Technical Consultancy

Following is a list of research and development and consultancy projects that have been carried out by the NEC and its associated centers and UPCOE departments and laboratories:

Project Profiles

Construction Materials Technology

Test of RC Beams with Carbon Fiber Fabric and Plate Reinforcements

Repair and retrofitting of concrete structures is now a growing field in the Philippine construction industry. In structural strengthening, the usual method is to add steel reinforcement as exemplified in the steel jacketing technique. Aside from steel, other synthetic materials, such as carbon fiber fabric and plates, are slowly being introduced in the market. To gain acceptance however, these new materials must fist be tested under local conditions.

This project was performed for Sika Philippines, Inc., a supplier of carbon fiber fabric and plates, and other materials for construction. The aim was to verify the increase in load capacity, specifically in the flexural strength of ordinary reinforced concrete beam specimens strengthened by carbon fiber fabric and carbon fiber plates. The results showed gains in flexural strength capacities and these were accompanied by deflection abatement.

Implementer: Building Research Service

Project Personnel:
  • Prof. Fernando Germar - Project Consultant
  • Dr. Nathaniel Diola - Project Consultant
  • Dr. Victor Pulmano - Project Consultant
  • Dr. Benjamin Buensuceso Jr. - Project Consultant
  • Engr. Gil de Leon - Research Associate
  • Engr. Roberto Papa - Research Associate

Characterization of Slag and Slag Cement

Blast furnace slag is an industrial by-product, whch can be used for manufacturing hydraulic cement or an additive in concrete. Locally available slag is yet untapped and tests are needed in order to properly characterize the properties of this material.

The objective of this project is to determine the physical and chemical properties of locally available slag, eleven types of cements, and cements combined with slag.

Compressive and flexural strengths at various ages were also determined when these cements and combination of cements and slag were used to produce mortar. The project was performed for Kawatetsu Mining co., Ltd. through the Economic Development Foundation.

Implementer: Building Research Service

Project Personnel:
  • Prof. Fernando Germar - Project Consultant
  • Dr. Nathaniel Diola - Project Consultant
  • Dr. Victor Pulmano - Project Consultant
  • Dr. Benjamin Buensuceso Jr. - Project Consultant
  • Engr. Gil de Leon - Research Associate
  • Engr. Roberto Papa - Research Associate

Energy

Renewable Energy Technologies in Asia: Regional Research and Dissemination Programme (Phase III) - Drying Systems for Urban and Rural Poor

Under the auspices of the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), the third phase of the Renewable Energy Technologies in Asia (RETS in Asia) Probased drying systems and technical support packages adapted to local requirements and conditions to provide additional or alternative livelihood opportunities for disadvantaged rural and urban communities. The RETS in Asia Programme, under the coordination of the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) based in Thailand, involves adaptive technological research policy formulation, establishment of market and delivery mechanisms, and information dissemination by a network of twelve national research institutions from six Asian countries.

Implementer: UP Solar Laboratory

Project Personnel:
  • Prof. Rowaldo R. Del Mundo
  • Erwin Paul C. Serafica

Formulation of Palawan Renewable Energy Policies

This is a UNDP funded project, conducted for the Center for Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency. This project aims to increase the capacity of the Provincial Government of Palawan in policy formulation and energy planning to promote renewable energy deployment. Tasks include the revision of the Palawan Energy Master Plan with the intention of increasing the share of renewable energy in its power supply and the formulation of renewable for the different stakeholders.

Implementer: UP Solar Laboratory

Project Personnel:
  • Prof. Rowaldo R. Del Mundo
  • Fidelpio V. Ferraris

Capacity Building for the Palawan Renewable Energy Development Center

This is a UNDP funded project, conducted for the Center for Renewable Resources and Energy Efficiency. This project aims to build the capacity of the Palawan Renewable Energy Development Center, a center that promotes and supports the use of renewable energy for sustainable development. Tasks include the design of the structure of the center, training on renewable energy technologies, training on socio-economic assessment and design of the Palawan Rural Energy Database.

Implementer: UP Solar Laboratory

Project Personnel:
  • Prof. Rowaldo R. Del Mundo
  • Nathaniel C. Domingo

Power Plant Heat Rate Improvement Program

This activity was aimed at initially improving the efficiency / heat rate of Batangas No. 1 power plant from 10,233 Btu/kWh to close to 9,558 Btu/kWh. The long-term objective is to close the gap between the actual efficiencies of all the major fossil-fired thermal plants and their rated efficiencies, thereby reducing CO2 emissions and lowering fuel costs. The National Power Corporation (Efficiency and Reliability Department) is the lead counterpart GOP agency.

