Page 1

79th PIChE NatCon Officially Launched!

F or the upcoming Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineer‘s 79th Annual National Convention, the Official Convention Website was released by the host chapter, PIChE Laguna. Early Bird registration is now open for

Professionals as well as Students at a discounted price. The biggest gathering of Filipino Chemical Engineers from the industry, academe, government and business themed ――Expanding Chemical Engineering Competencies for National Development‖ will be held on February 21-24, 2018 at The Bellevue Manila, Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

The event, headed by Engr Mamerto A. Irasga as the Convention Chairman, is geared ―to provide excellent research and presentations from experts in various fields such as Emerging Technologies, Technopreneurship and Innovation, Research and Development, Energy and Water Security, Environment and Climate Change Adaptation, Chemical Engineering Education and Engineering Practice.‖ These presentations will incur corresponding Continuing Professional Development (CPD) units to participants which is now required in renewing professional licenses. Furthermore, camaraderie and friendship building activities will be included in the gathering thru social functions.

―While we aim to be globally competitive professionals, we must also not forget that we have a primary responsibility to contribute to advancing our nation and solving problems which impact our countrymen and the future generation of Filipinos,‖ declares Engr. Maricris C. Vines, President of PIChE Laguna and National Director for Luzon.

CPD Law Now in Effect By Frances Daphne R. Garela

On July 21, 2016, Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, chair of the Senate committee on civil service, government reorganization and professional regulation, authored and lapsed into law the Republic Act 10912, also known as the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Act of 2016. This act, which came into effect starting July this year, requires professionals to earn CPD units for renewal of their Professional Identification Card every three years.

Guidelines on the implementation of the said law were issued by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC); however, an online petition to review the requirements specified by the law for license renewal was launched. PRC then emphasized that it will exercise maximum flexibility on license renewal to make it more accessible and affordable to Filipino professionals, but not exemption.

With regards to the concerns on CPD providers inaccessibility, PRC has waived registration and accreditation fees of those that would apply as CPD providers such as government agencies, state universities and colleges and government-owned and controlled corporations, but in return of providing free training and seminars to their employees. PRC also allowed professionals in remote areas and overseas to obtain CPD units through online courses,

(Continued on page 4)

Volume IX Issue 1 September 2017

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

CHAPTER UPDATES MME 2 Batangas 2 MMAC 3 Bataan 3,5 Cebu 4 Laguna 5 Baguio-Benguet 6 CAMANAVA 6 Cavite 9 PRC’s Outstanding Chemical Engineer 8 FPIChE Section 10 Upcoming Events 11 PIChE NBOD 12

Page 2

PIChE Metro Manila East Rises as a Revitalized Chapter, Held Symposium and General Assembly

by Maricel Bongares and Erwin Fernandez

The sun rises in the east. When it does, sunshine spreads over the horizon as a signal that something great is on its way. Great things happen in the East. The same holds true for a PIChE Chapter in the East of Metro Manila. PIChE MME has just been revitalized!

On a sunny afternoon of June 17, 2017, the Chapter held its first major event for the year at the Theater Room of South of Market Residences in BGC, Taguig City. It was a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Seminar and General Assembly. The event was momentous because it marked the rebirth of the Chapter.

The CPD Seminar titled ―Symposium on Biomass Energy Resource and Process Safety‖ consisted of two technical sessions on biomass energy conversion and a discussion on process safety fundamentals. In the first session, Engr. Antonio Rivera presented how high chemical oxygen demand feeds such as ethanol plant effluents can be effectively converted to biogas for use in power generation. The second session was the turn of Engr. Erwin Fernandez to tackle the fundamentals of aqueous phase reforming as a catalytic means to produce energy fuels from biomass. In the third and final session, Engr. Arjames Balgoa provided an overview of the methodologies for process hazard analysis. The three speakers are all current members of the Chapter and testaments that PIChE MME is a melting pot of different Chemical Engineer‘s expertise, skills and passion.

PIChE News

PIChE MME Chapter General Assembly

L-R: Engr. Jonathan Aquino (PIChE National President) with newly elected Chapter officers Engr. Raquel Digo (Board Member), Engr.

