By Crisdeniele H. Clemente

ILOCOS NORTE - The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Affiliated Renewable Center (AREC) of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) co-hosted a knowledge forum on October 24 to 25 at the MMSU-National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center, fostering collaboration in the promotion of renewable energy.

Dr. Bjorn Santos, NBERIC director, welcomed the AREC officials from various higher education institutions who attended virtually or in person. He said, "This is an opportunity for us to share our best practices and accomplishments, and learn from each other to advance our renewable energy initiatives."

MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis also extended a warm welcome to the visitors, emphasizing the importance of the university's net-zero campus plan, stating, "Let us continue to work together as we make progress in our efforts to optimize MMSU with clean and renewable resources."

On the first day of the event, the institutions shared their accomplishments, plans, and knowledge in renewable energy. Engr. Thomas Ubiña, MMSU-AREC head, presented the achievements and prospects of the Renewable Center at MMSU.

The hands-on training for the newly developed mobile and web-based geographic information system, known as ARECGIS, and the simulation of the Net Zero Energy Building took place on the second day. It culminated through a panel discussion to explore partnership opportunities. 

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in attendance included Northern Iloilo State University (NSU), led by Dr. Joey Dela Cruz, director of NSU-AREC; Western Mindanao State University, led by Dr. Roberto Sala, WMSU-AREC director; Negros Oriental State University, led by Dr. Josef Vill Villanueva, NORSU-AREC director; University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines, led by Engr. Reuel Pallugna, USTP-AREC director; University of Eastern Philippines, led by Engr. Deodatus G. Sagadal, UEP-AREC director; and Pangasinan State University (PSU), led by Engr. Harry Errasquin, PSU-AREC head.

The day after the forum, MMSU-AREC officials guided the visitors on a tour of renewable energy sites in Ilocos Norte and demonstrated the function of ARECGIS. (HLY/JVBT, StratCom)