Project Personnel:
  • Prof. Ferdinand Manegdeg - Consultant
  • Dioscoro Maranon - Research Assistant
  • James Margallo - Research Assistant

Fuel Cell Market Assessment in the Philippines

This activity aimed to provide an analysis of the market opportunities and potential barriers that may exist for fuel cells in the Philippines as a first step toward encouraging the interest of fuel cell manufacturers and vendors. A fuel cell, like a battery, converts a fuel electro-chemically to both electricity and heat. But unlike a battery, which needs to be constantly recharged, a fuel cell can indefinitely produce energy if the fuel can be continuously supplied. Fuel cell is an efficient technology in converting fuels into useful energy, is less intrusive on the environment, and emits lower levels of greenhouse gases but has high initial cost. The lead counterpart agency is the Department of Energy. The project also included organizing the seminar on Fuel Cell Technology Applications in the Philippines, held at Shangri-La’s EDSA Plaza Hotel, Mandaluyong City.

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Aura C. Matias - Consultant
  • Prof. Rafael R. Angangco - Consultant
  • Michael Oliver de Guzman - Research Assistant
  • Helen Fabrero - Research Assistant
  • Charito Isidro - Research Assistant
  • Erickson Llaguno - Research Assistant

Environmental Engineering

Environmental Impact Assessment for a Lead Recycling Recovery Plant

The National Engineering Center was commissioned by Evergreen Environmental Resources, Inc. to conduct an in-depth review of the company’s Environmental Impact Assessment Study and other related documents (Phase 1). NEC revised and updated the EIA study of a Lead Recycling Recovery Plant in Agus Development Industrial Estate in Barangay Bulac, Sta. Maria, Bulacan. A Phase 2 of this project is currently on-going. This involves a comprehensive revision of the EIS.


The Study of the Effects of Payatas Dumpsite to the La Mesa Reservoir

The principal objective of the study is to identify the effects of the Payatas open dumpsite on the Novaliches (La Mesa) Reservoir with emphasis on the potential risk of leachate contamination. The secondary objectives are: to characterize the hydrogeology and hydraulics of the aquifer below the Payatas dumpsite, to identify the toxic and hazardous contaminants which have leached to the subsurface beneath the Payatas dumpsite area, to establish the potential risk of contamination to the La Mesa Reservoir, and to recommend possible remedial or mitigating measures to reduce the risk of contamination of the La Mesa Reservoir

Implementer: National Hydraulic Research Center/UP Environmental Engineering Group

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Leonardo Q. Liongson
  • Dr. Guillermo Q. Tabios III
  • Dr. Genandrialine L. Peralta
  • D.S. Rojas
  • C.Q. Dizon
  • E.P.Vargas
  • C.M. Montencillo
  • C. Aquino
  • J.B.T. Ong

Solar Disinfection of Drinking Water in the Philippines

Solar disinfection (SODIS) is a viable and sustainable alternative for microbiological treatment of drinking water. Both heat and radiation (UV-A) from the sun can be potent in inactivating and destroying pathogenic micro-organisms present in water. This study assessed the local suitability of the solar disinfection process through developing and testing a fabricated flat-plate solar disinfection (SODIS) Plant. Several trials showed that water temperature of at least 50 oC resulted in complete inactivation of total coliform micro-organisms.

Implementer: National Hydraulic Research Center/UP Environmental Engineering Group

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Genandrialine L. Peralta
  • Prof. Rowaldo R. del Mundo
  • Edgar Allan Donasco

Manila Bay Sediment Sampling Project

A contract research was jointly signed by Procter and Gamble (P&G) Kobe Technical Center, P&G Europe Technical Center and the UP Engineering Research and Development Foundation, Inc., through the Environmental Engineering Research Group (UPEnE) of the UP Chemical Engineering Department in July 2000 for the conduct of a sediment study in Manila Bay Estuarine Area. This is the third research project implemented by UPEnE in as many years in support to P&G’s environmental risk assessment undertakings in Asia. This third P&G research contract involved the collection of sediment samples, physico-chemical characterization of sediments (organic carbon content, metals and nutrients) and biological assessment (faunal assemblages) to be conducted by UPEnE. A sediment deposition study was also done in several sampling stations within Manila Bay. Sediment samples for linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) analysis were collected from the same stations and were shipped to P&G Europe Technical Center.