Erwin Fernandez (Board Member), Engr. Ranndolf Javier (Treasurer), Engr. Shieralyn Lapena (Secretary), Engr. April Grace Santiago (Vice

President-Membership), Engr. Maricel Bongares (Vice President-Programs and Events), Engr. Arjames Balgoa (President) and Engr.

Ernesto Dela Cruz (Adviser) (Continued on page 4)

PIChE AVP Amoroso Visits Batangas Chapter Engr Edmon C. Amoroso, Area Vice President for Luzon of PIChE, representes the National Board of Directors during the Chemical Engineering and Innovations Day of Batangas State University on May 19, 2017. Engr Amoroso represented PIChE as well as the ―Industry Sector‖ during to the panel of five (5) Theses and six (6) Plant Design presentations of graduating Chemical Engineering Students.

Engr Amoroso was also given the opportunity to speak on the status of Chemical Engineering profession in the Philippine Industry. ―I guess I was able to inspire and excite the graduating students in a way when I shared that ChE employment opportunities in the Philippines are still abundant and will continue to grow in the next 5 to 10 years as the Philippine GDP and the economy as a whole continue to grow at least me speaking for the industry sector.‖

The College of Engineering Dean, Elisa Gutierrez, ChE Department Chairman, Engr Mary Rose Persincula and their ChE faculty extended their sincerest gratitude to the current National President and all of the PIChE National BODs for supporting their University endeavor started by PIChE Director for Luzon, Engr. Maricris Vines last year as well as to their Innovations Day this year, and for continuously being part of their University's Industry Advisory Council (IAC). The PIChE NBODs were again invited to their 4th IAC which will be held last quarter of this year.

Engr Amoroso also took the opportunity to meet the officers and members of PIChE Batangas Chapter by attending the Chapter‘s meeting. The Luzon AVP actively answered inquiries concerning the professions such as CPD accreditation, ChE Law, etc.

―It was indeed my privilege to represent the PIChE National Board,‖ Engr Amoroso concludes.

PIChE National Board represented by Area VP for Luzon Engr Edmon C. Amoroso during PIChE

Batangas Chapter’s meeting at Batangas State University on May 19, 2017

Page 3

PIChE Bataan Chapter 2nd ChEmposium Held

by Leo Ryuji D. Kusuhara

The Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers – Metro Manila Academe Chapter (PIChE-MMAC) held a seminar-workshop on Research Mentoring for Grades 11/12 science teachers of STEM schools in Batangas last May 5, 2017 at the Batangas State University, ARASOF Nasugbu Campus, Nasugbu, Batangas. This was the second leg of capacity-building workshop in the field of research for high school teachers. The first one was conducted last April 22, 2016 at National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Bicutan, Taguig City. The first leg was in coordination with the NAST thru Outstanding Young Scientists, Inc. (OYS), an organization of scientists and engineers that received the Outstanding Young Scientist Award. For this activity, it was organized by PIChE-MMAC in coordination with the Batangas State University.

The project aimed to help develop the research culture in the area and to give aid to special high school

science teachers in doing investigatory science projects. It also added training and understanding on the concepts of scientific research so as to effectively guide their students with investigatory science projects.

The resource speakers were engaged members of the National Research Council of the Philippines as well as National Academy of Science and Technology Outstanding Young Scientist Awards.

The event kicked off with the opening remarks

PIChE MMAC Conducts Seminar-Workshop for High School Teachers

by Norman Giovanni M. Guevarra

High school teachers during the workshop proper lead by the head facilitator, Dr. Terrence Tumolva, Chair at Department of Chemical

Engineering, University of the Philippines-Diliman.

Batangas High School Teachers with the PIChE MMAC Officers.

System. Improvement. Management. Standard. Quality.

These are words likely encountered when someone comes across ISO 9001. This standard,

published by the International Organization for Standardization, specifies the criteria to maintain a quality management system (QMS), especially for organizations aiming to provide products and services that are consistent and with a measurable quality to meet customer and regulatory requirements. The 2015 version of the standard ensures that an organization‘s effort is towards the QMS principles including customer focus, top management motivation and responsibility, a process approach, and continual improvement.

