Republic of the Philippines

House of Representatives
Quezon City, Metro Manila

EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS
Second Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 6310

Introduced by Representative Francisco Jose F. Matugas II

EXPLANATORY NOTE

On 13 May 2004, Congress passed R.A. 9297 or the Chemical Engineering
Law of 2004. The law, however, has not been fully implemented due to loopholes in
its provisions.

Despite the passage of the law, industrial facilities were erected and operated
without the guidance and expertise of chemical engineers. This resulted in viola-
tions of environmental laws and exposed the public to unsafe practices in the opera-
tion of manufacturing processes. Very few companies hire licensed Chemical Engi-
neers.

Moreover, the provisions of R.A. 9297 do not include the adoption of out-
comes-based engineering educational parameters which highlight the attainment of
skills and attributes of engineers under the Washington Accord. Engineers who
graduate under Washington Accord certified programs, through the Philippine
‘Technological Council, should be able to work as engineers in the member countries
of the Washington Accord. This will improve the competence of Filipino chemical
engineers, increase their mobility as engineers (not as technicians), and afford them
more employment opportunities. There is also the need to identify the skills and at-
tributes of Chemical engineering technologists and technicians.

This bill seeks to regulate engineering education, provide for the professional
fields of specialization of Chemical Engineers, lay down the requirements for the
operation of industrial facilities, and give recognition to qualifications and achieve-
ments, Its paramount interest is national development, public safety, and environ-
mental sustainability.

The immediate passage of this bill is, therefore, earnestly sought.
FRANCISCO JOgE F. MATUGAS II

Surigao del Nfrte, First District
(Siargao Island)


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Republic of the Philippines

House of Representatives
‘Quezon City, Metro Manila

EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS
Second Regular Session

6310

HOUSE BILL NO.

Introduced by Representative Francisco Jose F. Matugas II

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A COMPREHENSIVE CHEMICAL ENGINEER-

ING LAW AND REPEALING FOR THAT PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NUM-

BER NO. 9297, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “THE CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
ACT OF 2004”

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Con-
gress assembled:

ARTICLE I
TITLE, STATEMENT OF POLICY, DEFINITION OF TERMS AND SCOPE OF
PRACTICE

SECTION 1. Title. — This Act shall be known as the “Comprehensive Chemi-
cal Engineering Law of 2020.”

SEC. 2. Statement of Policy. — Recognizing that the practice of chemical engi-
neering is vital to national development, it is hereby declared the policy of the State
to supervise, regulate and uphold the practice of chemical engineering in the inter-
est of public safety. It shall be the obligation of the State to upgrade chemical engi-
neering education to guarantee attainment of internationally accepted skills and
attributes of engineers, and to reserve the practice of such profession to Filipino
Chemical Engineers.

SECTION 3. Definition of Terms -

(a) AIPO shall mean Accredited Integrated Professional Organization.

(b) CHED shall mean the Commission on Higher Education.


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(©) Certificate of Industrial Worthiness shall refer to a document is-
sued by a certifying professional chemical engineer after an annual industrial in-
spection and with favorable technical findings.

(d@) Certificate of Process Compliance shall refer to a document issued
by the Board of Chemical Engineering to industrial plants, private and government
facilities and institutions engaged in the scope of practice of Chemical Engineering
in the Philippines.

(e) Certifying Registered Professional Chemical Engineer shall re-
fer to a registered professional chemical engineer who is jointly authorized by the
LGUs Engineering Office and the local chapter of the Accredited Integrated Profes-
sional Organization (“AIPO”) to conduct industrial inspection and to issue Certifi-
cate of Industrial Worthiness.

(® | Chemical Engineering shall refer to a discipline and profession in
Engineering which covers application of knowledge and skills in mathematics,
chemistry, physical, biological and molecular sciences, material and energy bal-
ances, chemical and biological reactor design and analysis, fluid flow, unit opera-
tions, thermodynamics and unit processes coupled with management, economics
and technology in using multi-faceted and systems approach to problem analysis
and solution creation for the optimal conversion of raw materials to finished prod-
ucts, process design and operation of industrial plant and related facilities giving
high regard and consideration to public safety and environmental protection to im-
prove the quality of life.

(g) Chemical Engineering Laboratory shall refer to a facility in an
academic institution offering Chemical Engineering Programs that have instruc-
tional unit operations and process equipment.

(h) Chemical Engineering Technologist (ChET) shall refer to a holder
of a Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Chemical Engineering), or one who has
completed at least 54 units of the professional courses of a Bachelor of Science in
Chemical Engineering program, duly registered by the PRC. A ChET may be en-
gaged in performing engineering functions in support of a Professional Chemical


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Engineer's requirements. A ChET applies established engineering methods, tech-
niques, tools and resources within the engineering technology domain.

ji) Chemical Process Technician (CPTech) shall refer to someone
who has completed at least 36 units of the professional courses of a Bachelor of En-
gineering Technology (Chemical Engineering) program duly registered by the PRC.
The CPTech shall be skillfully qualified and certified to perform functions related to
process equipment monitoring and operation and can apply established practices
and procedures related to production in an industrial plant or as laboratory techni-
cian for Chemical Engineering Laboratories in an academic institution and in labo-
ratories as defined in industrial plants.

@ Industrial Plant shall mean any installation, building or structure
involved in the pilot or commercial production of consumer and industrial products
or utilized for industrial waste treatment processes; and which has equipment and
facilities wherein unit processes and operations are carried out.

(k) Industrial Worthiness shall refer to the quality of being a techni-
cally-compliant, sustainable, safe, and environment-friendly industrial plant opera-
tion. “Technically-compliant” means compliant with the Implementing Rules and
Regulations of this Act and other technical requirements mandated by existing
laws.

0) In-Process Laboratory shall refer to a satellite installation that in-
dustrial plants have in order to perform quality-related analysis or tests that may
be required in adjustment of Process Parameters used in commercial and industrial
production operations,

(m) LGU shall mean Local Government Unit.

(n) Pilot Laboratory shall refer to a miniature version of the industrial
plant where pilot trials are conducted for product development and research pur-
poses. Results of these studies are scaled up for commercial production once ap-
proved.

(0) Practice of Chemical Engineering shall mean performance of ac-
tivities within the scope of practice of the Chemical Engineering Profession and to
affix to his/her name the letters "PChE".


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(p) PRC shall mean the Professional Regulation Commission.

(@ Process shall mean a series of steps or actions taken in order to
achieve a particular purpose.

() Process and Operation Laboratory shall refer to a facility inside
an industrial plant wherein physical, chemical, biological, process, and statistical
analysis are performed in relation to production operations. It shall also refer, but
be not limited to, in-process laboratory, pilot laboratory, research and development
laboratory, process simulation laboratory, and quality assurance laboratory.

(s) Process Control refers to the manipulation of a control device to
maintain a process parameter within an acceptable deviation from an ideally re-
quired condition.

(t) Process Design shall mean preparation of conceptual plans bringing
together all the chemical engineering components and service supply network de-
sign concept on flow of activities or operations in an industrial plant intended either
for construction of new facilities or for modification of existing facilities.

(u) Process Engineering refers to the chemical or biochemical processes
and equipment that are used to turn raw materials into an end product and is an
essential part of the manufacturing industry.

(v) Process Equipment refers to equipment where unit process or unit
operation takes place.

(w) Process Parameters refer to the current measured value of a par-
ticular part of process which is being monitored or controlled.

(x) Process Simulation Laboratory shall refer to a facility where proc-
ess simulation and optimization and mathematical modelling are done using com-
puter applications and software intended for industrial applications.

