The PIChE National Board of Directors held its planning

workshop last March 10-11, 2012 in Ochoa Farms,

Binangonan, Rizal to develop plans and programs for the

professional organization for 2012 and the next three years,

looking towards the Diamond Anniversary Celebration in 2014.

The workshop commenced with the review of status of

2011 PIChE programs and activities facilitated by the

Immediate Past President, Engr. Reynaldo Esguerra; the 2012

PIChE National Convention and the activities of the PIChE

Junior Chapter. Updates on the preparations for the upcoming

National Convention in Legazpi City in February 2013 were

presented by Executive Vice President, Engr. Susan C. Benitez.

Led by the current National President, Engr. Ferdinand C.

Zapanta, the NBOD map out plans for the institute categorized

into four C’s, namely Celebration, Chapters, Code of Technical

Standards and Communication.

Engr. Teodorico A. Funtanar took his oath of office as the

National Board Director for the Visayas, administered by

College of Fellows Director, Engr. Eriberto D. Pineda.

Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers Official Newsletter

The Distiller

What’s inside:

PIChE NBOD holds 2012 Planning Workshop By Engr. Alvin C. Gaspar

Other members of the national board who attended the

workshop were Engrs. Benilda Ebarvia (Vice President -

Metro Manila), Albert Samuela (Vice President - Luzon),

Chamaigne Luz Jamandre (Vice President - Visayas), Dyna

Enad (Vice President - Mindanao), Cyd Aguilera (Secretary),

John Paul Tejano (Treasurer), Alvin Gaspar (PRO and

Managing Editor), Eva Ocfemia (Director for Luzon), Estrellita

Malim and Gemma Trozo (Directors for Mindanao). PIChE JCL

representatives, Byron Vergara and Alyssa Batulan, also

attended the event, a first in PIChE NBOD planning history.

PIChE, new VP External of PTC By Engr. Alvin C. Gaspar

Volume 4, Issue 1Volume 4, Issue 1Volume 4, Issue 1Volume 4, Issue 1 June 2012June 2012June 2012June 2012

The Philippine Technological Council (PTC)

elected PIChE as its new Vice President for External

Affairs last March 23, 2012. PIChE is being

represented by Engr. Cezar C. dela Cruz, PIChE

National Past President for two consecutive terms in

2009 and 2010.

The Philippine Technological Council is the

umbrella organization of the thirteen (13)

professional engineering organizations in the

country each representing specific engineering field of practice, established to foster professional inter-disciplinary collaboration and

interaction among the individual professionals and its member-organizations.

Induction and oath taking of new PTC officers and board of trustees were held

last June 5, 2012 in Intramuros, Manila with Hon. Teresita R. Manzala, Chairperson

of the Professional Regulation Commission as guest speaker and inducting officer.

NEWS FROM THE CHAPTERS Bataan Baguio-Benguet Metro Manila Academe SOCSARGEN Pampanga Davao Cavite Cagayan De Oro

2 3 5 5 6 7 7 8

THE PRESIDENTS’S CORNER 4

A DAY IN SIARGAO 9

CPE UPDATES 10

ANNOUNCEMENTS 12

NEWS FROM THE CHAPTERS

2

The Distiller The Distiller

The Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers - Bataan

Chapter (PIChE-BC) held its Hollywood Awards Night-inspired

general assembly on April 19, 2012 at the PBR Auditorium to

recognize the Chapter’s achievements over its 28 years of

existence, topped off by the grandslam feat in 2011.

The event, attended by PIChE-BC members all dressed up to

impress, was graced by the presence of PIChE National

Immediate Past President, Engr. Reynaldo Esguerra, and senior

advisers.

Carpio for her noteworthy involvement in the organization. In

her acceptance speech, she expressed her deepest gratitude and

challenged the members to work hand in hand in sustaining the

remarkable performance of the organization.

Other Kabida awardees were Engrs. John Edrian Atendido,

Edrid Latauan, Leon Philippe Roperos, Edgeline Savannah Yan,

John Ryan Tan, Raquel Agbon-Datay, Josephine Sanoy, Jomelyn

Almosara, Kenneth Robert De Guzman, Jan-jez Saceda and Keem

Kenneth Santos.

Bataan Chapter holds General Assembly & Awards Nigh t 2012 By Engr. Edgeline Savannah J. Yan

Bataan Chapter joins Earth Day ‘12 By Engr. Edgeline Savannah J. Yan In celebration of Earth Day 2012, PIChE-Bataan Chapter

participated in the annual tree planting organized by Petron

Bataan Refinery (PBR) last April 21, 2012 at the Petron Limay

Terminal compound. The event was a strong showing of the

Chapter’s environmental advocacy as PIChE-BC members, toge-

ther with volunteers from PBR, DENR,

and local NGOs, planted eight hundred

mahogany seedlings. With a pro-active

stance geared towards environmental

protection, PIChE-BC members continue

to invest for a brighter future.

