Volume 6 Issue 1 February 2015

The Distiller
76th PIChE National Convention: Strengthening
Chemical Engineering Towards One ASEAN Community
by: Dr. Nathaniel Dugos
of Technology (MIT), Pamantasan ng Lungsod
The Philippine Institute of Chemical Engi-
ng Maynila (PLM), University of Santo Tomas
neers (PIChE) will hold its 76th National Con-
(UST), Technological Institute of the Philip-
vention on February 18-21, 2015 at the Leg-
pines (TIP), and the University of the Philip-
end Hotel Palawan in the picturesque city of
pines-Diliman(UP).
Puerto Princesa.
The organizing team is headed by Engr. Pro-
This year’s convention carries the theme
serfina Matugas-Coro (PIChE National EVP)
“Strengthening Chemical Engineering To-
as convention chair and Dr. Alvin Caparanga,
wards One ASEAN Community”. The plena-
(PIChE-MMAC President) as the host chapter
ry and technical sessions are attuned with the
chair. They are ably assisted by the different
theme so it is expected that the presentations
committees whose members are coming from
and discussions will focus on issues concern-
both the PIChE-NBOD and PIChE-MMAC.
ing chemical engineering common to the
ASEAN region, the 5 Es: Energy, Environ-
mental Protection and Process Safety, Educa- The PIChE national convention provides a
tion, Economics, and Emerging Technologies. forum for practitioners, researchers, edu-
cators, entrepreneurs and students to dis-
PIChE-Metro Manila Academe (PIChE-
MMAC) was given the honor to host the con- cuss and exchange information of rele-
vention. The host chapter has around eighty vance to chemical engineering on current
regular members representing seven (7) chem- and emerging technologies, process inno-
ical engineering institutions in Metro Manila. vation, researches and latest developments
These schools are Adamson University in the profession. It also serves as a venue
(AdU), De La Salle University (DLSU), Eulo- for networking and collaboration with
gio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science industry, academe and colleagues.
and Technology (EARIST), Mapua Institute

What’s inside?
NEWS FROM THE CHAPTERS
PIChE—MMAC, College of Fellows host first AUChEEdS
By: Engr. Dennis Yu, PIChE, MMAC
Baguio-Benguet 2
lead coordinators. De La Salle University (DLSU), the
3 As part of the 75th founding anniversary celebration
University of Santo Tomas (UST), and the Malayan
MMS 2 of the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers
Cavite 3 Colleges Laguna (MCL) served as major academic
(PIChE), the ASEAN Undergraduate Chemical
TIChE 4 partners. Dr. Alberto Laurito, professor of chemical
Engineering Education Summit 2014 (AUChEEdS)
MMAC 5 engineering at UST and PIChE fellow, served as the
was held last July 17 – 19, 2014 in Manila. This
6 over-all chair of the organizing committee. AUChEEdS
unique event, with the theme “Educating the New
CDO 7 aims to take advantage of the upcoming ASEAN inte-
Generation of ASEAN Chemical Engineers”, was
Bataan 8 gration in 2015 and has three goals: (1) to convene
9 organized by the PIChE College of Fellows (headed
undergraduate chemical engineering faculty and stu-
Tacloban 10 by Engr. Eriberto Pineda) and PIChE Metro Manila
dents in the ASEAN region to discuss about theme and
11 Academe Chapter (led by its President, Dr. Alvin
come up with resolutions and/or action plans; (2) to
12 Caparanga). Student organizations actively partici-
benchmark BS Chemical Engineering educational
FEATURE: pated in organizing the event, with the DLSU
practices among ASEAN universities; and (3) to pro-
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 14 Chemical Engineering Society (ChEn), the UST
IN FOOD SAFETY mote friendly academic competition and networking
Chemical Engineering Society (ChES), and the
among BS Chemical Engineering students among
PIChE Junior Chapter – Luzon (JCL) acting as the
ASEAN universities. (Cont’d on page 12)
 The Distiller
PIChE recognizes Metro Manila South (MMS) Chapter
September 14, 2014 – PIChE – Metro
Manila South (MMS) Chapter was
formally recognized by PIChE Na-
tional during the ChE Week Celebra-
tion held at Philippine Trade Training
Center, Pasay City. The chapter
includes the cities of Pasay, Makati,
Taguig, Mandaluyong, Las Pinas,
Paranaque, Muntinlupa and the mu-
nicipality of Pateros.
The chapter was conceptualized after
its members and subsequently, the
interim officers were attending
PIChE– Baguio Benguet elects new set of officers
The PIChE – Baguio Benguet
Chapter held their General Assem-
bly on March 30, 2014, wherein a
new set of officers was elected.
Engr. Rey Esguerra, IPP National,
graced the event. Engr. Petra C.
Cadawan took a bow from her
presidency to give way to the
former Vice President Virgilio V.
Velsaco to assume the Presidency.
The elected officers were:
Normalita L. Escalante, Vice Presi-
dent; Evygene Aquino, Secretary;
PIChE– Baguio Benguet in Action!
If not addressed, the incoming rains
would soon be carrying all the solid
wastes accumulated during the dry
season on the smaller water ways to
the Balili River traversing Baguio
City and La Trinidad, Benguet. As a
support to the “Adopt-an-Estero”
program, where barangays were
tasked to clean the water ways from
point sources, the chapter visited
Barangay Marcoville, Baguio City
to assess the area where the chapter
can render assistance. On April 26,
2014 gloves and rubber boots were
donated to the barangay through
Barangay Captain Ruel Casuga to
be used in the said project.
Page 2
PIChE Conventions for the past two years
without any chapter affiliations. With the
help and advice of DOST Chapter Officers
headed by Dr. Nuna Almanzor, Engr.
Reynaldo Esguerra and Engr. Carmel
Gacho, PIChE – MMS was finally born.
The chapter officers/members were com-
posed mostly of government employees
from the Department of Trade and Indus-
try (DTI) and the National Food Authority
(NFA), and some from the private sector.
PIChE – MMS is open to all ChE working
and/or residing south of Metro Manila.
Hope Laguipo Padaoan, Treasurer; Car-
melita Catacutan, Auditor; Carol Cruz,
PRO; Rowena Arbizo Ballares, Business
manager; Benjie de Vera, Marilou Sa-
ong, Rhea Santos Contada, and Maria
Lourdes Gaylican, as Board of Director.
The induction ceremony and planning
session were held at Poro Point, San
Fernando, La Union on April 09, 2014.
The special guests were the officers of
La Union Chapter with Ilocos Chapter
joining in via phone patch.
The preparation for the June opening of
classes started with the chapter members
joining the parents of the pupils in Ligay
PIChE—Baguio Benguet Chapter members who partici-
pated in the tree-plating activity.
Volume 6 Issue 1
PIChE – MMS interim officers is headed
by Engr. Nora O. Pascual as President,
Engr. Perla Baje as Vice President, Engr.
Mary Angelica Sulayla S. Cabalu as Sec-
retary, Engr. Perlita M. Palicpic as Treas-
urer, Engr. Ma. Juanita Carpio as Auditor,
Engr. Menandro Ortego as PRO. Engrs.
Mercia V. Magsakay, Brenda L. Andres,
Ma. Teresa T. Ramos, Tessie Q. Ramirez,
Jemelia Cruz, Aldwin Tagapan, Estrella
Abejero, Mary Joan de Pablo and Adelfa
Lou Roma as its Board of Directors.
The Newly-elected officers of the PIChE—Bagui Benguet
Chapter taking their Oath of Office
Elementary School, Ligay, Camp 1, Tuba,
Benguet, a remote barangay school in its
Brigada Eskwela. On May 19, 2014, the
members went there armed with paints and
paint brushes to spruce up the classrooms
and the school for the school opening.
With the abundant rain, it was timely to do
tree planting. On July 26, 2014, a smiling
group of Chemical Engineers and students
trekked to the slippery mountainous
Crosby Park of Benguet Corporation,
Itogon, Benguet for tree planting. The
group was rewarded with the fragrant
smell of the pine trees and saplings plus an
underground and plant tour courtesy of
Benguet Corporation and its Chemical
Engineers..
 The Distiller
PIChE-BBC, La Union, Ilocos spread their wings, hold First Northern Luzon Symposium
By: Petra C. Cadawan
It was a dream come true for the Baguio-
Benguet Chapter, PIChE La Union
Chapter and PIChE Ilocos Chapter to come
together and join forces to plan for joint
activities for the Northern Luzon PIChE
Chapters in order to keep each other
abreast of developments and at the same
time support one another.
Looking inward on our strengths:
The Baguio-Benguet Chapter has a good
interaction with the PIChE national
officers having had three members among
The Invitation for the First Northern Luzon Symposium
PIChE Cavite Gears Up for 2014
By: MGN dela Cruz
Under the leadership of Engr. Jonathan
Aquino and the rest of the new set of of-
ficers for 2014-2015, PIChE-Cavite builds
on its success over the past few years with
programs and initiatives for its members.
PIChE-Cavite sent its biggest delegation
in recent history for the 75th National
Convention in Manila last February. This
also marked the first time a Cavite chapter
member is elected to the National Board
of Directors, Engr. Jonathan Aquino. On
the 40’s inspired fellowship night, repre-
sentatives from the Chapter joined the rest
of the Luzon chapters in their energetic
presentation. The convention also served
as yet another vehicle to reach to unaffili-
ated Cavite-based engineers.
In March, the 2nd meeting of PIChE-
Cavite was held for the first time in the
Lyceum of the Philippines Cavite in
General Trias. Despite not offering a
Volume 6 Issue 1
the national board of directors and an were inspired. Most of all, the speakers
incumbent. It had an experience of holding were great, the topics were varied and very
a national convention in 1995 and was interesting so that the participants stayed on
among the outstanding chapters for 2014. from the start to the end. Before the end of
Furthermore, within the area are industries the final day, it was agreed to have the 2nd
and a University offering BS Chemical Northern Luzon Symposium on the same
Engineering. date, August 8, 2015 this time in Ilocos.
See you there.
La Union Chapter has many industries and
a history of being chosen as an outstanding
PIChE chapter too.
Ilocos Chapter, our new born sister, has
industries and a State University offering
BS Chemical Engineering in its area.
With these strengths coupled by the
enthusiasm of the members of the three
chapters, the first Northern Luzon
Symposium was born. There were difficul-
ties encountered and these were
successfully addressed. At the very end, it
PIChE—BBC, PIChE—La Union and PIChE—Ilocos
was a great success. Old friends, former during the First Northern Luzon Symposium.
classmates/schoolmates were reunited and
new friends were gained. The students
Chemical Engineering degree, a few of the
faculty members there had ChE degrees
and have joined the chapter in support of
PIChE’s goals. After a brief tour around
the campus, the meeting that followed
focused on the programs for the year and
expanding out to more engineers of other
companies like Purefoods.
For the 3rd meeting, held this time at the
home base at San Miguel Yamamura Asia
in Imus last May, internal affairs were dis-
cussed such as PIChE ID, fund manage-
ment, review of by-laws, and ChE Week
activities.
PIChE Cavite 2014-2015 Board of Direc-
tors: Jonathan C. Aquino (President);
Harvy M. Fabalena (Vice-President);
Marvin Gilson N. dela Cruz (Secretary);
Bryan Benedict S. Cuevas (Treasurer);
Gilbert S. Alvarez (Auditor); Ricardo B.
Cachuela (PRO)
PIChE—Cavite Chapter in 75th PIChE National Conven-
Page 3
tion and their various activites
 The Distiller Volume 6 Issue 1