(y) Professional Chemical Engineer (PChE) shall refer to a holder of a
B.S. Chemical Engineering degree, duly registered by the PRC, and who can con-
ceptualize, develop, design, manage, improve and apply safe, healthy, ethical and
economic ways of utilizing materials and energy in unit processes and operations to
achieve physical and chemical changes for the benefit of society and environment
through the application of knowledge in mathematics, chemistry, physical, biologi-

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cal and molecular sciences, information technology, and other natural, applied and
social sciences, gained by study, research and practice.

(2) Professional Chemical Engineering Subjects shall mean courses
offered in higher educational institutions for the Bachelor of Science in Chemical
Engineering Program and other related Engineering programs covering any of the
following topics: chemical engineering thermodynamics, chemical engineering
mathematics, industrial chemistry, chemical engineering calculations, chemical re-
action engineering, physical and chemical principles, industrial processes, momen-
tum transfer, heat transfer, mass transfer, separation processes, particle technol-
ogy, industrial waste management and control, process equipment and plant design,
biochemical engineering and bioengineering, biotechnology, food and drug manufac-
turing, packaging technology, paints and coating technology, petrochemical engi-
neering, energy engineering, nuclear engineering, semiconductor technology,
nanotechnology, environmental management, and emerging technologies.

(aa) Quality Assurance Laboratory shall refer to a facility inside an in-
dustrial plant wherein physical, chemical, biological, process and statistical analysis
are performed in relation to production operations.

(bb) Research and Development Laboratory shall refer to a facility
where research and development studies can be performed incorporating physical,
chemical, microbiological and nanotechnology tests, if needed.

(cc) Resident Professional Chemical Engineer shall refer to a regular
professional chemical engineer employed in an industrial plant, facility or institu-
tion.

(dd) Special Permit to Practice shall refer to a document issued by the
Board of Chemical Engineering to qualified chemical engineers, Foreign or Filipino,
who have established themselves as experts in their field of practice, allowing them
to practice chemical engineering for a prescribed period as determined by the Board.

(ee) Systems Approach shall refer to the concept of systematic integra-
tion of inputs, outputs and other relevant factors in analyzing problems.

(f) Unit Operation shall mean any activity or process intended to
achieve physical change which may include, but is not limited to, the storage and

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handling of solid, gas and liquid materials, heat transfer, mass transfer, and the
separation or purification steps in an industrial plant.

(gg) Unit Operation Laboratory shall refer to any facility in an indus-
trial plant or academic institution that involves the testing, data gathering, and
analysis of process parameters and material properties connected with physical
transformation(s).

(hh) Unit Process shall refer to any activity or operation in a manufactur-
ing, industrial, water and waste treatment plant that involves chemical transforma-
tion(s).

(ii) Unit Process Laboratory shall refer to any facility in an industrial
plant or academic institution that involves testing and data gathering of process pa-
rameters and material properties related to the chemical transformation from raw
materials to in-process to finished products.

(ji) Waste Treatment Facility shall mean any installation, building or
structure engaged in the handling, treatment and disposal of solid, liquid or gaseous
wastes generated by the community either from residential or institutional sources
or from industrial processes.

(kk) Waste Treatment Process shall mean the operations involved in
achieving physical, chemical and biological change in collected wastes so as to at-
tain environmental compliance.

SEC. 4. Scope of Practice. — A. The scope and nature of the practice of a Pro-
fessional Chemical Engineer shall embrace and consist of the following:

1. Design and Innovation

a) Equipment Design which includes conceptualization of equipment fea-
tures, material composition, dimensional requirements, functionality assessment,
fabrication requirements, calculations, drawings and supervision of fabrication con-
forming to established equipment codes.

b) Process Design which includes conceptualization of process flow, revi-
sion of processes, optimization of processes, setting of parameters, process control,

sampling and testing, validation, verification, preparation of reports, feasibility


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studies, pilot trials, materials specification, efficiency calculations, conduct of trials,
modification of parameters, process simulation and engineering calculations.

©) Industrial Plant Design which includes integration of facilities lay-out
and location, process and equipment design, pilot trials, cost estimation, market
study, material and energy management, financial management, personnel, energy,
waste and environmental requirements.

d) Inventions or Innovations which include conceptualization, rationaliza-
tion, design, pilot trials, fabrication of prototype, sampling and testing, patent ap-
plication, product presentations, commercial scale manufacture and engineering
calculations.

2. Process Engineering which includes thorough understanding of industrial
processes and corresponding parameters, revision of processes, establishment of
process parameters, in-process sampling and testing, engineering calculations,
process instrumentation and control, process optimization, efficiency calculations,
preparation of reports, preparation of recommendations, development of procedures
and management presentations. Industrial processes shall include, but shall not be
limited to: (a) glass manufacturing; (b) plastic manufacturing; (c) metal manufactur-
ing; (d) packaging products manufacturing; (e) petroleum and petrochemical engi-
neering; (f) food and beverage manufacturing; (g) sugar and sugarcane by-products
manufacturing; (h) pharmaceutical and cosmetics manufacturing; (i) paint, coats

and ink manufacturing; (j) rubber manufacturing; (k) non-metallic products manu-

facturing; (1) pulp and paper products manufacturing; (m) industrial chemical prod-
ucts manufacturing; (n) agricultural products manufacturing; (0) industrial gases
production; (p) biofuels production; (q) textile manufacturing; (r) mineral process-
ing; (s) semiconductor equipment and products manufacturing; and (t) currency
manufacturing.

3. Process Safety Management which includes management of the integrity of
operating systems and processes, handling hazardous substances by applying good
design principles, engineering and operating practices, and prevention and control
of incidents that have the potential to release hazardous materials or energy.


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4. Biochemical Engineering which includes design and management of bio-
chemical production facilities, supervision of biochemical processes, preparation of
process parameters and specifications, sampling and testing, line operations, and
engineering calculations.

5. Operations Management which includes management of manpower, materi-
als, energy, technological and financial resources for implementation of functions,
activities and systems in relation to an industrial plant operation, institutional and
environmental facilities.

a) Process Management which includes supervision of an industrial proc-
ess or specific areas in it, monitoring of operational parameters, process control,
sampling and testing, preparation of manpower complement, scheduling and plan-
ning of materials and production operations, preparation of reports, management
presentations, production logistics, disposal logistics and training of personnel on
operations.

b) Plant Management which includes holding a management-level posi-
tion in a company that applies the attributes and skills of a chemical engineer. It
covers planning, manpower deployment, budget preparation, supervision of proc-
esses, quality assurance, preparation of reports, attendance to conferences, partici-
pation in working groups formed locally by government agencies, and participation
in international working groups.

0) Project Management which includes feasibility study, planning, man-
power management, facilities management, materials management, calculations,
mobilization of project logistics, management presentations and preparation of re-
ports.

6. Education which includes holding positions in an academic institution offer-
ing engineering programs, preparation of outcome-based engineering courses, as-
sessment of engineering programs and student outcomes, teaching of subjects or
courses included in the curricula of different engineering programs, preparation and
grading of examinations, preparation of reports, academic advising, student re-

search advising, consultation activities, project implementation, attendance to rele-


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vant conferences on student learning, and participation in international and local
university linkage activities.

7. Research and Development which includes conceptualization of products and
processes, preparation of feasibility studies, optimization, simulation, engineering
process equipment design, process and equipment innovation, materials substitu-
tion, conduct of trials, sampling and testing, engineering calculations, intellectual
property patent applications, development of standards, preparation of reports and
management presentation.

