19th Philippine Agricultural Engineering Week,

58th PSAE Annual National Convention,

th
6 International Agricultural Engineering Conference & Exhibition
and
University of the Philippines Los Baños Centennial Celebration
Electrical Engineering Building
University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna
21-25 April 2008

THEME: “Agricultural Engineers: Leading the Development of Green Energy to

Ensure Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation.”

Technical paper presentation: Day 3, April 23, 2008 (Wednesday)

Total Number of Technical Papers for Oral Presentation = 48

Bioprocess Engineering (14)

1. Paper: Effects of Drying Temperature on Color and Essential Oil of Celery

Leaves, Stem and Root
Authors: Songchai Wiriyaumpaiwong and Lamul Wiset

Dried vegetable is ready to use for consumer who prefers easy cooking. Celery is a kind
of vegetable cooking in a savory food to prevent undesired odor. The purpose of this
research is to study the effects of drying temperature on color and essential oil of celery.
Celery was divided into three parts, which were leaves, stem and root. Sample was dried
at the drying temperature of 40, 50 and 60 °C in a thin layer dryer at a constant air
velocity of 1 m/s. After drying, water activity of product was less than 0.7 which was
acceptable. For the color assessment, in all parts of dried celery, the L* value decreased
and a* value increased with the increasing of drying temperature except the b* value that
increased in root and stem part. Essential oil was found to be the highest concentration in
fresh stem. However, it was decreased after drying in leaves, stem and root for 16.67,
68.97 and 32.05%, respectively.

2. Paper: Kinetics of Moisture Reduction and Color Formation During Atmospheric

and Vacuum Frying of Lemon Glass Strips
Authors: Jindaporn Jamradloedluk and Nattapol Poomsa-ad

Herbs are always attracted by health lovers. Frying is a food processing to propose an
option for customers. This research work aims to study the influence of frying conditions
on properties of fried lemon glass strips. The lemon glass with dimension of 2 mm × 30
mm was processed by atmospheric and vacuum frying (500 mmHg) with palm oil at 140-
160oC for 1.5-3.0 minutes. The experimental results showed that frying temperature and
time had a significant effect on moisture content of the lemon glass, especially for the
vacuum frying. Higher temperature and longer frying period resulted in a decrease of
moisture content. At a specific time and temperature, color of the lemon glass undergoing
vacuum frying was found to be more intense than that undergoing atmospheric frying.
Redness and yellowness values increased with increasing frying time and temperature
while lightness values decreased. It was also found that atmospheric frying at high
temperature for long period provided product with harder texture than frying at low
temperature for short period. However, effects of frying time and temperature on textural
property of the fried lemon glass were not obvious for the case of atmospheric frying.

3. Paper: A Low-cost Machine Vision System for Corn Quality Classification

Author: Manolito C. Bulaong

A machine vision system consisting of a flatbed scanner (HP scanjet 2400) and a desktop
computer was developed for corn quality classification. An image of a 100-gram corn
sample spread on the scanner glass surface is acquired and analyzed using an image
processing software based on artificial neural network (ANN). The machine vision
system can classify corn into its grade based on weight percentage of corn quality
parameters present in the sample including damaged grain, immature grain, corn of other
colors, and foreign matter. More than 2,500 images of yellow corn samples taken from
major corn growing areas including South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Davao Del Norte,
Occidental Mindoro, Ifugao and Isabela were acquired using the flatbed scanner. Prior to
image acquisition, each corn sample was physically analyzed at the NFA laboratory and
segregated according to its corn quality category using the NFA quality standard.
Twenty color features were extracted from each corn images and used as inputs for
training, validation and testing of ANN to predict each corn quality paremeter. A
coefficient of multiple determination value of 0.98 was obtained for the prediction of
sound grains, damaged grains, immature grains, corn of other color, and foreign matter
using the ANN model. The developed ANN model was integrated into a graphical user
interface (GUI) to allow automatic execution of algorithms that include image
acquisition, processing, corn quality prediction and grade classification. The GUI has a
menu that allow re-training of ANN for additional corn quality parameters as desired.
The machine vision system takes less than two minutes to scan and predict the grade of a
100-gram yellow corn sample, compared to current manual method which takes about an
hour. The set-up also costs a fraction of conventional machine vision systems using high-
end digital cameras with controlled lighting system.