On June 24, 2017 at the Petron Bataan Refinery Auditorium, participants from all over Bataan—and some even from Baguio—participated in the discussion on ISO 9001 2015 updates, and how the new version of the standard differentiates from the 2008 version. Facilitated by Engr. Cezar de la Cruz, ASEAN Eng, FPIChE, the 8-hour engagement was the first CPD-accredited seminar by the PIChE-BC for the year.

For an effective discussion, the seminar started with the introduction of the ISO 9001:2008 and even a short introduction on the ISO 9001. This part of the seminar caters to those that may be familiar but not learned with the standard, including an introduction to what the QMS is, how this is operated inside an organization, and what principles are behind the standard. It is during this part that the speaker reiterates that the standard is not a requirement for companies and organizations but is a management decision which a company may apply for certification that can increase their credibility and improve personnel motivation due to the thrust for a common known goal.

Engr. de la Cruz compared the new and the old versions by affirming that the 2015 version gives more

Engr Cezar De La Cruz conducting the ISO9001:2015 Updates

PIChE NBODs grace 2nd PIChE BC ChEmposium

(Continued on page 4)

(Continued on page 4)

PIChE News

Page 4

CPD Law Now in Effect (Continued from page 1)

trainings and seminars.

In relation to this, chemical engineers are required to complete 45 units every three (3) years from accredited CPD providers, such as the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (PIChE). Moreover, according to the guidelines released, any excess credit units earned shall not be carried over to the next three-year period except credit units earned for doctoral and master‘s degrees or specialty trainings.

PIChE Metro Manila East

Rises... (Continued from page 2)

66 Chemical Engineers attended the Symposium. They came to the right place to learn from the experts and earn 3.5 CPD units. They had the opportunity to meet their fellow Chemical Engineers. They have been part of this milestone of the Chapter.

PIChE MME Chapter held a General Assembly after the Symposium. Engr. Ernesto Dela Cruz (outgoing Chapter President) inducted the new members. Chapter members elected the new set of officers for 2017-2019. The election was carried out under the supervision of PIChE NBOD representatives as Engr. Jonathan Aquino (current PIChE National President), Engr. Rey Esguerra and Engr. Ferdinand Zapanta (both past National Presidents). Engr. Aquino led the installation of new set of officers. Newly elected officers of PIChE MME Chapter are Engr. Arjames Balgoa (President), Engr. Maricel Bongares (Vice President-Programs and Events), Engr. April Grace Santiago (Vice President-Membership), Engr. Shieralyn Lapena (Secretary), Engr. Ranndolf Javier (Treasurer), Engr. Raquel Digo (Board Member) and Engr. Erwin Fernandez (Board Member).

Like the sun rising in the east, the light of PIChE MME Chapter will continue to shine even brighter.

PIChE MMAC Conducts...

(Continued from page 3)

from Dr. Erma B. Quinay, Vice President for Research, Development and Extension of Batangas State University. The topics of the seminar-workshop included discussions such as 'Building-up the Research Culture‘ headed by Dr. Allan N. Soriano, Professor of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry in Mapua Institute of Technology and ‗Research Components: Introduction and Review of Related Literature‘ by Dr. Maria Natalia R. Dimaano, UST Program Lead and Coordinator. More discussions followed such as ‗Research Components: Developing the Methodology‘ by Dr. Rizalinda L. de Leon, Dean of College of Engineering, University of the Philippines - Diliman and ‗Research Components: Results and Discussion; Conclusion; References‘ which was led by Dr. Nathaniel P. Dugos, Chemical Engineering Chair of De La Salle University. In between the talks, workshops were also conducted by the head facilitator, Dr. Terence P. Tumolva, UP-Diliman Chemical Engineering department chair. Certificates of participation were given out to the high school teachers after the event.

