Engineering researchers showcase 6 sustainable agriculture studies in Indonesia

Advancing the University’s international research engagement in sustainable agriculture and technology-based innovation, Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF), through its College of Engineering (CENG), presented six research studies at the International Conference on Sustainable Agriculture (ICOSA 2026) in Indonesia, via Zoom, Aug. 5.

With the theme “Integrating Innovation, Sustainability, and Resilience for Global Food Security,” ICOSA 2026 brought together researchers and academic institutions to discuss emerging challenges in agriculture, food security, environmental sustainability and agricultural technologies. MSEUF faculty researchers and students presented studies applying engineering, automation, Internet of Things, renewable energy, artificial intelligence and precision agriculture technologies to agricultural concerns.

Student researcher Joshua Constante presented “SoMoLet: An IoT-Based Soil Moisture Control and pH Monitoring System for Precision Lettuce Farming in Controlled Environments,” co-authored by Dr. Ronaldo Maaño, Engr. Roselyn Maaño, Dr. Pedro Jose De Castro and Engr. Emelex Cortez. The study applied IoT-based monitoring and control to precision crop production. Gordon Alpuerto, Christian Jay De Chaves and Sid Paul Ellaso, with Dr. James Louie Meneses, Engr. Ann Christine Maaño and Engr. Rodher Sedeño, also presented “Design and Evaluation of an On-Grid PV Array Powered Sprinkler System for a Greenhouse Nursery at Brgy. Piis, Lucban, Quezon, Philippines,” which explored solar photovoltaic technology for greenhouse irrigation.

Anthony Jr. Biton, Marneil De Los Reyes and Aden Gil Tresvalles, with Dr. Meneses, Engr. Danielle Joseph Buban and Engr. Cielito Maligalig, presented “Design and Development of a Solar-Powered Pelletizer for On-Farm Animal Feed Production from Banana Peels and Coconut Husks.” The study explored the conversion of agricultural residues into animal feed materials using a solar-powered processing system. Paul Alecksandra Palma, Aaron Rene Abanto and Frank David Torpias, with Dr. Meneses, Engr. Ranie Pornela and Dr. Francis Maaño, presented “Design and Development of an Automated Centrifugal Precision Fertilization Device,” which examined automated fertilizer application for more efficient and accurate agricultural operations.

Edgar Dinglasan, John Lloyd Flordeliz and Keymark Sio, with Engr. Hannah Balmes, Engr. Melissa Serrano and Engr. Mark Nel Inojosa, presented “A Design of a Solar-Powered Automated Geothermal Cooling System for Greenhouse Farm.” The research integrated renewable energy and automated cooling technologies for greenhouse environmental control. Completing the presentations, Arnel Chumacera Jr. and Lorenz Roi Ladlad, with Engr. Balmes, Engr. Dhon Niño Canela, Engr. Hannah Shamira Santonil and Engr. Serrano, presented “CocolisapScan: A Deep Learning and Fuzzy Logic-Based Decision Support System for Cocolisap Management in Coconut Farms,” which applied artificial intelligence to support the detection and management of cocolisap infestation.

The international conference provided faculty members and students with an opportunity to present Philippine-based research, exchange knowledge with researchers from other countries and contribute technology-based approaches to discussions on food security and agricultural sustainability.

Through the College of Engineering, MSEUF continues to strengthen collaboration between faculty researchers and students in developing technologies responsive to agricultural and environmental challenges while expanding the University’s participation in international research forums.

The research presentations supported the University’s commitment to research-based knowledge, learning by doing and global competitiveness by engaging faculty members and students in developing and presenting technology-based solutions to real-world agricultural challenges. The activity also reflected the core values of Excellence, Mindfulness and Unity through collaborative research focused on sustainability, innovation and community-responsive applications.

• SDG 2: Zero Hunger — The studies explored technologies for precision farming, irrigation, fertilizer application, animal feed production and crop protection that contribute to more sustainable agricultural systems and food production.
• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy — Several studies incorporated solar energy into agricultural equipment and greenhouse systems, promoting the application of renewable energy in farming.
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure — The research applied IoT, artificial intelligence, automation and engineering technologies to develop innovative solutions for agricultural operations and infrastructure.