4. Paper: Pilot Testing of the Processing Technologies for Arrowroot (Maranta

arundinacea)
Authors: Arnulfo P. Malinis, Christopher O. Pacardo, Salvador T. Albia, Susan O.
Bonode

The project was conceptualized to pilot test the arrowroot processing technologies
developed by BUCAF, Guinobatan, Albay in 2004. The province of Marinduque was
selected as the pilot area considering the area planted to arrowroot and the volume of
production. The Rejano’s Bakery at Bgy. Banahaw, Sta. Cruz, Marinduque was selected
as the cooperator by DA Marinduque. A feasibility study of the pilot plant was approved
for funding through the DOST SET-UP window amounting to P 466, 430.00.
Pilot Plant analysis showed a capacity of 1 ton/ day with a starch recovery of 17-18%,
with machine efficiencies and recoveries ranging from 86 to 99%. A grating equipment
and filter centrifuge were provided to reduce production cost.

The operational cost of the piloted system was at P7.00/kg to include P2.00/kg from
washing to water removal, drying at 1.50/kg, and a buying price of P3.50/kg for fresh
tubers. Economic analysis resulted to an ROI of 41.53% at 960 hours annual use. Added
value per kg of processed arrowroot is at P2.20/kg excluding by-products.

The piloted system in processing arrowroot is technically and economically feasible in

producing good quality starch. Commercialization of the technology is recommended in
Bicol and Laguna areas.

5. Paper: Development of the Integrated Multi-Crop Processing System (Zero Waste

Ginger Processing Technology)
Authors: Arnulfo P. Malinis, Eleanor Ll. Balute, Nancy M. Espartinez, Estrella A.
Calpe, Efren N. Gonzales, Axel B. de Lumen, Alan P. Rabe, Herminigildo N.
Lizano, Christopher O. Pacardo, Rommel T. Toledo, and Jane V. Nieva

The project was conceptualized to develop tools and equipment for ginger processing and
to provide the integrated mechanized system that will solve the laborious and tedious
operations in processing ginger. This resulted to the development of the integrated
processing system with four machines as components of the “zero waste processing
technology for ginger”.

Technology interventions were made in the different manual operations. Washing and
peeling was done in one operation by using the mechanical washer – peeler and grinding
and extracting in one operation using the multi-crop extruder. Manual cooking was
mechanized by developing the BUCAF mechanical crystallizer. Waste ginger meal was
converted to ginger powder by adapting the multi-crop micro-mill.

Verification test, machine improvement and machine sizing were done to improve its
efficiency and ergonomics as a result of the pilot testing. Design and fabrication of the
crystallizer/cooking equipment for instant salabat and jam production were done to solve
the tedious process of cooking. Adaptation test of the KOLBI flourmill into a multi-crop
micro-mill was done to convert the dried ginger meal to ginger powder.
The mechanized system would reduce the labor cost by 75.50 pesos per kg of ginger and
increase the volume of processed ginger by five to ten times. The integrated system could
generate an ROI of 44.31% with a payback period of 2.4 years. Nationwide technology
adaptation could generate 796 and 324 million from product development and waste
utilization respectively thereby creating business and job opportunities for the Filipinos.
The project recommends the nationwide technology promotion and adaptation.
TECHNICOM assistance could be tapped for the equipment demand assessment of the
processing system. Market study for the products and by-products be conducted.
6. Paper: Design and Development of a Village Level Mechanical Chipper and Dryer
for Cardaba
Author: David L. Dumaluan

Results of the study showed two sizes of cardaba chips by manufacturers in the country.
Cardaba finger sliced along its length is in great demand at local markets, while those cut
across with same thickness of 3 mm are preferable internationally.

