Tarlac State University and Department of Science and Technology Regional Office III turned over two continuous solar power-charging system electric utility vehicles or solar-powered vehicles to the DOST Central Office earlier today, December 12.
The project was funded by the DOST III Grants-in-Aid amounting to 2.3 million pesos with a TSU counterpart of 1.3 million pesos.
Eleven electric utility vehicles were produced by the team spearheaded by project leader Prof. Rodel T. Botio and Vice President for Research Extension Services Dr. Murphy P. Mohammed as the co-project leader.
The remaining nine units will be turned over soon to the DOST Tarlac and DOST Nueva Ecija.
According to Prof. Botio, the project commenced in February 2021 and the carts were completed in November 2022.
Before the turnover to the Central Office, DOST III Regional Director and TSU Board of Regents member Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat and TSU President Dr. Arnold E. Velasco met with the DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang to discuss the advancement of solar-powered technologies in the DOST, according to the DOST Regional Operations official Facebook page.
Usec. Mabborang is planning to visit TSU in 2023 as he was elated with the outcome of the electric utility vehicles made by the university.
The TSU delegation that also joined the said meeting is composed of VP Mohammed, Executive Assistant to the TSU President Dr. Brigido B. Corpuz, and solar specialist Prof. Botio.
In an interview, Prof. Botio affirmed that TSU's breakthroughs in solar technology have always been commended by the DOST, particularly Director Sicat.
"Tayo po ang nag lead sa solar technology innovation sa Region 3 and recognized po ni Director Sicat ng DOST III. Entering po tayo sa next level which is national level na po. Ito 'yung magiging niche natin as SUC, [as a] technological university," he said.
In a 2017 DOST news, Director Sicat expressed satisfaction with the results of the TSU-developed solar-powered generator pilot test.
Prof. Botio also said he is grateful for Pres. Velasco's support in the university's solar projects.
Pres. Velasco serves as the project manager for the solar-powered vehicles. Other members of the working committee are College of Business and Accountancy Dean Dr. Jhonel C. Panlilio, Dr. Leo P. Piao, and research assistant Mr. Rico Teodoro.
