By Daniel P. Tapaoan, Jr.

Proactively moving toward energy self-sufficiency and development, the National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center (NBERIC) of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) qualified as finalist for the Bett Asia awards 2022. The ceremony will be held tomorrow, October 11, at the Athenee Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand. 

NBERIC has been shortlisted for the Bett Asia’s Sustainability Initiative Award, a recognition given to an individual, group, or organization that has implemented an impactful initiative to champion sustainability and to drive action for the environment.

The MMSU-based national renewable energy hub submitted on August 31 its entry, which includes a contextual narrative on its contributions to development; along with a one-minute video that explains its impact on education in the Asia Pacific region since 2020. 

NBERIC director Roque Ulep said the center has developed various technologies and protocols for bioethanol production using nipa sap as feedstock, most notable of which are: the MMSUhBE-20, a fuel-grade gasoline from ethanol; a dedicated distillation facility for bioethanol production; and the Nipahol (70% alcohol disinfectant made from nipa) distributed to different agencies and communities in North Luzon. 

University President Shirley C. Agrupis said NBERIC advances sustainability by promoting bioenergy research supportive to Sustainable Development Goals 7 (affordable and clean energy), 11 (sustainable cities and communities), and 13 (climate action). Hoping to bag the prestigious award, President Agrupis assured the center will become more inspired to carry out extensive research and development efforts on bioethanol production toward bioenergy development. 

With its continuous efforts to produce clean energy, NBERIC has been recognized nationally and internationally, expanding and garnering support in the Philippines and other high-profile agencies abroad. Earlier this year, the United States Grains Council partnered with MMSU to help position the center as a hub for sustainable biofuels industry in the country and in Asia. 

Organized by Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization - Regional Center for Higher Education and Development in partnership with Hyve Group, Bett Asia is the region’s leading education technology conference and expo. With the theme, “Catalysts for Change,” this year’s event aims to gather senior education leaders and innovators across the globe to tackle the improvement of learning in the 21st century. (HLY/JVT, StratCom)