PIChE - CAMANAVA is an organization of Chemical Engineers who exude excellence in providing knowledge and expertise in Chemical Engineering, partnering with LGUs in addressing industrial and environmental concerns. The newly established chapter started with 15 members, through its president and now PIChE national treasurer, Engr. It envisioned itself to be “internationally recognized as the sourc
e 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. Now more ardent than ever, the chapter is focused on reaching greater heights though continuous involvements across and beyond PIChE. Even with limited resources, the chapter has been very active in participating in all PIChE activites: 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. Among its seminars include Into the Verge: ISO 9001:2015 and Advanced Filtration Processes, which were always blockbuster hits to engineers, with attendance always on full house. PIChE – CaMaNaVa also provided a venue to assist its members in adapting to the current trends of the profession via discussions about the Chemical Engineering Law and Continuous Professional Development Law on its General Assemblies. This includes initiatives to develop a CPD tracking system and to assist its members in renewing their licenses. The officers also started its community involvement through coordination with the Caloocan Mayor last September 1, 2016. This aims to pave way for the community services to be offered later by the chapter. PIChE – CaMaNaVa’s vigor never rests because just recently, Engr. Perlado fixated a goal to reach millennial Chemical Engineers, who will bring fresh ideas to the organization through their audacity. At present, the set of officers have six young engineers holding key positions and serving as junior trainees. The varied age of the members do not hinder them from establishing strong camaraderie. They still find time to connect with each other through events like General Assemblies. Moving forward, the chapter still hopes to increase membership to increase capability in bidding for the 2019 PIChE National Convention, and ultimately be recognized as an Outstanding PIChE chapter. PIChE – CaMaNaVa’s humble beginnings is a proof of how far the organization will go. It may be young, but its potential is limitless owed to the unending passion of its family and overwhelming support from its friends. Indeed, PIChE – CaMaNaVa will drive to infinity and beyond.