8. Environmental Engineering and Management

a) Environmental Impact Assessment which includes preparation of pro-
posals, sampling and testing, engineering calculations, project presentation, plan-
ning, mobilization, preparation of EIA report and compliance monitoring.

b) Environmental Engineering which includes activities related to man-
agement of industrial, commercial and institutional wastes, cleaner production
process modification, pollution control activities, consultations with LGUs on waste
management, preparation of design plans for waste treatment facilities, operation
and supervision of waste treatment facilities, preparation of reports, management
presentations, sampling and testing, line operations, manpower planning and de-
ployment, and conduct of training related to environmental concerns.

o Waste Management and Pollution Control which includes identifica-
tion, characterization and quantification of wastes, preparation of waste manage-
ment proposals, conduct of training on waste management, design of waste treat-
ment and control facilities, engineering calculations, monitoring and supervision of
waste treatment facilities, sampling and testing, preparation of reports, manage-
ment presentations, and handling activities related to environmental concerns.

d) Water Resource Management which includes design and management
of water products manufacturing facilities, supervision of water treatment and pro-
duction processes, preparation of process parameters and specifications, sampling
and testing, line operations, and engineering calculations.

e) Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation which includes activities
related to initiatives and measures to reduce the vulnerability of natural and hu-

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man systems against actual or expected climate change effects; and reduction of the
emissions of greenhouse gases, technological change and substitution that reduce
resource inputs and emissions per unit of output.

5) Disaster Risk Reduction and Management which includes activities re-
lated to the systematic process of using administrative directives, organizations,
and operational skills and capacities to implement strategies, policies and improved
coping capacities in order to lessen the adverse impacts of hazards and the possibil-
ity of disaster. Prospective disaster risk reduction and management refers to risk
reduction and management activities that address and seek to avoid the develop-
ment of new or increased disaster risks, especially if risk reduction policies are not
put in place.

9. Quality Assurance and Management

a) Quality Management which includes management of manpower, mate-
rials, energy, technological and financial resources for implementation of quality-
related functions, activities and systems in relation to an industrial plant operation
and institutional facilities.

b) Quality Assurance which includes operation of the unit operation labo-
ratory and observation techniques applied in the process, establishment of sampling
frequency, in-process sampling and testing, analysis and interpretation of results of
tests for adjustment of process parameters, process and statistical analysis, moni-
toring of process parameters, engineering calculations, preparation of reports, man-
agement presentations, manpower planning, operation of testing equipment and
management of facilities intended for quality assurance of manufacturing plant op-
erations.

10. Technical Services

a) Technical Sales and Services which include technical sales and service
activities covering process equipment, raw materials, packaging materials, re-
agents, reactants, industrial chemicals, industrial gases, industrial and commercial
products, online analytical instruments, analysis of technical data, calibration of

equipment, importation and inbound logistics, supervision of transport and installa-

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tion, processing of technical documents, preparation of sales reports, and inventory
management.

b) Technical Consultation which includes provision of service to persons,
entities, industries, government agencies, academic institutions and non-
governmental organizations related to concerns or issues in any field of specializa-
tion offered by Professional Chemical Engineers.

11. Specialized Fields of Chemical Engineering

a) Advanced Device and Materials Testing which includes acquisition of
relevant qualifications through graduate courses, experience or research. It covers
design and management of advanced device and material products testing and
manufacturing facilities, supervision of advanced device and material production
processes, preparation of process parameters and specifications, sampling and test-
ing, line operations, and engineering calculations.

b) Energy Engineering which includes acquisition of relevant qualifica-
tions through graduate courses, experience or research. It covers design and man-
agement of energy generation facilities, energy resource management, supervision
of energy production processes, preparation of process parameters and specifica-
tions, sampling and testing, line operations, and engineering calculations.

°) Biological Engineering which includes acquisition of relevant qualifica-
tions through graduate courses, experience or research. It covers application of
chemical engineering principles to analyze biological systems and to solve problems
in the interfacing of such systems - plant, animal or microbial - with human-
designed machines, structures, processes and instrumentation.

d) Biomedical Engineering which includes acquisition of relevant qualifi-
cations through graduate courses in cooperation with medical programs, experience
or research. It covers knowledge of biology, medical science and chemical engineer-
ing theory to develop problem-solving and new procedures and technologies in the
form of medical devices and equipment and computer systems and software. The
work of biomedical engineers includes everything from creating new machines for

diagnostic tests to developing artificial organs for _transplant.

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e) Nuclear Engineering which includes acquisition of relevant qualifica-
tions through graduate courses, experience or research. It covers design and man-
agement of nuclear facilities, supervision of nuclear processes, preparation of proc-
ess parameters and specifications, sampling and testing, line operations, and engi-
neering calculations.

f) Molecular Engineering which includes acquisition of relevant qualifi-
cations through graduate courses, experience or research. It covers design and
management of molecular engineering facilities, supervision of molecular processes,
preparation of process parameters and specifications, sampling and testing, line op-
erations, and engineering calculations.

2) Nano Engineering which includes acquisition of relevant qualifications
through graduate courses, experience or research. It covers design and management
of nano-engineering, facilities supervision of nano-level production processes, prepa-
ration of process parameters and specifications, sampling and testing, line opera-
tions, and engineering calculations.

h) Forensic Investigation which includes acquisition of relevant qualifica-
tions through graduate courses, experience or research. It covers analytical investi-
gation, sampling and testing of evidences related to crimes, crime scenes, terrorist
situations, and other incidents that require the technical expertise of engineers,
preparation of technical reports and acting as technical expert in court when neces-
sary.

i) Emerging Technologies which include the sole authority to provide
services as defined in this Act and to sign and seal plans, drawings, permit applica-
tions, specifications, reports and other technical documents prepared by him-
self/herself and/or under his direct supervision.

B. A Chemical Engineering Technologist (ChET) applies established engineering

methods, techniques, tools and resources within the technology domain. A ChET

provides technical support to Professional Chemical Engineers as needed in an in-

dustrial plant.

C. A Chemical Process Technician (CPTech) performs functions related to manu-

facturing equipment monitoring and operation and applies established practices
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and procedures which may require performance of duties related to production or as
laboratory technician for Chemical Engineering Laboratories in an academic insti-
tution and in laboratories as defined in industrial plants.

SEC. 5. Educational Requirements and Qualifications. — A. Professional
Chemical Engineers (PChE) must have the following qualifications in order to en-
gage in professional practice:

(1) Must be a holder of a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering
(BSChE) degree from a CHED-Registered Higher Educational Institution;

(2) Must have passed the Chemical Engineering Licensure Examination
administered by the Board of Chemical Engineering of the PRC and issued the Pro-
fessional License Identification Card and Certificate of Registration;

(3) Must have obtained a valid Professional Tax Receipt;

(4) | Must have procured an Official Dry Seal as prescribed by this law and
duly issued in coordination with the AIPO; and

(5) Must be of good moral character and a law-abiding citizen of the Phil-
ippines
B. A Chemical Engineering Technologists (ChET) must have the following qualifica-
tions in order to engage in professional practice:

1) Must be a holder of a Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Chemical
Engineering) (BET-ChE) degree or must have completed at least 54 units of the pro-
fessional courses of a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering program from a
CHED Compliant Higher Educational Institution;

2) Must have passed the Chemical Engineering Technologist Licensure
Examination administered by the Board of Chemical Engineering of the PRC and
must have been issued the Professional License Identification Card and Certificate
of Registration;

4) Must have obtained a valid Professional Tax Receipt; and

5) Must be of good moral character and a law-abiding citizen of the Phil-
ippines.