PIChE joins the 4th TIChE International Conference 2014

By Engr. Arjames T. Balgoa, PIChE National VP for Luzon

Representing PIChE National, PIChE through process intensification. A three- and Oxford University collaboration on the
President Engr. Susan Benitez and PIChE stage approach is utilized where model- recent developments on layered double
National Vice President for Luzon Engr. based synthesis method is first applied to hydroxide chemistry. His research on ma-
Arjames T. Balgoa attended the 4th Thai systematically generate and evaluate pro- terials science was able to create high sur-
Institute of Chemical Engineering and cessing routes based on currently available face area and highly dispersible layered
Applied Chemistry (TIChE) International technologies; then a base case design is double hydroxides which is a
Conference at Furama Hotel in novel invention and has numer-
Chiang Mai, Thailand on December ous applications in sorbents,
18 – 19, 2014. The 4th TIChE Inter- catalyst supports and precursors,
national Conference celebrating the nano-additives and even for
theme “Changes: Cleaner Energy, flame retardant polypropylene
Leaner Processes, Better Living” is materials.
hosted by TIChE, the Engineering
Institute of Thailand under His Prof. Wiwut Tanthapanichakoon
Majesty The King’s Patronage from the Department of Chem-
and the School of Chemical ical Engineering of the Tokyo
Engineering of King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology shared
Institute of Technology his various experiences in stud-
Ladkrabrang. It is a well ying and teaching chemical
attended conference of over 200 engineering in Thailand, Japan
chemical engineers nationwide and USA. He compared key
representing academe, govern- differences and similarities in
ment and industry. The chemical engineering educa-
conference was a platform for tion and research in undergrad-
engineers, scientists, students uate and graduate levels among
and researchers which presented Thailand, Japan and USA. He
their high quality researches on also provided inspiration to
Process Control and Process young students and researchers
Simulation, Fundamentals of on how to excel in one’s
Chemical Engineering and research and professional ca-
Applied Chemistry, Catalyst and reer.
Reaction Engineering, Separa-
tion Technology, Environmental From Curtin University in
and Safety Technology, Polymer and Perth, Australia, Prof. Vishnu Pareek, who
Petrochemical Technology, Materials is the Chair of the Chemical Engineering
Science and Engineering and Food and department and Director of the Centre for
Biochemical Engineering. The Interna- Process System Computations discussed
tional Conference was highlighted by a about his group’s research on the simula-
series of top notch Keynote Lectures by tion and design of photocatalytic reactors.
globally-renowned experts of their fields.generated from the identified processing To simulate and design photocatalytic re-
route and analyzed to define sustainable actors, an integro-differential equation
The opening Keynote Speech is delivered targets for improvement, and in the final such as Radiation-Transport Equation must
by the President of the European Federa- stage, intensified and more sustainable be solved, which requires appropriate
tion of Chemical Engineering and Direc- alternatives are generated and verified us- boundary conditions and optical properties
tor of the Computer Aided Process Engi- ing phenomena-based method to find the of the medium.
neering Center of the Technical Universi- truly innovative and more sustainable de- Various lamp source models were dis-
ty of Denmark Prof. Rafiqul Gani. His signs. cussed as well as different mathematical
state-of-the-art research has developed Prof. Dermot O’Hare of the SCG-Oxford approaches on numerical solutions for RTE
systematic solutions on finding, synthe- Center of Excellence in Chemistry of the such as Monte Carlo and finite volume (or
sizing and developing new, innovative University of Oxford presented very inter- discrete ordinate) approaches.
and the most sustainable process designs esting findings of the Siam Cement Group (con’t on page 5)
Page 4
 The Distiller
PIChE joins the 4th TIChE…
From page 4
TIChE President and EIT Chair for
Chemical Engineering Dr. Anchaleeporn
Lothongkum discussed about Thailand’s
programs for Process Safety Management.
She discussed the detailed program of the
Thai government on intensifying the
implementation and compliance on process
safety of industrial plants and the role of
chemical engineers with safety audits.
Process safety is of prime importance to
ensure sustainable growth of the industry.
In a separate session together with the
Board of Directors of TIChE and EIT
headed by its President Dr. Anchaleeporn
Lothongkum, representatives from the In-
stitution of Chemical Engineers Regional
Manager for Southeast Asia Mohan Bal-
asingam and IChemE Associate Fellow
Robert Bruce, European Federation of
Chemical Engineering President Prof.
Rafiqul Gani, SCG-Oxford Center of Ex-
cellence in Chemistry Director Prof. Der-
mot O’Hare and Curtin University Chemi-
cal Engineering Chair Prof. Vishnu Pareek,
PIChE National Vice President for Luzon
Engr. Arjames T. Balgoa, discussed about
PIChE—MMAC General Membership Meeting
By Rizalinda de Leon and Patrick Ramoso
The Metro Manila Academe Chapter
(MMAC) of PIChE held its general mem-
bership meeting at the Maynilad Room in
the College of Engineering, University of
the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City on
November 17, 2014.
Attendees were formally welcomed to the
meeting and to UP Diliman by
Dr. Rizalinda de Leon, Press Relations
Officer of the chapter and Chair of the host
institution. First Vice President, Dr. Maria
Natalia Dimaano then introduced the first
guest speaker, Engr Romulo R. Agatep,
who gave a very informative talk titled
Cross-border Practice. He centered his
discussion on the question “Are we ready
for competition?” in light of the upcoming
formation of the ASEAN Community with
a single market and production base, and a
free flow of goods, services, skilled work-
the rationale on the creation of the
ASEAN Federation of Chemical Engi-
neering Societies (AFChES). Respond-
ing to the call of the ASEAN Economic
Community by 2015 to establish free
movement of services across the
ASEAN region through its established
Mutual Recognition Arrangements,
PIChE, together with TIChE and EIT of
Thailand, Myanmar Engineering Society
of Myanmar and BKKPII of Indonesia
(Indonesian Institution of Engineers) has
established the AFChES last February