Dr. Erma B. Quinay, Vice President for Research, Development and Extension of

Batangas State University with PIChE MMAC officers

emphasis on the responsibility and accountability of the top management, and includes the needs and expectations of not only by the customers and regulatory bodies but now extends to the needs and expectations of interested parties. He also highlighted that the new version introduces the concept of a risk-based thinking into the QMS to determine preventive controls that can minimize the effect of potential concerns brought about by deviation from planned results. This is done by performing risk analysis—through FMEA or HACCP, wherein words like shall, should, may, and can are used to connect risks and/or opportunities with the controls—to foresee challenges that may be encountered with the management of a business.

Finally, to promote continuous improvement, a transition timeline was introduced which mentions that organizations will have until September 14, 2018—or a three-year transition period from date of publication to implementation—for the 2008 version to be valid, after which companies will then be required to abide by the new version for certification.

PIChE Bataan Chapter 2nd

ChEmposium... (Continued from page 3)

Stronger PIChE Cebu

by Jesselito Baring

PICHE Cebu has shown a newfound strength with its programs starting with the Conduct of the Energy Management Seminar Last May 2017 and being awarded with 4 CPD points by the CPD Council. In the month of July, PICHE Cebu in cooperation with the PCAPI 7 Foundation Inc. launched a pioneering course for 4 days Pollution Control Technician (PCT) Training Course. It was conducted once a week for the whole month of July. It is a non CPD seminar. Due to the success of the PCT training course, PICHE Cebu together with PCAPI 7 Foundation Inc. will launch another pioneering training course entitled as Wastewater Treatment Technician Training Course. From the initial list of registrants, it seems to surpass the expected number of participants. As a service of its Chemical Engineers need for CPD, PIChE Cebu has applied for CPD for a three-day Biological Wastewater Treatment and Compliance to 2016-08. A lot of inquiries have been received for this CPD training course even before approval by the CPD Council.

PIChE Cebu Chapter

PIChE News

Page 5

PIChE Laguna Chapter Holds

3rd Southern Luzon Symposium by Michael Vincent O. Laurio

An overwhelming attendance of 141 chemical engineering professionals coming from Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, Quezon and Metro Manila was witnessed during the 3rd Southern Luzon Symposium last July 29, 2017, held at the Malayan Colleges Laguna, Cabuyao City, Laguna. The members of the Board of Directors of PICHE Laguna Chapter headed by its President, Engr. Maricris C. Vines were the hosts of the event, assisted by Malayan Colleges Laguna (MCL) Association of Chemical Engineering Students (ACES).

Notable speakers were presented topics that are in line with the theme, ―Moving Towards Sustainability.‖ Engr. Nelia G. Granadillos, Chief of Environmental Control Division, Occupational Safety and Health Center of the Department of Labor and Employment, shared comprehensive information on the conceptual and regulatory framework of the globally harmonized system (GHS) of chemicals. Along with this, she highlighted the importance of the system in risk and hazard reduction in the industries. In the second session, Engr. Bonivie Coleen M. Meer, Acting Head of the AB Nutribev Plant-Process Department, Asia-Brewery, Inc., provided an interesting discussion on the science behind soymilk processing and its competitiveness as a new product in the country and abroad. Dr. Flocerfida L. Amaya, Consultant for Environmental Management at the Laguna International Industrial Park (LIIP), on the other hand shared her study on life cycle analysis of water reuse and its positive application on industrial parks in the Philippines.

PIChE-BC General Assembly: Celebrate the Night in Black and White!

by Leo Ryuji Kusuhara

PIChE Bataan Chapter once again opened the new term with a bang as they celebrate the annual General Assembly and Election of officers last July 27 at the Petron Bataan Refinery (PBR) Auditorium, Limay, Bataan. Organized by the outgoing Board of Directors, the event aims to gather professional Chemical Engineers throughout Bataan in a night of company and fun.

The crowd was brought to life at 7 PM when hosts Engr. John Wilbert de Guzman and Engr. Rosette Austero, both from PBR, started the program with greetings. The program began with a short prayer followed by an inspirational talk by Engr. Alexander B. Safran, Operations Engineering Manager from PBR and a former president of the Chapter. The speech focused on the theme ―Life is a game, be a game-changer.‖

Dinner was served buffet-style with plenty enough for the attendees that night. The attendees comprised Chemical Engineers from PBR, NPC Alliance Corp., GN Power, Panasia Energy, PRII, and Essilor Manufacturing Philippines Inc. Participation by engineers from different organizations around bataan proposes that the chapter successfully #REAChE-d the chemical engineers around the province.