C. Chemical Process Technicians (CPTech) must have the following qualifica-
tions in order to engage in professional practice:
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1) Must have completed at least 36 units of the professional courses of a
Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Chemical Engineering) from a CHED Compli-
ant Higher Educational Institution;

2) Must have passed the Chemical Process Technician Licensure Exami-
nation administered by the Board of Chemical Engineering of the PRC and must
have been issued the Professional License Identification Card and Certificate of
Registration;

3) Must have obtained a valid Professional Tax Receipt; and

4) Must be of good moral character and a law-abiding citizen of the Phil-
ippines.

ARTICLE II
THE PROFESSIONAL REGULATORY BOARD FOR CHEMICAL ENGINEERS

SEC. 6.- Selection and Composition of the Members of the Board - The Board
of Chemical Engineering, herein referred to as the Board, under the administrative
control and supervision of the PRC, shall be composed of a Chairman and two (2)
members appointed by the President of the Philippines as taken from the nominees
recommended by the AIPO of Chemical Engineers and short-listed by the Commis-
sion.

‘The AIPO of Chemical Engineers shall recommend five (5) nominees for every
vacant position, six (6) months prior to end of the term of the concerned member.
Recommendation and selection of short-listed nominees shall be done for one posi-
tion at a time.

SEC. 7. - Powers and Duties of the Board - The Board shall have the following
powers and duties:

1) Supervise, regulate and uphold the practice of the chemical engineer-
ing profession in the Philippines in accordance with the provisions of this Act;

2) Determine the requirements and evaluate the qualifications of the ap-
plicants for registration and renewal of license of Professional Chemical Engineer
(PChE), Chemical Engineering Technologist (ChET), and Chemical Process Techni-

cian (CPTech);
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3) Prescribe the subjects in the licensure examination aligned with the
current minimum B.S. Ch.E. and BET-ChE curriculum standards set by CHED, de-
termine the syllabi of the subjects and their relative weights, construct the test
questions in the examination, score and rate the examination papers, and submit
the examination results to the PRC;

4) Issue, together with the PRC, Certificates of Registration and Profes-
sional Identification Cards to applicants who have passed the licensure examina-
tions for professional chemical engineers, chemical engineering technologists and
chemical process technicians;

5) Issue, together with the PRC, licensure examination exemptions, Cer-
tificates of Registration and Professional Identification Cards to applicants who
have graduated from Internationally Accredited B.S. Ch.E. and BET-Ch.E. pro-
grams;

6) __ Issue special permits to persons admitted to the practice of the profes-
sion;

7) Award Certificates of Recognition for advanced studies and researches
and accomplishments in the chemical engineering profession that contribute to its
enrichment;

8) Oversee the conduct of the Continuing Professional Development pro-
grams for Professional Chemical Engineers (PChE), Chemical Engineering Tech-
nologist (ChET), and Chemical Process Technician (CPTech);

9) Conduct on-site inspection, submit an inspection report to the PRC,
and monitor compliance of industrial plants, facilities, institutions and other enti-
ties engaged in the scope of practice of Chemical Engineering and seek the assis-
tance of the AIPO in order to carry out these functions;

10) Inquire into the conditions affecting the practice of Professional
Chemical Engineer (PChE), Chemical Engineering Technologist (ChET), and
Chemical Process Technician (CPTech) and adopt measures for the enhancement
and maintenance of a high professional, ethical and technical standard. Pursuant

thereto, the Board may inspect establishments where chemical engineers practice

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their profession in order to determine and enforce compliance with the provisions of
this Act;

11) _ Issue Certificates of Compliance to Industrial Plants, facilities and in-
stitutions engaged in the scope of practice of Chemical Engineering pursuant to the
provisions of this Act;

12) In coordination with CHED, inspect the facilities, faculty, equipment
and other aspects directly related to the chemical engineering program of educa-
tional institutions and submit a monitoring report to the PRC;

13) Adopt a Code of Ethics and a Code of Technical Standards for the prac-
tice of chemical engineering:

14) Investigate, in accordance with the rules on administrative investiga-
tion promulgated by the PRC, violations of this Act and its implementing rules and
regulations, the Code of Ethics and the Code of Technical Standards for chemical
engineers, administrative policies, orders and issuances promulgated by the Board;

15) Issue subpoena ad testificandum and subpoena duces tecum to secure
the attendance of witnesses or the production of documents in connection with any
administrative case before the Board;

16) Hear and decide administrative cases filed against chemical engineers
and firms employing chemical engineers. The hearing shall be presided by the
Chairman or a Member of the Board with the assistance of an Attorney of the PRC.
Any decision shall be concurred in by at least a majority of the Board. Decisions of
the Board may be appealed to the PRC within fifteen (15) days from notice. Other-
wise such decisions shall become final and executory;

17) Administer oaths in connection with the performance of its functions;

18) Adopt an official seal and prescribe the seal of the chemical engineer-
ing profession;

19) Submit an annual report on the proceedings and accomplishments dur-
ing the year and/or recommendations of the Board to the PRC thirty (30) days after
the close of each calendar year; and furnish copies of the same annual report upon

the request of stakeholders;

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20) Prosecute or institute criminal action against any violator of this Act
and/or the rules and regulations of the Board;

21) Prescribe guidelines and criteria on the Continuing Professional De-
velopment (CPD) program for chemical engineers in consultation with the inte-
grated and accredited chemical engineering organizations;

22) In case of exigency of services, the Board may deputize other qualified
professional chemical engineers duly recommended by the AIPO to serve some of
their functions, with due compensation to the appointed deputies;

23) Adopt the implementing rules and regulations of this Act; and

24) Perform such other functions as may be necessary in order to imple-
ment the provisions of this Act.

SEC. 8. - Qualifications of the Board Chairman and Members. - The Chair-
man and Members of the Board shall be, at the time of their appointment:

a) A natural-born Filipino citizen and resident of the Philippines;

b) At least a holder of a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering as con-
ferred by an engineering school of good standing, recognized and accredited by the
Government;

©) Aprofessional chemical engineer who has been in active practice for at
least ten (10) years;

@) With graduate studies and/or equivalent relevant professional qualifi-
cations;

©)  Amember of good standing of the AIPO;

f) Must be willing to learn and adopt the CHED Curricular Guidelines
for the BS Chemical Engineering and BET-ChE programs in the preparation of
questions appropriate for the applicants to the Licensure Examinations for chemical
engineering practice;

g) — Must not, for a period of three (3) consecutive years prior to appoint-
ment, be a member of the faculty of any university, college, school or institution con-
fering an academic degree necessary for admission to the practice of chemical en-
gineering, nor have any pecuniary interest in or administrative supervision over
any such institutions of learning;

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h) Must not, for a period of three (3) consecutive years prior to appoint-
ment, be connected with a review center or with any group or association where re-
view classes or lectures in preparation for the licensure examination are offered or
conducted at the time of appointment; and

i) Has never been convicted of any offense involving moral turpitude.

SEC. 9. Term of Office. - The Chairman and the Members of the Board shall
have a term of three (3) years only, with a maximum of one (1) reappointment. No
member of the Board shall serve for more than two (2) regular terms. Vacancies
shall be filled for the unexpired term only. The Chairman and Members shall qual-
ify by taking the proper oath prior to assumption of office. The incumbent Chairman
and Members shall be allowed to serve for the remainder of their term until a new
Board shall have been constituted.

SEC. 10.- Secretary of the Board. - The Board shall have a Secretary, ap-
pointed by the PRC, who shall record the minutes of its meetings and perform such
other functions as the Board may require. The Commission shall provide for com-
pensation of the Secretary.