26, 2014 in Manila, Philippines with a
signed Memorandum of Understanding.
AFChES would serve as a tool in
helping achieve ASEAN economic
integration by 2015 through regional
cooperation and active collaboration
among chemical engineers in the
ASEAN region, and promote mobility of
chemical engineers within the region.
The audience were well-clarified of the
objectives of AFChES and have ex-
pressed support to it. IChemE’s
Regional Manager Mohan Balasingam
ers and capital among the constituent coun-
tries. He opened his talk with a cartoon
showing puny Juan dela Cruz struggling to
clamber over the gate leading to the pro-
jected Asia-Pacific free trade, while his
bigger neighbors easily stepped through.
Engr. Agatep also enumerated the different
engineering registers and their purpose: the
ASEAN Engineering Register, the APEC
Engineers Register, and the ASEAN Char-
tered Professional Engineers Register. He
encouraged everyone to register in one or
all of these registries.
Volume 6 Issue 1
and Associate Fellow Robert Bruce
understood that collaboration is
strategic and they are interested to
continue talks with PIChE. They would
clarify matters with their Singapore
and Malaysian IChemE Board to seek
support for AFChES. Prof. Gani, who
is also a professor of Engr. Balgoa in
his Master’s studies in Chulalongkorn
University, has also expressed support
to AFChES and would remain availa-
ble for future talks for any assistance
he and EFCE can contribute for
AFChES.
PIChE’s official mission to the 4th
TIChE International Conference has
been very successful. New networks
were established to gain support and
momentum in building AFChES
towards completion of the 10-Member
States of ASEAN and its chemical
engineering societies, as we prepare for
the upcoming ASEAN Economic
Community integration by 2015.
After lunch, Engr. Elizabeth Espiritu
introduced the afternoon speaker,
Ms. Julieta Tolentino, who talked about
“Financial Wellness.” Ms. Tolentino is a
chemical engineering graduate and a li-
censed financial adviser in PRULIFE. She
shared tips and options on how to manage
and accumulate wealth, leading to a finan-
cially secure retirement in the future.
(Cont’d on page 13)
Page 5
 The Distiller Volume 6 Issue 1

PIChE-MMAC preps for the 76th PIChE National Convention

By Babylin L. de Leon

Preparations for the 76th PIChE National Convention scheduled convention delegates.
on February 18-21, 2015 started early with the MMAC officers
and advisers surveying the logistical feasibility for holding the Evie put up the 76th PIChE National Convention website with
event in Puerto Princesa., Palawan. The theme “Strengthening announcements updated regularly and through which online
Chemical Engineering Towards One ASEAN Community” was inquiries, registration, and paper submissions could be done.
agreed upon with plenary and technical sessions to focus on the Terence prepared the backdrop design, which was also used for
five E’s: Energy, Environmental Protectiona and Process Safety, the t-shirts and souvenir program.
Education, Economics, and Emerging Technologies. Keynote
and plenary speakers were identified and invited. It was fortunate that Allan Soriano had weekly classes at the
Palawan State University, which meant he would fly to Puerto
MMAC President Dr. Alvin Caparanga assigned warm bodies to Princesa every weekend. On many occasions, he was requested
the MMAC convention committees: Dr. Josie Borja, Dr. Marita to do important errands related to the convention preparations.
Dimaano, Dr. Babylin de Leon and Dr. Nathan Dugos constituted One of which was to look for a suitable venue for the Fellowship
the program committee in charge of the speakers, the souvenir Night when arrangements with the provincial capitol fell through.
program and preparing the requirements for CPD application. Alvin Talampas also spent a number of days in Puerto Princesa to
The Secretariat, in charge of registration and printing of certifi- make arrangements for a myriad of things (exhibit layout, flower
cates, was composed of Dean Clydelle Rondaris, Prof. Evie Lau- arrangements, canvassing for items, etc) that his committee need-
rito, and Dr. Terence Tumol- ed to deliver.
va. Organizing the Fellowship
Night (jungle theme) was A joint meeting with the
assigned to Dr. Joseph Aure- NBOD was held at the
senia, while Engr. Alvin Legend Palawan on Jan-
Talampas, Engr. Lorraine uary 24, 2015 to finalize
Carillo and Engr. Jerry Olay the program, with EVP
made up the Logistics Com- Coro going through a
mittee which was to prepare checklist to be sure that
the convention kit, tarps, tro- nothing was left undone.
phies, medals and tokens for Weekly MMAC meet-
the speakers. Dr. Allan So- ings were held thereafter
riano was tasked with as the preparations be-
organizing the National came more frenzied.
Undergraduate Research
Competition. Divisoria shopping had
to be done (thanks to
Several trips to Puerto Prince- Marita, Evie and Alvin
sa had to be done. The first T), t-shirts were printed
trip, in July 2014 had EVP (thanks Alvin C), the
Baby Coro, Alvin Caparanga, souvenir program lay-out
A meeting of PIChE—MMAC as preparation for the 76th PIChE National Convention
Babylin de Leon and Terence had to be finished for
Tumolva scouting for the printing (thanks to Jo-
possible convention venue and making initial contact with the sie), souvenir program has to be printed (Josie and Nathan) and
Office of the Palawan Governor and the Office of the Mayor. ordering of bags (thanks Marita), speaker accommodations and
With the Palawan Convention Center (PCC) being the biggest in flight schedules had to be confirmed (this author), the number of
the city, it was chosen as the 2015 PIChE National Convention possible attendees had to be estimated (thanks Clydelle and Ter-
venue. PCC is part of the Legend Palawan Hotel which also had a ence), the exhibit booths had to be finalized (Alvin T), someone
good number of hotel rooms to accommodate convention dele- has to ensure that meals are brought in on time during the con-
gates. Plus the food was quite good! vention (thanks Lorraine), and of course, funding had to be ap-
proved and released (thanks Nathan), and Alvin C had to keep tab
Later on, Dr. Alvin Caparanga and EVP Baby Coro went back to of all these.
Puerto Princesa to further firm up arrangements with the mayor,
the governor, and the hotel (to finalize the menu), as well as to What a year, what a crazily busy year for the MMAC, but it was
scout for other accommodations that could be suggested to PIChE a very good year.
Page 6
 The Distiller Volume 6 Issue 1