Implementer: UP Environmental Engineering Group

Project Personnel:
  • Jose Marie U. Lim
  • M.E. Pajarito
  • Alex B. Casilla
  • Enrico Gregorio
  • L.V. Castillo

Composting of Biosolids from Septic Tanks (Phase 1 & Phase II)

The UPERDFI, through the UP Chemical Engineering Department, Lyonnaise des Eaux-ASTRAN and Maynilad Water Services, Inc. have initiated a collaborative research on composting of biosolids from septic tanks.

The research study evaluates the feasibility of composting dewatered biosolids from septic tanks as one of the alternative treatment solutions in managing septage in the Philippines. This study aims to characterize the dewatered biosolids generated from the West Area of Metro manila served by the Maynilad Water Services, Inc., as well as the resulting compost product. Of particular interest in this study are those parameters which are relevant to composting, hygienic sanitation, environmental and agronomic aspects of the compost product.

A larger composting installation followed these trials last July until December 2001 which became the Phase II of the project.

Implementer: UP Chemical Engineering Department

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Jonathan Salvacion
  • Prof. Florencio Ballesteros Jr.
  • Louernie De Sales
  • Vincent Urbain
  • Lisette Tovencher

Preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Report for the Proposed 300 MLD Laguna Lake Bulk Water Supply Project

When the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) was privatised in 1997, one of the commitments it made to the concessionaire Maynilad Water Services, Inc. was to supply 300,000 cubic meters per day (or 300 MLD) of treated water for the consumption of Paranaque, Las Pinas, Muntinlupa as well as of five towns in the province of Cavite. To implement this project, the UPERDFI was engaged to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), the major requirement for the acquisition of an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).

The completed EIS, already received by the Environmental Management Bureau delineated the various impacts of the proposed project the most significant ones being the perceived effect of water abstraction on lake salinity and water level, considered by the fisherfolks to affect their means of livelihood.

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Edgardo G. Alabastro
  • Dr. Leopoldo V. Abis

Distribution of Sewage-Related Substances in the Manila Bay Estuarine Area

This is a research contract which was jointly signed by Procter and Gamble (P&G) Kobe Technical Center, P&G Europe Technical Center and UPERDFI through the Environmental Engineering Unit of the UP College of Engineering in July 2000 for the conduct of a sediment study in the Manila Bay Estuarine Area. This is the third research project implemented by the EnE Research Group in as many years in support to P&G’s environmental risk assessment undertakings in Asia. The project involved the collection of sediment samples, physico-chemical characterization of sediments (organic carbon content, metals and nutrients) and biological assessments. A sediment deposition study was also done in several sampling stations within the bay.

Implementer: UP Environmental Engineering Group

Project Personnel:
  • Jose Marie U. Lim
  • Vivian R. Cerrer
  • M.E. Pajarito

Air Pollution Control Feasibility Study via Absorption of Suspended Particulates

This study investigated the possible use of a proprietary chemical presently used in detergent manufacturing for possible control of suspended particulates. Three bechscale experiments were set up to determine the efficiency of the material to trap and remove TSP from exhaust gas emitted by car engines. Three mechanisms were tested: removal through bubbling, removal through adsorption in fixed film and removal through atomising of the chemical solution. The project was funded by P&G MANILA.

Implementer: UP Environmental Engineering Group

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Jonathan L. Salvacion
  • Jose Marie U. Lim
  • Alex B. Casilla
  • Michael Promentilla
  • Raymund Bacud

PGI Environmental Database Management

The objective of this project is to develop an environmental database for PGI Tiwi Geothermal Power Plant for a systematic data collection, encoding, processing and analysis of its solid waste characteristics and other registrable wastes. It offered an advantage its compliance with environmental regulations, rapid data analysis and reporting, as well as a more streamlined decision-making due to an efficient database system of its wastes inventory and characteristics.

