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| Chamber of Cosmetic Industry of the Philippines officials during the recently held ASEAN Cosmetic Safety Conference (L–R) CCIP VP for government and regulatory affairs John Robinson Uy (Unilever Phils.); VP for professional development and education Shirley B. Cayago (Wipro-Splash Corporation); Food and Drug Administration representatives Florita H. Gabuna FDRO III, and Esperanza O. Almenanza FDRO III; with International Fragrance Association - Asia Pacific regional director for APAC Dr. Caroline Li, CCIP president Christine Michelle P. Reyes (Amway Phils., LLC), and EVP for external affairs Dr. Janina G. Tan (Jradiance Corporation) |
Philippine cosmetics sector pushes for unified standards and global competitiveness
The beauty industry never stands still and neither does the Philippines. As consumers demand safer, more innovative beauty products, the Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP) emphasizes the importance of collaboration and constant communication among ASEAN countries to keep the local cosmetics sector competitive on a global scale.
Philippine beauty at par with global standards
According to Shirley Cayago, CCIP Vice President for Professional Development & Education, the country’s cosmetics industry has been experiencing continuous growth in both sales and innovation.
“The Philippine cosmetics industry is growing and very dynamic. Growth in terms of sales was experienced in 2024 and continues in 2025. In terms of innovations and products, we are at par, especially since we are following the harmonized ASEAN cosmetic standards and regulations,” she said.
These unified standards are guided by the ASEAN Harmonized Cosmetic Regulatory Scheme (AHCRS) and the ASEAN Cosmetics Directive (ACD) regional frameworks that aim to ensure consistent safety requirements across all ASEAN member states while implementing the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) standards.
Breaking barriers through harmonization
By adopting these harmonized cosmetic regulations, the Philippines benefits from simplified compliance, reduced trade barriers, and increased market access within the ASEAN region. This alignment not only fosters innovation but also enhances the competitiveness of local brands.
As Cayago explained, “The ASEAN initiatives facilitate market access, effectively helping reduce regional trade barriers, costs, and duplication of businesses. It also fosters innovation through simplified compliance requirements.”
Safety remains at the core of beauty
While the industry continues to expand, Cayago emphasized that keeping safety standards updated is crucial to maintaining consumer trust.
“Product safety standards for cosmetics need updating to protect consumer health from new chemical exposures and contaminants and keep pace with scientific advancements and complex global regulatory changes,” she shared.
Regular updates to safety standards help ensure that cosmetic ingredients are proven safe and prevent potential skin irritation, allergies, or long-term health risks.
Cosmeticon: Championing education and progress
To strengthen this advocacy, CCIP continues its annual Cosmeticon, a premier event that gathers local and international experts to discuss pressing issues in the cosmetics industry.
Now on its third run, this year’s Cosmeticon focused on Product Safety Assessment, offering participants an intensive program filled with insights designed to empower professionals and support the continued growth of the Philippine cosmetics sector.
Through events like Cosmeticon, CCIP reaffirms its mission to create a beauty industry that is innovative, safe, and globally competitive, ensuring that Filipino-made cosmetics can confidently stand alongside the world’s best.