A productive and inspiring visit took place on September 26, 2024, at the UP National Engineering Center (NEC), where the foundation was laid for the establishment of the University of Batangas – Engineering Research Center. The University of the Philippines Engineering Research and Development Foundation, Inc. (UPERDFI) expressed strong support for this critical initiative, which aims to foster collaboration and drive impactful research in the field of engineering.
The University of Batangas delegation, led by University President Marlene Hernandez – Bohn, had the opportunity to engage with key leaders from UP and UPERDFI. Among the notable figures were Former Department of Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato “Boy” de la Peña, UPERDFI Executive Director Alfonso ‘Tito’ Aliga Jr., UPERDFI President Lito Bermudo, Former UP College of Engineering Dean Dr. Aura Matias, National Engineering Center Deputy Director Jak Sarmiento, Prof. Florence Galeon, and UPERDFI Deputy Executive Director Norika Ishikawa.
The UB delegation included a strong representation of academic and administrative leaders: Dr. Aurora Tolentino, VP for Academic Affairs, Mrs. Ana Marie Perez- Castro, VP for Finance, Dr. Henry Cabatay, UBBC Dean College of Engineering, Dr Joanne Villanueva, UBLC Dean CENAR, Dr. Romell Ramos, UBBC RPO Director – UBBC, Dr. Pastor Arguelles, UBLC RPO Director and Engineering faculty members: Engr. Siddartha Valle, Engr. Paul Amagon, Engr. Pablo Asi, Dr. Marizen Contreras, Engr. Gemma Ramos, Engr. Gilbert Mendoza, Dr. Frances Thea De Mesa, and Dr. Annabelle Magsino.
The meeting was characterized by open dialogue, with both parties sharing a common goal: to collaborate in applied research that generates tangible community benefits. Reflecting the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)’s mantra of “Science for the People,” the discussion explored potential sustainability programs for the future Engineering Research Center. Key ideas included: thesis grants for undergraduate and graduate students, research collaborations between UB and UP, an industry-centered curriculum, building a robust alumni network, offering a Professional Science Master’s program, coordinating efforts with DOST, engaging adjunct professors and providing industry-sponsored courses.
The UB team extended special appreciation to Sec. Boy de la Peña for his invaluable guidance, recognizing his contribution to shaping the future of this ambitious project. His advice and insights into creating an impactful research facility were key to the discussions. Also special thanks to UPERDFI Executive Director Tito Aliga for spearheading this engagement and the support being extended to UB.
As UB embarks on this exciting new chapter, the partnership with UP College of Engineering and UPERDFI marks a significant step towards advancing engineering research and education in the Philippines, with a focus on producing solutions that will benefit society at large.