5 days ago
7
Engr. Ana Trinidad Rivera of the Food and Drug Administration Philippines (left) and DTI Assistant Secretary Engelbert Josef Chua (right)The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP) kicked off the year with its 1st General Membership Meeting (GMM) for 2025, titled “Pillars of Success”, held on March 6, 2025 at the GG8 Building in San Juan City. The event brought together over 200 industry leaders, regulators, and stakeholders to discuss key developments in the cosmetics sector and set the agenda for the year ahead.
Regulatory updates and industry innovations
Engr. Ana Trinidad Rivera of the Food and Drug Administration Philippines (FDA) provided attendees with valuable regulatory updates, including ongoing improvements to the FDA portal in collaboration with the Anti-Red Tape Authority. She also discussed plans for automation inspired by regional models and the introduction of Functional Cosmetics as a new regulatory pathway for innovation. Rivera highlighted the zero contact policy under RA11032 (Ease of Doing Business Act) as the reason behind the agency’s shift away from face-to-face meetings with industry stakeholders while extending an invitation for potential dialogues with FDA Director General Dr. Samuel Zacate. She noted that the FDA currently processes 300-500 new product approvals daily, reflecting the agency’s commitment to efficiency.
Atty. Brigitte da Costa-Villaluz, Director General of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), delivered an inspiring address emphasizing the Bayanihan spirit as a driving force for Philippine innovation. She stressed the need to improve the country's global competitiveness and economic standing, envisioning a future where Filipino companies establish internationally recognized brands under the Tatak Pinoy initiative.
E-commerce and government collaboration
One of the event’s highlights was the signing of the E-Commerce Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by 21 CCIP member companies. Spearheaded by IPOPHL in collaboration with major e-commerce platforms such as TikTok Shop, Lazada, Shopee, and Zalora. The initiative aims to strengthen intellectual property protection and ensure fair trade practices in the digital marketplace.
DTI Assistant Secretary Engelbert Josef Chua led the induction of new CCIP member companies, further expanding the organization’s network. He also introduced flagship programs tailored for the cosmetics industry, covering inbound and outbound business processes, export programs, trade expos, capacity-building initiatives, and trade facilitation. Chua confirmed that an MOU between CCIP and DTI is in the pipeline, reinforcing collaboration between the government and the private sector. He also acknowledged the significant contribution of the cosmetics industry, which reached a valuation of USD 6.1 billion in 2024, driven by the growth of e-commerce, the increasing demand for halal cosmetics, and a rising focus on sustainability.
Leadership, communication, and regulatory developments
The event featured a keynote address from Carelle Mangaliag-Herrera, President, CEO, and Founder of TrainStation Philippines, who underscored the importance of implementing effective business processes, simplifying communication, and recognizing key patterns for success.
CCIP’s VP for Government & Regulatory Affairs, Robi Uy, provided attendees with essential regulatory updates, particularly regarding ACSB & ACC discussions, ingredient restrictions, and evolving compliance standards.
Former CCIP Presidents Michael William Turvill, Emil Virtudes, and Silliman Sy were also present at the gathering, highlighting the organization's continued legacy of strong leadership.
Recognition of industry leaders and members
During the event, the 2025 CCIP Board of Trustees took their oaths of office, formally inducted by FDA Director IV CCHUHSRR Ana Trinidad Rivera and IPOPHL Director General Brigitte M. Da Costa-Villaluz.
The meeting concluded with a special recognition ceremony honoring CCIP members for their contributions to the industry. Each active member from 2024 received a 2025 Plaque of Appreciation and Member Recognition in acknowledgment of their role in setting industry standards, fostering innovation, and driving growth.
The success of the 1st GMM was made possible through the support of major sponsors: Platinum Sponsors TrainStation International and GT Cosmetics; Gold Sponsor EPL Propack Philippines; and Silver Sponsors DCA Brokerage, Rei Unified Trading Phils Inc., EartHauz, and TWO Botanika Nature Residences.
The event set the stage for a year of progress, collaboration, and excellence, reinforcing CCIP’s commitment to empowering the Philippine cosmetics industry both locally and globally.
