By Scott Martin Gonzales and Ryce Jyan D. Gamboa

PSME CPU-SC, Mechanical Engineering Department and CPU-DOST-PCIEERD Wind Energy R&D Facility Apply Advanced Machine Design to Optimize Off-Grid Wind Power in Barangay Botlog, Concepcion, Iloilo held on May 15, 2026.

Aiming to bring sustainable energy solutions to remote areas, the Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers – Central Philippine University Student Chapter (PSME-CPUSC) launched a targeted community outreach program in the off-grid island community of Barangay Botlog, Conception, Iloilo on May 15, 2026.

The initiative, officially titled “Two-Stage Savonius Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT) Shaft Design Validation and Community Learning Engagement Program,” focused on introducing wind energy as a viable power alternative for the island. Led by Outreach Coordinator Engr. Kleio S. Tobias, a delegation of Mechanical Engineering faculty and volunteer student members presented a proposed wind turbine shaft design, demonstrating how the technology could be leveraged for accessible, localized power generation. In addition, the program included learning sessions that introduced the basic concepts of wind energy, the function of vertical axis wind turbines, and general considerations for their use in island communities.

The successful implementation of the activity was made possible through the coordination with the Local Government of Concepcion and the support of Barangay Captain Mavic L. Onday. The program successfully met its core objective: delivering actionable technical validation directly to the community while proving the viability of the two-stage Savonius VAWT design for off-grid island conditions.