During the event, Engr. Alvin Gaspar, 2011 PIChE-BC President

and current Public Relations Officer of the PIChE National Board,

highlighted the milestones of the year 2011-2012. These

included the Chapter’s various activities for the holistic

development of its members and the community, back-to-back

success in the PIChE National Convention in Surigao, and the

publication of the first-ever annual report distributed to local

and international partners and sponsors.

The Top Kabida Award was presented to Engr. Madison

The newly elected Board of Directors of the Chapter for 2012

– 2013 were presented in the assembly. Engr. Arjames Balgoa led

the pack as the President of PIChE-BC. Other PIChE officers are

the following: Engrs. Vallan Joseph Velasco (Vice President),

Agbon-Datay (Secretary), Kate-Dysan Obrero (Treasurer), Glacy

Villaruel (Auditor), Madison Carpio (PRO), Edgeline Savannah Yan

(Editor-in-Chief), Edrid Latauan (Membership), Kenneth Robert

De Guzman (Education), Christine Fabic (Socio-Civic) and John

Edrian Atendido (Ways and Means).

The Distiller

3

NEWS FROM THE CHAPTERS

As part of the first quarter activities of the Baguio-Benguet

Chapter, the General Assembly and the Election of the

Chapter Officers was held last April 1, 2012 at Hall A, BBCCC

Bldg, Baguio City. Various officers’ reports were presented to

the members and advisers led by Engr. Ester L. Aguilar, the

immediate past chapter president. This was attended by 27

members and by Engr. Reynaldo L. Esguerra, the immediate

past president of the National Board, and also the assembly’s

guest speaker on the Code of Technical Standards and

Continuing Professional Education Units.

In line with this, Engr. Ferdinand C. Zapanta, National

Board President, formally inducted the newly elected officers

headed by Engr. Petra C. Cadawan, the Chapter President,

last May 19, 2012 at Baguio Palace Hotel.

The celebration was also graced by Engr. Albert S.

Samuela, the VP for Luzon, who assured the chapter utmost

support for forthcoming projects.

The induction ceremony has been an avenue for the

Baguio-Benguet Chapter conducts Induction Ceremony By Engr. Kriselle Mae G. Viloria

PIChE Baguio-Benguet attends 73rd PIChE National Convention By Engr. Kriselle Mae G. Viloria Nineteen members of the PIChE Baguio-Benguet Chapter

travelled with seven students almost 1200 kilometers

southbound to Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, to attend the

73rd PIChE National Convention last February 15-18, 2012.

Despite the low pressure area hovering Northeastern

Mindanao causing delayed and cancelled flights on the 15th,

workload breakaway of the members and socialization with

the Chemical Engineering students of Saint Louis University,

being the only university under the chapter’s jurisdiction

offering Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. The

recognition of the recent Chemical Engineers Licensure

Examination passers of the said school was likewise carried

out in the event.

The chapter eyes on a tree-planting activity scheduled this

June as the onset of the course of activities this year. Series of

seminars are also lined up this quarter as part of the

Continuing Professional Education of the members.

majority of the Baguio-Benguet attendees landed safely at

the Surigao grounds around 2:00 PM of the same day

whereas others joined the convention two days after. The

convention proper successfully pushed through despite the

stormy weather. A well-fought bidding for the hosting of the

74th PIChE National Convention was also participated by the

chapter where the triumph of the Bicol Chapter was highly

commended. The chapter also takes pride with the special

citation given to of Engr. Susan A. Mamitag of the PIChE

Baguio-Benguet family, for her accomplishments in her three-

year service to the National Board as

Director for Luzon for 2009-2010 and

Vice-President for Luzon for 2010-

2012.

The melody of the Surigaonon

theme song that welcomed and

wished the participants a safe journey

back home, continued to resonate

through the chemical engineering

circle several weeks after the

convention. It is

A rhythm that

still serves proof

of the Surigao-

non hospitality.

The President’s Corner ENGR. FERDINAND C. ZAPANTA National President

The Distiller The Distiller

Our Vision PIChE is the organization that is committed to the continual development of all its members in order to make them globally competitive.

2015 Cityland 10 Tower 2 154 H.V. de la Costa Street Makati City Phone : (632) 753-5192 Website : www.pichenet.org

Our Core Values As professional chemical engineers, we adhere to the following core values: 1. Excellence 3. Integrity 2. Commitment 4. Service

4

Greetings!

We are happy to come up with this initial issue

of our newsletter "The Distiller" since I assume the

responsibility as your president more than two

months ago. This newsletter provide your national

board the opportunity to reach out to your chapter

and to you individually.

The PIChE National Board during its planning

session last March 10-11, 2012 has map out plans

for the Institute within the year and hopefully the

next three years. Allow me the opportunity to

share with you briefly the resulting output of our

planning session categorized under four "C".

