PRC to hold mechanical engrs' board exam as often as needed

The increasing demand for professional mechanical engineering skills in Cebu has pushed the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), through the Board of Mechanical Engineers (BME), to conduct an examination for as often as the demand arises.

PRC has appointed BME chairman Alfredo Y. Po to conduct the Professional Mechanical Engineers Exam to be held in Cebu and other selected key cities in the country.

According to Po, the provincial examination is now the answer to the growing clamor from local government units and the Provincial Professional Mechanical Engineers' sector to have the examination outside Metro Manila.

Po said there are now a growing number of companies that are demanding for PMEs to man its manufacturing plants, or company operations, especially those that have machinery and other technical equipment.

The Professional Mechanical Engineers Exam is in compliance of the provision of the Republic Act 8981 and Republic Act 8495, otherwise known as the "Mechanical Engineering Law."

The PRC Modernization Act, RA 8981 mandates the PRC to promote and sustain the development of a pool of professionals and conduct activities towards faster professional growth and professional enhancement.

Po said under his leadership in the Board, he is committed to extend the Provincial Examination and is urging companies to allow their mechanical engineers to avail of this opportunity.

The provincial examination is extended to ensure the Mechanical Engineers' competency and to meet the ever increasing demands for global professional competitiveness.

According to Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers (PSME) business manager Antonio P. Tompar, the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and the Mactan Export Processing Zone Chamber of Exporters and Manufacturers (Mepzcem) have signified to comply the provision of RA 8495.

Tompar said in the series of ISO certifications companies are required to have PMEs, to man a manufacturing plant, or any mechanically-run operations.

There are three types of professional examinations for Mechanical Engineers, these are for; Certified Plant Mechanic; Registered Mechanical Engineer and Professional Mechanical Engineer.