PIChE-CDO holds 29th Annual General Assembly: Sustaining the Winning Tradition!
By: Engr. Catherine G. Daquioag

The Philippine Institute Alubijid Barangay Council. The

of Chemical Engineers main aim of this activity was to
- Cagayan de Oro provide Kagay-anon chemical
Chapter (PIChE-CDO) engineers the opportunity not
held its 29th Annual only for the innovation of
General Assembly on knowledge on the most pressing
May 24, 2014 at Grand issue globally today, but also
Caprice Restaurant and for a joint building of strength
Convention Center, as a community of professionals
Limketkai Drive, through fellowship.
Cagayan de Oro City The assembly included a discus-
with the theme, sion on “New Dimensions of
“Sustaining the Win- Safety Management” which was
ning Tradition!” The event gathered facilitated by Engr. Jason B. Patawaran, ac-
chemical engineers from the different credited OSH consultant. He enlightened the
sectors (industry, academe, government) in chemical engineers on the types of hazards
Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Orien- and risks in the workplace, emergency pre-
tal. Chemical engineers in the industry paredness and response, and the requirements
sector included participants from Del Mon- for OHSAS 18001. He further stressed the
te Philippines Incorporated, Asia Brewery importance of the Plan-Do-Check-Act Cycle
Incorporated, STEAG State Power Incor- or the PDCA cycle on the proper implemen-
porated, Aeronics Incorporated, Tanduay tation of Safety Management System on
Distillers Incorporated, Republic Biscuit work areas. Engr. Rex Manuel P. Paayas
Corporation, Pilipinas Kao Incorporated and Krypton Incorpo- from the PIChE National Board also gave updates on the up-
rated. Also present were chemical engineers in the academe and coming PIChE activities which were discussed during the recent
government sectors from Xavier University - Ateneo de Caga- 75th PICHE National Convention held at Manila Hotel last Feb-
yan, COC-PHINMA Education Network, Capitol University, and ruary 16-18, 2014. (cont’d on page 13)

PIChE CDO Participates DENR’s Mangrove Tree Planting Activity

By: Engr. Froilando M. Zayas

In observance of the World Environment Day, the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers – Cagayan de Oro Chapter partici-
pated in the coastal clean- up and mangrove tree- planting activity at El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental Philippines last June 5.
The activity was spearheaded by the Protected Areas and Wildlife Coastal Zone Management Services (PAWCZMS) which is
under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Region 10 (DENR-10).
The said event started at 6 o’ clock in the morning with a caravan of all the participating organizations from the converging point
at Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City towards the selected site which is Taytay, El Salvador. Together with PIChE- CDO and
PAWCZMS were participants from different government sectors and organizations, and some students from various schools in the
region. Upon reaching the site, a short opening program and Proper Mangrove Tree- Planting Orientation was conducted by select
barangay official and local DENR personnel. The activity aimed to support the Environment Day Celebration’s theme, “Raise your
voice, not the sea level.” Mangrove plantations do not only slow storm surges, prevent erosion, and lower catastrophe risk for
coastal communities. They also provide a habitat for birds, fishes and crabs and most importantly, they are very important
in our country’s combat against climate change.
An estimated 5, 000 mangrove propagules were planted on the site at Taytay, El Salvador
on that day. This activity will never be that successful without the tremendous efforts of
the following PIChE- CDO officers who planted more than 30 mangrove trees: Chapter
President Engr. Gemalyn Badilla, Executive Vice President Engr. Froilando Zayas, Vice
President for Government Engr. Edgar Galarrita, Vice President for Academe Engr. Jocel
Demacutac, Vice President for Industry Engr. Gerald Valmores and Immediate Past
Chapter President Engr. Mary Lyn Tabasan. The event ended up with a short program
stressing the importance of simple individual efforts which could fuel wonderful transfor-
mations of the mother earth in the years to come.
Page 7
 The Distiller Volume 6 Issue 1

PIChE-Bataan’s Homecoming Reminiscing Three Decades of Excellence

By Raymond V. Albuero

More than 150 members of Philippine Institute of Chemical Engi- passion of its members.
neers – Bataan Chapter (PIChE-BC) reunited once again for the
celebration of chapter’s three decades of excellence and camara- To commemorate the humble beginnings of the chapter, this
derie. The event was held on July 30, 2014 at PBR Auditorium. year’s homecoming gathered its founding members and past
presidents for the recognition of their legacy to PIChE-Bataan.
Dressed in different colors that represent their year of member- Among the most notable awardees were founding members
ship in the organization, the attendees colorfully filled the event Engr. Alfred Trio, former Petron Bataan Refinery (PBR) Vice
with red (1984 – 1993), blue (1994 – 2003), yellow (2004 – President and Engr Nathaniel Orillos, Assistant Vice President
2010), green (2011 – 2012) and white (2013 – 2014). of Petron Bataan Refinery as well as the past presidents of the
organization.
The program was
officially opened by Future plans of the organization were also presented by Engr.
an inspirational talk John Edrian Atendido, PIChE-BC President. Core projects fo-
given by Engr. Na- cused on membership, professional growth, social responsibility
thaniel O. Orillos, and of course fun-filled activities. A discussion of Continuing
PIChE-BC senior Professional Development (CPD) by Engr. Arjames Balgoa,
adviser. One of the PIChE National Vice President for Luzon. The talk enlightened
emphases of his talk the members regarding the guidelines for the new requirements
is the beautiful his- of renewing their license.
tory of the chapter’s
growth as an organi- Truly, 30 years of excellence is a feat in the organization’s histo-
Three decades of PICHE-BC. A continuously growing zation because of ry that will inspire its future generation to live up this legacy.
and developing family of chemical engineers.

