Press Release
May 30, 2009

AMENDMENTS IN RP'S CHEMISTRY LAW NEEDED, SAYS ANGARA
Chemistry Law outdated; almost 6 decades old

Senator Edgardo J. Angara today pushes for amendments in the country's Chemistry law in order to strengthen the profession and underscore its role in national development.

"Chemistry is an integral component of S&T, and sadly, the Philippines has been slow in adapting to changes which are brought about by the rise of international standards and global competition. Recent developments and innovations in the field have underscored the urgency of repealing the decades-old Chemistry Law," said Angara who chairs the Congressional Commission on Science, Technology, and Engineering (COMSTE).

He added, "It is now imperative for the country to enact a responsive policy instrument that is responsive to the demands of the profession and global competitiveness trends."

Angara, who recently filed the amendments to the country's Chemistry law, seeks to emphasize the role of chemistry in national development by promoting and protecting the interests of chemistry profession. It also aims to elevate the standards of the profession by strengthening the promotion, regulation and measures for continued development in the field.

Republic Act No. 754 also known as the Chemistry Law was enacted almost six decades ago - June 18, 1952. The senator told that it is now outdated and fails to respond to the demands of global trends. The proposed Chemistry Law will boost the country's aspirations towards global competitiveness.

"Building a strong Science & Technology foundation is necessary for the country to push forward and become competitive on the global stage," said Angara. However, he lamented that Science and Technology is not given utmost attention in relation to its role in the progress of our country.

COMSTE is expected to introduce or amend legislation that will make the Philippines more globally competitive, particularly in Science and Technology.

It is composed of six (6) expert panels from different sectors in Science and Technology namely Gregory Tangonan, PhD (semicon/electronics), Joaquin Quintos (ICT/ICT services), William Padolina, PhD (food and agriculture), Reynaldo Vea, PhD (basic science, math and engineering education), Ramon Arcadio, MD (health), and Francisco Viray, PhD (energy and environment).

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