Conveners
Oral Presentations: Natural Sciences, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology
- Mark Tristan Quimque
Oral Presentations: Business, Education, Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
- Irish Dalona
Abstract: This paper presents an alternative material for a three-phase induction motor stator core using epoxy resin and black sand. The epoxy resin acts as a binder, while the black sand works as the magnetic material of the stator core. The epoxy base resin stator core has 36 slots, 62 turns per coil per phase per pole, and is wound in a concentric configuration. It uses 22AWG magnetic wire, and the coil is arranged in a 4-pole configuration. The test is conducted with a varying input voltage from 20V to 140V with an increment of 10V per test. The testing results show that the motor starts to rotate when the applied input voltage is at 90V with an average line current of 1.16A, and increasing the input voltage to 140V with an average line current is at 1.2A. The rotor speed of the motor ranges from 1750 rpm to 1850 rpm, respectively. All tests conducted are at no load condition.
Key Words: epoxy resin binder; black sand magnetic properties; black sand permeability; induction motor stator; stator core sheets
Rice husk is one of the most abundant agricultural by-products in the Philippines, comprising about 20% of harvested rice by weight. Its disposal through open burning produces rice husk ash (RHA), which poses environmental risks such as air pollution, soil alkalinity alteration, and uncontrolled ash accumulation. At the same time, RHA is a rich source of silica, containing up to 80–98 wt.% SiO₂, making it a promising raw material for value-added applications. This study aims to valorize RHA by synthesizing porous silicate particles (SPPs) through a simple process. Silica (SiO₂) was extracted from calcined RHA (700 °C) via acid treatment and subsequently synthesized into sodium silicate using NaOH solution of varying concentrations. The sodium silicate served as the precursor for SPP synthesis via the emulsion method. Sodium silicate was characterized by XRF and FTIR, while the synthesized SPPs were analyzed using N₂ adsorption–desorption (BET–BJH) to evaluate porosity. Results revealed that RHA-derived SPPs exhibit mixed micro–mesoporous silicate structures. The result of this study demonstrates that RHA can be effectively repurposed into high-quality SPPs, addressing waste management concerns while providing a sustainable silica source for advanced material applications.
Abstract: Cancel culture is reshaping consumer-brand dynamics, yet little is known about what drives Filipino consumers to engage in such behavior. This study investigates the predictors of consumers’ intention to cancel brands in the Philippines, using the Theory of Planned Behavior and incorporating demographic variables. Understanding this phenomenon is vital for businesses operating in the region, where social media activism is on the rise. A quantitative design using PLS-SEM analyzed responses from 385 participants across generations and regions. Findings reveal that attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control significantly shape cancel intentions. Notably, age and region—specifically, younger consumers and those from Visayas and Mindanao—are strong antecedents. These groups are more susceptible to social influence, have stronger self-efficacy, and express a more favorable view of canceling brands. Recommendations include culturally sensitive reputation management and localized consumer sentiment tracking. Brands must actively align values and quickly respond to controversy with concrete corrective actions.
Key Words: cancel culture; consumer behavior; theory of planned behavior; brand boycott; Philippines; PLS-SEM
Abstract: Dengue remains one of the most critical public health challenges in the Philippines. In the absence of an effective vaccine, the most practical means of mitigating its spread involves reducing the mosquito population and minimizing human exposure to mosquito bites. This study introduces vector and human-based control strategies, with a particular emphasis on transmission reduction. A modified Susceptible-Infected-Recovered (SIR) dengue model, based on the work of de los Reyes and Escaner, is used to incorporate these interventions. Numerical simulations are conducted to evaluate the impact of the proposed controls when applied individually and in combination. The results show that sustained maximum control efforts throughout the year significantly reduce infection levels. Notably, the simultaneous implementation of both strategies at full intensity yields the most substantial decline in dengue cases. These insights can aid public health authorities in designing more effective dengue prevention programs in the absence of vaccination.
Key Words: Vector Control; Human Control; Dengue Vaccine; Optimal Control; Pontryagin's Maximum Principle
Abstract: This study applies a graph-theoretic framework to optimize traffic flow in Iligan City by integrating three key network algorithms: Dijkstra’s algorithm for computing the shortest paths, the Edmonds-Karp variant of the Ford-Fulkerson algorithm for determining maximum flow, and Google OR-Tools for solving the capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem (CVRP). The road network is modeled as a directed graph, where intersections are nodes and road segments are edges with length- and capacity-based constraints. The study introduces an Integrated Traffic Flow Optimization Theorem, which formalizes the conditions under which a feasible and congestion-minimizing traffic assignment exists. Empirical data from Iligan City's road infrastructure validate the theorem, with computational results demonstrating effective shortest routing, maximized throughput between critical nodes, and feasible vehicle dispatch routes under demand constraints.
