PCMNV at the Core
On January 31, 2014 a new family of Chemical Engineers joined the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (PIChE) through the PIChE – CAMANAVA Chapter. The newly established chapter started with 15 members, through its president who was then PIChE national treasurer, Engr. Teresita Balba. It envisioned itself to be “internationally recognized as the source of professionals who exude excellence in providing knowledge and expertise in Chemical Engineering and to become a reliable partner of the local government units in addressing Industrial and Environmental concerns.” Engr. Balba’s term was mainly focused on membership and recruitment; and adroitly enough, the family is now more than 70-member strong! PIChE – CaMaNaVa was initially established to reach noble Chemical Engineers within Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela. However, as Filipino Chemical Engineers go global, PIChE – CAMANAVA’s family continues to grow even outside its area.The next officers, headed by its President Engr. Ma. Elena Perlado, took their oath on May 14, 2016 in front of then PRC board member, Engr. Cyd Aguilera, and advisers Engr. Teresita Balba and Engr. Cezar dela Cruz. Now more ardent than ever, the chapter is focused on reaching greater heights though continuous involvements across and beyond PIChE. Even with limited funds, the chapter has been very active in participating in all PIChE activities: from Chemical Engineering week to National Conventions. The chapter’s mission to be instrumental in the professional mastery of its members to benefit the society unearths through its directed trainings.
PIChE – CAMANAVA also provided a venue to assist its members in adapting to the current trends of the profession via discussions about the Chemical Engineering Law and Continuous Professional Development Law on its General Assemblies. PIChE – CAMANAVA’s vigor never rests because the chapter continuously reaches millennial Chemical Engineers, who will bring fresh ideas to the organization through their audacity. The varied age of the members do not hinder them from establishing strong camaraderie. They still find time to connect with each other through events like General Assemblies.
Moving forward, the chapter ultimately was recognized as a Most Outstanding PIChE chapter on 2018 and 2022 during the PIChE National Convention and successfully hosted the 80th PIChE National Convention and the 20th Asian Pacific Confederation of Chemical Engineering.
PIChE – CAMANAVA’s humble beginnings is a proof of how far the organization will go. It may be young, but its potential is limitless owed to the unending passion of its family and overwhelming support from its friends. Indeed, PIChE – CAMANAVAwill drive to infinity and beyond.