Physical properties of cardaba were necessary in chute design. Analysis noted that four
sharp knives set at every quadrant gave more desirable results. These require four chute
columns which lower end is 3 mm to knife blade in order to produce 3 mm thick chips.

A receptacle is necessary for chip conveyance to the plan-sifter. Regulating chip flow to
drying platform would reduce brokens. Low broken percentage is more desirable to
command high returns.

Dryer uses a 5.5 hp engine to drive a 14-inch suction fan. Fueled by coconut shell,
indirect heat dries chip in 0.42 hours. Product of combustion at the furnace goes to
atmosphere through a 3-m long chimney. Single engine is needed to drive both
mechanical dryer and chipper.

Chutes are composed of rectangular and circular cross-sections. Series of test showed no
significant differences of chip produced using these cross-sections. This could be due to a
similar angular speed during slicing. Tests also showed that performance capacity
between mechanical and manual method of chipping greatly vary. Mechanical chipper
can perform 30.17 times higher than manual method. In terms of benefit-cost ration, the
machine has 21.3:1 while 15.2:1 is for manual method.

Performance of mechanical dryer as compared to sun-drying method showed significant

differences. Tests indicated that mechanical dryer is 5.6 times more efficient than sun-
drying method.

The entire assembly costs P80,000 with ROI of 2033.3%, while manual chipping and
sun-drying method has only 1420.0%.

7. Paper: Relationship between Cultural Practices, Management and Postharvest

Operations on the Presence of Aflatoxin 20-Days-After-Harvest in Native
Variety of Peanut (Arachis Hypogea L.)
Authors: Erwin C. Torio, Joey P. Echavari, Melinor S. Garcia, Michel A. Furigay and
Marcial B.Cabalza

Peanut (Arachis Hypogea L.) is one of the basic agricultural commodities in Cagayan
Valley region, Northern Philippines that is vulnerable to aflatoxin contamination. This
toxic substances leads peanut to lesser quality as food for human and feed for animal
consumption. This study aimed to determine the cultural practices, management and post-
harvest operations done by farmers and its relationship to the presence or absence of
aflatoxin in native variety of peanut. The cultural and management practices of peanut
farmers of Peñablanca, Cagayan were choosen and determined prior to laboratory test.
Both presumptive and confirmative test were done on aflatoxin determination.

On the presumptive test, samples were classified as shelled (S) and unshelled (US), fresh
(F) and dried (D) sample. Result of the study revealed that Visual presumptive test is an
indirect indicator but not a good way in determining the presence of aflatoxin. On the
other hand, confirmative test using ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)
method is a direct indicator and accurate means of determining the presence of aflatoxin.
Further results of the study showed that all peanut samples (both shelled and unshelled,
fresh and dry) have 0 ± .01 ppm aflatoxin concentration for the period of 20 days-after-
harvest (20 DAH). This can be interpreted as the produced peanut in Peñablanca,
Cagayan for the cropping season of 2006-2007 is of good quality due to the good cultural
practices, proper crop management and better postharvest operations being done by
farmers. In addition, results of the study showed that storing peanuts on an average
temperature of 26.95°C and relative humidity of 60.15% for 20 DAH do maintain the
quality of the sample and therefore are not favorable for aflatoxins growth.

Finally, the research study highlights the following recommendations: (1) aflatoxin study
should be compared between first and second cropping season for peanut production, (2)
consider the prolong storage effect (3 months or more) on the growth of aflatoxin, (3)
determine other mycotoxins present in peanut other than aflatoxin Aspergilus flavus, (4)
use other methods in determining aflatoxin level and compare it with ELISA method, (5)
intensive aflatoxin study on processed peanut products found in the market since it is
direct for human consumption, and (6) compare peanut with other agricultural
commodity vulnerable to aflatoxin such as corn and copra.