Key Words: traffic, network optimization, algorithm, Iligan City
Abstract: Abstract: The growing utilization of agro-industrial byproducts presents both challenges and opportunities for developing countries. In the Philippines, cassava and coffee processing generate significant wastes, particularly cassava peel (CP) and coffee husk (CH). This study explored the production of nutrient-rich hydrolysate liquor from CP and CH through hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) at 190°C for 30 minutes under varying blend ratios. The hydrolysate liquors obtained had mass yields ranging from 48.63% to 81.96% and exhibited acidic pH values (3.34-4.14). Elemental analysis showed that 100% CP produced the highest iron (89.4 mg/L) and magnesium (680.68 mg/L) concentrations, whereas 100% CH yielded the highest phosphate (520 mg/L) and phosphorus (169.59 mg/L) levels. The 50% CP–50% CH blend yielded the highest calcium content (616.15 mg/L). Optimization identified an optimal mixture of 73.8% CP and 26.2% CH, achieving less than 10% error between predicted and experimental values for most parameters, excluding ammonia and nitrogen. These findings highlight HTC as a viable approach for recovering inorganic nutrients from CP and CH, though further optimization is needed for consistency and potential application.
Key Words: hydrothermal carbonization; hydrolysate liquor; cassava peels; coffee husks; nutrient optimization.
Abstract: Evaluating road damage conditions makes informed maintenance decisions. Distresses, such as cracking, diminish pavement functionality and reduce its service life. However, a thorough evaluation should also consider additional factors, such as obstructions (e.g., vehicles, large trees, shadows, and wet areas), to provide a comprehensive assessment of road conditions. Traditional road inspection methods are time-consuming, hazardous, and susceptible to human error. Therefore, automating the classification of pavement conditions can streamline road inspection and maintenance processes. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have proven to be effective tools for rapidly collecting data, particularly in remote areas where assessing damage can be difficult. In this project, the proponents investigated new methods that can accelerate drone-based computer-vision assisted pavement inspection. The contributions of this work are summarized in three parts: (i) an AI-driven road lane tracking system, (ii) a new cascaded reconstruction and localization method of a 2D road map given UAV imagery, and (iii) a software application with AI-recommended reports.
Key Words: Aerial Systems: Applications; Automation Technologies for Smart Cities; Computer Vision for Transportation; Deep Learning Methods; Object Detection, Segmentation, and Categorization
Abstract: The Dinagat Islands, located in the Caraga Region of the Philippines, possess a rich linguistic and cultural heritage that significantly shapes local environmental practices. This study investigates how language and culture influence environmental stewardship and sustainable resource management in selected municipalities and barangays of the islands. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 150 community members, including elders, fisherfolk, teachers, youth, and local leaders, through surveys, focus group discussions, participant observation, and key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were applied to quantify language use, assess environmental awareness, and identify recurring cultural practices supporting ecological responsibility. Results reveal that 82% of respondents primarily use local dialects in environmental discourse, with Filipino and English accounting for 12% and 6%, respectively. Community participation in cultural practices—such as traditional fishing taboos, rituals, festivals, and storytelling—ranged from 58% to 76%, and high retention of language and cultural practices correlated with 85% engagement in environmental activities. The findings underscore the strong connection between linguistic and cultural preservation and pro-environmental behavior, highlighting the role of oral traditions, local terminologies, and rituals as informal regulatory systems. Declining use of local languages and reduced cultural participation pose risks to sustainable practices. Strategies emphasizing the integration of local language education, documentation of indigenous knowledge, and youth engagement are essential to strengthen environmental stewardship. This study affirms that preserving language and cultural heritage is crucial not only for maintaining community identity but also for promoting ecologically responsible behaviors and sustainable development.
Key Words: Dinagat; Islands, language; culture, environmental stewardship; indigenous knowledge
Abstract: Non-compliance with hygiene protocols—such as wearing a mask or hairnet, and performing proper handwashing—in food manufacturing facilities contributes to food contamination, thereby compromising product quality, consumer trust, and brand integrity. Manual inspection methods used to monitor compliance are susceptible to human error and lack objectivity. Thus, the need for an automated solution is prominent. In response, this study developed a cabin-based system integrated with two YOLOv8-trained models: one for detecting mask and hairnet usage, and another for recognizing handwashing gestures. These models were deployed on a mini-computer (Dell OptiPlex 3080). The compliance system follows the protocol outlined as follows: (i) personnel identification via RFID scanning of the employee card, (ii) detection of mask and hairnet usage through camera input, (iii) sequential detection of handwashing gestures, (iv) regulation of door access to food manufacturing areas based on the evaluation outcome, and (v) recording of compliance results for supervisory review. The system achieved a mean Average Precision (mAP) of 99.2% for mask and hairnet compliance, and 92.7% for handwashing compliance. These experimental results support the system’s potential for deployment in food manufacturing settings to facilitate compliance monitoring and reinforce food safety assurance.
