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CLSU INITIATES NANO ENHANCED ALCOHOL AND HAND SANITIZER PRODUCTION AMID COVID-19 THREAT

Dec. 10, 2021

Maria Adrielle S. Estigoy | PMO

As a response to the COVID-19 situation, where it also brought to the dwindling source of ethyl alcohol also known as ethanol  in the market due to panic buying, the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) researchers produce local ethanol and hand sanitizer using nanotechnology. Led by Dr. Juvy Monserate, head of the CLSU Nanotechnology R&D Facility, the research team initiated the production of the nano enhanced alcohol and sanitizer. According to Dr. Monserate, the alcohol and sanitizer that they have produced both contains nanoparticles infused with turmeric extract. According to the study of Ghaffari, et.al., on the use of zinc oxide nanoparticles as nanomedicine, the mixture could kill the H1N1 influenza and the SARS viruses which are both a family of the coronavirus. Thus, applying such to surfaces could be effective in inhibiting the spread of COVID-19. With regards to the production of the nano enhanced alcohol, the bioethanol produced by the College of Engineering and the Affiliated Renewable Energy Center, led by their Dean, Dr. Victorino Taylan, and their Director, Dr. Marvin Cinense, respectively, was reconstituted to obtain 70% ethyl alcohol. The protocol in producing the ethanol was shared by the Mariano Marcos State University President, Dr. Shriley Agrupis as part of a previous R&D partnership between the two SUCs. Moreover, to sustain the production of bioethanol as required by the University for the mass production of nano enhanced alcohol, Dr. Cinense shared that the team needed only five to seven days including fermentation weekly. To jumpstart the production, it is good to note the collaboration among the different Centers of the CLSU Research, Extension and Training (RET) Program as they have received molasses and yeast from other centers such as Small Ruminant Center, Philippine Carabao Center at CLSU and the Ramon Magsaysay – Center for Agricultural Resources and Environment Studies. Aside from the production of alcohol and sanitizer, the research team was also able to fashion a washable mask using nano fiber as a 'filter'. “These efforts are really service-oriented where it intends to provide the frontliners – doctors, nurses, military personnel, and anyone providing services in the grounds, with alcohol, sanitizer and mask, to serve as a weapon to fight COVID-19,” Dr. Fe Porciuncula, Vice President for RET expressed. She also said that this is one of the immediate responses of the university to prevent the spread of COVID-19 knowing that CLSU in itself is a big community already. All of the endeavors are being supported by the dynamic CLSU president, Dr. Edgar Orden who emphasizes the very importance of providing solutions to COVID-19 situation through S&T. He also supports the eventual commercialization of the nano enhanced alcohol, sanitizer and washable face mask so that these can be mainstreamed in the market and made available for anyone interested to buy, subject to adherence to standards and requirements, rules and regulations set forth by the Food and Drug Administration. “To ensure viability, the products will indeed be subjected to third party analysis and confirmation before it will be released for commercialization,” Dr. Monserate said. For inquiries, you may contact Dr. Juvy Monserate at 0917-148-5214 or email him at juvymonserate@yahoo.com. *Dr. Juvy Monserate is a Chemical Engineer and holds a PhD in Material Science and Engineering, with extensive training and experience in Nanotechnology. The nanotech research team is also composed of licensed chemists from the CLSU’s Department of Chemistry.

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CoS Faculty Earns Recognition at National IP Conference

A research paper on intellectual property (IP) presented by Engr. Juderick P. Poblete, faculty researcher from the College of Science (CoS) at Central Luzon State University (CLSU), earned recognition for Outstanding Presentation at the 6th Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and De La Salle University (DLSU) Research Conference on Intellectual Property and Innovation, held on April 4, 2025, at De La Salle University Manila. Titled “Intellectual Property Gaps Between HUMSS and STEM: A Theory of Planned Behavior Perspective,” the paper delves into faculty engagement with IP systems using the Theory of Planned Behavior as its analytical framework. Conducted under the CLSU Intellectual Property Office (IPO), the study was lauded for its qualitative rigor and its relevance to policy formulation in educational institutions. It was co-authored by Asst. Prof. Zorille DC. Villaflores, Ms. Via Shane R. Santiago, Mr. Fredi Jan A. Francia, Asst. Prof. June Ann J. Casimiro, Ms. Abigail D. Briones, Assoc. Prof. Marah Kathleen Valimento, and Dr. Emelie C. Ablaza. Additionally, the same paper was showcased for the poster presentation session delivered by Ms. Via Shane R. Santiago, enhancing the visibility of CLSU's contributions to interdisciplinary research and intellectual property engagement. Organized by the IPOPHL and DLSU, the national conference gathered scholars and professionals from across the country under the theme “Haraya: The Symphony of Creativity and IP.”