Implementer: UP Environmental Engineering Group

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Genandrialine L. Peralta - Project Consultant
  • Prof. Antonio Tanchuling - Project Consultant
  • Alex B. Casilla - Research Assistant
  • Charlymagne Aquino - Research Assistant
  • Jessie Evangelista - Research Assistant

Composting of Biosolids from Septic Tanks

The project is the first phase of a pilot-scale study on composting of dewatered biosolids (septage). The main objective of Phase 1 is to investigate the feasibility of composting dewatered sludge (septage) under local Philippine conditions. The result of this research, once proven viable, will be viewed as one of the permanent treatment solutions in managing septage.

Implementer: UP Environmental Engineering Group

Project Personnel:
  • Louernie F. de Sales

Water Sampling and Quality Assessment Using Dye-Tracer Techniques via QUAL2E Water Quality Model for Balatuin River in San Pablo City

The main objective of this project is to obtain data which will used to validate the QUAL2E, a water quality model developed by US EPA and to study the fate and transport of processes of conventional water pollutants once discharged in the Balatuin Rive system in San Pablo City, Laguna. The project was basically composed of three major tasks namely: a. water sampling and analyses; b. biological monitoring, and, c. QUAL2E model testing.

Implementer: UP Environmental Engineering Group

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Analiza P. Rollon
  • Jose Marie U. Lim

Mak-Ban Risk Assessment of Landfill Disposal of Asbestos Wastes and Geothermal Residues

This study aims to determine and quantify the potential risk arising from landfill disposal of the asbestos-laden construction debris from the National Power Corporation and the Makiling-Banahaw (Mak-Ban) Geothermal Power Project. A parallel study is carried out for geothermal residues such as scale and sludge in various sites. This involved site selection with the least risk, exposure assessment, toxicity assessment, risk characterization, and recommended controls.

The study was done in collaboration with the University of Oklahoma, Norman, USA.

Implementer: UP Environmental Engineering Group

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Genandrialine L. Peralta
  • Florencio C. Ballesteros, Jr.

Tiwi Risk Assessment of Landfill of Asbestos Wastes and Geothermal Residues

This is a similar study contracted to the Environmental Engineering Division by the Philippine Geothermal, Inc. The particular site was at the Tiwi Geothermal Power Plant Project in Tiwi, Albay. It carried the same objectives with that of the Mak-Bank Counterpart.

Implementer: UP Environmental Engineering Group

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Genandrialine L. Peralta
  • Florencio C. Ballesteros, Jr.

Tiwi Hazardous Waste Database Project

The primary objective of the project is to develop a fully functional and systematic data storage and retrieval system for the solid and other registrable wastes on the Tiwi Geothermal Power Plant Project of the PGI. The database system offers an advantage in terms of monitoring for compliance with existing environmental regulations, rapid data analysis and reporting which will aid in streamlining the management’s decision making process.

Implementer: UP Environmental Engineering Group

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Genandrialine L. Peralta

Institutional Capacity Building

Strengthening of Key Institutions with Potential to be Virtual Centers for Technological Innovation Participants

This study was contracted by the Department of Science and Technology to the UPERDFI. The outputs of the study are the criteria used in evaluating potential virtual Center for Technological Innovation (VCTI) participants and a recommended list of institutions that meet the criteria for selection.

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Elvira Zamora - Project Leader
  • Prof. Edgardo G. Atanacio - Project Coordinator

Mechanical Engineering

Design and Construction of a Demonstration Kit to Show Lube Oil Viscosity Behavior at High Temperature

This project aims to demonstrate the viscosity change of automotive engine lubricating oil due to heating and oxidation. An oil-heating and oxidizing device together with a viscosity demonstration rig was designed and a prototype was constructed for the purpose.

Implementer: Department of Mechanical Engineering

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Edwin Quiroz
  • Dr. Alex Paran

Power Systems

Development of the Philippine Grid and Distribution Code

The objective of this project is to provide technical assistance in the development of the Philippine Grid and Distribution Code (PGDC), which would enable the Energy Regulatory Board (ERB) to fulfil its regulatory functions under a restructured electric power industry. The lead GOP agency for this activity is ERB, with Department of Energy (DOE) as participating agency. This project is under the Philippine Climate Change Mitigation Program (PCCMP), the vehicle by which the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Government of the Philippines (GOP) counterpart agencies jointly implement the Strategic Objective Agreement (SOAG) for the Mitigation of Greenhouse Gases in the Philippines. Hagler Bailey Services, Inc. is the lead contractor in this project.