Innovation and Technopreneurship Workshop in Bataan

By Kenneth Rey V. Senyahan

Yolanda E. Ongchangco, General Manager of

With the advancement of modern technology, the Maryck Chemicals Marketing, former Managing
development of the knowledge-based economy, Director of DOST-UP Enterprise Center for Tech-
globalization and international competitive thrust nopreneurship.
has increased the importance of innovation in
local economies of entrepreneurship. Session 3: Success Stories of Innovators were in-
tensified by Roland Jay A. Miguel founder of
In line to this advancement, Philippine Institute of GSMetrix Inc. (Custom Instrumentation and Control
Chemical Engineers (PIChE), co-presented by Participants brainstorm for a pitch presenta- Technologies Company), and Roy R. Flores, Chief
Institute of Electronics Engineers in the Philip- tion on their innovative ideas Operations Officer and Hardware Engineer of
pines (IECEP) – Bataan Chapter conducted a one Itemhound (Co-Founder of Itemhound Inc.) which
(1) day technology entrepreneurship seminar last inspired various professionals to share their passion
August 9, 2014 in PBR Auditorium. The goal of on achieving real-life example of implementing
the event is to raise the technical-know-how, and transformation of an idea, to a successful start-up
encourage them to innovate and commercialize company.
their innovations. Members from various engi-
neering discipline organizations coming from And lastly, to assess and boost the technopreneurial
government sectors, universities, and various spirit of the participants, an unforgettable Techno-
industries in Bataan convene to seek information preneurship Workshop was reinforced to unleash
on launching their innovations to market. their business plan or technology-based innovative
idea (applying the business concepts from previous
The program was divided into four (4) sessions to Yolanda E. Ongchangco speaks about sessions) to a panel consisting of the major session
Launching your Innovation to Market
easily demonstrate the life cycle of innovation, speakers.
from idea generation to market launching.
A special prize was awarded to Solar Energy Corporation group having
Session 1: Innovation Management and Government, and Academe Sup- the best “Innovative Idea” with a feasible execution and commercializa-
port on Innovation and Commercialization was geared by Cedrik Ben A. tion strategy in the 1st Technopreneurship Seminar conducted by
Gayares, an Inventions Patent and Technology Management Officer. PIChE, spearheaded by Nes Daniel L. Sabud and the Board Members of
Session 2: Launching your Innovation to Market was heated up by PIChE Bataan Chapter.
Page 8
 The Distiller Volume 6 Issue 1

PICHE-BC General Assembly: Cracking up a new league of fun and excellence

By Paolo Nicolo C. Perez

Chemical engineers from all

graced by none other than Engr. Officer Xavier
over Bataan donned in their
Lubin B. Nepomuceno (LBN), B. Fernandez,
colorful and floral outfits got
President of Petron Corporation Editor-in-Chief
together for a night of fun, ca-
and an honorary adviser of the Patricia T. Bar-
maraderie and party time at the
Chapter. He extended his con- icaua, Education
PIChE – Bataan Chapter Gen-
gratulatory greetings to the Committee Head
eral Assembly (GA) and Elec-
chapter for the 30 years of ex- Melchizedek
tions 2014 last April 30, 2014
cellent performance and service Amago, Mem-
at Petron Bataan Refinery Au-
that it has offered not only to the bership Commit-
ditorium. With the event’s
chemical engineering profes- tee Head
theme Imua: Moving Forward
sion, but also the community. Michelle Myla Petron President Lubin Nepomuceno graced the 30th
with a Purpose, the PICHE-BC
A new batch of Board of Direc- Marquez, Socio- year GA of PIChE—Bataan Chapter
members were gathered to cel-
tors was formally elected with Civic Committee
ebrate the 30th year of the or-
11 candidates selected by the Head Vergelle Parrocha, and chemical engineers to have fun
ganization and recognize the
Chapter members out of 15 Ways-and-Means Committee and fellowship with engineers
milestone of excellence of the
nominees who has showed will- Head Nes Daniel Sabud. from different companies.
Chapter. In addition, this was
ingness and interest in serving Live performances and fun Moreover, it is through the GA
also a venue to elect a new
the group. The new Board of games brought the energy in that new members are acquaint-
batch of PIChE – BC Board of
Directors consists of President- the event. As the program ed with the current state of the
Directors, welcome and orient
elect John Edrian M. Atendi- proper reached its conclusion, Chapter, along with its pioneer-
new members, look back on the
do together with the Vice Presi- the luau party was ignited by ing visions, in Bataan and in the
successful activities of the year,
dent Edgeline Savannah Yan, heart-pounding, restless and entire country. In addition, they
and to partake in the future
Secretary Mari Miyahara, beat-seducing lights and music enjoyed the reports on the Chap-
endeavors of the Chapter.Treasurer Diana Pearl Rance, in tandem with tropical party ter’s past activities, and took
Auditor Gauden Marie drinks. This GA has been the part in the election.
The General Assembly was Bangngay, Public Relations platform for new PIChE - BC

