ANTIQUE — The Provincial Government of Antique has strengthened its infrastructure quality assurance capability with the arrival of its newly purchased Universal Testing Machine (UTM) worth P1.9 million in January.
The equipment is expected to enhance the province’s capacity to test construction materials locally, reduce operational costs, and improve efficiency in the implementation of public works projects.
Provincial Engineer Inocencio Dajao said the acquisition will eliminate the need to transport steel reinforcement bars (rebar) to Iloilo for laboratory testing.
“Every time nga may project kita, rugya ron ma testing. Hindi ron kita magpanaw sa Iloilo,” Dajao said, noting that the province can now conduct mandatory testing within its own facility.
Currently, the machine is undergoing installation at the Provincial Engineer’s Office (PEO). Calibration procedures will follow to ensure accuracy and compliance with national testing standards. The supplier is also set to conduct a hands-on training session for PEO personnel to ensure proper operation and management of the equipment.
The Universal Testing Machine is capable of testing steel bars of various sizes used in vertical infrastructure projects. Under national standards, steel reinforcement bars must undergo mandatory testing to verify structural integrity and compliance with engineering specifications.
Dajao said proposed testing rates have already been submitted for approval, with fees to vary depending on the size and type of steel material submitted for evaluation. The testing facility will cater not only to Antique but also to other local government units (LGUs) that wish to avail of its services.
Full operations will commence upon approval of a provincial ordinance formalizing the implementation of testing services and the collection of corresponding fees. The proposal has already been presented to the Provincial Administrator and the Provincial Treasurer’s Office.
Beyond strengthening quality control measures, the facility is projected to generate additional revenue for the province. Estimates show that testing services could bring in up to P1 million annually, particularly with the growing number of large-scale vertical projects requiring mandatory rebar testing.
Officials said the new facility will help streamline project timelines, reduce expenses, and reinforce the province’s commitment to building safer and more resilient infrastructure.
The investment in the Universal Testing Machine underscores the Javier administration’s thrust to enhance technical capability and elevate the standards of public works across Antique./PN