Project Personnel:
  • Prof. Rowaldo del Mundo - Consultant
  • Prof. Artemio Magabo - Consultant
  • Engr. Jordan Orillaza - Technical Assistant

Public Performance Assessment

MWSS Public Performance Audit (MWSS-PPA)

The MWSS-PPA Project involved the design, piloting, and implementation and evaluation of methodologies for the monitoring, evaluation and public reporting of the performance of the two Concessionaires that provide water supply and wastewater services to service areas covered by the jurisdiction of the MWSS. The MWSS Board of Trustees selected the UPNEC to be the focal institution for transfer of technology. The Renardet/Louis Berger Consortium subcontracted the UPNEC for the project to provide counterpart expertise as well as manpower in the different stages of the project.

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Aura Matias - Project Manager
  • Charito Isidro - Project Coordinator
  • Nanette Pelaez - Administrative Assistant
  • Rhoel Villa - Water Supply Engineer
  • Charlymagne Aquino - Water Quality Engineer
  • Prof. Victorio Molina - Public Health Expert
  • Prof. Gerardo Pio Parco - Environmental Engineer
  • Prof. Miguela Mena - Sociologist
  • Prof. Paz Diaz - Public Information Specialist
  • Prof. Catherine Crisostomo - Performance Monitoring and Evaluation Expert
  • Prof. Francisco de los Reyes - Statistician
  • Randy John Vinluan - IS Expert
  • Prof. Edgardo Atanacio - Database Design Expert
  • Julius Bañgate - Research Engineer
  • Jolly Vir Benitez - Research Engineer
  • Alex Casilla - Research Engineer
  • Paolo Campo - Research Engineer
  • Eileen Cordero - Research Engineer
  • Marcelo Dapit III - Research Engineer
  • Arlene de Ocampo - Research Engineer
  • Louernie de Sales - Research Engineer
  • Royce Eustaquio - Research Engineer
  • Rogel dela Fuente - Research Engineer
  • Helen Fabrero-Sy - Research Engineer
  • Vermon Ferre - Research Engineer
  • Normandy Gamo - Research Engineer
  • Juan Simeon Hernandez - Research Engineer
  • Delfin Lardizabal III - Research Engineer
  • Kristian Liwanag - Research Engineer
  • Clarissa Treesh Muñoz - Research Engineer
  • Yvonne Ligaya Musico - Research Engineer
  • Richard Obispo - Research Engineer
  • Michael Perez - Research Engineer
  • Luis Antonio Ramos - Research Engineer
  • Norman Ramos - Research Engineer
  • Ramon Rodriguez - Research Engineer
  • Del Rio Rodrigo - Research Engineer
  • Ma. Cecilia Rubio - Research Engineer
  • Glenchie San Juan - Research Engineer
  • Rosalie Santiago - Research Engineer
  • Eric Augustus Tingatinga - Research Engineer
  • Bryan Uy - Research Engineer
  • Magdaleno Vasquez - Research Engineer

MWSS Public Performance Audit (MWSS-PPA) Transition Activities 1 (On-the-Job Training) & 2 (Re-engineering)

In the MWSS-PPA pilot project, the project team recommended nine activities needed to prepare the MWSS-RO, MWCI and MWSI for the full implementation of the PPA. Two of the nine activities were allocated funding. Additional funding is being sought for the other seven activities. As with the pilot project, the Renardet/Louis Berger Consortium was the main contractor, while the NEC services was subcontracted to provide counterpart and manpower support.

Transition Activity 1 involved giving lectures to the staff of the MWSS-RO on the methodologies of the pilot PPA, as well as training them to use utility computer programs that were developed by the Project Team specifically for handling and analysis of Concessionaire compliance data

Transition Activity 2 involved the documentation analysis of the business processes used by the MWSS-RO, MWCI and MWSI pertaining to the monitoring of the compliance of the two Concessionaires to the Concession Agreement. The Project Team came up with alternative business processes and utility computer programs to facilitate compliance monitoring.