The first " C" is on Celebration. We are laying the

ground works for the different activities leading to

the celebration of our diamond year by 2014. We

are closely coordinating with the College of

Fellow and other stakeholders on these activities.

We will launch the 75th year logo and

slogan contest soon.

The second "C” is on Chapters. We will

strengthen the roles of the chapters specially on

CPE, PIChE-LGU linkages, consultancy and

community activities. We will

encourage formation of new

c h a p t e r s w h i c h m y

predecessors started.

The third "C” is on the Code of Technical

Standards. Hopefully we will come up with the

initial draft of the standard within the year.

The last "C" is on Communication. We will

continually reach out to our chemical engineers

thru our available mode of communication such as

the newsletter, website, seminars, Chemical

Engineering Week celebration and PIChE Journal.

Members of your board are making themselves

available attending chapter general assemblies,

seminars and inductions.

PIChE has been around for the last 75 years

fulfilling its vision and mission. There are still a lot

to be done and we are counting on everyone to

help our institute achieve its goals.

Let me also take this opportunity to thank

everyone for their support during the last 73rd

national convention in Surigao City.

I also congratulate the editorial board together

with the chapters for their contribution in coming

out with this issue of the Distiller.

Let us all unite towards our journey to keep the

spirit of PIChE alive.

Thank You!

“Let us all unite towards our journey to keep the spirit of PIChE alive.”

The Distiller

5

NEWS FROM THE CHAPTERS

The PIChE Metro Manila Academe Chapter conducted a

review of the Annex III Course Specifications as seen in the

CHED 2008 Curriculum, last May 12, 2012 at the National

Baguio University. The workshop aptly titled UPLIFT or the

Undergraduate Program Leading to the Improvement of Faculty

Teaching is the eight in the series of workshops whose main

objective is to undertake a collaborative benchmarking of

topics and best practices in the teaching of ChE subjects in

order to come out with an enhanced syllabus that should

increase student passing rate. The workshop was attended by

faculty members from Adamson University, De La Salle

University, Eulogio Amang Rodriguez Institute of Science and

Technology, Malayan Colleges Laguna, Technological Institute

of the Philippines and the University of Santo Tomas.

The UPLIFT 8 Workshop revised the CHED Course

Specifications of the Allied and Professional Courses such as

MMAC conducts UPLIFT Curriculum Review Workshop By Dr. Evelyn R. Laurito

SOCSARGEN Chapter holds Lecture on Green Energy By Engrs. Alvic Henry M. Boje & Almira C. Gallano

The Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (PIChE)

SOCSARGEN Chapter had the first leg of its lecture series last

March 3, 2012 at Asian Tongue Restaurant, General Santos City.

The said lecture series is intended to keep our chemical

engineers updated with the latest engineering issues,

innovations and developments. Faced with the present energy

crisis in Mindanao, PIChE SOCSARGEN came up with technical

seminar with the theme “Chemical Engineering in Green

Energy”.

Engr. Charmae Sensano, a Senior Project Engineer of Dole

Philippines Inc., imparted her knowledge about the “Technical

General Chemistry Calculations, Physical Chemistry,

Thermodynamics, ChE Calculations, Transport Phenomena,

Heat, Mass and Momentum Transfer, Equipment and Plant

Design and Biochemical Engineering. The revisions were done

on content, coverage, number of units, textbook and course

outcomes. The revised course specifications will be submitted

to the CHED Chemical Engineering Technical Panel for positive

action. These revisions can be accessed thru http://

pichemmac.net.

Applications in Biogas Production Plants.” Her study paved the

way for Dolefil’s alternative energy source which addresses its

increasing power demand. Biogas is gaining a worldwide

attention since it is a clean and environment-friendly fuel. More

importantly, biogas is a renewable source of energy which is

very promising for sustainable development. The conversion

of waste materials into other forms such as energy is one of the

Philippine government’s directions in achieving zero waste.

Driving up the seminar, Engr. Jonilyh Campos and Engr. Dyna

Enad (present PIChE National Vice President for Mindanao)

spoke about generation of power from heated coal. The

discussion on “Key Considerations in the Development of Coal-

fired Power Plants” clarified the buzzing issues on

environmental degradation associated with coal-fired power

plant operations. Engr. Enad, the Technical Executive Assistant

of Conal Holdings, Inc. which is the developer of the coal-fired

power plant project in Maasim, Sarangani, made clear of the

social and environmental obligations in putting up and

operating such power plant. Mindanao’s power supply is

nearing its full capacity this year and needs an additional 200-

megawatt capacity. Operation of this coal-fired power plant in

Maasim will be a great milestone for SOCSARGEN in the event

that it is fully realized since it can cater

Mindanao’s additional power requirement.

