Local steel needs testing — former senator

MANILA, Philippines — Former senator Nikki Coseteng and an engineering expert are urging the administration to look into the risks of using locally-manufactured steel.

Coseteng in a press briefing in Quezon City last week said the government should be wary about the use of quench-tempered (QT) steel bars in the construction of high-rise and sensitive buildings, citing the dangers involved.

She noted that with the administration’s infrastructure drive under the “Build, Build, Build” program, the government should check the use of QT steel bars. 

Structural engineer Emilio Morales, former chairman of the Association of Structural Engineers of the Philippines, said QT bars would “fail prematurely” in the case of cyclic loading, such as earthquakes, compared to micro alloyed steel. 

“I am hoping that something can be done. Maybe the only one who can do anything about it is the President,” said Coseteng, adding that steel bar companies need to answer questions.

While QT steel bars have passed the test of the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), Coseteng and Morales said the test is not comprehensive.

According to them, the steel bars need to be tested if these are strong enough when galvanized, bended and welded. 

Rodel Taton, president of the Consumer Union of the Philippines, urged the BPS to set proper standards in the steel industry as it affects Filipinos. 

Coseteng said there seems to be “heavy pressure” from the local industry on the BPS.