The status of chemical safety and security in Universities in Mindanao, Philippines

In the Philippines, some laws and regulations concerning chemical safety and security do exist. However, in general, an effective system of enforcement is still lacking. Moreover, chemical safety and security concerns are not a high priority, at least, especially in most state-run academic institutions. This paper explores the safety and security practices presently used in some state and private universities in Mindanao, Philippines. The Mindanao region has been considered a hot-bed of terrorism in the Philippines which makes security a main concern even in the academe. Although these universities generally use chemicals in typically small quantities, they are still considered a vulnerable target for chemical theft and diversion. The security measures currently employed as well as the needs and difficulties encountered to improve chemical safety and security practices are discussed.