, the Planning Committee headed by DENR-Undersecretary for Policy, Planning and International Affairs added a new indicator “Healthcare waste managed” to address COVID-related. Accomplishment and Summary of PDP Results Matrix can be shown in Annex W. The implementation of the above-mentioned indicators became a challenge for the Bureau as these indicators need collective effort from other National Government Agencies (NGAs) and stakeholders (e.g., Department of Transportation, Department of Interior and Local Government, Water Concessionaire, etc.).
One of the major factors for not achieving the target is securing a 75% data capture requirement for the air quality monitoring stations due to malfunctioning and obsolescence of equipment. Non-conformity to the water quality standards (specifically for fecal coliform) was due to agricultural run-off and domestic sources near the water bodies. Lastly, for solid waste management, the data submitted are based only on the projected solid waste diversion rate of the LGUs from the approved 10-year Solid Waste Management Plan and not the actual data from LGUs.
V. TABLES AND ANNEXES A. Physical Performance
See attached Annex X.
B. Annexes
ANNEX DETAILS
A Guidelines for Payment of Fines and Penalties for Violation of Environmental Laws, Rules and Regulations during the Implementation of Community Quarantine (EMB MC 2021-10)
B Guidelines in the Enforcement, Execution, and Collection of Imposed Fines and Penalties by the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) (EMB MC 2021-13)
C Adoption of Interim Protocols in the Conduct of Remote Site Activities in the Implementation of all laws under the Mandate of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) during the COVID-19 Pandemic (EMB MC 2021-02)
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ANNEX DETAILS
D Adoption of the Manual for Siting and Design of the Philippine Air Quality Monitoring Stations (EMB MC 2021-06)
E Adoption of the Manual on Data Handling Protocols for Criteria Air Pollutants (EMB MC 2021-07)
F Establishment of an Integrated Air Quality Network Center that Monitors and Serves as Repository of Real-Time Industrial Emission from Firms Required to Install Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS) / Continuous Opacity Monitoring System (COMS) through the Use of a Uniform Data Acquisition and Handling System (DAHS), and in Relation to Clarify Pertinent Provisions of Department Administrative Order No. 2017 – 14 (EMB MC 2021-14)
G Clarifying the Requirements stated under Section 14, Rule XIX of Department Administrative Order No. 2000-81 (EMB MC 2021-15)
H Clarification on the Implementation of Section 10 of DENR Administrative Order No. 2016-08 (EMB MC 2021-01)
I Clarification on the Issuance of Certificate of Accreditation as Pollution Control Officers (PCO) (EMB MC 2021-16)
J Documentary Requirements for Minor Amendment (Non-Technical) of Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) under the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System (EMB MC 2021-05)
K Amendment of EMB Memorandum Circular No. 2014-05 (Annex A) relative to the Reclassification of Steel and other Steel-related Projects as Metal Industries (EMB MC 2021-12)
L 2021 Updated Philippine Inventory of Chemicals and Chemicals Substances (EMB MC 2021-08)
M Guidelines in the Implementation of Globally Harmonized System (GHS) Classification and Labelling Requirements for Chemical Mixtures (EMB MC 2021-09)
N Registration of Service Providers of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) using Equipment (EMB MC 2021-11)
O Guidance on the Registration Requirements for Category A Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage and Disposal (TSD) Facility (EMB MC 2021-03)
P Chemical Control Order for Cadmium and Cadmium Compounds (DAO 2021-08)
Q Chemical Control Order for Chromium(VI) and Chromium(VI) Compounds (DAO 2021-09)
R Amendment of Some Provisions of DAO 2010-06: Guidelines on the Use of Alternative Fuels and Raw Materials in Cement Kilns (DAO 2021-14)
S Updated Water Quality Guidelines (WQG) and General Effluent Standards (GES) for Selected Parameters (DAO 2021-19)
T Designation of Bolo River System as Water Quality Management Area and Creation of its Governing Board (DAO 2021-23)
U Designation of Panglao Island and Coastal Waters as a Water Quality Management Area and Creation of its Governing Board (DAO 2021-24)
V Adoption of the National Plan of Action for the Prevention, Reduction and Management of Marine Litter (NPOA-ML) (DMC 2021-10)
W PDP Results Matrix 2017-2022
X Physical Accomplishment Report for CY 2021
Y Foreign Assisted and Special Projects
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VI. Prospects for CY 2022
Air Quality Management
For CY 2022, the Bureau will be targeting the following policies in relation to Air Quality
Management:
a. Policy Review and Update on Stationary Source Mass Emission Rate Standards
(MERS) Phase 2
b. Guidelines on Ambient Air Quality Guideline Values / Standards for Hazardous Air
Pollutants - Phase 3
c. Guidelines on Accreditation of CEMS/COMS Audit Service Providers
d. Guidelines on Emission Charge System
e. Updating of DAO 2000 - 82 Philippine Integrated Air Quality Improvement
Framework - National Air Quality Control Action Plan
Water Quality Management I. Upgrading of Water Quality Management Information System Database
An upgrade is being developed for the system in CY 2021. The said upgrade covers all
ambient water quality monitoring data collected and will be collected by the Environmental Management Bureau through manual sampling and profiling of waterbodies which are for record and safekeeping for reference, analysis, evaluation, and study. The system also incorporates the merging of the data acquired by the proposed real-time water quality monitoring system and with the EMB integrated information system in the future. This new system builds from the existing Water Quality Management Information System with enhancement on the gray areas and issues encountered of the previous version of the system.
II. Policy Formulation
The Bureau will be targeting the following policies in CY 2022:
1. Guidelines on the Designation of Waterbodies as Non-Attainment Area (NAA) or Attainment Area (AAs)
2. Supplemental Rules and Regulations on the Nationwide Implementation of the Wastewater Charge System under Rules 13 and 14 of DAO 2005-10
Solid Waste Management
The Bureau will be targeting the following policies in relation to Solid Waste Management:
1. Policy for the Technical Standards of Waste-to-Energy (WtE) Facility on
Appropriately Controlled Combustion
2. Formulation of the Policy on the Guidelines for BAT & BEP for Waste-to-Energy
(WtE) Facilities
Chemicals Management I. Policy Formulation
The Bureau will be targeting the following policies in CY 2022:
1. Chemical Control Order (CCO) for Benzene
2. Chemical Control Order (CCO) for Vinyl Chloride Monomer
II. Project proposals are expected to be implemented by June 2022 (POPs/UPOPs) and
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December 2022 (Healthcare Waste). PCB-WEEE project will be extended until
December 2022 and the POPSEA is an ongoing monitoring project.
III. More improvements in the OPMS. Among the improvements are on the report
generation.
Hazardous Waste Management The Bureau will be targeting the Amendment of DAO 2013-22 "Revised Procedures and
Standards for the Management of Hazardous Waste". Environmental Impact Assessment I. Policy Formulation
The Bureau will be targeting the following policies in CY 2022:
1. Updated Guidelines on the Registration of EIA Individual Preparers and Consulting Firms and on Organizing an EIA Team for the Preparation of EIS or EPRMP; and
2. Integration of DOST-PHIVOLCS’ GeoRiskPH in the conduct of EIA
II. Revision of IEE Checklist/Preparation of ECC template per Sector III. Enhancement of EIA Online Information System and EIS Database
IV. Continuing data management for EIA, in coordination with Records Section