The Pollution Control Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PCAPI) recently held its highly successful 44th National Annual Convention & General Assembly in the beautiful island of Boracay last April 17-19, 2024. This event brought together environmental professionals and industry leaders to discuss and address important issues related to pollution control in the country. The 3-day convention was filled with a blast, new learnings and more. Let us take a look at some of the key moments and highlights of this vibrant convention.

The event kicked off with an energetic start as drumbeaters set the positive and lively atmosphere. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by PCAPI President Engr. Shirlyn Chua-Reyes, Convention Chairperson Ms. Luzviminda Angeles, and other notable figures, marked the official commencement of the convention.

A colorful parade featuring representatives from Regional Partners, Guests, and Advisers, Trustees and Officers accompanied by cadets from the Air Force of the Philippines, added a festive touch to the convention. The singing of the doxology and the Philippine National Anthem by Ms. Krisha M. Labindao, teacher from Yapak Elementary School, further elevated the patriotic spirit of the event. A unique moment was witnessed when the PCAPI Board of Trustees and Advisers joined in singing the PCAPI Hymn on stage, led by Ms. Krisha M. Labindao and Adviser Engr. Benjamin Gregorio.

The convention received warm welcomes from the City Mayor of Aklan, Hon. Floribar Bautista, PCAPI President Engr. Shirlyn Chua-Reyes, and Convention Chairperson Ms. Luzviminda Angeles. Additionally, virtual messages from EMB Central Office Director ASEC Engr. Gilbert Gonzales and EMB Western Visayas Regional Director Atty. Ramar Niel Pascua highlighted their support for the event and its goals.

For. Aren Rubin, Chief of Licensing Unit, represented DENR Regional Executive Director For. Livino Duran and delivered an impactful keynote message. The convention also featured a lively intermission number by the Ati-Atihan dancers, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.

2024 PCAPI Sustainability Awards

It was then recalled that during the 43rd National Annual Convention and General Assembly at Sheraton Manila Hotel, the PCAPI Sustainability Award was re-launched after the 4-year hiatus because of the pandemic.

The PCAPI started the search in December 2023 for The Outstanding Pollution Control Officer (TOPCO), Environmental Sustainability Success Story, Mother Nature, and the Outstanding Chapter award categories. With immense excitement, the PCAPI Awards Committee received an abundance of applications for the three categories.

Congratulations to all who participated in this year’s Sustainability Awards! You are all indeed an Eco-Champion!

We acknowledge and recognize everyone who participated in this year’s search for Sustainability Awards. Their innovative ideas and efforts play a crucial role in our collective goals to protect and preserve our environment.

The winners for the TOPCO category are: Ms. Jielaine del Rosario (Pilmico Foods Corporation), Ms. Jonah Marie Cabancla (Philippine Manufacturing Co. of Murata, Inc.), Mr. Joseph Vizcayno (San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Corporation-San Fernando Beverage Packaging Plant), Mr. Ariel P. Autida (DOLE Philippines, Inc.), Ms. Mariane K. Asi (Universal Robina Corporation – Hello Snacks Food), Mr. Abram B. Giron (San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Corporation – SMY Glass Plant) and Ms. Janice M. Tupaz (Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation).

For the Success Story Awards Category, “Coco-Network Life” of Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation and “Coffee Spent Grounds Boiler Feed Optimization” of Universal Robina Corporation – San Pedro 1 Plant placed 2nd Runner-Up. “Commitment to Net-Zero by 2050” of First Philippine Industrial Park, Inc. placed 1st Runner-Up and the “Crown-Binning System Project” of San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Corporation – Metal Closure & Lithography Plant – Cebu got the Environmental Sustainability Success Story Award.

Their best practices present and prove that everything that we do to support sustainability can make an impact too on our businesses. Not only does it help in the conservation but also in the preservation of the resources that we use, and our future generations may enjoy too.