SEC. 11. - Removal/Suspension of the Chairman and Members. - The Presi-
dent, upon recommendation of the Commission, may remove any member of the
Board on the following grounds: (a) conflict of interest; (b) neglect of duty; (c) incom-
petence; (d) commission or tolerance of irregularities in the licensure examination;
(e) malpractice, unprofessional or unethical conduct; (f) violation of this Act or the
Code of Ethics for Chemical Engineers; and (g) conviction by final judgment of a
crime involving moral turpitude. A member shall only be suspended after due notice
and hearing where his right to be heard, to defend himself and to be assisted by
counsel shall be respected.

SEC. 12. Compensation of the Board. - The Chairman and Members of the
Board shall receive such compensation or honorarium as may be prescribed by the
rules and regulations of the Commission.

SEC. 13. Annual Report. - The Secretary shall prepare an annual report for
the consideration and approval of the Board. The Board shall submit an annual re-
port to the PRC after the close of each fiscal year giving a detailed account of the

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proceedings of the Board during the year and embodying such recommendations to
the PRC as the Board may desire to make. The AIPO may request for a copy of the
annual report.

ARTICLE IIT
LICENSURE EXAMINATION, REGISTRATION AND EXEMPTION

SEC. 14. Examination Requirement. - All applicants for registration for the
practice of chemical engineering shall be required to pass the licensure examination
prescribed herein.

SEC. 15. Holding of Examination. - Examination of candidates desiring to
practice chemical engineering shall be given twice each calendar year on the dates
and venues prescribed by the Board. Such examination shall be conducted by the
Board.

SEC. 16. Scope of Examination. - The licensure examination shall cover, but
shall not be limited to, the following subjects:

a) Professional Chemical Engineer. - Physical and Chemical Principles,
General Engineering, and Chemical Engineering: Provided, That, the relative
weight of Chemical Engineering shall not be less than forty per contum (40%).

b) Chemical Engineering Technologist. - Physical and Chemical Princi-
ples, General Engineering, and Chemical Engineering (excluding biochemical engi-
neering, separation processes, chemical reactor design, equipment and plant de-
sign): Provided, That, the relative weight of Chemical Engineering shall not be less
than forty per centum (40%).

©) Chemical Process Technician. — Analytical and Organic Chemistry,
General Engineering, and Chemical Engineering topics relevant to chemical process
technician practice.

SEC. 17. Qualifications for Professional Chemical Engineer Examinations. -
Any person applying for admission must have the following qualifications:

a) Must be a citizen of the Philippines;

b) Must be of good moral character;

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©) Must be a graduate of a school, institute, college or university recog-
nized by the Government and has been conferred the degree of Bachelor of Science
in Chemical Engineering; and

d) Must not have been convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude
by a court of competent jurisdiction.

SEC. 18. Qualifications for Chemical Engineering Technologist Examina-
tions. - Any person applying for admission must have the following qualifications:

a) Must be a citizen of the Philippines;

b) Must be of good moral character;

©) Must be a graduate of Bachelor of Engineering Technology - Chemical
Engineering program or has completed at least 54 units of the professional courses
of a Bachelor of Science program in Chemical Engineering according to CHED
guidelines; and

d) Must not have been convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude
by a court of competent jurisdiction.

SEC. 19. Qualifications for Chemical Process Technician Examinations. - Any
person applying for admission must have the following qualifications:

a) Must be a citizen of the Philippines;

b) Must be of good moral character;

°) Must have completed at least 30 units of a Bachelor of Engineering
‘Technology- Chemical Engineering program according to CHED guidelines; and

d) Must not have been convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude
by a court of competent jurisdiction.

SEC. 20. Examination Fees. - Every applicant permitted to take the chemical
engineering examination shall pay such fees as may be prescribed by the Board
before said applicant is allowed to take the examination.

SEC. 21. Report of Rating. - The Board shall complete the correction of ex-
amination papers within twenty (20) days from the last day of the examination. The
PRC shall report the rating of examinees not more than thirty (30) days after the

Board has completed the correction of examination papers.

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SEC. 22. Exemption from Licensure Examination. - All applicants who have
graduated from Internationally Accredited B.S. Ch.E. and Technology programs are
entitled to apply for exemption from licensure examination, provided that all re-
quirements are met according to the provisions of this Act. This shall be construed
to mean that all qualified applicants may or may not apply, and that all applicants
for exemption shall still submit additional school portfolio requirements and shall
undergo screening. Only those passing the screening process shall be exempted and
properly registered.

SEC. 23. Issuance of Certificate of Registration and Professional Identification
Card. - The PRC shall, on recommendation of the Board, enter in the Roster of
Chemical Engineers, Chemical Process and Engineering Technologists, Manufactur-
ing Process Technician, and issue a Certificate of Registration and Professional
Identification Card to each person who obtained a general average of no less than
seventy per centum (70%) and a rating of no less than fifty per centum (50%) in any
examination subject and applicants who were screened to be qualified for exemp-
tion. Every Certificate of Registration shall state the full name of the registrant and
his registration number, and shall be signed by the Chairman and Members of the
Board and the PRC and authenticated by the official seal of the PRC indicating that
the person named therein is entitled to the practice of the profession with all the
privileges appurtenant thereto. The said Certificate of Registration shall remain in
full force and effect until suspended or revoked in accordance with this Act.

A professional identification card bearing the signature, number, date of is-
suance, expiry date, duly signed by the Chairman of the PRC shall likewise be is-
sued to every registrant who has paid the prescribed fee.

SEC. 24. Renewal of Professional License. - The professional license issued to
a Professional Chemical Engineer and Chemical Process and Engineering Tech-
nologist shall be valid for three (3) years from its issuance and shall be renewed
every after three (3) years on the birth month of the Professional Chemical Engi-
neer and Chemical Process and Engineering Technologist upon presentation or
submission of the required Continuing Professional Development credit units
earned and payment of prescribed fees.

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SEC. 25. Seal of Professional Chemical Engineer. - Each chemical engineer
shall, upon registration, obtain a seal as prescribed by the Board bearing the pro-
fessional’s name, registration number and the legend “Professional Chemical Engi-
neer.” Plans, specifications, designs, reports and other professional documents pre-
pared by or executed under the supervision of, and issued by the professional shall
be stamped on every sheet with said seal, indicating therein his/her current Profes-
sional Tax Receipt (PTR) number, date and place of payment, and current member-
ship number in the AIPO, when filed with Government authorities or when submit-
ted or used professionally.

SEC. 26. Fees for Registration. - Every person issued a Certificate of Registra-
tion as a professional chemical engineer shall pay to the PRC such fees as the PRC
may prescribe,

SEC. 27. Exemptions from Registration and Issuance of Special Permit to
Practice. - Registration shall not be required of the following persons upon proper
application for exemption with the Board:

(a) | Chemical engineers, recognized as experts in their specific fields of
chemical engineering, called in by the Republic of the Philippines for consultation or
for a specific design, installation or project: Provided, That their practice shall be
confined to such work;

(b) Chemical engineers who have distinguished themselves in their re-
spective fields of specialization, contracted as professors or lecturers on chemical
engineering subjects by Philippine schools, or colleges, institutes or universities on
a direct hire or exchange basis, subject to verification of credentials by the Board;
and

© Chemical engineers who have distinguished themselves in their re-
spective fields of specialization, contracted as consultants, technology providers or
specialists on chemical engineering processes by Philippine industrial firms on a di-
rect hire basis, subject to verification of credentials by the Board.