Chemical Engineer Delegates of the 3rd Southern Luzon Symposium

(Continued on page 7)

(Continued on page 7)

PIChE News

Page 6

4TH Northern Luzon Symposium:

Chemical Engineers Embracing the Global Community by Maria Lourdes G. Pitargue

The Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers Baguio-Benguet (PIChE BB) Chapter hosted the 4TH Northern Luzon Symposium with the theme, ―Chemical Engineers Embracing the Global Community‖ at Venus Parkview Hotel, Kisad Road, Baguio City, Benguet last August 4-5, 2017. This symposium is a collaborative endeavor of the three PIChE Chapters located in Northern Luzon namely the Baguio-Benguet, Ilocos and La Union Chapters. The symposium served as an avenue for the participants to expose themselves on industrial and educational opportunities, to learn and exchange information and to develop healthy networks in different fields of Chemical Engineering.

Attended by 82 professionals and 302 chemical engineering students from different regions and schools, the first day started with a plant tour to Philex Mining Corporation Benguet and discussions from reputable resource persons. Engr. Marcial S. Alega Jr., gave insight of how oil refinery works; Engr. Marivic S. Empizo talked about industrial hygiene and its control measures; and Engr. Petra C. Cadawan pointed out the safety aspect of the food/supplements and medicinal drugs interaction. The day ended with a socialization night wherein special performances of chemical engineering students from Saint Louis University,

Come on, CAMANAVA! by Joshua Bon A. Roco

Members of the host chapter, PIChE BB together with Engr. Maricris Vines, Engr. Jonathan Aquino, Hon. Cyd Aguillera, Engr. Reynaldo Esguerra and Engr. Hazel Ann

Madegyem.

(Continued on page 7)

In January 31, 2014 a new family of Chemical Engineers joined the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (PIChE) through PIChE – CaMaNaVa. The newly established chapter started with 15 members, through its president and now PIChE national treasurer, Engr. Teresita Balba. It envisioned itself to be ―internationally recognized as the source of professionals who exude excellence in providing knowledge and expertise in Chemical Engineering and to become a reliable partner of the local government units in addressing Industrial and Environmental concerns.‖ Engr. Balba‘s term was mainly focused on membership and recruitment; and adroitly enough, the family is now more than 70-member strong! PIChE – CaMaNaVa was initially established to reach noble Chemical Engineers within Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela. However, as Filipino Chemical Engineers go global, PIChE – CaMaNaVa‘s family continues to grow even outside its area.

The current administration, headed by its President Engr. Ma. Elena Perlado, took their oath on May 14, 2016 in front of PRC board member, Engr. Cyd Aguilera, and advisers Engr. Teresita Balba and Engr. Cezar dela Cruz. Now more ardent than ever, the chapter is focused on reaching greater heights though continuous involvements across and beyond PIChE. Even with limited funds, the chapter has been very active in participating in all PIChE activites: from Chemical Engineering week to National Conventions. In fact, PIChE – CaMaNaVa was hailed champion in the ChE Week Cheering Competition on September 18, 2016, beating its long-time defending champions, PIChE – DOST.

The chapter‘s mission to be instrumental in the (Continued on page 7)

PIChE News

Page 7

PIChE Laguna Chapter Holds

3rd … (Continued from page 5)

Another important highlight of the symposium was on the discussion of the implementation of Continuing Professional Development Law on the chemical engineering profession. Engr. Maricris C. Vines discussed the important operational guidelines which was then followed by an open forum to solicit insights and suggestions from the participants in addressing various concerns on the recently implemented law. Accordingly, these insights are valuable in developing a more encompassing set of operational guidelines.

Apart from technical sessions, awards and raffle prizes were also given during the event. Lastly, a group photo session was also conducted at the end of the symposium.

PICHE Laguna Chapter is one of the active and outstanding chapters of the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers. The chapter will also host the upcoming 79th PICHE National Convention which will be held at The Bellevue Manila from February 21 – 24, 2018.