Key Words: computer vision, food manufacturing, hygiene compliance, object detection
Abstract: This study investigates the awareness, alignment, and implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within Iligan City’s Local Government Unit (LGU) and its 44 Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs). Using a mixed- methods design, the research involved 528 respondents through surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions with LGU and BLGU officials and staff, aiming to measure awareness levels, identify dissemination practices, assess integration into development plans, and explore implementation barriers and enabling strategies. Results reveal a
moderate level of awareness among BLGU officials, with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 1 (No Poverty) being the most recognized. While a majority reported partial integration of SDGs into local policies, limited resources, lack of technical capacity, and minimal data monitoring were noted as critical challenges. Correlation analysis showed that higher awareness levels were moderately linked to greater involvement and perceived effectiveness of implementation strategies. Capacity-building initiatives, community engagement, and collaboration with government and civil society were cited as key enablers. The study underscores the need for sustained capacity development, improved policy alignment, and strengthened institutional mechanisms to foster deeper SDG localization.
Key Words: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); SDG localization; local governance; Iligan City barangay governance; awareness; policy integration; capacity development; community engagement
Abstract: Traditional taxonomy, the most widely used method for examining and naming species, relies primarily on morphological characteristics, it has long served as the foundation of biological systematics and remains a vital tool in biodiversity research for species identification and classification. In the Philippines, there are currently 17 valid species of tarantulas distributed across five genera. This paper will morphologically describe the tarantulas collected and comprehensively provide their distinct characters from five sampling areas in Mindanao. The Unified Species Concept was applied as the criterion for classifying and identifying tarantula species. The specimens were preserved and examined using a standardized protocol. The findings revealed five distinct species under the subfamily Selenocosmiinae, Selenocosmiinae gen. sp. 1 “JRMPL,” Selenocosmiinae gen. sp. 2 “Cinchona,” Selenocosmiinae gen. sp. 3 “Jamboree,” and Selenocosmiinae gen. sp. 4 “Kalagonoy,” including a newly described species, Orphnaecus mimbilisanensis sp. nov., which is morphologically distinct from other known Mindanao species. The five species possessed a unique spermathecal morphology with distinct formations among congeners. The palpal bulb of two species (O. mimbilisanensis and Selenocosmiinae gen. sp. 1 “JRMPL”) varied in embolus and tegulum measurement. O. mimbilisanensis sp. nov. exhibited a distinct high carapace profile and is the largest in size among its congeners. This study underscores the importance of morphological taxonomy in resolving species relationships and refining classifications, contributing to a deeper understanding of biodiversity. This highlights the Philippines’ rich yet vulnerable tarantula diversity; this work reinforces the need for targeted conservation efforts and continued scientific exploration to safeguard these unique species.
Key Words: Morphology, Orphnaecus, Selenocosmiinae, spermathecae, Unified Species Concept
Abstract: Abstract: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems are essential for ensuring indoor thermal comfort, humidity regulation, and air quality, yet they remain one of the largest contributors to global energy consumption. Improving the efficiency of heat exchangers within HVAC systems is therefore a critical step toward sustainable energy use. Conventional turbulence generators (TGs) have been widely applied to enhance heat transfer in traditional exchangers; however, their potential in membrane-based systems for simultaneous heat and moisture recovery remains underexplored. This study evaluates the effect of TGs on the thermal and mass transfer performance of a membrane quasi-counterflow heat exchanger using both experimental measurements and computational simulations in ANSYS Fluent. Results indicate that TG integration with inline arrangements significantly improves exchanger performance compared to smooth-channel designs. Quarter-circle TGs with a 3 mm diameter and 4 mm height yielded maximum sensible, latent, and total effectiveness values of 81.05%, 73.94%, and 77.64%, respectively. At the highest tested mass flow rate (0.000615 kg/s), the spacer with TGs achieved improvements of 8.56% in sensible effectiveness, 2.33% in latent effectiveness, and 5.04% in total effectiveness over the baseline design, corresponding to a net recovered power gain of 12.5 W. These findings highlight the potential of TG-integrated membrane exchangers to advance next-generation energy-efficient HVAC systems.
Key Words: membrane heat exchanger, turbulence generator, sensible effectiveness, latent effectiveness
Abstract: The university consumes a huge amount of electrical energy. High electricity consumption can significantly impact both its finances and carbon footprint. Energy auditing is one of the first phase of achieving energy efficiency and reduction of carbon footprint. This study delivers the first phase of standard energy audit procedures at MSU-IIT. Specifically, the objectives are to quantify the total amount of electrical energy consumed and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by conducting a comprehensive diagnostic energy audit at selected buildings at MSU-IIT. Illuminance levels, temperature, humidity tests and assessment of energy-psychosocial factors of students were also conducted in this study. The study shows that the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) consumes the highest amount of energy consumed. The main contributor to high-energy consumption and emissions in the university were attributed to inefficient air-conditioning (AC) units, the disproportion sizing of AC units relative to floor areas, low thermostat settings and poor energy-related psychosocial factors among students. Also, illuminance ratings of most of the buildings were identified as under-illuminance, which can negatively affect task performances and may impair the eyesight of the students, faculty and staff. The findings underscore the urgent need to substantially reduce in two ways: First, the technological efficiency and renewable sources. Secondly, sustainable energy practices.
Key Words: Energy audit; Climate Change; Energy Consumption; Buildings, Behavior
