Manila: The Philippines has reinforced its commitment to global disarmament and adherence to international standards against weapons of mass destruction with the introduction of a new law prohibiting the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada announced Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Estrada emphasized that the enactment of Republic Act No. 12174, known as the 'Chemical Weapons Prohibition Act,' is a significant step beyond merely fulfilling the nation's international obligations as a State Party to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which the country joined over thirty years ago. The law was signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on April 15, 2025, and subsequently made official in the Official Gazette on April 25.

Estrada, who is the principal author and sponsor of Senate Bill No. 2871, highlighted the law's importance in solidifying the Philippines' role as a responsible member of the global community that champions peace, disarmament, and human rights protection. He noted that the legislation sends a crucial message that chemical weapons are unacceptable and underscores the nation's commitment to safeguarding human rights, health, and the safety of all Filipinos from toxic threats.

Acknowledging the support of his fellow senators, Estrada expressed gratitude for their backing of this challenging and technical legislation, underlining the Senate's readiness to tackle complex issues that transcend personal interests, all in service of the Filipino people.