PIChE SOCSARGEN was honored to

be with Dolefil’s Vice President and

Managing Director, (Cont’d on page 11)

The Distiller

6

NEWS FROM THE CHAPTERS

rapport and will to win, the husband and wife tandem of Engr.

Junior and Filipina De Guzman emerged as victors. Engr. Rotea’s

team and Engr. Dula’s team settled for the second and third

places respectively.

The badminton activity which aimed to promote health

awareness and camaraderie among members was sponsored by

Universal Robina Corporation, Coca-cola, and Trust International

Paper Corporation.

Twenty-four smashers. Twelve teams. One champion. All

winners.

The PIChE Pampanga Badminton Fun Tournament was held

last March 11, 2012 at Smash Power Center in the City of San

Fernando where members of the chapter and their invited

friends from other companies battled it out to emerge as the

first ever champion of this sporting event.

A PIChE Pampanga member paired with a non-member

composed the 12 pairs which showcased their court prowess on

their skirmishes at the lone competition - mixed doubles event.

Teams were divided into brackets wherein a single round robin

elimination format was implemented. The top 8 teams advanced

to the quarter finals and winners of the knock-out games in the

quarters formed the semi-finalists.

The teams of Engr. Filipina De Guzman, Engr. Perlita Dula,

Engr. Jordan Rotea and the invited duo of Vanessa Aguana and

Rodel Hiwatig made it to the semi-finals. In the end, Engr. De

Guzman and Engr. Rotea’s teams had dumped their respective

opponents and fought each other in the finals. Exhibiting better

Pampanga Chapter holds Badminton Fun Tourney By Engr. Jordan L. Rotea

January 21, 2012 marked PIChE Pampanga Chapter’s 1st

Quarter General Assembly held at Café Juan, Holy Angel

University, Angeles City. Participated by a total of thirty seven

members, the event started at 5:30 PM and ended at 9:00 PM.

Highlights of the activity were the launching of the chapter’s

mission and vision statement the 2012 objectives and

organizational plans, election and oath taking of new board of

directors and advisers, as well as presentation of 2012 calendar

of activities

Engr. Mercy Liza Ituragia and Engr. Grace Joy Bonus were

elected as the new Secretary and member of the board of

directors, respectively. Engr. Ma. Doris Bacamante, Engr. Cecilia

Ursula Villanueva, Engr. Jake Lachica and Engr. Roy Rico were

presented as the chapter’s Board of

Advisers.

As part of chapter’s objective for

2012, the group plans to intensify

membership drive & reach at least 70

members by the end of the year,

PIChE Pampanga holds 1Q GA By Engr. Lorena Muyco Dong-e

PIChE Pampanga in line with its objective to provide

Continuing Professional Education (CPE) units to its members

have partnered with the Recruitment, Training, and

Organizational Development (RTOD) of Trust International Paper

Corporation (TIPCO) in offering leadership-related trainings.

The chapter was represented by 19 of its members on this

year’s 1st and 2nd quarter Lotus Garden Learning Meets which is

a two-hour meeting of minds of various organizations invited by

TIPCO RTOD. The 1st quarter session held last January 20, 2012

dealt with the topic, “How Ordinary People Become

Extraordinary Leaders.” “Managing through Self-leadership” on

the other hand, was the focus of the session last April 12, 2012.

Moreover, a seminar on “Business Ethics (Cont’d on page 11)

Pampanga Chapter partners with TIPCO RTOD By Engr. Grace Joy F. Bonus

provide assistance to its members in terms of earning CPE Points

and renewal of licenses for the regular members. The group also

plans to organize one socio activity quarterly. This may include

sports, recreational, outreach, environmental and cultural.

Resource speaker for the night was Engr. Mary Anne De

Jesus, a freelance TUV-R Auditor and member of the chapter

shared her insights on ISO Standards-Its Benefits & Impacts on

Chemical Engineering.

The Distiller

7

NEWS FROM THE CHAPTERS

PIChE Davao Chapter held its 49th General Assembly and

Election of Officers last May 5, 2012 at the Lispher Inn, Matina,

Davao City. Engr. Estrellita A. Malim, PIChE National Director for

Mindanao, opened the program. It was followed by the

Treasurer’s Report of Engr. Kriz Chavez. Engr. Ferdinand C.

Zapanta, PIChE National President, gave the inspirational

message. He informed the members regarding the PIChE

updates. The presentation and election of officers was held after

Zapanta’s message. Dr. Albert B. Jubilo, the re-elected president,

delivered the President’s Report. He challenged the members to

support all the activities of the chapter. He also stated the

chapter directions—professional advancement, environmental

protection and creation of wealth. The elected officers took their

oath of office before Engr. Malim. Engr. Mabel Rizon and Engr.

Decien Dee T. De Cagalitan were the masters of ceremony.

The elected members of PIChE Davao Chapter Board of

Directors are Dr. Albert B. Jubilo, President; Engr. Michael Y.