University of Luzon and Mariano Marcos State University were enjoyed by the participants.

On the second day, discussions from another set of commendable resource persons were presented. Engr. Leslie Ann B. Ancheta challenged the participants in creating a community of globally competitive and diversified chemical engineer; Engr. Reynaldo L. Esguera brought to light the environmental risk assessment; Engr. Hazel Ann K. Madegyem discussed the overview on the process of manufacturing cement and the cement standards in the Philippines; and Engr. Maricris C. Vines highlighted the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Act of 2016 (RA 10912).

The participants were also welcomed by the Baguio City District Representative Hon. Mark Go and the Baguio City Mayor‘s secretary Mr. Rafael Tallocoy. Moeover, the symposium was graced by the presence of Hon. Cyd Aguillera, member of the Philippine Regulatory Board for Chemical Engineering; she gave insights and inspirational talk about Professional Regulation Commission and the chemical engineering profession.

4TH Northern Luzon

Symposium... (Continued from page 6)

Come on, CAMANAVA!

(Continued from page 6)

professional mastery of its members to benefit the society unearths through its directed trainings. Among its seminars include Into the Verge: ISO 9001:2015 and Advanced Filtration Processes, which were always blockbuster hits to engineers, with attendance always on full house. PIChE – CaMaNaVa also provided a venue to assist its members in adapting to the current trends of the profession via discussions about the Chemical Engineering Law and Continuous Professional Development Law on its General Assemblies. This includes initiatives to develop a CPD tracking system and to assist its members in renewing their licenses. The officers also started its community involvement through coordination with the Caloocan Mayor last September 1, 2016. This aims to pave way for the community services to be offered later by the chapter.

PIChE – CaMaNaVa‘s vigor never rests because just recently, Engr. Perlado fixated a goal to reach millennial Chemical Engineers, who will bring fresh ideas to the organization through their audacity. At present, the set of officers have six young engineers holding key positions and serving as junior trainees. The varied age of the members do not hinder them from establishing strong camaraderie. They still find time to connect with each other through events like General Assemblies. Moving forward, the chapter still hopes to increase membership to increase capability in bidding for the 2019 PIChE National Convention, and ultimately be recognized as an Outstanding PIChE chapter.

PIChE – CaMaNaVa‘s humble beginnings is a proof of how far the organization will go. It may be young, but its potential is limitless owed to the unending passion of its family and overwhelming support from its friends. Indeed, PIChE – CaMaNaVa will drive to infinity and beyond.

Gear up, PIChE. Come on, CAMANAVA!

Elected are the following officers: Mariel Ocampo (President), Dennis Pagud (Vice President), Russel Pinlac (Secretary), Ralph Edrean Omadto (Treasurer), Jose Niel Murguia (Auditor), Mark Ryan de Jesus (PRO), Frances Garela (EIC-The Chain) as well as the following committee heads: Josephine Alma Pablo (Membership), Kenneth Gonzales (Education), Kristine Del Rosario (Socio-Civic Affairs), and Nico Paulo Ozaeta (Ways and Means).

The new officers took oath under FPIChE and PIChE-BC Adviser, Engr Nathaniel Orillos.

PIChE BC General

Assembly... (Continued from page 5)

PIChE News

Page 8

PIChE MMAC Officer garners Achievements from Renowned Awarding Bodies

by Norman Giovanni M. Guevarra

It was a back-to-back feat for Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers – Metro Manila Academe Chapter treasurer, Dr. Nathaniel P. Dugos, when he was hailed as the 2017 Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Outstanding Chemical Engineer on July 23, 2017 held at Manila Hotel. The PRC awarded the best and the brightest Filipino professionals in their respective fields who embody the PRC ideals of Professionalism, and integrity, Responsibility, unity and accountability as well as Competence and excellence. Among 43 outstanding professionals, Dr. Dugos was one of the top five finalists as the recipient of the Nubla Excellence Award.

Moreover, Dr. Dugos was also cited as the Outstanding Chemical Engineer in the field of Chemical Engineering Education by the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers during the 78th PIChE National

Convention held at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City. The event with its theme: Integration of Chemical Engineering in the Global Community ran from February 22 to 25, 2017.