In the Mother Nature Awards category, congratulations to Philippine Manufacturing Co. of Murata, Inc. for being the 2nd Runner-Up, Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation for being the 1st Runner-Up, and DOLE Philippines, Inc. for being the Mother Nature Awardee. In recognition of their exemplary leadership, an Outstanding Managing Head award was given to Mr. Reynaldo Doria.

Congratulations to all the winners in the Success Story and Mother Nature Awards categories! The remarkable achievements of Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation, Universal Robina Corporation – San Pedro 1 Plant, First Philippine Industrial Park, Inc., and San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Corporation – Metal Closure & Lithography Plant – Cebu demonstrate that sustainability efforts can have a positive impact on businesses. Their best practices not only contribute to the conservation and preservation of resources, but also ensure a better future for generations to come. These achievements are a testament to the commitment of these organizations in addressing environmental sustainability and making a difference in their respective industries.

April 17 Technical Sessions

During the first day of the convention, two technical sessions were held, focusing on Environmental Policy Updates. We were privileged to have esteemed speakers from the Environmental Management Bureau, Engr. Jundy T. del Socorro, the Section Chief of Air Quality Management Section, and Engr. Geri-Geronimo R. Sañez, who was recently the Section Chief of Hazardous Waste Management Section and now the new Division Chief of Environmental Quality Management Division (EQMD).

These sessions provided valuable insights and updates on the latest environmental policies and regulations. The expertise and knowledge shared by Engr. del Socorro and Engr. Sañez undoubtedly enriched the convention’s attendees and contributed to their understanding of current environmental management practices.

We are grateful to have had such distinguished speakers and look forward to more enlightening sessions throughout the rest of the convention.

April 18 Technical Sessions

It sounds like the second day of the convention was filled with insightful technical sessions on a diverse range of topics.

For Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, we had the privilege of hearing from Dr. Neil Aldrin Mallari, President and Chief Scientist for Center for Conservation Innovations PH, Inc., and Mr. Albert A. Magalang, Chief of Environmental Management Specialist (DENR-CCS).

The Responsible Consumption and Production topics were presented by Mr. Ramon Abadilla, Executive Director of CropLife Philippines, and Mr. Darryl Uy, Manager for Regulatory & Scientific Affairs (RSA) and Topic Lead for Packaging & Sustainability of Nestle Philippines, Inc.

Sustainable Water and Wastewater Management was tackled by Ms. Maria Fiorella Fabella, a World Bank Senior Water Supply and Sanitation Specialist, and Mr. Adrian Bryan Magallanes, the General Manager of Boracay Island Water Company.

Lastly, the Sound Management of Chemicals topics were covered by Mr. Gianluca Magrini, the Director of R&D Department of Newster, Zenith Medical Equipments, Inc. (ZEMED), and Engr. Edwin Romel Navaluna, Section Chief of Chemicals Management Section (DENR-EMB).

These presentations undoubtedly provided valuable insights and expertise on critical environmental and sustainability topics. The wealth of knowledge shared by these experts undoubtedly enriched the convention’s discussions and will contribute to advancing environmental goals and practices.

April 18 Socials Night

The Socials Night of this year’s convention was nothing short of amazing! It was a night to remember, thanks to our generous Socials Night partners, Nickel Asia Corporation and Tanduay Distillers, Inc., who provided us with an evening full of fun, entertainment, and drinks.

The beach party vibes were in full swing as everyone embraced the theme and dressed in all-white attire. It was a fantastic sight to see everyone coming together, immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere, and enjoying the company of new friends and former colleagues.

The night was elevated to another level by the mesmerizing performances of the Fire and LED Dancers, adding a touch of artistry and excitement to the event. And, of course, the highlight of the evening was the spectacular performance by the guest artist, the talented Ms. Kakai Bautista, along with Axis_PH.

It’s nights like these that create lasting memories and foster a sense of camaraderie and joy among the convention attendees. We owe a huge thanks to our partners and performers for making the Socials Night truly remarkable.

April 19 Technical Sessions

The technical sessions on the third day of the convention focused on crucial topics related to Affordable Clean Energy: Alternatives and Solutions, as well as Green Technologies and Circularity.