Torro, Executive Vice President; Engr. Starlette Rasay, Vice

President for Industry Sector; Engr. Decien (Cont’d on page 11)

Davao Chapter holds 49th General Assembly By Dr. Albert B. Jubilo

A presidential citation for being the fastest-growing chapter

was given to PIChE Pampanga last February 17, 2012 during the

73rd PIChE National Convention held in Hotel Tavern, Surigao City.

Engr. Reynaldo Esguerra, immediate past president of PIChE

National handed the accolade to Pampanga delegates headed by

its President, Engr. Naomi Grace Anunciacion. The 7-month old

chapter, which was revived last September 2, 2011 with just 17

charter members, was cited for their effort to increase its

members to fourfold. The chapter currently has 67 members

where 3 of its newest members came from the province of Tarlac.

Membership drive to be able to tap more (Cont’d on page 11)

Pampanga named Fastest Growing Chapter By Engr. Roselyn H. Sotayco

PIChE-Cavite Chapter jump-starts 2012 with a new mission: a

stronger presence and activity. The newly-elected leadership last

December had only 3 things in mind—sustain the chapter’s operations,

succeed in all endeavors, and surpass previous performance.

Sustain! For the first time since its formation, the Cavite Chapter

has opened its doors to non-San Miguel Packaging Chemical

Engineers. This further establishes presence in the community as well

as gathering more minds for the chapter to prosper. As membership is

being strengthened, so does the constitution and by-laws, which is

now nearing its final review by the officers, aiming for a more relevant

and up-to-date version.

Succeed! Active participation on various PIChE activities is

encouraged, starting with the National Convention in Surigao. Several

projects are being planned, mostly on the 2nd semester. PIChE Cavite

started with revisiting its 2008 tree-planting

project in Dasmariñas, to find out the

success rate of such activities, what can be

learned from them, and how it would affect

future projects especially those with

tie-ups to local (Cont’d on page 11)

PIChE Cavite 2012: Sustain! Succeed! Surpass! By Engr. Marvin Gilson N. dela Cruz

With the theme, “PIChE-CDO at 27: Continuing the Winning

Tradition”, PIChE – CDO had its 27th General Assembly last April

14, 2012 at VIP Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City. Chemical engineers

from Misamis Oriental were once gathered to celebrate a

fruitful year that had gone by and also to make a good start for

another challenging year ahead. The event was graced by the

presence of PIChE National Vice President for Mindanao, Engr.

Dyna C. Enad and PIChE National Director for Mindanao, Engr.

Gemma Trozo.

In line with the recent caalamities and disasters that has

happened in the past year, not only in Misamis Oriental but the

whole Philippines, Engr. Dexter S. Lo of Xavier University –

Engineering Resource Center (XU-ERC) gave a timely talk on

“Disaster Risk Management: Why Disasters Happen”. He also

gave inputs on what happened and what caused the flood

brought about by Tropical Storm Sendong last December 2011.

Engr. Enad, also gave a talk on the PIChE National Affairs.

Developments on the implementation of CPE units requirement

in the renewal of professional license was discussed among

others.

PIChE – CDO Officers and Advisers for 2011 – 2012 were

given recognition for their contribution to the success of the

chapter’s activities for the past year. They all received

Certificate of Recognition signed by PIChE National 2011 – 2012

Officers, President, Engr. Reynaldo L. Esguerra, and National

Vice President for Mindanao, Engr. Rex P. Paayas, and outgoing

PIChE – CDO President, Engr. Paciente R. Dandan.

Election of officers for 2012 – 2013 also took place. Fresh

faces were added to the group, implicating new ideas for the

organization. The oathtaking of the newly elected officers

took place right after the election, with (Cont’d on page 11)

The Distiller

8

NEWS FROM THE CHAPTERS

Last May 10 and 11, 2012, the Philippine Institute of Chemical

Engineers – Cagayan de Oro (PIChE–CDO) Chapter in

coordination with the Philippine Technological Council (PTC)

conducted the Certification and Accreditation System for

Engineering Education (CASEE) 102 Training Series at VIP Hotel,

Cagayan de Oro City. The speaker for the training was Engr.

Cezar S. dela Cruz, External Vice President of PTC and PIChE

National Past President. A CASEE 101 Seminar (a pre-requisite to

CASEE 102) was also conducted in the morning of May 10, 2012

for those who were not able to attend the CASEE 101 seminar

last October 26, 2011.

The training was open to all engineers under the Association

of Professional Organization (APO) who aspire to become

Program Evaluators (PEv) in relation to the Washington Accord

Initiative of the PTC. The successful PEv will be included in the

registry of which will be the pool of evaluators whenever there

is an engineering program for evaluation. The PEv will provide

travel and accommodations needed to do the site visit to a

Higher Educational Institution (HEI) who wants to have its

engineering programs accredited. This is in preparation of the

Washington Accord agreement starting with the ASEAN

countries.

