Review of steel manufacturing, supply chain safeguards sought

Local

A MEMBER of the Cebu Provincial Board has called for a science-based and evidence-driven review of steel manufacturing and supply chain safeguards.

Cebu 2nd District Board Member Stanley Caminero sought the review following reports of regulatory, environmental, product quality, and metallurgical issues linked to steel operations outside Cebu.

In his speech during the board’s regular session on Monday, July 6, Caminero raised concerns over the possibility of contaminated scrap metal entering the market and the quality of reinforcing steel used in construction.

Caminero learned about the issue during a briefing by representatives of national government agencies, which he and his colleagues attended last week.

He noted that substandard materials could pose serious risks to buildings and infrastructure, especially in a country prone to earthquakes and other disasters.

"The possible metallurgical concern arises when contaminated scrap, abandoned radioactive devices, or other materials containing radioactive sources inadvertently enter the scrap metal supply chain and are processed without adequate detection, regardless of whether these scrap metals or raw metals have been sourced locally within the country or from outside the country," Caminero said.

As a country that regularly experiences natural and human-induced hazards, Caminero said strong reinforcing steel is needed to withstand earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and fires.

Caminero pointed out that reinforcing steels must comply with national standards.

"Their mass, chemical composition, tensile and yield strength, elongation, weldability, and surface deformation must comply with applicable Philippine national standards," Caminero said.

Caminero, however, clarified that reported incidents in other areas do not automatically mean that structures in Cebu are unsafe.

He emphasized that the issue must not be downplayed or exaggerated but should instead be addressed carefully by the government by asking the proper questions, obtaining verified information from competent authorities, and determining whether existing laws or policies are enough to protect the environment and the public.

"Any proposed Cebu ordinance must be evidence-based, proportionate, enforceable, and consistent with national law," Caminero said

He urged national agencies such as the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Trade and Industry, Bureau of Philippine Standards, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Health, Bureau of Customs , and law enforcement agencies, to explain existing regulations, product standards, radiation screening, environmental compliance, import inspections, and enforcement mechanisms.

Industry stakeholders, local government units, engineers, contractors, and business groups were also urged to participate.

Caminero filed an incidental resolution inviting these agencies and stakeholders to appear before the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on July 20, 2026, to provide information and determine whether additional local legislation is necessary.(MyTVCebu)