KNESA N. RAVIZ, RCh, LPT, Chairperson of the SHS Physical Science Department and Laboratory Supervisor at Ateneo de Zamboanga University, recently attended the 38th Philippine Chemistry Congress (38PCC) and 2024 International Conference on Chemistry (2024 IC2) held from July 22 to 24, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City. The annual event, organized by the Kapisanang Kimika ng Pilipinas (KKP) in collaboration with the Integrated Chemists of the Philippines (ICP) and the Philippine Federation of Chemistry Societies (PFCS), is the largest gathering of chemists, educators, and chemistry researchers in the Philippines.
The congress, themed “CHEMINNOVATION: Sustaining a Better Tomorrow – New Ideas, New Developments, New Technologies,” aimed to foster collaboration among scientists and researchers, focusing on the application of chemistry across various fields. It featured technical exhibitions showcasing innovative products designed to enhance productivity and performance in the field of chemistry.
Event highlights included networking opportunities, exhibitions, and research presentations. The congress provided a platform for attendees from academia, industry, and government to interact, share knowledge, and collaborate on research initiatives. Technical exhibitors presented new technologies and products that can improve research and industrial practices. Selected participants presented their research through oral and poster presentations, promoting active involvement in research and innovation.
Ms. Raviz attended two education-related sessions during the conference. First is the CHED-KKP Workshop: Electrochemistry Experimentation at the Microscale Level by Mexican Professor Emeritus Jorge Ibañez of the Universidad Iberoamericana, Mexico. The workshop provided seven micro experiments on electrochemical cells and environmental electro-remediation using readily available materials and small amounts of chemical solutions, making it more economical and practical.
Second is the Environmental Chemistry Workshop: Integrating Environmental and Citizen Science in Chemistry Education by Dr. Eric Punzalan of de La Salle University, founder of the Philippine National Chemistry Olympiad, and Dr. Aldrin Bonto of de La Salle University. The workshop discussed how citizen science projects can engage volunteers in collecting data, conducting experiments, and monitoring environmental conditions, empowering ordinary citizens to contribute to scientific research while promoting environmental awareness.
The 38PCC and 2024IC2 provided an excellent opportunity for Ms. Raviz to network with fellow chemists, educators, and researchers, as well as to learn about the latest developments and best practices in chemistry education and research.