The Philippine Society of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineers (PSABE) SOCCSKSARGEN successfully held its Annual Regional Convention and ABE Week Celebration from January 19 to 25, 2025, hosted by Mindanao State University-General Santos. The event gathered participants from various institutions, local government units, and the private sector, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas in the field of agricultural and biosystems engineering.
The convention opened with an inspiring message from Engr. Renel M. Alucilja, MSAE, Vice-President of PSABE Region 12. “This year would be a unique one in the way we do our conventions. Marami dito bago sa organization at madami rin nagbabalik. I’m happy to see your faces this morning and would like to thank MSU-Gensan for hosting our event today,” he shared.
Engr. Rener B. Tandugon, MSAE, Secretary of PSABE Region 12, presented the list of participants, highlighting the growing interest in the organization’s activities. This was followed by a warm welcome address from Engr. Edward R. Lapong, Ph.D., who greeted attendees from MSU-Gensan, USM, SKSU, South Cotabato State College, and various private sectors. He emphasized the relevance of the convention’s theme in addressing current food security challenges.
A key highlight of the convention was the TED Talk sessions, featuring diverse topics presented by distinguished speakers. These talks covered innovations such as automated controlled environment systems for high-value crop production, ultrasonic technology for food applications, flow rates for aquaponics, and solar power integration for post-harvest facilities. The sessions continued with discussions on RCEF mechanization, water resource assessment, machinery development aligned with AFMechRDEN Agenda, and the need for natural resource conservation. These sessions provided a platform for knowledge sharing and inspired new approaches in agricultural engineering.
The event also showcased technical paper and poster presentations, categorized into mechanization and automation, irrigation and water conservation, and food processing. Moderated by Engr. Jackielou L. Paches and facilitated by Engr. Benedict U. Sioquim, these presentations highlighted cutting-edge research and technological advancements.
A plenary talk by Engr. Crestituto C. Mangaoang, PSABE Board Member, focused on green infrastructure and the green economy within the framework of FIRe 4.0. This session, followed by an open forum, encouraged active engagement among participants.
The convention concluded with a business meeting, the proclamation and oath-taking of the newly elected PSABE SOCCSKSARGEN Board of Trustees (BOTs), and messages from key PSABE leaders, including Engr. Edward R. Lapong, Ph.D., President of PSABE Region 12, and Engr. Janice P. Vargas, President of PSABE, Inc., along with closing remarks by Engr. Erwin A. Arguelles, Senior BOT Member. The closing ceremony recognized outstanding engineers from various sectors, celebrating their contributions to the field.
This year’s PSABE SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Convention not only highlighted the latest trends and innovations in agricultural engineering but also strengthened the professional network among agricultural engineers in the region, setting the stage for future collaborations and advancements.