The Washington Accord is an international accreditation

agreement for professional engineering academic degrees,

between the bodies responsible for accreditation in its signatory

countries. The agreement recognizes that there is substantial

equivalency of programs accredited by

those signatories. Graduates of

accredited programs in any of the

signatory countries are recognized by

the other signatory countries as having

met the academic (Cont’d on page 11)

CDO Chapter holds CASEE 101 and 102 Training Series By Engr. Mary Hazel C. Abasolo

PIChE-CDO’s 27th General Assembly and Elections By Engr. Mary Hazel C. Abasolo

The Distiller

9

FEATURES

A Day in Siargao Island

By Engr. Rodel Fronda

Everytime we hear the name “Siargao”, the word

“surfing” usually comes to mind. Such is the strong

connection between these two terms, that when a Siargao

Island tour package was made known during the 73rd PIChE

National Convention held in Surigao City, many of the

participants inquired and signed in to avail of the offer.

Among these people who joined the tour group at the

city pier, just after sunrise last February 18, 2012, were a

dozen representatives of the PIChE-CDO

C h a p t e r w h o a l s o s h a r e d t h e t o u r

group’s collective expectations of what

Siargao Island can offer to

its visitors.

After a

two-hour sea

travel from

the pier, we

landed on a

bay at Brgy.

Abanay, near

the municipality

of Dapa. Once

there, we had

a late-morning

warm breakfast

a t a d i n i n g

c o t t a g e o n

s t i l t s a n d

surrounded

b y f r e s h

a i r a n d

mangrove

trees.

Showcased in an enclosed

sanctuary near the cottage are assorted

marine creatures such as red grouper (lapu-lapu),

large eel, angelfish, lionfish and pompano. There were also

sea turtles (pawikan) the size of backpacks, which we were

allowed to touch, chase and lift up. We also had the chance

to climb atop a nearby hill and gaze at the expanse of the

bay and its surrounding areas.

Our next stop is at the municipality of Del Carmen, where

Mindanao’s largest single mangrove forest is nested. The

forest dominates the local coastline and has large swathes

of intact mangrove stands that are said to be inhabited by

saltwater crocodiles. At their town hall just across this

forest, we were greeted by the local mayor and was served

with a sumptuous full lunch of lechon, grilled large fish,

crabs, squid and other seafood cooked in myriad ways, while

students representing the local school’s dance troupe

performed their cultural dance presentation for the dining

guests. Some of us were able to tour around the mangrove

stands via speedboat.

After we had our fill, we headed by van to our last

stopover and accommodation area, the municipality of

General Luna which hosts a number of excellent surfing

sites. Our target destination is “Cloud 9”, the popular surfing

location aptly named for its large, tube waves and the site of

annual national and international surfing competitions. Once

there, many of us in the group cannot contain the

excitement any longer. We hurried to avail of the services of

the resident surfer-trainors and their surfboards,

a n d a f t e r s o m e b a s i c s a f e ty

briefings, quickly

h e a d e d t o t h e

crashing waves to

taste and experience

the actual thri l l o f

surfing.

After the adrenaline

rush has calmed down,

and after checking-in at

the designated beach-

house accommodations,

w e w e r e d i r e c t e d

t o p r o c e e d t o a

nearby beach resort

f o r s o m e w e l l -

deserved chow. The

evening was initiated

w i t h a s a t i s f y i n g

dinner by our hosts,

again composed of

freshly-cooked local

seafood including

lobster tails and

prawns, and capped with

lechon, refreshments and fresh fruits. We spent the

rest of the evening in leisurely chatting on the sand, soaking

on the beach and stargazing, playing card games, and

emptying the bulky ice box of its chilled alcoholic treasures.

We found out that there were other attractions on this

island worth seeing, such as rock formations, beaches, islets

and coves that could have been visited but sadly cannot be

wedged into our limited time schedule. Still, we enjoyed the

trip and realized that there is more to

Siargao Island aside from its surfing

attractions. If given the opportunity

and the resources , we genera l ly

agreed that Siargao Island is worth a

follow-up visit, preferably a longer-

duration kind of vacation!

The Distiller

10

UPDATES: Continuing Professional Education (CPE) for Chemical Engineers (Part 1)

What is CPE?

It refers to the Inculcation, Assimilation and Acquisition of

knowledge, skills, proficiency, and ethical and moral values,

after the initial registration of a professional, that raise and

enhance the professionals technical skills and competence.

What are the objectives of CPE?

1. To provide and ensure the continuous education of a

registered professional with the latest trends in the

profession brought about by modernization, scientific and

technological advancement.

2. To raise and maintain the professional capability for

delivering professional services.

3. To attain and maintain the highest standards and quality

in the practice of his/ her profession.

4. To comply with the professional’s ethical standard

requirements.

