A Professional Science Master’s in Renewable Energy Engineering (PSM-REE) is launched at MMSU today, Aug. 11, as the University signs a memorandum of understanding with Research Triangle Institute (RTI) and Energy Development Corporation (EDC).

A first in the country, the program is expected to further cement the reputation of MMSU and the province of Ilocos Norte as advocates of renewable energy. The PSM-REE is a two-year program which provides advanced professional training and managerial capability building for industry and academic personnel expected to spearhead researches, programs, and projects that harness the development of alternative energy for national self-sufficiency, self-reliance, and self-sustainability.

Held at the Teatro Ilocandia, the launched will be attended by Dr. Susan Brems, USAID mission director for the Philippines, Pacific Islands, and Mongolia; Mr. Reman Chua, EDC vice president; Dr. Lawrence Ilag, STRIDE Program deputy chief of party; Dr. Fiorello Abenes, STRIDE Program faculty and institutional development manager; and officials of the University. Ilocos Norte Governor Imee Marcos and Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri are sending their representatives while Batac City Mayor Albert Chua has confirmed his attendance.

The signing of the agreement will be followed by a forum with the following speakers: Dr. Joselito Lolinco, MMSU Graduate School dean on “Building local workforce in renewable energy through the MMSU PSM program”; Engr. Gil L. Opina, technical bid manager of Vestas Wind Systems on “Industry innovations: Sustainable wind energy engineering”; and Director Mario Marasigan and lawyer Marissa Cerezo of the Department of Energy on “The Philippine roadmap for renewable energy”.

Professionals working in energy-related firms as well as educators and researchers from various universities in Northern Philippines are expected to attend the event.

RTI is the main implementing organization of the USAID-funded Science, Technology, Research and Innovation for Development (STRIDE) Project which strives to spur economic development in the Philippines by boosting science and technology research. STRIDE supports the enhancement of tertiary programs in Philippine higher education institutions, primarily through the offering of PSM programs, with participation from private and public sector employers, on the basis of industry needs and market research.

Ilocos Norte is home to the first and biggest commercial wind farms in the Philippines. Vast solar wind farms can also be found in the province. (By Herdy La. Yumul)