By Mikee Natinga Norico
University administrators, faculty, and project partners gather for a photo during the formal awarding of the Php10-million Project Geodynamix, marking the start of a landmark Philippines–Korea collaborative research initiative.
Central Philippine University (CPU) was formally awarded the Php10-million Project Geodynamix (GEOmaterials using DYNAmic Testing and MIX Design Development for Waste-Based Binders), a three-year Philippines–Korea collaborative research initiative funded under the 2025 DOST–GIA in partnership with the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Korea. The awarding ceremony was held at the CPUGAD TBI Coworking Space.
The project, led by Engr. Jebie A. Balagosa, Ph.D., CPU Research Professor and DOST–PCIEERD Balik Scientist, aims to develop safer and more resilient infrastructure using sustainable, locally available, and scientifically validated materials. The initiative addresses challenges faced in Western Visayas and other Philippine regions, where infrastructure is often built on weak, variable soils increasingly exposed to climate-related extremes. By harnessing agricultural and industrial by-products such as rice husk ash and bagasse ash, the project seeks to introduce eco-friendly alternatives to traditional cement- and lime-based stabilization methods.
The program commenced with an opening prayer by Engr. Dee B. Lucena, OIC Department Chairperson, followed by welcome remarks from Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, CPU President, who expressed gratitude to Kongju National University for its partnership and acknowledged the support of DOST–PCIEERD and DOST Region VI. President Rev. Dr. Dagohoy highlighted the university’s commitment to maximizing resources for the project’s success and reminded attendees of the importance of trusting in the Lord, citing Proverbs 3:5–6.
Attendees gather for a commemorative group photo following the successful awarding ceremony of Project Geodynamix at the CPUGAD TBI Coworking Space.
Engr. Balagosa introduced the project team and outlined its goals, emphasizing the need to validate local by-products through advanced soil stabilization research. Engr. Camille Joyce C. Matamorosa, Project Manager from the Energy & Utilities Systems Technology Development Division, formally presented the Memorandum of Agreement, detailing the project’s objectives, three-year funding structure, and compliance requirements for successful implementation.
In her message of appreciation, Engr. Mary Earl Daryl A. Grio, Dean of the College of Engineering, highlighted how the project will enhance the college’s research and laboratory capabilities, strengthen international collaboration with Kongju National University, and provide students and faculty with hands-on experience in sustainable materials and disaster-resilient infrastructure.
Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, Regional Director of DOST Region VI, lauded CPU’s commitment to research and innovation, emphasizing the importance of converting research into tangible benefits for communities and industries. He underscored that publicly funded projects must generate value for society, calling for the timely delivery of impactful results.
Engr. Camille Joyce C. Matamorosa leads the project orientation for Project Geodynamix, detailing objectives, implementation plans, and the three-year funding structure to participants.
Dr. Aries Roda D. Romallosa, Acting Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, stressed that Project Geodynamix exemplifies interdisciplinary collaboration by integrating biomass research into geotechnical engineering. She affirmed CPU’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and international partnership, noting that the formal awarding marks the beginning of a meaningful research journey aimed at producing practical technologies and fostering disaster-resilient solutions.
The second part of the program featured the project orientation, presented by Mr. Julius Jay B. Ecal and Engr. Camille Joyce C. Matamorosa, outlining the implementation plan and operational framework for the three-year initiative.
Project Geodynamix represents a significant step for CPU in advancing research capacity, promoting international collaboration, and supporting national development through science, technology, and innovation.