5. To make the professional globally competitive.

6. To promote the general welfare of the public.

7. Compliance with the CPE programs deemed a moral

obligation of each professional within the context of the

concerned profession’s Code of Ethics and is considered a

necessary, effective and credible means of ensuring

competence, integrity and global competitiveness.

What are CPE legal basis?

1. Section 14, Article XII of the 1987 Philippine Constitution

provides that the sustained development of a reservoir of

national talents consisting of Filipino scientists,

entrepreneurs, professionals, managers, high level technical

manpower and skilled workers and craftsmen in all fields shall

be promoted by the State. The State shall encourage

appropriate technology and regulate its transfer for the

national benefit.

2. Section 7(A), (N), and (Y) of

Republic Act No. 8981 (PRC

Modernization Act of 2000) grant

the Commission these specific

powers: (A) to administer, implement and enforce

regulatory policies of the national government with respect

to the regulation and licensing of the various professions and

occupations under its jurisdiction including the enhancement

and maintenance of professional and occupational standards

and ethics and the enforcement of the rules and regulations

relative thereto.

3. Section 7(A), (N), and (Y) of Republic Act No. 8981 (PRC

Modernization Act of 2000) grant the Commission these

specific power: (N) To adopt and promulgate such rules and

regulations as may be necessary to effectively implement

policies with respect to the regulation and practice of the

professions.

4. Section 7(A), (N), and (Y) of Republic Act No. 8981 (PRC

Modernization Act of 2000) grant the Commission these

specific power: (Y) to perform such other functions and duties

as maybe necessary to carry out provisions of this Act, the

various professional regulatory laws, decrees, executive

orders and other administrative issuances.

5. Section 9(B) of Republic Act 8981 provides that among

the powers, functions and responsibilities of the various

Professional Regulatory Boards (PRB’s) is to monitor the

conditions affecting the practice of the profession or

occupation under their respective jurisdictions and whenever

necessary, adopt such measures as may be deemed proper

for the enhancement of the profession or occupation and/or

the maintenance of high professional, ethical and technical

standards.

6. Executive Order No. 220 issued by the President of the

Republic of the Philippines on June 23, 2003 directed the

Adoption of the Code of Good Governance for the

professions in the Philippines. The said code was adopted by

PRC and PRB’s embodying the principles of professional

conduct specifically, integrity and objectivity. Professional

competence and global competitiveness.

7. The Republic of the Philippines, as one of the sovereign

member states of the World Trade Organization (WTO) has to

deal with and prepare itself for the implementation of the 4th

protocol, under the General Agreement for Services in Trade

(GATS) - a general agreement that will govern trade among

member nations in which twelve (12) classification of services

which mandates the Philippines to make sure it can offer

competitive professio-

nal services to other

WTO members.

Part 1 consists of slides 1-13 of the 41

slides of PRC CPE Guidelines 2010 power

point presentation.

The Distiller

11

Pampanga Chapter partners... (from page 6)

with Today’s Work Environment” was also conducted. The

session provided the participants with practical guidelines on

how to promote ethics in the organization and thereby project a

positive image to all stakeholders who are constantly looking for

suppliers and partners who have sound business practices, have a

high degree of credibility, and are worth trusting. The two-hour

seminar was attended by Engr. Imelda Gatuz, Engr. Ana

Rhodrora Rivera, Engr. Josephine Gomez, and Engr. Joy Bonus.

A total of six CPE points was already accounted to the PIChE

Pampanga – TIPCO RTOD offerings. Schedules of the next

Lotus Garden Learning Meet and other

seminars will be announced during the

2nd Quarter General Assembly on April

30. Members will also receive updates

through SMS, e-mail, and facebook.

Davao Chapter holds 49th... (from page 7)

Dee T. Ferraren-De Cagalitan, Vice President for Academe; Engr.

Mabel Rizon, Vice President for Government Sector; Engr. Gika

Triz C. Balderas, Secretary; Engr. Kriz Chavez, Treasurer; Engr.

Jaime T. Oligario, Auditor; Engr. Rolando Palicte, Business

Manager; Engr. Jeaniffer Ehilla, Public Relations Officer; Engr. Ava

Gloria Jean Bugtong, Director for Membership; Engr. Leonila

Lastimosa, Director for Continuing Professional Education; and

Engr. Estrellita A. Malim, Adviser.

Pampanga named Fastest... (from page 7)

chemical engineers from other companies in Pampanga will be

conducted by the board of directors and area coordinators this

April and May 2012. Aside from getting contact information of

potential members and inviting them through e-mail, they also

plan to personally visit fellow chemical engineers on their

respective companies. Meeting with members who have not yet

attended any chapter’s activities are also set for the said months.

The chapter’s extensive effort is driven by their objective to

reach 70 or more members by the end of the year.