Membership Drive 2014: Juan Up! for PICHE-BC

By Patricia T. Baricaua
This year’s PICHE-BC Board of Directors
brings the organization closer to its mem-
bers as they launched the Membership
Drive, a 3-company tour aimed to promote
PICHE-BC’s vision through its activities
and encourage the members to actively
participate in the organization’s endeavors.
The event kicked off at Philippine Polypro-
pylene, Inc (PPI) on July 8. PICHE-BC
President John Edrian Atendido and Mem-
bership Myla Marquez presented the vision
of this year’s PICHE-BC through its
theme, Juan Up!, which sums up the alle-
giance for the organization to reach farther
horizons by being technically-excellent
Chemical Engineers in full service to our
country. This can be achieved by conduct-
ing socially-relevant activities with lasting
impact to the people of Bataan. The level-
up line-up of activities were presented as
well, highlighting their benefits and im-
pacts to the chemical engineering profes- Two more companies were visited - NPC
sion, students, and community members. Alliance Corporation and Philippine Res-
ins Industries, Inc where chemical engi-
In addition to promoting the organization’s neers gave a warm welcome to the PICHE
events, PICHE National Vice President for BC representatives. The membership drive
Luzon Engr. Arjames Balgoa also shared to capped off on July 15 with a successful
the members the Continuing Professional campaign for stronger membership ties
Development, a program spearheaded by and a unified organization working togeth-
the PRC aimed to continuously improve er towards the realization of its goals.
the quality of professionals by updating
them on the latest scientific/technological/
ethical trends locally and globally. An open
forum was also done to clarify the queries
of the members.
To promote stronger membership ties, a
company tour was also hosted by the home
company to acquaint the other members of
their nature of industry. Representatives
from Petron Bataan Refinery toured the
participants inside the plant for better ap- Building stronger membership ties among PICHE-
preciation of their processes. BC members at 2014 Membership Drive
Page 9
 The Distiller
PIChE-Tacloban joins the UN World
Environment Day
PIChE-Tacloban, headed by Engr.
Juvyneil E. Cartel, Chapter Presi-
dent, joined the United Nation World
Environment Day (WED) celebration
on June 5, 2014 at Ormoc City. This
event was hosted by the Environ-
mental Management Bureau (EMB)
of the Department of Environment of
Natural Resources (DENR), Region-
al Office 8. The theme was "Raise
Your Voice, Not the Sea Level." This
is in support of the
UN's (United Nation’s)
designation of 2014 as
the International Year
of Small Island Devel-
oping States (SIDS)
and also to abide to the
Presidential Proclama-
tion No. 237 signed by
President Corazon
Aquino in 1998, which
enjoins the nation to
celebrate the whole
month of June as Envi-
ronment Month to fo-
cus public attention on
the protection and con-
servation of the coun-
try’s natural resources.
Over the years, the
event has grown to be a
broad, national plat-
form for public outreach and on this
day it was widely celebrated by gov-
ernment and the private sector and
other stakeholders in the region like
LGU-Ormoc, EVSU (Eastern Visa-
yas State University), VSU (Visayas
State University), PIChE-Tacloban,
PASAR Corp. (Philippine Associated
Smelting and Refining Corporation),
Page 10
EDC (Energy Development Corpora-
tion), EMB-Biliran, EMB-Regional
Office 8, PENRO (Provincial Envi-
ronment and Natural Resources Of-
fice) - Province of Leyte, CFC
(Couples for Christ), UNDP (United
Nations Development Programme),
and etc. Among the activities con-
ducted was the Eucharistic Mass, Pa-
rade with a banner of “Lakaw para sa
Kinaiyahan” (Walk for a Habit),
Healthy Lugaw (porridge) Feeding,
Climate Change video showing, short
program which include environmen-
tal messages and signing and hand-
marking on the Pledge of Commit-
ment, and the visit to the Ormoc City
Sanitary Landfill. This day was cele-
brated by the participants to realize
not only the responsibility to care for
the Earth but to become agents of
Volume 6 Issue 1
change, too. During the event, differ-
ent messages were delivered by dif-
ferent institutions which gave their
solid support in facing the challenges
for a common goal of sustainable and
prosperous life on earth. Emphasis
was made on the effect of mass de-
struction of the environment that led
to various natural disasters such as
the wrath of super typhoon Yolanda.
Campaigns on clean-up drive, food
waste reduction initiatives, walk-to-
work days, plastic ban, art exhibits,
tree planting drives, and
recycling drives are
some of the activities
that were encouraged
on saving the environ-
ment. Hence, chemical
engineers has a great
role on saving the envi-
ronment. We, as chemi-
cal engineers, have the
unique expertise that
enable us to develop
advanced technologies,
monitoring devices,
modeling techniques,
and operating strategies
that (1) reduce the vol-
ume and toxicity of pol-
lutants allowed to enter
the air, waterways, and
soil; (2) significantly
reduce the negative environmental
impact of industrial facilities, power
plants, and transportation vehicles;
and (3) allow greater reuse of post-
consumer and post-industrial waste
streams. This is the so-called, “Green
Engineering,” a process that should
be promoted.
 The Distiller
PICHE-Tacloban celebrates 9th ChE Week
The Third Week of September
of this year (September 14-20,
2014) marked the Chemical
Engineering Week based on
Proclamation No. 1365 of the
former President Arroyo. This
week was celebrated to recog-
nize significant contributions in
the field of chemical engineer-
ing as well as to create public
awareness on the critical role of
chemical engineers as vital
nation-builders in the promo-
tion and upgrading or scientific
and technological capability of
the country; and to enhance
public consciousness in order
to raise the level of technical
and ethical proficiency and
standards in the practice of this
profession throughout the
country to ensure excellent,
qualitative, and credible chemi-
cal engineering services for the
safety protection, and satisfac-
tion of the users of the chemi-
cal engineers’ professional
services. The 9th ChE week
was celebrated with the theme,
“Chemical Engineers: Gear Up
for ASEAN Community 2015.”
This event marked an im-
portant milestone because for
75 years of PIChE existence,
and 26 years for PIChE- Eastern Visayas was among
Tacloban as its chapter, several
those hardest hit by Yolanda’s
challenges have been surpassed fierce winds and apocalyptic
and accomplishments have been floods. Typhoon Yolanda (with
made through unity, excellence,international name, “Haiyan”)
welfare, and holistic develop- wiped out or damaged practi-
ment. Thus, the 9th ChE week cally everything in its path as it
was celebrated to support the swept ashore on November 8,
theme to envision global com- 2013, destroying around 90
petitiveness through different percent of the city of Tacloban
ASEAN Registries. And to pre- in Leyte province. Sadly, the
pare ourselves in gearing up, we
super typhoon claimed more
enriched the ChE Week Cele- than 7,350 lives as it swept in
bration with hope, opulent off the Pacific Ocean. More
knowledge, joy, and unity! than 14.5 million people were
Among the activities were the affected by the storm in six
Kick-Off Parade, Opening Pro- regions and 44 provinces. More
gram, Tree-planting, Seminar onthan four million people still
RA 9003 (Solid Waste Manage- remain homeless. Thus, to help
ment Act), Clean-up drive relieve the trauma and grief of
(Adopt-a-Estero Program of fellow members of PIChE-
EMB-DENR), Poster-making
Tacloban, and Junior PIChE-
and Literary Contest, 2nd Sci- EVSU Tacloban Chapter, a
ence Olympics, 7th Digital Sumba dance was assembled in
Chemistry Bowl, Seminar host- EVSU-Tacloban Campus to
ed by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipi-warm up the participants for
nas on its one of their advoca-the big event, followed by a
cies to Filipinos, and the Culmi-
parade entitled, “Walk of
nating Program that includes Hope”, which was done around
Technical Seminars, awarding the main streets of Tacloban
of PIChE Assistance to Yolanda City. The parade was made not
Victims, and Fellowship Night. only to be recognized by the
th
9 ChE Week Kick-Off Taclobanons but also to give
The city of Tacloban, Leyte in hope after we scurried across
the country to escape the
wrath of Super typhoon
“Yolanda”.
The parade was followed by a
Eucharistic mass in Sto. Niño
Church, then a short program
was conducted where Officer
Ranulfo Q. Arbiol, PENRO
(Provincial Environmental
and Natural Resources Of-
fice), who was our guest
speaker delivered a message
of hope for the environment
and for humanity. The short
program was followed by a
tree-planting around the vicin-
ity of Eastern Visayas State
University (EVSU), Tacloban
Campus spearheaded by the
Volume 6 Issue 1
Officer Arbiol himself to re-
place the trees destroyed by
typhoon Yolanda. Finally, to
give some fun, a “Laro ng Lahi”
was conducted organized by the
Junior PIChE, EVSU Chapter,
headed by its active president,
Leonysa T. Bacor.
Seminar on RA 9003 & Clean-
up Drive
A clean-up drive was made in
Bgy. 83-A, Burayan, San Jose,
Tacloban City in collaboration
with the Barangay Officials,
JPIChE-EVSU, PIChE-
Tacloban, and Coca-cola
Botllers Philippines, Inc.
(Tacloban Plant). Prior to the
clean-up, a seminar on RA 9003
or the “Ecological Solid Waste
Management Act of 2000” was
conducted in EVSU-Tacloban
Campus and in Brgy. 83-A
made by Dr. Zenaida L. An-
drade (Vice-President of PIChE-
Tacloban and EVSU Professor)
and Engr. Nida B. Verana
(Adviser of PIChE-Tacloban
and EVSU Professor). Though
the evidence of wrath of super
typhoon Yolanda was still ap-
parent in the vicinity of Bgy. 83-
A and that feeling of pain still
endure, hope still arouse in the
face and gestures of the partici-
pants especially on the residents.
Unexpected number of partici-
pants of approximately a hun-
dred, arrived and participated
actively in the seminar and clean
-up drive around the
“estero” (estuary) vicinity.
Culminating Program
This day may be the end and
probably everyone may have
felt exhaustion. However, the
PIChE-Tacloban and JPIChE-
EVSU members are still
energetic enough on this day to
attend the activities due for this
day!
(con’t on page 13)
Page 11
 The Distiller Volume 6 Issue 1

Our Vision Our Core Values

2015 Cityland 10 Tower 2
154 H. V. de la Costa Street
Makati City
Phone: (632) 753-5192
Website: www.pichenet.org
PIChE is the organization that is committed As professional chemical engineers,
to the continual development of all its we adhere to the following core values:
members in order to make them globally 1. Excellence 3. Integrity
competitive. 2. Commitment 4. Service

PIChE-MMAC, College of Fellows...