SEC. 28. Suspension or Revocation of Certificate of Registration and Cancel-
lation of Special Permit to Practice. - Any of the following shall be sufficient ground

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for the suspension or revocation of a Certificate of Registration and cancellation of
Special Permit to Practice:

a) Any act of incompetence, negligence, or illegal practice of chemical en-
gineering resulting to damage to property and environment, injury or loss of lives;

b) Acts inimical to the chemical engineering profession;

©) Gross immorality or commission of any act involving moral turpitude;
and

@) Violation of this Act, the rules and regulations, other policies of the
Board and the Code of Ethics.

Complaints against professional chemical engineers and firms employing
chemical engineers may be filed by any person or by the Board motu proprio. Com-
plaints shall be in writing and sworn to by the persons executing them. Complaints
shall be filed with the Secretary of the Board: Provided, That the action of the
Board shall be subject to appeal to the PRC within fifteen (15) days from notice,
whose decision on the matter shall be final.

SEC. 29. Reissuance of Revoked Certificate of Registration and Special Permit
to Practice and Replacement of Lost Certificates. - The Board may, for reasons it
may deem sufficient and upon proper petition, reissue revoked Certificates of Regis-
tration and Special Permits to Practice.

A new Certificate of Registration and Special Permit to Practice may be is-
sued to replace a lost, destroyed or mutilated Certificate or Permit, subject to the
rules and regulations of the Board, and upon payment of the appropriate fees to the
PRC.

ARTICLE IV
PRACTICE OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING

SEC. 30. Vested Rights, Automatic Registration of Chemical Engineers. - All
chemical engineers who are registered at the time this Act takes effect shall auto-
matically be recognized as Professional Chemical Engineers.

SEC. 31. Who May Practice Chemical Engineering. - Except as may be pro-

vided in this Act, only professional chemical engineers may practice chemical engi-
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neering. No firm, partnership, corporation or association may be licensed and regis-
tered as such for the practice of chemical engineering, but duly licensed and regis-
tered chemical engineers may form partnerships among themselves or with other
licensed and registered engineers and architects and use the title “Chemical Engi-
neers,” “Engineers and Architects” in their partnership name.

SEC. 32. Prohibitions in the Practice of Chemical Engineering. - No person
shall practice chemical engineering or render chemical engineering service, without
a valid certificate of registration, a valid professional identification card, or a special
permit to practice.

Any person who shall commit the following acts shall be guilty of misde-
meanor:

(a) Practice chemical engineering or render chemical engineering services,
or pass himself off or advertise himself as a chemical engineer without a valid cer-
tificate of registration and/or a valid professional identification card or when such
has been suspended or revoked;

(b) Attempt to use as his own the certificate or seal of another person or
impersonate any professional chemical engineer;

(c) Attempt to use a revoked or suspended certificate of registration or an
expired professional license;

(a) Sign a document involving design, plan, technical specification and the
like on behalf of a professional chemical engineer; or

(e) Furnish the Board or PRC any false information or document in order
to secure a Certificate of Registration or renewal of Professional Identification Card.

SEC. 33. Roster of Chemical Engineers. - The PRC shall keep a roster of all
professional chemical engineers, chemical process and engineering technologists
and manufacturing process technicians, stating their names, registration numbers,
and places of business. The PRC shall regularly update such roster and make it
available to all interested parties upon formal written request free of charge.

SEC. 34. Submission of Designs and Specifications for Government Approval.
- Any proposal, design, specification, working drawings or plan for processes and
equipment in an industrial plant or any part thereof submitted to any government

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agency, national or local, including government-owned or controlled corporations,
shall not be processed or approved, nor shall such plant be issued any permit, li-
cense, franchise, authorization or certification, unless such proposal, design, specifi-
cation, working drawing or plan is signed by a professional chemical engineer, with
his/her seal and registration number affixed thereto.

SEC. 35. Hazard Allowance, Health and Accident Insurance, and Legal Assis-
tance. - Professional chemical engineers, chemical process and engineering tech-
nologists and manufacturing process technicians who are exposed to workplace and
process hazards as part of their regular responsibilities are entitled to commensu-
rate hazard allowance, medical benefits, and insurance coverage. These should be
indicated as separate items in the compensation package and cannot be incorpo-
rated in the basic salary.

Legal assistance shall be provided by the employer to professional chemical
engineers, chemical process and engineering technologists and manufacturing proc-
ess technicians who face civil or criminal suits arising from work done in good faith.

SEC. 36. National Career Progression and Specialization. - There shall be an
institutionalized national chemical engineering career progression and specializa-
tion program to be formulated by the Board in consultation with the AIPO, Civil
Service Commission, and concerned government agencies: Provided, That any
chemical engineer before being allowed to work in specialty areas to perform beyond
generalist function or have specific specialties, must finish the formal education or
training towards specialization and possess recognized practice competencies.

SEC. 37. Code of Technical Standards. - The existing Code of Technical Stan-
dards for the Practice of Chemical Engineering shall be transformed into the Phil-

ippine Chemical Engineering Standards (PChES) and shall serve as Code of Techni-
cal Standards of all professional chemical engineers in the practice of their profes-
sion. The Board, in collaboration with the AIPO of chemical engineers, the Depart-
ment of Science and Technology, Department of Environment and Natural Re-
sources, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Public Works and
Highways, Department of Agriculture, Department of Interior and Local Govern-
ment, Department of Health, Department of Energy, Department of Labor and Em-
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ployment, and other concerned agencies and private organizations, shall develop
new standards under the PChES.

SEC. 38. Foreign Reciprocity. - No foreign chemical engineer shall be granted
any of the rights or privileges under this Act unless the country of which he is a
subject or citizen grants the same or similar rights or privileges to Filipino chemical
engineers.

SEC. 39. Act Not Affecting Other Professions. - This Act shall not be construed
to affect or prevent the practice of any other lawfully recognized profession.

SEC. 40. Indication of Registration/ Professional License Number and Profes-
sional Tax Receipt Payment. - ‘The professional chemical engineer and chemical
process and engineering technologist shall be required to indicate his Certificate of
Registration, Professional Identification Card number, date of issuance and the du-
ration of validity, including the Professional Tax Receipt (PTR) in the documents he
signs, uses, or issues in connection with the practice of his profession.

SEC. 41, Membership in the Accredited Integrated Professional Organization
(AIPO). - There shall be an integrated national organization of chemical engineers
duly accredited by the Board and the PRC. A chemical engineer duly registered
with the Board and the PRC shall automatically become a member of such organiza-
tion subject to the provisions on membership of the current constitution and by-laws
of the AIPO for chemical engineers. The member shall receive the benefits appurte-

nant thereto upon payment of the required fees and dues.

ARTICLE V
INDUSTRIAL PLANTS CLASSIFICATION AND RELATED ISSUES

SEC. 42. Classification of Industrial Plants. - Industrial plants shall be clas-
sified as follows:

a) — Micro-Scale Industrial Plants are plants operating with less than ten
(10) production personnel with only one shift and not operating any steam boiler;

b) Small-Scale Industrial Plants are plants operating with ten (10), but
not more than fifty (50), production personnel with one or more shifts. They must be

operating a combined capacity of not more than twenty (20) horsepower of all unit
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operations and unit processes, and/or are operating steam boiler/s with a combined
capacity of less than twenty (20) horsepower. Micro-scale industrial plants operat-
ing more than one shift shall be classified as small-scale industrial plants.