NEWS FROM THE CHAPTERS

CDO Chapter holds CASEE... (from page 8)

requirements for entry to the practice of engineering.

Most of the participants of the training were instructors of

HEIs from Cagayan de Oro City (Xavier University, Capitol

University, Liceo de Cagayan University) and Bukidnon (Central

Mindanao University). There were also participants from several

industries in Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental.

PIChE CDO’s 27th... (from page 8)

Engr. Enad administering the oath of office.

Consumer products and souvenir items from Del Monte

Philippines, Inc., Steag State Power, Inc., Pilipinas Kao, Inc.,

Philippine Sinter Corporation, Exclusive Traders Inc. and Krypton

Industrial Resources, Co. were given away in a raffle draw to lucky

GA attendees. Engr. Rodelle Ian Josol of Pilipinas Kao, Inc., won

the raffle draw’s first prize, a free registration fee to the 74th

PIChE National Convention in Legaspi, Albay on February 2013.

The new PIChE-CDO president, Mary Hazel C. Abasolo,

presented the chapter plans and goals for the 2012 – 2013. The

chapter aims to continue it’s winning streak as one of the

Outstanding PIChE Chapters in the Philippines. Much is

expected from the new administration and surely big and

exciting challenges await them.

SOCSARGEN Chapter... (from page 5)

Simon Denye, who actively participated on the topic

discussions. The seminar did not only serve as an avenue for

our fellow chemical engineers to share new developments

from their respective fields of expertise but, on the lighter note, a

chance for the members to get some dose of socialization,

breaking their tight work routines. PIChE SOCSARGEN, without

a doubt, had a great start-up with its technical seminar, and

is looking forward to the next lecture series happening on the

next quarter.

PIChE Cavite 2012... (from page 7)

government. Activity monitoring, consultation, and reporting to

National have been closely done over the past months.

Surpass! As early as April, PIChE-Cavite has been preparing for one

of its major goals: to present at least 1 technical paper in next year’s

National Convention, its first in history.

With teamwork, commitment, and the unique Caviteño spirit, all

these goals can be achieved.

The Distiller

EEEE

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Editor-In-Chief Alvin C. Gaspar

Contributors Mary Hazel Abasolo / Alvic Henry Boje

Grace Joy Bonus / Lorena Dong-e Marvin dela Cruz / Rodel Fronda

Almira Gallano / Albert Jubilo Evelyn Laurito / Jordan Rotea

Roselyn Sotayco / Kriselle Viloria Edgeline Savannah Yan

The Distiller The official newsletter

PHILIPPINE INSTITUTE OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERS

(PIChE)

2015 Cityland 10 Tower 2 Condominium 154 H.V. de la Costa Street,

Ayala North, Makati City Phone : (632) 753-5192

Website : www.pichenet.org

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR:

To all PIChE Chapter Presidents and members,

“The Distiller”, the Official Newsletter of the Philippine Institute of

Chemical Engineers (PIChE) welcomes news and feature articles from

your chapter so that every chapter member is informed of what other

chapters of PIChE been doing in terms of professional advancement,

environmental activities, community services and socialization.

Besides Facebook, a social media, “The Distiller” is the only venue

where one read all the PIChE activities, programs and learn updates

on Continuing Professional Education (CPE) for chemical engineers as

well as the activities of the PIChE College of Fellows.

You may send articles for publication thru

acgaspar@petron.com. Thank You.

Alvin

12

PIChE-CDO International Scientific and International Forum (PCISEF) 2012

The Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers – Cagayan

de Oro Chapter invites you to the PIChE-CDO International

Scientific and International Forum (PCISEF) 2012 to be held

on August 9 – 10, 2012 at the Grand Caprice Restaurant and

Convention Center, with the theme ”Engineering Innovations

for Green Technology and Economic Sustainability”. The

forum will be a technical event of engineers, scientists,

researchers, environmentalists and educators in the

Southeast Asian region and students as well. It will focus on

the recent technologies, process innovations and research

centered on resource preservation, recovery and sustainable

economy.

The forum will feature renowned plenary speakers, parallel

technical sessions, interactive poster sessions and

entertaining social functions. Intending authors are invited to

contribute high-quality papers. All abstracts are to be

submitted electronically through the forum’s email address

by May 30, 2012. All contributed papers will be reviewed by

experts. For general inquiries, please contact our Technical

C o o r d i n a t o r s , E n g r . R e d e m p t o r P . L a d i c a a t

ANNOUNCEMENTS

redemptor96@gmail.com or Engr. Edwin Richard R. Ortiz at

edwinrichard.ortiz@yahoo.com or through the chapter’s

email address, piche-cdo@pichenet.org.

For more information on the forum, you can check PIChE-

CDO’s official website, piche-cdo.tripod.com or contact the

Forum Chairman, Engr. Mary Hazel C. Abasolo at

hazle84@yahoo.com