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Aura Matias - Team Manager/Lecturer
  • Charito Isidro - Project Coordinator
  • Nanette Pelaez - Administrative Assistant
  • Prof. Edgardo Atanacio - Database Designer
  • Prof. Catherine Crisostomo - Systems Analyst/Lecturer
  • Neil Aldwin Decapia - Information Systems Designer/Lecturer
  • Prof. Francisco de los Reyes - Lecturer
  • Rhett de Guzman - Lecturer
  • Charlymagne Aquino - Lecturer
  • Julius Bañgate - Research Engineer/Lecturer
  • Jolly Vir Benitez - Research Engineer
  • Marcelo Dapit III - Research Engineer/Lecturer
  • Arlene de Ocampo - Research Engineer
  • Helen Fabrero-Sy - Research Engineer
  • Delfin Lardizabal III - Research Engineer/Lecturer
  • Kristian Liwanag - Research Engineer
  • Gregorio Moreno - Research Engineer
  • Richard Obispo - Research Engineer
  • Luis Antonio Ramos - Research Engineer/Lecturer
  • Norman Ramos - Research Engineer/Lecturer

MWSS Public Assessment of Water Services (MWSS-PAWS)

The project was the first run of the PPA (renamed PAWS during the performance of Transition Activities 1 and 2) solely by the UPNEC. Modifications to the PPA methodology from the pilot project were made, as were deemed necessary.


Robotics

Trax - A Self-Charging Mobile Robot Phase 1

Trax is a small, autonomous, tracked behavior-based mobile robot. It is equipped with electronics to detect when its battery is running low. Upon the detection of a "low battery" state, a search algorithm is triggered (as a behavior) which enables the robot to find a specific line on the floor that it could consequently follow as a guide. Trax follows the line until it "senses" a charging bay using an array of sensors, including infrared receivers, light dependent resistors, and bump sensors. When a stationary charging bay is encountered, the robot maneuvers itself and plugs itself onto the charger. At this point, the robot stays plugged until it has fully charged its batteries. When the appropriate amount of energy has been restored. Trax then detaches itself from the charger and returns to the tasks or behaviors it has been programmed to do.

Implementer: Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Project Personnel:
  • Jose Ildefonso U. Rubrico

UP Robot Soccer Project 2000

This UPERDFI funded project developed a Rule-based Supervisory Algorithm that coordinates the behaviors of two robot agents playing as forward and a third agent playing as goalie. The algorithm makes predictions about the future position of the ball in order to intercept or block it. Aggressiveness of the various agents is dependent on where the ball and intercepting agent are located.

The project likewise developed a highly effective vision tracking algorithm that determines the position and orientation of each of the robots.

Two simulators which facilitated the development of the Rule-based Supervisory Algorithm were also developed. The simulators tried to mimic the real world by incorporating wheel slippage, noise in our vision system, etc.

Both the Vision Tracking algorithm and the Rule-Based Supervisory Algorithm were used during the Robot Soccer World Cup (RWC-2000 Benchmarking Competition and the Algorithm for the RWC-2000 Millenium Challenge were also developed winning second place and first place respectively. Using the latter algorithm, the UP team beat the very strong team from Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST).

Implementer: Department of Computer Science

Project Personnel:
  • Prof. Prospero C. Naval, Jr

Integrating Commonly Used Sensors as an Aid to Single-Camera Robot Vision System

This project aims to simplify the task of locating objects in 3D space. It uses only one camera to acquire the location in the 2D space. A pair of infrared sensor mounted on the gripper or hand of a 50degree-of-freedim manipulator is used to estimate the elevation of the object. Once an image of the workspace has been captured by the camera, pre-processing is done. First, a 3 x 3 low-pass averaging filter is applied twice on the image. Afterwards, binary filtering is applied to simplify the image. Once the image has been processed, a simple algorithm locates it approximate center I the two-dimensional space. The algorithm uses the assumption that if you can scan a circle from left to right with a vertical line, the line will intersect the most number of pixels when it hits the center. The project was able to produce successfully a robot vision setup that is fast, cheap, reliable and practical use. The machine vision set up is composed of an ordinary micro camera used in surveillance. The frame grabber is a cheap TV / video game grabber that can be easily bought in computer shops. The algorithm was developed using Visual C++6.0.

Project Personnel:
  • Prof. Rowel Atienza

Water Resource Management

Study on the Supplemental Polder Dikes for the Metro Manila Flood Control Project - West of Mangahan Floodway

The main objective of this project study of UPERDFI-NHRC is to review the proposed Laguna de Bay lakeshore dike alignment from Napindan River to Angono Coastal Road and to conduct a feasibility study on the proposed polder dikes around the Taguig and Taytay lakeshore areas. The study would provide key decision inputs for the implementation of the JICA-funded DPWH flood-control project for the Metro Manila Flood Control Project - West of Mangahan project. The major activities and methodologies involved data collection and analyses, technical working group meetings and public consultations, formulation of alternatives for dike and polder alignment and design, hydrologic and hydraulic analyses for review of dike alignment and polder dike design, dike and polder dike design, engineering cost analysis, land use analysis, economic analysis, sociological analysis, environmental impact analysis final recommendations. The major accomplishments are (a) design, costs, economics, and social and environmental impacts of alternatives (b) ranking and recommendations among alternatives and (c) consultation with all concerned parties on the final choice of alternatives.