©) Medium-Scale Industrial Plants are plants operating with fifty (50),
but not more than two hundred (200), production personnel with one or more shifts.
They must be operating a combined capacity of more than twenty (20) horsepower,
but not more than two hundred (200) horsepower, of all unit operations and unit
processes and/or operating steam boiler/s with a combined capacity of twenty (20) to
two hundred (200) horsepower.

d) Large-Scale Industrial Plants are plants operating with more than two
hundred (200) production personnel with one or more shifts. They must be operat-
ing a combined capacity of more than two hundred (200) horsepower of all unit op-
erations and unit processes and/or operating steam boiler/s with a combined capac-
ity of more than two hundred (200) horsepower.

Despite the foregoing, establishments operating with more than one (1) in-
dustrial plant in different areas shall be classified in accordance with their capacity
or description per industrial plant.

The upgrading or downgrading of the type of industrial plant shall only be
done once a year after the industrial inspection.

SEC. 43. Pollution Control & Abatement and Waste Treatment. - The pollu-
tion control and abatement and waste treatment facilities of any establishment
shall be managed, operated, or supervised by a registered professional chemical en-
gineer. The overall waste management of any establishment shall be under the su-
pervision of a registered professional chemical engineer.

The plan for pollution control and abatement devices and facilities, such as
wastewater treatment facility, air pollution control device and treatment, disposal
for toxic and hazardous, and other related technologies and devices which are part
of building permit requirements, shall be signed by a registered professional chemi-
cal engineer with his or her seal affixed.LGUs shall implement this in addition to

other building permit requirements.

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SEC. 44. Process and Operation Laboratory. - Process and operation laborato-
ries shall be managed, operated, or supervised by a registered professional chemical
engineer.

SEC. 45. Technical Guidelines. - Within thirty (30) days from the approval of
this Act, the Board of Chemical Engineering shall enact technical guidelines to im-
plement any technical details therein effectively.

ARTICLE VI
CERTIFICATE OF PROCESS COMPLIANCE

SEC. 46. Certificate of Process Compliance. - The Board, after inspection,
shall issue a Certificate of Process Compliance, valid for three (3) years, to indus-
trial plants, private and government facilities and institutions engaged in the prac-
tice of Chemical Engineering in the Philippines: Provided, That such practice is car-
ried out only by professional chemical engineers holding valid Certificate of Regis-
tration and Professional Identification Card issued by the Board. In addition, said
industrial plants, private and government facilities and institutions shall be com-
pliant with all related regulatory requirements, Risk Management Plan and the
Philippine Chemical Engineering Standards. The management or administration of
such industrial plants, private and government facilities and institutions, shall be
held liable for violations of this Act.

SEC. 47. Risk Management Plan. — All industrial plants shall establish a
Risk Management Plan focusing on workplace and process safety to prevent expo-
sures and reduce risks and to minimize or eliminate materials and process toxicity.
The plan shall include established operational and process control measures on how
materials are handled, workers are protected, and potential risks are reduced.

SEC. 48. Personnel Required in Industrial Plant, Facility and Institution. - In
the interest of public safety and environmental protection, professional chemical
engineers shall be designated to supervise and address workplace and process
safety requirements in industrial plant operations. Regardless of the size of the in-
dustrial plant, all process equipment and plant design shall be approved by a pro-

fessional chemical engineer.
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All micro, small, medium and large scale industrial plants, facilities and in-
stitutions engaged in manufacturing operations, which include laboratory facilities
such as pilot, in-process, process simulation, research and development, quality as-
surance, and chemical engineering laboratories, shall have at least the following
complement of resident professional chemical engineers:

a) Micro and Small-Scale Industrial Plants shall have one (1) profes-
sional chemical engineer: Provided, That every plant in this category operating in
more than one (1) shift every twenty-four (24) hours shall have, in addition to the
minimum personnel herein required, one (1) professional chemical engineer in-
charge of each and every additional shift.

b) Medium-Scale Industrial Plants shall have four (4) professional chemi-
cal engineers to handle process engineering, operations, quality assurance and envi-
ronmental management: Provided, That every plant in this category operating in
more than one (1) shift every twenty-four (24) hours shall have, in addition to the
minimum personnel herein required, two (2) professional chemical engineers in-
charge of each and every additional shift.

oo Large-Scale Industrial Plants shall have ten (10) professional chemical
engineers to handle unit operations and processes, process engineering, operations,
quality assurance and environmental management: Provided, That every plant in
this category operating in more than one (1) shift every twenty-four (24) hours shall
have, in addition to the minimum personnel herein required, at least five (5) profes-
sional chemical engineers in-charge of each and every additional shift. If deemed
necessary, professional chemical engineers shall be added over and above the mini-
mum requirement as determined by the Board or by the plant management.

a) For academic and research institutions, only professional chemical en-
gineers shall handle professional chemical engineering courses. Research related
chemical engineering processes shall be under the supervision of professional
chemical engineers. Support staff for chemical engineering laboratories shall be at

least a Chemical Engineering Technologist.

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e) For design and consultancy firms, only professional chemical engineers
shall prepare process equipment and plant design specifications for industrial
plants, facilities and institutions.

SEC. 49. Process Compliance: justriail process shall be reviewed, certified,
signed, and sealed by a Professional Chemical Engineer.

SEC. 50. Suspension or Revocation of Certificate of Process Compliance. -
Certificates of Compliance may be suspended or revoked for non-compliance with
the provisions of this Act.

SEC. 51. Reissuance of Revoked Certificate of Process Compliance and Re-
placement of Lost Certificates. - The Board may, for reasons it may deem sufficient
and upon proper petition, reissue a revoked Certificate of Process Compliance.

A new Certificate of Process Compliance may be issued to replace a lost, de-
stroyed or mutilated Certificate subject to the rules and regulations of the Board
and upon payment of the appropriate fees to the PRC.

ARTICLE VIL
INDUSTRIAL INSPECTION AND WORTHINESS.

SEC. 52. Industrial Inspection. - There shall be mandatory annual industrial
inspections in all industrial plants in the Philippines. The inspections shall cover,
but shall not limited to, the following:

a) Unit Operations;

b) Unit Processes;

©) Plant Layout;

d) Equipment Design and Operation;

e) Steam Boiler/s and its Capacity;

f) Instrumentation and Process Control;

g) Pollution Control & Abatement;

h) Waste Treatment & Management;

i) Quality Assurance & Management;

ji) Process and Operation Laboratory;

k) Industrial Safety;

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}) Risk Management;

m) Calibration of Methods, Procedure, Substances, Person, Materials,
Equipment and Measuring Devices;

n) Manpower Requirements for Chemical Engineers and other related
Production Personnel;

0) Environmental Protection; and

p) Other Related Issues.

The industrial inspection shall be conducted periodically (more than once a
year) if:

a) There are hazardous and toxic substances or materials involved in the
operation;

b) Personnel in the plant are engaged in hazardous work or services; and

°) Waste streams of the operations shall threaten the health and safety of
the personnel.

The certifying registered professional chemical engineer shall be required to
sign a non-disclosure agreement and shall respect intellectual property rights re-
lated to the inspection.

SEC. 53. Industrial Worthiness — After an annual industrial inspection and
with favorable technical findings, the Certifying Registered Professional Chemical
Engineer shall issue a Certificate of Industrial Worthiness to the concerned indus-
trial plant/s, affixing his or her signature and seal. If the establishment is engaging
two or more industrial plants in different areas, a separate certificate shall be is-
sued for each industrial plant.

A chemical engineer employed or engaged by the establishment shall not be
allowed to inspect and certify the same establishment.

No establishment shall be issued a business permit by the LGU concerned
without the Certificate of Industrial Worthiness.

