Volume IX Issue 1 September 2017

79th PIChE NatCon Officially Launched!

F
or the upcoming Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineer‘s 79 th 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 INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
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, CHAPTER UPDATES
which came into effect starting July this year, requires professionals to earn MME 2
CPD units for renewal of their Professional Identification Card every three Batangas 2
years. MMAC 3
Bataan 3,5
Guidelines on the implementation of the said law were issued by the Cebu 4
Professional Regulation Commission (PRC); however, an online petition to Laguna 5
review the requirements specified by the law for license renewal was Baguio-Benguet 6
launched. PRC then emphasized that it will exercise maximum flexibility on CAMANAVA 6
license renewal to make it more accessible and affordable to Filipino Cavite 9
professionals, but not exemption.
With regards to the concerns on CPD providers inaccessibility, PRC has PRC’s Outstanding
Chemical Engineer 8
waived registration and accreditation fees of those that would apply as CPD
providers such as government agencies, state universities and colleges and FPIChE Section 10
government-owned and controlled corporations, but in return of providing
free training and seminars to their employees. PRC also allowed professionals Upcoming Events 11
in remote areas and overseas to obtain CPD units through online courses,
(Continued on page 4) PIChE NBOD 12

Page 1
 PIChE News
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 PIChE MME Chapter General Assembly
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
L-R: Engr. Jonathan Aquino (PIChE National President) with newly members of the Chapter and testaments that PIChE MME is
elected Chapter officers Engr. Raquel Digo (Board Member), Engr. a melting pot of different Chemical Engineer‘s expertise,
Erwin Fernandez (Board Member), Engr. Ranndolf Javier (Treasurer),
Engr. Shieralyn Lapena (Secretary), Engr. April Grace Santiago (Vice skills and passion.
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 PIChE National Board represented by Area VP for
Luzon Engr Edmon C. Amoroso during PIChE
sincerest gratitude to the current National President and all of the PIChE Batangas Chapter’s meeting at Batangas State
National BODs for supporting their University endeavor started by PIChE University on May 19, 2017
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.

Page 2
 PIChE News
PIChE MMAC Conducts
Seminar-Workshop for
High School Teachers
by Norman Giovanni M. Guevarra
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
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.
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
(Continued on page 4)
Batangas High School Teachers with the PIChE MMAC Officers.
PIChE Bataan Chapter
nd
2 ChEmposium Heldby Leo Ryuji D. Kusuhara
System. Improvement. Management. Standard.
Quality.
These are words likely encountered when
someone comes across ISO 9001. This standard,
PIChE NBODs grace 2nd PIChE BC ChEmposium
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.
Engr Cezar De La Cruz conducting the ISO9001:2015 Updates
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
(Continued on page 4)
Page 3

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 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
PIChE News
PIChE Bataan Stronger PIChE
Chapter 2nd Cebu
ChEmposium... by Jesselito Baring
(Continued from page 3) PICHE Cebu has shown a
newfound strength with its programs
emphasis on the responsibility and starting with the Conduct of the
accountability of the top
management, and includes the Energy Management Seminar Last
needs and expectations of not May 2017 and being awarded with 4
only by the customers and CPD points by the CPD Council. In the
regulatory bodies but now extends month of July, PICHE Cebu in
to the needs and expectations of cooperation with the PCAPI 7
interested parties. He also Foundation Inc. launched a
highlighted that the new version
introduces the concept of a risk- pioneering course for 4 days Pollution
based thinking into the QMS to Control Technician (PCT) Training
determine preventive controls Course. It was conducted once a
that can minimize the effect of week for the whole month of July. It
potential concerns brought about is a non CPD seminar. Due to the
by deviation from planned results.
This is done by performing risk
analysis—through FMEA or HACCP,
success of the PCT training course,
PICHE Cebu together with PCAPI 7
wherein words like shall, should,
may, and can are used to connect
Foundation Inc. will launch another
pioneering training course entitled as
risks and/or opportunities with Wastewater Treatment Technician
the controls—to foresee challenges
that may be encountered with the Training Course. From the initial list
management of a business. of registrants, it seems to surpass the
expected number of participants. As
Finally, to promote a service of its Chemical Engineers
continuous improvement, a need for CPD, PIChE Cebu has applied
transition timeline was introduced for CPD for a three-day Biological
which mentions that organizations Wastewater Treatment and
will have until September 14, Compliance to 2016-08. A lot of
2018—or a three-year transition inquiries have been received for this
period from date of publication to CPD training course even before
implementation—for the 2008 approval by the CPD Council.
version to be valid, after which
companies will then be required
to abide by the new version for
certification.
PIChE Metro
Manila East
Rises... PIChE Cebu Chapter
(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.
Page 4
 PIChE News
PIChE Laguna Chapter Holds
3rd Southern Luzon Symposium
by Michael Vincent O. Laurio

Chemical Engineer Delegates of the 3rd Southern Luzon Symposium

An overwhelming attendance of 141 chemical engineering professionals coming from Laguna, Cavite,
Batangas, Quezon and Metro Manila was witnessed during the 3 rd 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. (Continued on page 7)

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.
(Continued on page 7)

