Two committees in the House of Representatives are reviewing the standards set by the government on glass products in the market.
This, as the joint House committees on economic affairs and trade and industry conducted deliberations on several measures proposing to amend Republic Act 7041 or the Foreign Investment Act of 1991.
Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez told legislators that the department would move for the lifting of a court order stopping it from implementing new regulations that set strict quality standards on local and imported glass.
Lopez, at the sidelines of the congressional hearing conducted by the joint House panel said the DTI would hear concerns from stakeholders affecting the glass market.
While the government is open to further discussions or adjustments to regulations governing flat glass, Lopez said there is a need to lift the court injunction first.
Lopez, during the hearing, also supported efforts at the Lower House to sustain economic growth by enacting laws such as the consolidated bill proposing to amend Republic Act 7041 or the Foreign Investment Act of 1991.
“Relaxing laws to attract more foreign investors in the country should not be misconstrued as easing restrictions that would ensure quality standards on importation of various products,” Lopez told legislators.
Various groups have voiced their concern on flat glass safety and product standard these glass products commonly used for residential windows and doors and also for commercial applications like buildings and automobiles.
Lopez issued Department Administrative Order 19-05 to impose strict measures that would guarantee strict quality control of glass products and thus, protect consumers.
Makati RTC Judge Ma. Caridad Villamor-Yee issued a Writ of Preliminary Injunction last July to stop its implementation following petitions from various groups which opposed the new regulations as a form of restraint on trade and in alleged violation of their right to due process.
“Of course, importers want a faster process… we also want a quick process but there must be standards check, standards compliance,” Lopez said.
DAO 19-05 provides that both local and imported flat glass must be produced by Philippine Standard certified plants. Imported glass are also required to undergo quality tests and secure import commodity clearance marks before they could be sold in the market.