NEWS
COMMITMENT TO SCIENCE:
PUP PRODUCES LOCALLY-MADE ALCOHOL
Words: Anne Bernadine Pasajol
Photos: PUP Official Facebook Page
In response to the rapid spread of the COVID-19 and shortage of disinfectant supplies in the country, PUP Institute for Science and Technology Research (ISTR) developed its formulation of ethyl alcohol, with compliance with the standards set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
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The science team, which is headed by ISTR’s Director, Dr. Armin S. Coronado, and Licensed Chemist, Christian Jay B. Cambiador, took the initiative to provide for the rising need for alcohol procurement with the initial intent of supplying for the PUP community.
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With the help of volunteer faculties and alumni, namely Alvin N. Caril, Analette M. Guinto, Vimar Romero, Ryan Labana, Gary Antonio Lirio, John Erasmos Talosig, Andrea Marie Castillo, and Hannah Eunice Mendez, the formulation was completed within a week of trials.
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According to Dr. Coronado, the team was able to generate 55 liters of
alcohol per batch through improvising and maximizing equipment
from preceding projects.
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The PUP Economics Alumni Association, Inc (EAAI) and PUP Pylon
Network also initiated a donation drive that increased production
and extended distribution to hospitals, nearby police stations, and
barangays.
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Some of the recipients include barangays 629, 630, 631, 634, 591, 592,
579; University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Hospital,
Tondo Medical Center, Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center, Santa
Ana Hospital, Ospital ng Maynila, and San Lazaro Hospital.
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The PUP-ISTR was also granted 4.9 million fund assistance by the
Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for the alcohol production.
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The fund covers 3-month worth of supply for the whole PUP
Community – including all branches and campuses, several public hospitals, police stations, and barangays. Although it is still in process, they are targeting to start in January 2021 as raw materials are also unavailable.