from page 1
The first day of the event was held at the gram assessment in Korea; Dr. Noel Kris- cation from a student’s perspective.
Henry Sy Sr. Hall of DLSU and was high- tian of Singapore Polytechnic, on experi- The second day of the summit, held at the
lighted by the online video streaming lec- ential learning UST Medicine Auditorium,
tures of several internationally esteemed activities for was highlighted by the Quiz
personalities in the field of chemical engi- engineering Bowl, a tournament for un-
neering. These webinars dergraduate students in chem-
included the keynote ical engineering. Ten teams
speech of Dr. Richard competed in the quiz contest,
Felder, professor emeritus with DLSU emerging as the
at the North Carolina 1st place winner. The
State University and co- triumphant team was coached
author of a globally-used by Dr. Michael Angelo Pro-
introductory chemical mentilla and was comprised
engineering textbook; the of DLSU chemical engineer-
lecture of Dr. David in- ing students Mr. Sed Anderson Holaysan,
Shallcross, professor of Mr. Rainier Gomez, and Mr. Clarence Jo-
chemical engineering at seph Co. After the Quiz Bowl, the summit
the University of Mel- organizers also toured the AUChEEdS par-
bourne, on using modern ticipants around the UST campus, notably
multimedia to improving student learning; visiting the UST Museum, the research
and Dr. Vasanthi Sethu, assistant professor facilities and the teaching laboratories of
of chemical engineering at the University the faculty of engineering. The AUChEEdS
of Nottingham, Malaysia, on effectively 2014 winded down on its last day with a
assessing and evaluating learning in out- tour of the scenic Tagaytay City. The par-
comes-based teaching and learning. The ticipants boarded three specially chartered
various talks, interspersed with panel dis- novators; Prof. Philipina Marcelo of UST, buses that took them to the historic,
cussions and open forums, also included on parallelism between bioguided food lakeside tourist spot, thus capping the suc-
the lectures of Prof. Jae-Jin Shim of processing and innovative engineering cessful three-day affair. The organizers
Yeungnam University, South Korea, on education; and Mr. Joaquin Armonio of plan to hold the AUChEEdS annually, and
the development of chemical engineering Adamson University, a vice president at hope that next year, the summit can attract
education and accreditation pro- PIChE-JCL, on chemical engineering edu- even more participants, and best the 501
guests that graced this year’s event.
PIChE-Tacloban Member’s Achievement
Engr. Neil L. Egloso (standing, 4th from the right) from Palompon Institute of Technology, a regular member of
the PIChE-Tacloban participated the 3rd International Renewable Energy and Environment Conference (IREEC)
held on July 4-6, 2014 at Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. He presented his
research paper entitled “Production of Fuel-Grade Bioethanol from
Cassava Starch: A Conceptual Process Design and it will be published in
a referred journal of World Academy of Research and Publication. He has
also been a recipient of FLORO CRISOLOGO AWARDEE for Best
Oral Research Presentation during 2nd National Multidisciplinary
Research Conference at University of Northern Philippines, Ilocos Sur
last April 30- May 2, 2014.
Page 12
 The Distiller Volume 6 Issue 1

PIChE-CDO holds...
from page 7

His topics included PIChE CDO Code
of Ethics, National PIChE ID imple-
mentation by 2015, and venue for the
next PIChE National Convention
which was opted to be at Puerto
Princesa, Palawan. Engr. Mary Lyn
Tabasan, PIChE-CDO’s outgoing pres-
ident, presented PIChE- CDO Chap-
ter’s accomplishments for the year
2013 which were all summarized by
the chapter’s receipt of the Outstanding
PIChE Chapter Award (OPCA) during
the national convention.
The annual event went on with the
election and induction of the following
new set of PIChE- CDO Officers for
the year 2014: Engr. Gemalyn Badilla
(President), Engr. Froilando M. Zayas
(Executive Vice-President), Engr. Ger-
ald Valmores (VP-Industry), Engr.
Jocel Dimacutac (VP-Academe), Engr.
Edgar Galarrita (VP-Government),
Engr. Catherine Daquioag (Secretary),
Engr. Alma Licong (Treasurer), Engr.
Gilda Velarde (Auditor), Engr. Re-
demptor Ladica (P.R.O.), Engr.
Christylene Balagtas ( Board of Direc-
tor), Engr. Myrnaflor Flores (Board of
Director), Engr. Fedely Talaroc (Board
of Director), Engr. Jhundelou Apiag
(Board of Director), Engr. Evelyn Cal-
ing (Board of Director), Engr. Maria
Niña Bañares (Kagay-anon Chemical
Engineer Newsletter Editor-in-Chief),
Engr. Janica Leshley Chaves (Kagay-
anon Chemical Engineer Newsletter
Assistant Editor-in-Chief), and Engr.
Edwin Richard Ortiz (JPIChE Advis-
er). The new set of PIChE-CDO
Chapter officers was inducted in their
positions right after the election by
National Board Director, Engr. Rex
Manuel P. Paayas. The activity ended
with the new chapter president’s clos-
ing message challenging Kagay- anon
chemical engineers to continue their
unwaivering support to the chapter’s
endeavour in sustaining the winning
tradition of being the most Outstand-
ing PIChE Chapter.