For the Affordable Clean Energy sessions, we had the privilege of hearing insights from Ms. Frances Ariola, Head of Corporate Communications at Energy Development Corporation, and Atty. Angelo Q. Valencia, an Independent Director at Nickel Asia Corporation.

In the Green Technologies and Circularity sessions, Engr. Niñaliza H. Escorial, Deputy Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), shared her expertise, along with Mr. Vicente M. de Lima II, Assistant Vice President of the Strategic and Business Planning Department at First Balfour.

These sessions provided valuable information and solutions to address key issues in renewable energy, sustainable technologies, and circular economy practices. The wealth of knowledge and experience shared by these esteemed speakers undoubtedly enriched the convention and contributed to advancing discussions on sustainable energy and environmental practices.

To wrap-up with gratitude and inspiration, Engr. Gretchen Fontejon-Enarle, the VP-Internal Affairs of the association delivered the key points and summary of the Technical Sessions discussed and the significant highlights of the convention. Engr. Enarle’s message truly inspired everyone to continue making a difference for the community and the environment.

Plant Tour: Balabag STP, Boracay

It’s wonderful to hear that the association had the opportunity to conduct a plant tour at one of the Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) in Boracay. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Boracay Balabag STP for graciously accommodating the group during the plant tour. Special appreciation goes out to Ms. Irene Velado and her team for providing a knowledgeable and informative briefing and serving as excellent guides for the participants during the plant tour.

Plant tours like these provide valuable insights into environmental practices and waste management solutions, showcasing innovative approaches to sustainability and conservation. The dedication and expertise demonstrated by the Boracay Balabag STP team have undoubtedly enriched the experience for the participants and deepened their understanding of sewage treatment processes.

We are grateful for the opportunity to visit the Boracay Balabag STP and learn from their practices. Such initiatives foster learning and awareness about environmental conservation efforts, and we look forward to more opportunities like these to further educate and inspire others to contribute to a sustainable future.

Community Social Responsibility

It’s truly heartwarming to hear that the association prioritizes reaching out to schools and communities in need of support. On the last day of the convention, the team, led by President Engr. Shirlyn Chua-Reyes and Convention Chairperson Ms. Luzviminda Angeles, made a generous donation of stand fans and an air conditioner unit to Yapak Elementary School. This donation will undoubtedly help alleviate the discomfort caused by the scorching heat.

Such acts of kindness and support are crucial in fostering a sense of community and making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. The association’s commitment to giving back is commendable and reflects the dedication towards creating a better and more comfortable environment for everyone.

The donation to Yapak Elementary School is an example of how small gestures can make a big difference in the lives of individuals and communities. It is an honor for the association to be able to extend their support in this manner, and it serves as an inspiration for others to contribute to their communities in any way possible.

Thank you Sponsors and Exhibitors!!

The success of the convention would not be possible without the unwavering support of all our sponsors and exhibitors. We extend our deepest appreciation and sincere gratitude to all our sponsors who have continuously shown their support with passion and generosity each year. Your unwavering trust and support have played a crucial role in the success of this year’s convention.

We also extend our warmest appreciation to all our exhibitors who have participated in this year’s event. Your time, effort, and participation have made a significant contribution in making the exhibit engaging and informative, highlighting your technological innovations, ideas, and sustainable practices. Your exhibits have provided an excellent platform to showcase your latest products and services, and we are proud to have you as an integral part of this year’s convention.

We look forward to having you join us again in the future annual conventions of the association and look forward to continuing our partnership in promoting sustainability and environmental protection in the years to come. Thank you once again for your unwavering support.

Conclusion:

The 44th National Annual Convention & General Assembly of PCAPI in Boracay was a resounding success, characterized by its vibrancy, collaboration, and celebration. The event brought together professionals and leaders committed to pollution control, sparking vital discussions and inspiring positive change. Stay tuned for future updates and engagements as PCAPI continues its mission to protect and preserve the environment.