Implementer: National Hydraulics Research Center

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Leonardo Q. Liongson
  • Dr. Guillermo Q. Tabios III
  • Rhoel C. Villa
  • David S. Rojas
  • Cornelio Q. Dizon
  • Felix Noel A. Pascual Jr.
  • Rolando T. Soncuya
  • Edmundo P. Vargas
  • Proserpina A. Mariano
  • Oscar F. Molina
  • Agnes B. Palacio
  • Odyssey C. Herrera
  • Carlo Arturo S.J. Mondoñedo
  • Eugene C. Herrera
  • Lorraine C. Yoro
  • Joylynn M. Accad

Hydraulic Model Test for Laoag River Basin Flood Control and Sabo Project

The main objective of this study is to conduct hydraulic model test in order to confirm the flow conditions of the alluvial fan rivers and effects on spur dike system in the Cura/Liabugaon, Solsona, Madongan and Papa Rivers in the Laoag River Basin in Ilocos Norte. This physical movable-bed modelling study provides technical inputs to the JICA-assisted DPWH flood control and sabo project for the Laoag River Basin. The major activities and methodologies involved site visit, preparation of hydrological boundary conditions, design of hydraulic model, construction of hydraulic model, Model calibration, execution of model tests for Model 1 and Model 2 and the arrangement and evaluation of results for Cura / Labugaon River Model (Model 1) and (b) hydraulic model tests and evaluation of results for a straight reach with a slight bend representing the common features of Solsona, Madongan, and Papa Rivers (Model 2).

Implementer: National Hydraulics Research Center

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Leonardo Q. Liongson
  • eter Paul M. Castro
  • David S. Rojas
  • Cornelio Q. Dizon
  • Odyssey C. Herrera
  • Carlo Arturo S.J. Mondoñedo
  • Eugene C. Herrera

A Study of the Effects of the Proposed MWSS Housing Project on the La Mesa Watershed and Reservoir

The principal objectives of this study is to determine the potential effects of the MWSS Housing Project on the surface water and groundwater quantity and quality of the La Mesa Watershed and reservoir, and to identify and recommend structural and non-structural measures to mitigate the effects of the project on the La Mesa Watershed and Reservoir. The activities undertaken are as follows: collection and review of data, plans and maps relevant to the study, field reconnaissance of the proposed housing project area and vicinity, geo-resistivity survey and well survey, surface water and groundwater sampling and analysis, hydrologic analysis including rainfall-runoff study and flood and drainage study, groundwater modelling, surface water and groundwater pollution study of wastewater and solid wastes, determination of mitigating measures for flood and drainage management, wastewater management, solid waste management and land-use management, engineering cost analysis of the mitigating measures, and preparation of study reports.

Implementer: National Hydraulics Research Center

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Leonardo Q. Liongson
  • David S. Rojas
  • Cornelio Q. Dizon
  • Odyssey C. Herrera
  • Edilberto B. Dumaua
  • Analiza P. Rollon
  • Oscar F. Molina
  • Emelet C. Ayson
  • Mark Adriel M. San Ramon
  • Darlene Apuyod

Astran - Laguna de Bay Study

The main objective of this project is to generate several sets of simulated daily inflows (up to 100 years per set) from 114 rivers draining directly into Laguna de Bay using distributed watershed simulation models with synthetic or stochastic rainfall inputs, and to provide existing relevant hydrological, geophysical, geographical data and information available at NHRC to overseas clients.

Implementer: National Hydraulics Research Center

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Leonardo Q. Liongson
  • D.S. Rojax
  • C.Q. Dizon
  • O.C. Herrera

Laguna de Bay Water Management Simulation (BAYWATS) Model

The primary objective of the study is to develop computerized management tools for the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) to be used for long term planning decisions as well as short-term design and management strategies for sustainable and optimum utilization of the Laguna Lake Water resources. The technical staff of LLDA were given hands-on training on BAYWATS applications. The project has been done for LLDA with funding support from the Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development (PCAMRD) of the Department of Science and Technology DOST).

