By Dr. Albert B. Jubilo
Pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 1365, Series of 2007, every third week of September of every year is declared as chemical engineering week. There is a need to recognize significant contributions in the field of chemical engineering, to enhance public consciousness about its technical and ethical proficiency, as well as to create public awareness on the critical role of chemical engineers as vital nation-builders in the promotion and upgrading of scientific and technological capability of the country.
The Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers, Inc. (PIChE), the national organization of chemical engineers founded in 1939, duly accredited and recognized by the Board of Chemical Engineering and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) shall lead in the nationwide observance of Chemical Engineering Week. This year, PIChE will celebrate the 15th Chemical Engineering Week on September 13 – 19, 2020 with the theme “Chemical Engineers at the Forefront of Disaster Resilience and Economic Recovery.”
Opening salvo will be held on September 13, 2020. Notable and distinguished chemical engineers in the country will speak about the profession and the role of the chemical engineers in the nation building. Several activities and free webinars (technical sessions with free CPD units) are lined up.
All government agencies, particularly the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department or the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) are enjoined to network and collaborate with the PRC, the Board of Chemical Engineering, and the PIChE in initiating and implementing programs and activities to generate awareness and public support in promoting the observance or Chemical Engineering Week in various government offices, schools, colleges, universities, local government units and business establishments.