Apr. 15, 2025

CoS Students Clinch 3rd Runner-Up in National PCSMT Math-Science Quiz Bowl

Students from the College of Science (CoS), Central Luzon State University (CLSU), showcased outstanding academic excellence by clinching the 3rd Runner-Up overall ranking among 25 participating schools nationwide at the Philippine Consortium for Science, Mathematics, and Technology (PCSMT) Math-Science Quiz Bowl held on April 3, 2025, at the University of Northern Philippines in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. The CLSU team, composed of John Emmanuel Briones (BSBIO 4-3), Avegail Mauricio (BSBIO 4-3), Jess Rhel Manalastas (BSCHEM 1), Alexis Celestino (BSCHEM 2), Peter Ryuken Hermosura (BSMET 3), Alexis Flores (BSMET 2), Danz Gabriel Gabuat (BSMATH 2), Andrei Joseph Camato (BSCE 1-2) achieved the following rankings in each category: Biology – 6th place Chemistry – 4th place Physics – 4th place Mathematics – 8th place They expressed appreciation to those who contributed to their participation in this event, particularly to the University Supreme Student Council (USSC) through the Student Development Initiatives and Appropriations (SDIA) Fund, and the University Business Affairs Program (UBAP) for their generous financial support. Additionally, former University President Dr. Edgar A. Orden, Prof. Dina C. Romano, and Dr. Arman Parayao were also recognized for their invaluable service in PCSMT. #SDG4 #SDG17

Apr. 15, 2025

CLSU Recognizes Exemplary Employees in PRAISE Ceremony

Marking its 118th year as a leading institution in higher education and community development, Central Luzon State University (CLSU) recently recognized the invaluable contributions of its dedicated employees in fostering its legacy during the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) Ceremony held on April 11, 2025, at the FPJ Communication Hall. In his opening remarks, Dr. Ariel G. Mactal, Vice President for Administration and Chair of the PRAISE Committee, set the tone for the celebration by reflecting on the university’s journey and recognizing the invaluable contributions of the people who have shaped CLSU into what it is today. “This year we carry the inspiring theme ‘Greatness from humble beginnings’ It reminds us not only of where CLSU began but also all the incredible journey that each of us individually and collectively has taken to shape the institution into what it is today. A beacon of excellence in education, research, and public service,” said Dr. Mactal. He also emphasized the vital role of the community in shaping the university’s success, stating, “Let us not forget that behind every successful individual is a network of colleagues, mentors, and supporters who have guided and uplifted us throughout our journey in CLSU. As we celebrate the achievements of our awardees, let us also recognize the collective effort and spirit of collaboration that brought us to this moment.” Moreover, University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella praised everyone for their unwavering service, indicating that the university will always be grateful for each employee's efforts in providing excellent service. “As we give your awards today, may it be a symbol of our profound gratitude for your relentless dedication which sustains the spirit of CLSU. Unfortunately, for some nominees, it will be a different ending, but please know that even without the plaque, the administration is grateful for your service, and the fact that you have been nominated means you are and will remain an asset to our institution. All your efforts are valued, and in another form or shape, you are all praiseworthy,” said President Abella. The ceremony proceeded with the awarding of loyalty service pins, certificates, and plaques to individuals who have reached significant career milestones at CLSU, including those who have dedicated ten years or more to the university. Retirees from 2023 to 2024 were also honored with similar tokens of appreciation in recognition of their years of dedicated service. This was followed by the recognition of exemplary employees, as listed below: Ravelina R. Velasco - Gawad Natatanging Tagapangasiwa Dana G. Vera Cruz - Gawad Natatanging Guro (Level II) Armando C. Lagasca - Gawad Natatanging Guro (Level I) Mark Anthony R. Ibarra - Gawad Suhay sa Pananaliksik Mark Anthony M. Ventura - Gawad Suhay Pang-Akademiko Shairanel A. Ramos - Gawad Suhay sa Pagnenegosyo Gene Reymond E. Feliciano - Gawad Suhay sa Pamamahala University Gender and Development Office (UGADO) - Gawad Pangkat Center for Tropical Mushroom Research and Development Spawn of Innovation - Gawad Talino Public Procurement Specialist Certification Course - Gawad Natatanging Gantimpala They received cash incentives of 15,000 pesos for individual awards and 50,000 pesos for group awards. The event concluded with response messages from Mr. Efraim G. Saturno, academic support staff loyalty awardee; Dr. Elizabeth R. Bajit, academic staff loyalty awardee; Ms. Esmeralda A. Clemente, academic support staff retiree; and Dr. Edgar A. Orden, academic staff retiree. They delivered their messages on behalf of the academic and non-academic service awardees and retirees. For more photos, kindly access the link at https://tinyurl.com/CLSUPRAISE #CLSUPRAISE #SievingForExcellence

Apr. 11, 2025

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