Implementer: National Hydraulics Research Center

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Leonardo Q. Liongson
  • Dr. Guillermo Q. Tabios III
  • D.S. Rojas
  • C.Q. Dizon
  • O.C. Herrera

Hydraulic Model Test of the Detailed Engineering Design on Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project

The main objectives of the hydraulic model test are basically to investigate the basic design of the Marikina Control Gate Structure (MCGS) and to confirm the designed diversion from the Upper Marikina River to the Mangahan Floodway after the installation of the MCGS, and when smooth diversion cannot be attained as designed, the proper measures shall be investigated and proposed through the test, taking into consideration the hydraulic characteristics at/around the MCGS.

Implementer: National Hydraulics Research Center

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Leonardo .Q. Liongson
  • D.S. Rojas
  • C.Q. Dizon
  • O.C. Herrera
  • E.C. Herrera

Hydraulic Model Test of the Detailed Engineering Design in Iloilo Flood Control Project - Phase 1

The objective of this physical modelling study is basically to confirm the design diversion discharge from Jaro River to the proposed Jaro Floodway in Iloilo province. Two models have been constructed: Model 1 to secure the successful diversion of both a Master Plan and an Urgent Plan, and Model 2 to secure the successful diversion of the Urgent Plan.

Implementer: National Hydraulics Research Center

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Leonardo .Q. Liongson
  • D.S. Rojas
  • C.Q. Dizon
  • O.C. Herrera

Flow Instrumentation Audit and Water Balance Study of the MWSS Head Works System

The main objective of the project is to conduct a flow instrumentation audit and a water balance study of the MWSS headworks system, comprised of the Angat Hydro-electric Plant auxiliary turbine release, the IPO Dam, the conveyance tunnels and aqueducts, including the intermediate Bicti basins and Novaliches junction structures, and the Novaliches portal, and the raw water conveyance exits to the La Mesa and Balara Treatment Plants and the treated water exits.

Implementer: National Hydraulics Research Center

Project Personnel:
  • Dr. Leonardo Q. Liongson
  • Enrique G. Gregorio
  • Rhoel C. Villa
  • D.S. Rojas
  • C.Q. Dizon
  • O.C. Herrera
  • E.C. Herrera
  • Carlo A. Mondoñedo

Development of the Laguna de Bay Water Management Simulation Model (BAYWATS) sponsor: Laguna Lake Development Authority

The Laguna de Bay is the largest fresh water body nearest to Metro Manila and lies within the rapidly developing CALABARZON area. The lake has been utilized for aquaculture, irrigation, recreation, hydropower generation, and as waterway for minor passenger and cargo traffic requiring a computerized decision tool (BAYWATS) which will aid the LLDA to properly apportion the lake water among its present and prospective users. BAYWATS is a comprehensive hydrological balance study of the Laguna de Bay and the Laguna lake basins. The study area encompasses most of Rizal and Laguna provinces and portions of Metro Manila, Cavite, Batangas and Quezon.

Implementer: National Hydraulics Research Center


Casecnan Weir / Intake and Desilting Basin Hydraulic Model

The Casecnan Multipurpose Irrigation and Power Project will irrigate an average of 50,000 hectares of farmlands in Central Luzon and will generate 603 GW-hr/year. The excess water from the upper reaches of Cagayan River watershed will be diverted through the Casecnan weir and intake. The water will be collected and transported through an underground tunnel into the Pantabangan Reservoir. The 1:30 scale model will study the hydraulic performance of the diversion weir and its appurtenant structures for various combinations of flow discharged, sediment transport, and reservoir levels. A gated diversion weir with an overflow spillway and flushing channel will dam up the Casecnan River to a maximum elevation of 463 meters.

Implementer: National Hydraulics Research Center


Development of Water Resources Planning and Management Computerized Decision - Support Systems (WRAPMAN CODES)

The final output of the project is to design and develop a computerized management tool (WRAPMAN CODES) to evaluate various alternatives in the development and utilization of the water in a particular region. The provinces of Laguna and Pangasinan were identified by the PTWRDM as priority areas for the project where effective and efficient management of the water resources is necessary due to the rapid growth in recent years.

Implementer: National Hydraulics Research Center