By Cyrus A. Natividad

DOST Secretary Hon. Fortunato T. de la Peña and CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles led the cutting of the ceremonial ribbon.

The country’s first Wind Energy R & D Facility was inaugurated at Central Philippine University on May 24, 2022 at 2PM. Located near the Engineering Building, the facility is a Department of Science (DOST) – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) funded project which will serve as a laboratory facility – to test and research on sustainable, renewable energy.

A short program started with an opening prayer led by Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director for Communications, CPU. It was followed by the National Anthem led by Dr. Sheila Pingul-ong, Faculty ChE Department.

CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles welcomed everyone. He acknowledged the presence of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Hon. Fortunato T. de la Peña, Deputy Executive Director Engr. Niñaliza Escorial, PCIEERD; Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, Regional Director DOST 6, ISATU President Dr. Raul F. Muyong, and the CPU College of Engineering Faculty and Staff headed by Dean Engr. Dany C. Molina.

Dr. Robles made a brief overview of the country’s 1st Wind Energy facility, one of several government funded projects granted to CPU. He pointed out the use of the facility in testing and research on energy generation. He said that, “This is not the end but the beginning of the project. It will serve communities that are far from available electric grids. I am happy about the government working with the private industry.” He noted that a consortium to utilize the facility will be signed with the Iloilo School of Arts and Trade University (ISATU).

Engr. Escorial, in behalf of PCIEERD, congratulated CPU for making it out to the establishment of the facility. She said, “I hope that more Filipinos will be encouraged to adopt this innovation and contribute to the country’s energy resiliency.” She appreciated the group behind the completion led by Engr. Jeriel Militar, Project Leader and Head, CPU ME Department who she said, has showcased his expertise and brilliance.

In a recorded message, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas congratulated CPU. He emphasized the “significance of the project to our vision for a progressive and innovative Iloilo.” Treñas said that, “The importance of Research and Development has become more evident as we continue to search for knowledge and development.”

In his Keynote Message, DOST Secretary thanked the PCIEERD for undertaking the project with CPU. He made mention of the University’s reputation for quality work, and it’s first in Asia – the Packaging Engineering which was also started by Central Philippine University. His speech was followed a dedicatory prayer by the University Church Senior Pastor, Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian.

Secretary de la Peña and Dr. Robles cut the Ceremonial ribbon at around 2:45 in the afternoon. It was attended by representatives from government agencies, other schools and universities in Iloilo City. A tour of the facility and technical video presentations followed. Engr. Caesar Rico S. Acanto, Asst. Project Leader and Head, CPU EE Department demonstrated how the wind tunnel operates. Through a video presentation, PCIEERD discussed the R & D Roadmap for Renewable Energy. Engr. Militar also presented a video on the Wind Turbine Facility and its R & D Program.

There was an open forum before the Signing of MOU on Wind Energy Research Collaboration between Dr. Robles, representing CPU and Dr. Raul F. Muyong, for ISATU. Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, VP for Academic Affairs delivered the Closing Remarks. The program ended at 4:00 PM. It was hosted by Ms. Carmelle Frances M. Romero, Administrative Officer, Office of the President.