DTI dared: Show proof QT steel bars are safe

The Department of Trade and Industry must show proof and present to the public the results of tests that show quench-tempered (QT) steel was safe for use in high-rise buildings, a former lawmaker said on Friday.

Former Sen. Anna Dominique Coseteng said the DTI must present scientific proof that QT bars are appropriate for high-rise construction and not resort to “issuing mere blanket statements.”

She said her group had test results to prove that QT steel bars were not safe to use in high-rise buildings in countries that are within the so-called “seismic zone 4,” such as the Philippines. —Melvin Gascon