GENERAL SANTOS CITY—Iron, steel and construction industry stakeholders in Region 12 will gather here this week to discuss various consumer policies and vital trends affecting construction quality and safety.
Lawyer Raul Josefino Miguel, president of the General Santos City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (GSCCCII); said around 400 industry players are expected to join the two-day regional conference, which is dubbed Industry Product Standards Conformance Conference and Trade Exhibit (IPSC Confex).
He said the event, which is slated from October 14 to 16 at the SM City mall here, is among the highlights of the city’s observance of the National Consumers Month.
GSCCCII and the Philippine Association of Black Iron and Galvanized Iron (Bigi) Pipes and Tubes Manufacturers, Inc. serve as copresenters of the conference, which is supported by the Department of Trade and Industry in Region 12.
In a news statement, the chamber said the expected participants are iron and steel industry, and construction industry owners; managers of mining and steel companies; iron and steel manufacturers, fabricators, importers and exporters; construction firm owners; hardware store owners; construction materials suppliers, importers, and contractors; officials and representatives of government agencies in Region 12; and representatives from local government units.
Organizers said they have also invited representatives from academic institutions and engineering students.
The group said the IPSC Confex mainly aims to educate the public on product standards and the ill effects of nonconformance through usage of uncertified and substandard materials.
It will push for a reduction in the usage and patronage of substandard products and increase in proactive movements against manufacturing and smuggling of substandard materials.
“It seeks to foster an effective dialogue for the establishment of a public-private partnership against the proliferation of substandard materials,” it said.
Facing the challenge brought about by the proliferation of substandard construction materials, GSCCCII said the IPSC Confex will seek to enhance the knowledge of participants on the status and latest developments in the local and national iron and steel industry.
“It will be a forum for thorough discussion[s] of issues and concerns affecting the industry. From these discussions, a set of recommended measures and programs will be formulated,” the statement said.
Organizers said the conference will also serve as venue for improved networking, alliances, and business partnerships among local and national players.