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The 60,000-strong Philippine
Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) has vowed to work hand-in-hand
with the government in the construction of 3.5 million housing
units up to 2010.
The pledge was made by Primitivo C. Cal, the new PICE president,
during the induction ceremonies held at the Grand Ballroom
of the Celebrity Sports Plaza in Capitol Hills Drive, Diliman,
Quezon City last week.
Cal, former undersecretary of the Department of Transportation
and Communications (DOTC) during the Ramos administration,
was inducted to office by Commissioner Avelina A. De La Rea
of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).
A lawyer-engineer and a holder of doctor of philosophy, Cal
stressed the urgent need for all sectors of society working
together to push the country’s socio-economic development
program at a time when global economic competition is keen.
Starting in his own backyard, Cal said that he will hold a
series of dialogues and consultations with PICE administrative
officer Nanette Villanueva in initiating cost-effective programs
aimed at generating more jobs in the countryside.
As PICE president he will see to it that particular attention
will be given to information sharing on the use of modern
technology.
The involvement of all sectors of the institute – the board,
college of fellows, specialty division, chapters and others
– in planning and plan implementation will be encouraged,”
Cal said at his inaugural speech.
At present, Cal said, the housing backlog of the country is
around one million. ”
In fact, the housing need to year 2010 is estimated at 3.7
million,” Cal said, adding that “the institute ought to play
a significant role in the socio-economic development of the
country.
The PICE will also be involved in the construction of houses
for the “Gawad Kalinga,” a housing project of the Couples
for Christ (CFC), he said.
Cal said the PICE which is ready to respond to the challenges
to move the country forward.
Other PICE officers who were inducted to office were Juanito
P. Abergas, first vice-president; Benito M. Pacheco, second
vice-president; Ruben A. Sy, secretary; Venancio I. Besavilla
Jr., treasurer; Ramon P. Aquino, business manager; Ronaldo
S. Ison, press relations officer; Anesia R. Torquator, auditorf;
and Antonio A. Avila, Antonio R. Caluza, Bonifacio I. Dela
Pena, Fidel D. Ginez, Robert G. Lala, Eduardo A. Ramirez and
Reynaldo C. Valerio, directors.
Mocamad M. Raki-in Sr., PICE immediate president, is ex-officio
director.
Source: Philippine News Agency (February 8, 2005)
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