Bong Go files bill in support of Mechanical Engineering profession in PH

Bong Go files bill in support of Mechanical Engineering profession in PH

SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go has introduced a bill to amend critical sections of the Philippine Mechanical Engineering Act of 1998. The proposed legislation, spotlighting the need for modernization within the profession, seeks to enhance mechanical engineers’ standards and operational capacities nationwide.

Proposed to Go by mechanical engineers when he joined the Pambansang Samahan ng Inhenyero Mekanikal Inc. (PSIM) Convention late last year, Senate Bill No. 2537 seeks to amend Sections 33 and 34 of Republic Act No. 8495, known as “The Philippine Mechanical Engineering Act of 1998”.

The revisions proposed by Go are designed to align the profession with the latest advancements in science and technology, recognizing the critical role mechanical engineers play in the country’s continued development and technological innovation.

Under the bill, supervising licensed professional mechanical engineers would be permitted to oversee multiple establishments under a non-critical classification, ensuring the execution of projects with a heightened level of precision and safety.

Go stated, “As we navigate through an era of rapid scientific and technological progress, it is imperative that we ensure our mechanical engineering professionals are equipped with the necessary tools and regulations to lead the way.”

“This bill represents a step forward in recognizing and enhancing their invaluable contribution to our nation’s growth and safety,” he added.

As the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, Go also recognized the significance of integrating mechanical engineering innovations not only in infrastructure but also in healthcare to enhance national resilience against future health crises.

Furthermore, Go said that the pandemic has underscored the crucial role of mechanical engineers, especially in healthcare. He noted that their expertise in developing and maintaining essential equipment, like ventilation machines, has been invaluable in the fight against COVID-19.

“Ang mga mechanical engineers ay mahalagang bahagi ng ating lipunan. Kayo po ang nagpapatakbo ng mga makina, kagamitan, at imprastraktura na siyang bumubuhay sa ating ekonomiya. Kayo po ang nagbibigay ng solusyon sa mga hamon sa enerhiya, transportasyon, kalusugan, at iba pa. Kayo po ang nagpapalago ng ating inobasyon at teknolohiya na siyang nagpapaunlad sa ating kaalaman at kakayahan,” he said.

The bill specifies increased operational capacities for mechanical works, projects, and plants, raising the required levels of licensed oversight thresholds if enacted into law. It also outlines the qualifications for mechanical engineers and certified plant mechanics, depending on the mechanical equipment capacity they operate or maintain.

Moreover, the proposed legislation mandates that the board, in consultation with industry stakeholders, reviews and possibly amends the categories and classification of establishments every three years, ensuring the profession remains at the forefront of technological and industrial advancements.

To end, Go emphasized the importance of collaboration with industry stakeholders.

“By working hand in hand with those at the heart of the mechanical engineering sector, we can craft a regulatory environment that not only meets current industry standards but also anticipates future challenges and opportunities,” concluded Go.

Recognizing the integral role of the engineering profession in ensuring the resilience and integrity of the country’s infrastructure, Go has also proposed other significant legislative measures.

Among them is SBN 1181, or the proposed New Philippine Building Act. The measure seeks to provide a more effective regulation of planning, design, construction, occupancy, and maintenance of all public and private buildings and structures. It also promotes building resilience against natural and man-made calamities.

 

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