PIChE-Tacloban celebrates...
from page 11

The culminating program was done in the tims by the PIChE-Tacloban President, Quiz Bowl which were participated by
beautiful resort in Palo, Leyte, “Tierra de Engr. Juvyneil E. Cartel and the Treasurer, students and organized by the Junior Phil-
Milagros.” The day started with technical Engr. Raissa E. Dycoco especially to the ippine Institute of Chemical Engineers,
seminars entitled, “Chemical Engineers bereaved family of late Rhonali Gaduena EVSU Chapter, headed by Leonysa T.
Science and Technology Symposium through its representative, Gilbey Gaduena, Bacor, President. A seminar was also
(ChESTechS) with presenters, Engr. Neil her brother. New set of PIChE-Tacloban organized by Engr. Flordelyn T. Palejaro
E. Egloso on Production of Fuel-Grade Officers for Fiscal Year 2014-2015 was
entitled “Public Information Campaign in
Bioethanol from Cassava Starch: A Con- also inducted by the City Mayor’s repre-
Bangko Sentral Advocacies” hosted by
ceptual Process Design”, Dr. Zenaida L. sentative, Atty. Irene Chiu. The culminat-
Andrade on “Natural Wastewater Treat- ing program was concluded with a raffle Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), San
ment Facilities using Facultative Stabiliza- draw and awarding of certificates, followed Jose, Tacloban City on September 19,
tion Pond and Constructed Wetland for by a fellowship night. 2014.
Laguna de Bay, Philippines”, and Engr.
Nida B. Verana on a study about a whiten-
“The event may have come to an end and
the healing of the wounds brought by ty-
PIChE—MMAC General...
er of rice. Opulent knowledge was gained From Page 5
phoon “Yolanda” may take years. Never-
through their generosity on sharing their theless, we must maintain the hope, resili-
studies which was participated by students ence, unity, and excellence in order for us The lively and interactive talk captured
and professional chemical engineers to achieve our goals toward global compet- the interest of the audience, with every-
around Region 8. itiveness,” Engr. Cartel, PIChE-Tacloban one leaving with a broader perspective on
The seminar was followed with an inspira- President said. financial management.
tional message by Atty. Irene Chiu (from Other Activities Toward the end, Dr. Nathan Dugos,
the City Mayor’s Office of Tacloban City), Other activities conducted during the cele- MMAC Treasurer and Dr. Alvin
message of hope to the bereaved family of
bration of the 9th ChE week held in EVSU Caparanga, MMAC President gave their
the late Rhonalie Gaduena, a student died respective reports with the closing re-
(Eastern Visayas State University),
brought by apocalyptic typhoon marks delivered by the latter.
“Yolanda” by Jo Rheamyl Ripalda and Tacloban City were the Poster nd
Making
Janine Trinidad (ChE students), awarding Contest, Literary Contest, 2 Science The event was facilitated by Engr.
th
of PIChE Assistance to the Yolanda vic- Olympics, and the 7 Digital Chemistry Clydelle Rondaris, as the master of cere-
monies. Page 13
 The Distiller
FEATURE
Chemical Engineering in Food Safety
By: Engr. Rex Manuel Paayas
Food Safety Engineering, Food Processing Technologies,
Food Science and Engineering, different subject titles but
similar syllabus for the Technical Electives of Chemical
Engineering students. I have been teaching the subject for
six years now and the joy of sharing what you’ve learned in
the industry gave me a sense of well-being and a LEGACY
is definitely something you can leave behind. The course
description stated that it refers to the aspects of food produc-
tion and processing. The subject includes, but is not limited
to, the application of chemical engineering principles to
food products. The course presents and uses Thermal Pro-
cessing as the specific method in the preservation of food.
There it is as mentioned, my specialty, Thermal Process.
Being a member of the worldwide organization, IFTPS or
the Institute For Thermal Processing Specialist, is not only
something to be proud of but reminding yourself that a re-
sponsibility to the food consumers is the most priority in
ensuring that food is safe.
The most basic requirement to the subject is to know Micro-
biology. What are the significant microorganisms in Food
Processing, the conditions affecting the growth of bacteria
(nutrients, moisture, oxygen, temperature and effect of pH
on growth), Clostridium botulinum and Botulism, control of
bacteria by water activity and spoilage of thermally pro-
cessed, commercially sterile foods. All of these conclude to
the knowledge that food preservation is a competition be-
tween human and microorganisms – molds, yeast and bacte-
ria. These microorganisms are of concern to food proces-
sors. The organisms can be helpful – yeast for bread, wine
or beer; mold for blue cheese and penicillin; bacteria for
yogurt, cheese, sauerkraut and kimchee. They can be harm-
ful to people and business – spoiled product and toxins. The
exposure of the ChE students to handle a microscope is
something new to them as engineering students. The micro-
scope is basically an optical system to magnify minute spec-
imens. It is also an illumination system to render these spec-
imens properly visible. The students learned the proper use
and care of the microscope, describe and differentiate sever-
al microbial specimens in terms of size, shape, and other
unique characteristics.
Thermal Process, the application of heat to food, either be-
fore or after sealing in a hermetically sealed container, for a
period of time and at a temperature scientifically determined
to be adequate to ensure destruction of microorganisms of
public health significance. Sharing the actual experience in
Volume 6 Issue 1
using the two methods of thermal processing – conventional
and aseptic, is again something new to the students. Heat
Transfer by Conduction: flow of heat through solids and liq-
uids by vibration and collision of molecules and free elec-
trons. This is how heat is transferred from the heating medi-
um to the fruits and syrups inside a container – tin can, plas-
tic cup, glass jar or pouch/bag and Convection: flow of heat
through currents within a fluid (liquid or gas). Convection is
the displacement of volumes of a substance in a liquid or
gaseous phase. When a mass of a fluid is heated up, for ex-
ample when it is in contact with a warmer surface, its mole-
cules are carried away and scattered causing that the mass of
that fluid becomes less dense. This is also how heat is trans-
ferred to the beverages – fruit juices and drinks.
Sanitation is equally as important as the preservation of food.
The knowledge of the sources of microbial contamination
and how to control contaminations using sanitizers, sanita-
tion of container cooling water and sanitation of water reuse
systems.
Equipment, Instrumentation, and Operation for Thermal Pro-
cessing Systems were also detailed as per regulation require-
ments. This is in reference with the Philippine FDA Food
Regulations, USFDA Code of Regulations, European Guide-
lines for the Safe Production of Food and Other Countries
Food Regulations. Processing considerations such as installa-
tion and operation of each type of Retorts, aseptic processing
and packaging systems and closures for double seamed met-
al, plastic containers, glass containers, flexible and semi-
rigid containers are also elaborated.
One whole semester of teaching the students on the subject
made time so precious that the lessons are stored significant-
ly in each individual and at the same time refreshes me on
the compliance of food safety. I am not surprised that some
of these students will suddenly join the industry and experi-
ence themselves how challenging it is to assure food safety.
It is indeed an encouraging subject as a number of my previ-
ous students were already applying what they have learned to
the same industry I am with now as Chemical Engineers in
Food safety.
Page 14
 The Distiller
―Leading the way to a Robust Chemical Industry‖
By Jaime V. De Guzman
JG Summit Petrochemicals Group is a pioneer in the
petrochemicals industry in the Philippines with two whol-
ly owned subsidiaries, JG Summit Petrochemical Cor-
poration (JGSPC) and JG Summit Olefins Corpora-
tion (JGSOC).
JGSOC is the country’s first Naphtha cracker plant. It is
designed to produce polymer-grade ethylene and propyl-
ene, which will be the feedstocks for JGSPC (Polymer
Plants). The two other main products are pyrolysis gaso-
line (pygas) and crude C4 which are raw materials in the
manufacture of intermediate petrochemicals benzene, tol-
uene, xylene and butadiene. It started commercial opera-
tion on November 1, 2014. The 320,000 metric tons of
ethylene and 190,000 MT of propylene that will be pro-
duced by the naphtha cracker will be used as feedstock by
the existing JGSPC polymer plants.
With the start of both the new olefins (JGSOC) and exist-
ing polyolefins (JGSPC) facilities, the Philippine chemi-
cal industry landscape will change dramatically. From this
industry’s 2012 performance of PhP 230 billion, the in-
dustry is projected to grow by at least 18% to PhP 272
billion in 2015. Likewise, JGSOC’s
operation will open many opportuni-
ties for other downstream petrochem-
ical sectors to flourish.
JG Summit Petrochemical Group’s
foray into back integration by operat-
ing the first naphtha cracker in the
country is a crucial step towards
achieving diversification and growth
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR:
To all PIChE Chapter Presidents and members,
“The Distiller”, the official newsletter of the Philippine Institute of Chemical
Engineers (PIChE) is accepting news and feature articles for its next issue.
This is one of the avenues wherein we can systematically document our achieve-
ments and at the same time communicate with each other. This is also an expres-
sion of how united our organization is. To add, this is also a manifestation of how
effective PIChE and your respective Chapters are through the various activities
and advocacies documented here.
Should you have any questions or clarifications please send an email to na-
thaniel.dugos@dlsu.edu.ph or nathan_dugos@yahoo.com.
Thank you!
Nathan
Volume 6 Issue 1
of the Philippine chemical industry and other manufac-
turing sub-sectors.
The group employs an upgraded control system which is
a unified system for process, business and asset manage-
ment which increases operational effectiveness, produc-
tivity and profitability. Furthermore, advanced process
controls are utilized to optimize production rate, mini-
mize energy consumption, improve product consistency
and operational reliability. This also helps to target a sta-
bilized plant operation through minimized fluctuation of
process key variables and improved process safety and to
become globally competitive.
In human capital, the JG Summit Petrochemical Group
has employed chemical engineers, along with technical
personnel from a host of other engineering disciplines.
Contributing to the Philippines’ manufacturing industry,
chemical engineers are now challenged to continue what
has been started by JG Summit Petrochemicals Group,
expressed in its new tagline “Better Life Through Inno-
vation”.
The Distiller
The official newsletter
E PHILIPPINE INSTITUTE OF
CHEMICAL ENGINEERS
D (PIChE)
I
2015 Cityland 10 Tower 2 Condominium
T 154 H.V. de la Costa Street,
O Ayala North, Makati City
Phone : (632) 753-5192
R Website : www.pichenet.org
I
A Editor-In-Chief
Nathaniel P. Dugos
L
Contributors
Dennis N. Yu/Petra C. Cadawan
S MGN de la Cruz/Arjames T. Balgoa
Rizalinda de Leon/Patrick Ramoso
T Babylin de Leon/Catherine G. Daquioag
A Froilando Zayas/Raymond Albuero
Kenneth Rey Senyahan/Paolo Nicolo Perez
F Patricia Baricaua/Rex Manuel Paayas
F