The Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (PIChE) Cebu Chapter has denounced news reports that described a suspect in the manufacture of alleged party drugs to be a "chemical engineer."
In an official statement, PIChE Cebu Chapter said that while it commends the Philippine National Police (PNP) 7 and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 7 for their swift and effective operation that led to the dismanting of an illegal drug laboratory in Cebu City, it denounced what it describes to be "misinformation."
"We recognize and support their continued efforts in protecting the public from dangerous and illicit activities. However, we strongly denounce the misinformation circulating in several news reports that inaccurately describe the alleged operator of the laboratory, Stephen “Tepen” Tapulado, as a “chemical engineer,"" the group said.
The organization added that based on verified information from the Professional Regulation Commission and academic institutions, the suspect is not a chemical engineer.
“Following verification with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and relevant academic institutions, we confirm that Mr. Tapulado is neither a licensed chemical engineer nor a graduate of a chemical engineering program. His false representation and the media’s careless repetition of such claims unjustly malign the integrity of the chemical engineering profession,” the statement underscored.
In addition, PIChE Cebu Chapter said that it is deeply concerned over reportage that associated the suspect to be a "chemical engineer."
“We express deep concern over the irresponsible reporting that associates our profession with criminal conduct. Chemical engineers are professionals who play a crucial role in nation-building, contributing to key industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, energy, and environmental protection. The spread of unverified and misleading information tarnishes the hard-earned reputation of thousand s of law-abiding, ethical chemical engineers,” it further underscored.
Moreover, the group urges media organizations to be more prudent in reporting.
“We call on media outlets to exercise due diligence and accuracy in their reporting. Responsible journalism is essential in preserving the truth and upholding the dignity of professions that serve the public good. The PIChE Cebu stands firm in its commitment to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct in the practice of chemical engineering, in service of the Filipino people and our nation,” the statement concluded.
On the other hand, reports about the suspect referred to as an alleged chemical engineer is based on information provided by operatives of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7, Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) 7, and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 7 upon implementation of a search warrant against the suspect operating an illegal drug laboratory in a rented apartment space in Barangay Zapatera, Cebu City.
The raid was conducted afternoon on June 30, 2025.
