BY: RHEN DE GUZMAN
Students from WCC Aeronautical Technological College Inc. – Binalonan Campus showcased their eco-friendly innovations at the Research Innovation for Sustainable Education (RISE) 2025 conference held on their campus.
One of the highlighted projects was a machine that transforms plastic bottles into construction bricks and other products.
The group behind the invention, led by Ivan Dale Pantig, said it took them six months of study and experimentation to build the machine.
“We shred the plastic, melt it at 180 degrees Celsius, and mold it into bricks or panels,” said Pantig.
His teammate Angelo Ambrocio explained their motivation, “Plastic is one of the biggest contributors to pollution globally. We wanted to do something about it.” He added, “It was a very challenging project, but we’re glad it turned out successful.”
Another group, led by Marian Bangsal, crafted scented candles made from dried sugarcane. “We manually blend the dried sugarcane into powder and use it for both the candle and its biodegradable container,” she shared. “We only use water to bind it.”
Other innovations included roofing panels made from bamboo and recycled plastic bottles, fire-retardant paint using crushed snail shells, and aviation training tools for pilot education.
Argie Badua, one of the aviation students, said their simulation tool helps aspiring pilots learn how to fly cross-country. “It teaches you how to fly from one airport to another. It’s a big help in mastering the skills.”
Dr. Roger A. Martinez Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs of WCC-ATC, said the event aligns with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, “We’re working to integrate these innovations into our institution, especially from an aviation perspective,” he explained.
Dr. Rosalie Sheryll Rosales, the school’s Director for Research, emphasized the importance of the conference, “It’s really to help the community and the environment. These are their ideas, solutions to real problems.”
Representatives from various schools in Region 1 also attended the event, hoping to collaborate and support the development of these innovations.
“They want to bridge aviation with the needs of simple communities,” said Dr. Rosales. “To show that aviation students can multiply their knowledge and help people who need change.”
RISE 2025 will run until May 29.