8. Paper: Fuzzy Logic Controlled Ionization for High Humidity Storage System
Author: Lorenzo R. Gutierrez

High humidity storage system (94-97% RH) already gained popularity in storing fruits
and vegetables. This type of storage technique maintains the freshness of the produce by
preventing excessive moisture loss. Negative ions are introduced in the system to reduce
microbial growth associated with high moisture. Negative ions are known to prevent the
growth of microorganisms and reduce the foul smell in the enclosed high humidity
storage. Ionization at high humidity is difficult particularly using corona discharge. An
accurate balance of humidity, temperature and volume of negative ions are necessary to
have significant effect on the shelf life of the stored produce.
A fuzzy logic program was embedded in a 16 bit microcontroller to accurately control the
volume of negative ions in real time. Ion, humidity and temperature sensors were
installed to monitor the conditions while in storage. Volume of ions is maintained by
digitally manipulating fan speed and high voltage trigger of the negative ion generator.
Result showed that volume of negative ions in the storage was accurately controlled
within the set threshold level.

9. Paper: Drying of Mestizo 1 and 3 Hybrid Rice Seeds

Authors: Romualdo C. Martinez, Jeffrey A. Lavarias, Melanie Aileen T. Cantre, Edgar
D. Flores, Robelyn E. Daquila and Ruben E. Manalabe
This study was made to develop appropriate drying system for hybrid rice seeds.
Activities undertake included assessments of drying requirement of seed producers,
establishment of thin-layer drying rates, determination of the influence of drying
temperature on germination, and evaluation of flatbed dryer performance for drying
hybrid seeds. Results of interviews revealed that seed farmers needed mechanical dryers
especially during wet season harvest when sun drying was not possible. Thin-layer drying
results showed that Mestizo 1 seeds tended to dry faster than Mestizo 3. Both varieties
appeared to dry slower than IR-64, but faster than U.S. grain. The developed thin-layer
drying equations, based on the Page model, adequately describe the thin-layer drying
behavior of Mestizo 1 and Mestizo 3 seeds. Germination test results showed that Mestizo
1 and 3 seeds could be dried safely up to 55 °C, significantly above the 43°C commonly
accepted maximum drying temperature for seeds. An equation was developed, based on
the Gompertz model, to describe the influence of temperature on germination. Finally,
results of dryer performance tests showed that one ton capacity flatbed dryer and the
UPLB flatbed dryer would be more than adequate to meet the drying requirement of
hybrid seed producers.

10. Paper: Drying of Mango Slices using a Cabinet Dryer Retrofitted with Ricehull-
Fired Furnace and a Multi-Commodity Solar Tunnel Dryer
Authors: Robelyn E. Daquila, Romualdo C. Martinez, Baldwin G. Ballerina, Edgar D.
Flores Melanie Aileen T. Cantre and Ruben E. Manalapan

This project was undertaken to develop a cabinet dryer retrofitted with rice hull furnace
and to improve a Multi-Purpose Solar Tunnel Dryer (MCSTD) for drying mango slices.
The cabinet dryer had a capacity of 240 kg per batch. The dryer had three racks which
accommodated 50 drying trays, and initially had kerosene burner with heat exchanger.
Mango slices with initial moisture content of 50.7 % were dried in 9.5 hours uniformly
down to 11.6 % final moisture content. On the other hand, the furnace had automatic
husk feeding and ash unloading mechanisms, temperature controller, heat exchanger and
fly ash scrubber. Performance tests showed that at rice hull consumption rate of 13.8 to
14.5 kg/h, the furnace attained efficiencies of 52.2 to 54.8 which were above the 50 %
minimum acceptable level set by PAES. The rice hull furnace was successfully
retrofitted to the cabinet dryer. Cost analysis showed that total drying cost was reduced
from Php 25.98 per kg to Php 19.29 per kg of dried mango when the kerosene burner was
replaced with rice hull furnace. Finally, the developed MCSTD was much easier to install
(1 man-day compared to 6 man-day) and 23 % cheaper than the previous model. Results
showed that the new MCSTD could dry 118.4 to124.6 kg of sliced mango in 10.7 to 11.5
h. Quality analysis of dried mango slices from the retrofitted cabinet dryer and MCSTD
showed no significant reduction in β-carotene content of dried products. Also, microbial
load analysis indicated the dried products passed the standard for maximum allowable
microbial load. Lastly, sensory evaluation showed that dried mango slices from
retrofitted cabinet dryer and MCSTD were comparable with current commercial products
from the project cooperator.