Page 5
 PIChE News
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 Members of the host chapter, PIChE BB together with Engr. Maricris Vines, Engr.
regions and schools, the first day started with Jonathan Aquino, Hon. Cyd Aguillera, Engr. Reynaldo Esguerra and Engr. Hazel Ann
Madegyem.
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, (Continued on page 7)

Come on, CAMANAVA!

by Joshua Bon A. Roco

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

Page 6

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.
PIChE BC
General
Assembly...
(Continued from page 5)
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 News
4TH Northern
Luzon
Symposium...
(Continued from page 6)
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 organization through their audacity.
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.
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
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!
Page 7
 Feature
PIChE MMAC Officer garners Achievements from
Renowned Awarding Bodies
by Norman Giovanni M. Guevarra

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

Convention held at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel, Cagayan

Dr. Nathaniel Dugos
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
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.

2017 PRC Outstanding Chemical Engineer Dr. Nathaniel Dugos with the Dr. Nathaniel Dugos receiving the Outstanding Chemical Engineer
PIChE headed by its National President- Engr. Jonathan Aquino. award from Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) last June 23,
2017 at the Manila Hotel.

Page 8
 Feature
PIChE Cavite Braves New Waters
by Harvy M. Fabalena

If the wind in my sail on the sea stays behind board-passers, and social media.
me, one day I‘ll know, how far I‘ll go…
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
Cavite Chapter‘s journey through the next
Board of Directors.
decade takes inspiration from Disney‘s ―Moana‖, about a
Polynesian girl coming to terms with who she is and These sessions serve to introduce (or re-
pursuing her goal in spite of uncertainty and challenges. introduce) the chapter and get these members on-board
That being said, PIChE-Cavite continues to maximize the with the latest news and updates in PIChE and the
headwind and momentum from the past years and chemical engineering world. That way, they can be
navigate toward the PIChE 2020 vision. It is only fitting more engaged during the General Assembly and
that the chapter‘s poster depicted the shape of the hopefully they will be more involved in all chapter
province as a sail that propels the organization from endeavors. So back to ―Moana‖. How far will PIChE-
milestone to milestone. During the National Convention Cavite go? As long the members stay committed and
in Cagayan de Oro, PIChE-Cavite work together toward the goals of
showcased three major PIChE and the chapter, then
accomplishments: opportunities for growth will only be as
vast as the ocean. Only time, and a
 Engr. Jonathan Aquino, former collective fervor, will decide how far
PIChE-Cavite President and one the chapter can go.
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 PIChE Cavite Chapter in Action

Page 9
 Fellows Section
A 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, too long when her purpose was made clear. She
even more true when one‘s personal became the first woman to be elected
achievement becomes a triumph for president of the Philippine Institute of
many. While science, technology, engineering Chemical Engineers (PIChE), a position she
and mathematics are conceivably the last held for 4 consecutive years from 1977 to
frontier for women, one name stood out 1980. This was followed by countless
from the rest. achievements establishing the power of
women in the work place.

Lydia G. Tansinsin was born in Bulacan

in October 1934. Raised in a family of animal Finding herself specializing in the
lovers, her mom surrounded her with engineering industry was something written in
pet dogs proudly named after the stars for Dr. Tansinsin. It was destiny.
illustrious historic figures like
Osmeña, Quezon, Roxas. Back
then, it was unknown to the A Chemical Engineer by
young Lydia that the same level profession, Dr. Tansinsin‘s
of greatness awaited her as she contribution to society goes
was set to earn her place in beyond the confines of research
national science and technology & development. She envisions
history. science and technology as key
to a successful business.
Dr. Lydia G. Tansinsin
―Engr. Tansinsin‖
earned her wings with a This wonder
Bachelor of Science in woman of the
Chemical Engineering engineering industry was
degree from the not an overnight
University of Santo Tomas sensation. Through time,
in 1954. It immediately her expertise has allowed
showed she was destined her to accumulate
for greater things. She numerous published and
credits notable unpublished works on
Philippine Technological Council Officers

Women Engineers Network Officers Women Chemical Engineers CAFEO 2015

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
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.

Page 10
 Upcoming Events & Sponsors

Editor’s Note:
STAFF

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 Mariel A. Ocampo
activities and programs held for the past half-year are Editor-in-chief
proof that the Filipino Chemical Engineers are geared
Contributors:
towards global Participation, Integration, Competency,
Frances Daphne R. Garela, PIChE Bataan
EDITORIAL

Honor and Service, and Excellence. Maricel Bongares , PIChE MME

Keep all the articles coming, featuring your Erwin Fernandez, PIChE MME
chapter and members’ milestones in the Chemical Norman Giovanni M. Guevarra, PIChE MMAC
Engineering profession. Share them by emailing me at Leo Ryuji D. Kusuhara, PIChE Bataan
maocampo@petron.com. Jesselito Baring , PIChE Cebu
Michael Vincent O. Laurio, PIChE Laguna
Be #ProudPinoyChE! Maria Lourdes G. Pitargue, PIChE BB
Madz Joshua Bon A. Roco, PIChE CAMANAVA
Harvy M. Fabalena, PIChE Cavite
Leonila C. Abella, FPIChE
Paul C. Palmero, FPIChE

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