SEC. 54. Application Fee. — An establishment, which is starting to engage in
industrial plant operation, shall pay an application fee to the appropriate LGU as
follows:

a) Micro-Scale Industrial Plant: Php 5,000

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b) Small-Scale Industrial Plant: Php 10,000

©) Medium-Scale Industrial Plant: Php 30,000

4) — Large-Scale Industrial Plant: Php 50,000

‘The LGU's Engineering Office shall only issue a permit to operate an indus-
trial plant after the issuance of the Certificate on Industrial Worthiness.

‘The application fee shall be adjusted every three years by the LGU based on
price index adjustments.

SEC. 55. Professional Fee of Certifying Registered Professional Chemical En-
gineer. - A minimum professional fee shall be paid by the establishment to the certi-
fying registered professional chemical engineer after industrial inspection on a per
industrial plant basis:

a) Micro-Scale Industrial Plant: Php 2,000

b) Small-Scale Industrial Plant: Php 3,000

©)  Medium-Scale Industrial Plant: Php 5,000

4) Large-Scale Industrial Plant: Php 10,000

The professional fee shall be adjusted every three years by the LGU based on
price index adjustments.

SEC. 56. Industrial Worthiness Review. - Within fifteen (15) days after indus-
trial inspection and issuance of unfavorable technical findings, any establishment
may submit a request to the LGU's Engineering Office for industrial worthiness re-
view. Within five (6) days after the receipt of the review request, the Engineering
Office shall convene the LGU Industrial Review Panel.

A review fee, prescribed by the Engineering Office, shall be paid by the estab-
lishment to the LGU. The total review fees collected shall be utilized for the hono-
raria of the Review Panel Chairperson and members.

SEC. 57. LGU Industrial Review Panel. - The LGU Industrial Review Panel
shall be composed of three (3) registered professional chemical engineers who are
selected by lottery from the list of all certifying registered professional chemical en-
gineers. The most senior shall be the Chairperson of the Panel. The Panel shall
conduct industrial re-inspection and documentary review within ten (10) days from
its formation and may issue a Certificate of Industrial Worthiness after its favor-

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able technical review findings. A new Review Panel shall be constituted each time
there is a request for industrial worthiness review.

SEC. 58, Administrative Appeal - The technical review findings of the LGU
Industrial Review Panel may be appealed to the Board of Chemical Engineering
within fifteen (15) days after notice by the concerned party of the unfavorable tech-
nical review findings. The Board shall conduct industrial re-inspection and docu-
mentary review and may issue a Certificate of Industrial Worthiness after its favor-
able technical review findings. The findings of the Board shall be final.

ARTICLE VIII
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING EDUCATION AND CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT
SEC. 59. Curriculum Development and Updating. - The CHED, in consulta-

tion with the Board and the industry stakeholders, shall develop and continuously
update the Chemical Engineering Curriculum in accordance with the required com-
petencies on the practice of the profession prescribed under this Act, in order to
align with international standards of chemical engineering education and practice,
and to be responsive to the industry requirements.

SEC. 60. Continuing Professional Development (CPD). — Continuing Profes-
sional Development is an integral part in the practice of the chemical engineering
profession and is considered relevant to sustained competency enhancement, capac-
ity building and renewal of professional license. A CPD Program shall be prescribed
and promulgated by the Board in consultation with the AIPO of Chemical Engi-
neers, concerned government agencies, and stakeholders. The Board shall prescribe
the guidelines in the implementation of the CPD programs for chemical engineers.
It shall maintain the CPD Council which shall be composed of a Chairperson com-
ing from the Board, a member from the AIPO of chemical engineers and a member
from the academe. The CPD for professional chemical engineers is hereby made
mandatory for the practice of the profession. The CPD credit units earned by the
professional shall be required in the renewal of professional license and accredita-

tion systems for advance level of practice and other international accreditations.

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‘The CPD credit units earned by a chemical engineer shall likewise be applied
as the training requirement for promotion of positions in government agencies and
private firms and for teaching positions in academic institutions, and shall be ac-
cumulated subject credit transfer under the Pathways and Equivalencies of the

Philippine Qualification Framework.

ARTICLE IX
TRANSITORY PROVISIONS

SEC. 61. Vested Rights. - All chemical engineers who are registered under
Republic Act 9297 at the time of the effectivity of this Act shall automatically be
considered Professional Chemical Engineers and shall hold the same registration
number. The validity and period of their existing professional license shall continue
in force until its date of expiry.

All persons occupying positions of Chemical Process and Engineering Tech-
nologists and Manufacturing Process Technicians for a minimum of three (3) years,
at the time of effectivity of this Act, shall be automatically qualified for registration.

SEC. 62. Securing Certificate of Process Compliance. - There shall be a five (5)
year grace period for industrial plants, facilities and institutions to apply and se-

cure Certificates of Process Compliance.

ARTICLE X
GENERAL PROVISIONS

SEC. 63. Code of Ethics. - The Board shall adopt a Code of Ethics which shall
be promulgated by the AIPO.

SEC. 64. Penal Clause. - (a) Any person who shall violate any of the provi-
sions of this Act shall be guilty of misdemeanor and shall, upon conviction, be sen-
tenced to a fine of not less than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) nor
more than One million pesos (P1,000,000.00), or imprisonment for a period of not
less than six (6) months but not more than five (5) years, or both at the discretion of
the court. This shall include any person who:

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1) Practices chemical engineering or renders chemical engineering ser-
vices, or passes himself/herself off or advertises himself/herself as a chemical engi-
neer without a valid certificate of registration and/or valid professional identifica-
tion card or when such has been suspended or revoked;

2) Attempts to use as his/her own, the certificate or seal of another per-
son, or impersonates any professional chemical engineer;

3) Attempts to use a revoked or suspended certificate of registration or an
expired professional license;

4) Signs a document involving design, plan, technical specification and
the like on behalf of a professional chemical engineer; or

5) Furnishes the Board or Commission any false information or document
in order to secure a Certificate of Registration or renewal of Professional Identifica-
tion Card.

(b) The responsible officer, employee or director of any industrial plant, fa-
cility or institution who shall violate any of the provisions of this Act shall be guilty
of misdemeanor and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to a fine of not less than
‘Three hundred thousand pesos (P300,000.00) but not more than Three million pesos
(P3,000,000.00) or imprisonment for a period of not less than six (6) months but not
more than one (1) year, or both at the discretion of the court.

SEC. 66. Enforcement Assistance to the Board. - The Board shall be assisted
by the PRC in carrying out the provisions of this Act and its implementing rules
and regulations and other policies. The lawyers of the PRC shall act as prosecutors
against illegal practitioners and other violators of this Act and its rules. The duly
constituted authorities of the government shall likewise assist the Board and the
PRC in enforcing the provisions of this Act and its rules.

SEC. 67. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - Subject to the approval of
the PRC, the Board shall adopt and promulgate such rules and regulations includ-
ing Code of Ethics for Chemical Engineers and Philippine Chemical Engineering
Standards for the Practice of Chemical Engineering to carry out the provisions of
this Act, which shall be effective after sixty (60) days following their publication in
the Official Gazette or in a major newspaper of general circulation.

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SEC. 68. Separability Clause. - If any section of this Act shall be declared un-
constitutional or invalid, such shall not invalidate any other section of this Act.

SEC. 69. Repealing Clause. - Republic Act No. 9297 is hereby repealed and all
other laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations, ordinances, and other issuances
or parts thereof which are inconsistent with this Act are hereby superseded, re-
pealed or amended accordingly.

SEC. 70. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days following its
publication in the Official Gazette or in any major newspaper of general circulation.

Approved,

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