Steel Lobby Urges Government for Earlier Compliance with Seismic Resistance Standards

The Philippine Iron and Steel Institute (PISI) is urging the government to shorten the transition period for builders to comply with the updated seismic resistance standards for steel bars, known as Philippine National Standard (PNS) 49:2026. PISI argues that the proposed deadline of April 30, 2027, is too distant and increases the risk of using non-compliant steel in infrastructure in the interim. "Local rebar producers and other stakeholders strongly call for immediate implementation of the updated standards. There is sufficient capacity to immediately replace non-seismic (regular) grades, which should no longer be permitted for production," said PISI President Joel T. Ronquillo. He told reporters that the lengthy transition period proposed by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) heightens risks to public safety, stating, "It does not address the persistent seismic risks and the urgency of protecting lives." PNS 49:2026 updates the national standard for Steel Bars for Concrete Reinforcement, aiming to align rebar specifications with international requirements for seismic design. The new standards also mandate the phaseout of Grade 33 reinforcing steel bars, which has long been disallowed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, the Philippines is prone to frequent volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. PISI noted that in the past three months alone, earthquakes in the country have resulted in 121 deaths and 1,316 injuries. Mr. Ronquillo pointed out that Grade 33 rebar is still being used in low-rise residential structures. PISI strongly urges that mandatory implementation be enforced "immediately or up to a maximum of three months from this date." The group's letter serves as a comment on the draft Department Administrative Order (DAO) that will outline the guidelines for implementing PNS 49:2026. Furthermore, PISI called to shorten the deadline for submitting comments on the DAO to seven days from the current due date of September 21, 2026. Mr. Ronquillo added that industry compliance with PNS 49:2026 remains voluntary until the DAO is finalized. Trade Secretary Maria Cristina A. Roque has indicated that the DTI hopes to release the memorandum for the new steel standards by August.