He earned his M.S. and PhD degrees in Chemical Engineering from the De La Salle University, Manila. Recently, he was conferred the title of ASEAN Engineer by the Governing Board of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organizations (AFEO). Presently, he is a Full Professor and Chemical Engineering Department Chair of DLSU. He has been teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in Chemical Engineering for more than 15 years and also working as a consultant for various industries. His research interests include carbon capture technology, oxidative desulfurization of fuel oils, extractive distillation, energy storage particularly flow battery, and coal gasification and pyrolysis. He has published papers in ISI and Scopus listed journals.

Dr. Nathaniel Dugos receiving the Outstanding Chemical Engineer award from Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) last June 23,

2017 at the Manila Hotel.

2017 PRC Outstanding Chemical Engineer Dr. Nathaniel Dugos with the PIChE headed by its National President- Engr. Jonathan Aquino.

Dr. Nathaniel Dugos

The Outstanding Professional of the Year (OPY) trophy.

Designed during the time of former Commissioner Jennifer Jardin - Manalili, the OPY Trophy was formally adopted by the Commission in Resolution No. 2014-842. It was primarily intended to give special recognition to the recipient as a nation-builder and a world-class, globally competitive professional.

Photo Courtesy: PRC

Feature

Page 9

PIChE Cavite Braves New Waters by Harvy M. Fabalena

If the wind in my sail on the sea stays behind me, one day I‘ll know, how far I‘ll go…

Cavite Chapter‘s journey through the next decade takes inspiration from Disney‘s ―Moana‖, about a Polynesian girl coming to terms with who she is and pursuing her goal in spite of uncertainty and challenges. That being said, PIChE-Cavite continues to maximize the headwind and momentum from the past years and navigate toward the PIChE 2020 vision. It is only fitting that the chapter‘s poster depicted the shape of the province as a sail that propels the organization from milestone to milestone. During the National Convention in Cagayan de Oro, PIChE-Cavite showcased three major accomplishments:

Engr. Jonathan Aquino, former PIChE-Cavite President and one of the pioneers was sworn in as the new National President. Meanwhile, Engr. Edmon Amoroso became the newest director for Luzon;

The Chapter fielded in one of its biggest contingents in a convention outside of Metro Manila; and

The ―Bongga!‖ fellowship night presentation, the 3rd by the chapter, won 3rd place.

But prior to the National Convention, the Chapter also held its 1st General Assembly in SMY Asia, Imus, Cavite. This had Engr. Cris Vines as special guest speaker to share the latest on the Continuing Professional Development program. New members were also introduced and inducted into the group.

Speaking of new members, for the first 7 months of 2017 alone, PIChE-Cavite experience its fastest surge in membership. 23 new members have been incorporated into the roster, catapulting the chapter to be the 2nd fastest growing in Luzon, through a combination of referrals, turnover of

board-passers, and social media.

The impact of social media as a channel for awareness and communication cannot be undermined. Since its creation in 2015, the official facebook page of PIChE-Cavite has grown to 53 members with 17 pending applications as of August 15. These applications, for control purposes, will only be officially recognized upon the submission and validation of membership requirements. The next step, and likely the more challenging one, is the follow-through.

To this end, PIChE-Cavite revived its meet-up sessions it started in 2012. The two informal sessions thus far, held over lunch last April 29 and July 22, was intended for recently added members and those who haven‘t regularly attended chapter activities. Both meetings were very fruitful and fun; The 2nd session also had a special ―meet and greet‖ with the National Board of Directors.

These sessions serve to introduce (or re-introduce) the chapter and get these members on-board with the latest news and updates in PIChE and the chemical engineering world. That way, they can be more engaged during the General Assembly and hopefully they will be more involved in all chapter endeavors. So back to ―Moana‖. How far will PIChE-Cavite go? As long the members stay committed and

work together toward the goals of PIChE and the chapter, then opportunities for growth will only be as vast as the ocean. Only time, and a collective fervor, will decide how far the chapter can go.

