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Science City of Muñoz, 3120 Nueva Ecija, Philippines

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CF, NU Collaborate to Conduct Study on Microplastics Detector and Quantifier

Oct. 24, 2022

Ravelina R. Velasco & Herbert Villaruel | SCO

The Central Luzon State University-College of Fisheries (CLSU-CF) took part in the planning and presentation of the proposal for the conduct of a study on microplastic detectors and quantifiers. This project is in collaboration with the National University (NU) wherein the CF will do the evaluation and validation. To formalize this collaborative project, a memorandum of agreement signing between CLSU-CF and NU was held on June 2, 2022. Initially, student-researchers from NU – Electronics Engineering Department have already designed and developed an efficient prototype for real-time detection and quantification of microplastics using a deep learning model to ensure clean and sustainable water management. The system uses a deep-learning model; You Only Look Once version 4 (YOLOv4) wherein the researchers utilized a manta trawl to obtain the residue for specific project design requirements, which is crucial as it leverages the accuracy percentage in detecting the microplastics. To demonstrate and test the device, water samples from the earthen ponds of the Freshwater Aquaculture Center (FAC) and CF were collected. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles with a size smaller than 5mm. It is considered a pollutant since it can be harmful to humans, the environment, and animal health. The NU research team was led by Engr. Herbert Villaruel and joined by student-researchers namely, Melissa Galang, Sem Jalotjot, Ahmed Ali Jama, John Elbert Mendoza, Mark Angelo Regoso, and Jhoana Suelo.

Related SDGs
  • 14

    Goal 14: Life Below Water

  • 17

    Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals

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CLSU Stages "Cacao TALKS 2026" to Bolster Value Chain

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Mar. 12, 2026

“My Puhunan” TV Show to Feature Tilapia Ice Cream

One of the Kapamilya Channel programs, titled "My Puhunan Kaya Mo!" visited Central Luzon State University (CLSU) to capture the story behind the world-renowned Daerry’s Tilapia Ice Cream on March 6, 2026. Accompanied by the developer herself, Dr. Dana G. Vera Cruz, the crew made a quick visit to the Dungon Museum and the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) at CLSU before diving into the production of the university’s most curious delicacy. The program aims to highlight how CLSU transformed a humble aquatic staple into a sweet, award-winning sensation that defies expectations with its creamy texture and zero-fishy taste. Watch and support this inspiring story, airing on March 15, 2026, at 4:00 pm on Kapamilya Channel, and Kapamilya Online Live.

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COS Launches the FIRST Program to Elevate Research and Teaching

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Mar. 12, 2026

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