PIChE Cavite Chapter in Action

Feature

Page 10

A BEAUTIFUL MINDA BEAUTIFUL MINDA BEAUTIFUL MIND A Filipina Dreamer and Her Timeless Legacy. Now 82 and Still Innovative.

by Leonila C. Abella and Paul C. Palmero

I t‘s true when they say age is only a number, even more true when one‘s personal achievement becomes a triumph for

many. While science, technology, engineering and mathematics are conceivably the last frontier for women, one name stood out from the rest.

Lydia G. Tansinsin was born in Bulacan in October 1934. Raised in a family of animal lovers, her mom surrounded her with pet dogs proudly named after illustrious historic figures like Osmeña, Quezon, Roxas. Back then, it was unknown to the young Lydia that the same level of greatness awaited her as she was set to earn her place in national science and technology history.

―Engr. Tansinsin‖ earned her wings with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering degree from the University of Santo Tomas in 1954. It immediately showed she was destined for greater things. She credits notable

institutions instrumental in equipping her in her chosen field: Tokyo Institute of Technology for her masters, Development Academy of the Philippines and the University of the Philippines for helping secure her executive status. For her exemplary achievements, she was conferred Doctor of Science, honoris causa from Bulacan State University in 1998 and completed a course in Solar Energy at Purdue University, USA, in 1981.

Dr. Lydia Tansinsin was thrust into a society where female game changers remained unheard of. After her masters in Japan, she joined the National Science Development Board (NSDB) as assistant scientist—a title traditionally held by men. It was not

too long when her purpose was made clear. She became the first woman to be elected

president of the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (PIChE), a position she held for 4 consecutive years from 1977 to 1980. This was followed by countless achievements establishing the power of women in the work place.

Finding herself specializing in the engineering industry was something written in

the stars for Dr. Tansinsin. It was destiny.

A Chemical Engineer by profession, Dr. Tansinsin‘s contribution to society goes beyond the confines of research & development. She envisions science and technology as key to a successful business.

This wonder woman of the engineering industry was not an overnight sensation. Through time, her expertise has allowed her to accumulate numerous published and unpublished works on

nation-building through science and technology. It was labor‘s love by choice. Dr. Tansinsin would later profess her solid dedication to settling down with a family of her own. She‘s married to her profession.

“Ma’am Lydia”, as we fondly call her, succeeded in making science and technology a way of life for all. Despite being retired, she has generously set up a personal scholarship for the next generation of dreamers. All it takes is a beautiful mind, not rocket science, to move the nation forward. Her legacy lives on to educate our next set of dreamers. Dreams, after all, can come true.

Fellows Section

Dr. Lydia G. Tansinsin

Philippine Technological Council Officers

Women Chemical Engineers CAFEO 2015 Women Engineers Network Officers

Page 11

Mariel A. Ocampo Editor-in-chief

Contributors: Frances Daphne R. Garela, PIChE Bataan

Maricel Bongares , PIChE MME Erwin Fernandez, PIChE MME

Norman Giovanni M. Guevarra, PIChE MMAC Leo Ryuji D. Kusuhara, PIChE Bataan

Jesselito Baring , PIChE Cebu Michael Vincent O. Laurio, PIChE Laguna

Maria Lourdes G. Pitargue, PIChE BB Joshua Bon A. Roco, PIChE CAMANAVA

Harvy M. Fabalena, PIChE Cavite Leonila C. Abella, FPIChE Paul C. Palmero, FPIChE

Upcoming Events & Sponsors

E D

I T

O R

I A

L

S T

A F

FE

D I

T O

R I

A L

S

T A

F F

E D

I T

O R

I A

L

S T

A F

F

Editor’s Note: I am honored to have been given the oppotunity to consolidate the updates and achievements of Chapters and members of the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers. The activities and programs held for the past half-year are proof that the Filipino Chemical Engineers are geared towards global Participation, Integration, Competency, Honor and Service, and Excellence. Keep all the articles coming, featuring your chapter and members’ milestones in the Chemical Engineering profession. Share them by emailing me at maocampo@petron.com. Be #ProudPinoyChE!

Madz

Page 12