11. Paper: Thermo-Physical Properties of “Tubang Bakod” (Jatropha curcas L.)

Seeds
 Author: Roger Jay L. De Vela and Arnold R. Elepaño

The physical properties of Jatropha seeds at different moisture levels were determined
using appropriate scientific procedures. Physical dimensions were measured using a dial
caliper. For Jatropha seeds, length measurements ranged from 16 to 17 mm while width
and thickness ranged from 11 mm to 11.3 mm and from 8.4 mm to 8.6 mm, respectively.
Physical dimensions of seed samples were significantly affected by moisture content (wet
basis). Jatropha kernels exhibited lower values of length (13.5 to 13.6 mm), width (7.6 to
8.2 mm) and thickness (5.9 to 6.6 cm). Moisture content affected only the width and
thickness of the Jatropha kernels.

Using a standard bulk density tester, bulk density of Jatropha seeds was determined to
increase from 33.4 to 37.4 kg/m3 and from 36.7 to 48.1 kg/m3 for the kernels, both at
moisture content range of 4- 32%. In both cases, the effect of moisture content was
accurately described by linear equations. True density on the other hand was measured
for the fresh Jatropha samples (32%wet basis). The measured values were 0.767 g/cm3
and 0.755 g/cm3 for seeds and kernels, respectively.

At the same moisture content range mentioned above, angle of repose increased from
21.1 to 24.9 degrees for the Jatropha seeds and from 14.90 to 23.8 degrees for the
kernels. Angle of friction was measured at different types of surfaces such as on steel
plate and wooden plane (along and across the wood grain). On steel plate, the angle of
friction of Jatropha seeds increased from 23.4 to 29.1 degrees, while for kernels, it
increased from 26.6 to 33.2 degrees. Along wood grain, angle of friction of Jatropha
seeds increased from 16.9 to 26.6 degrees and 22.8 to 29.7 degrees for kernels. Across
wood grain, the angle of friction for Jatropha seeds (19.4 to 28.5 degrees) and kernels
(23.2 to 31.8 degrees) also increased with moisture content. These increases in the angle
of friction were dictated by moisture content and their mathematical relationship was best
described by linear models.

The thermal properties measured for Jatropha samples at different moisture levels were
specific heat, thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity. Specific heat was determined
using the method of mixtures. The method consisted of determining the temperature
change of toluene contained in the calorimeter (thermos bottle) when a known quantity of
test material is mixed at a known temperature. The variation of specific heat was 0.783 to
1.072 kJ/kg-K for Jatropha seeds, 0.751 to 1.318kJ/kg-K for kernels and 0.780 to
1.157kJ/kg-K for the seeds’ shells. The specific heat data appeared to be affected by
moisture content and this effect was accurately described by heat certain heat capacity
models.

A modified Fitch apparatus was constructed to measure the thermal conductivity of

Jatropha kernels. It consisted of a constant temperature vacuum flask, a copper plug and
copper rod assembly. The sample was sandwiched between the copper plug and copper
rod and the temperature history of the sample was recorded as heat was transferred from
the copper rod assembly to the product. The thermal conductivity increased with the
increase in moisture content and varied from 0.056 to 0.170 W/m-K. Thermal
conductivity data were correlated with moisture content by a linear equation.
Thermal diffusivity values were calculated using the mathematical relationship among
bulk density, specific heat and thermal conductivity. It also increased with moisture
content and values ranged from 2.03 x 10 -6 to 2.66 x 10 -6 m2/s. This increase of thermal
diffusivity values with moisture content was described by a linear model.

12. Paper: Quality Preservation of Stored Hybrid Rice Seeds under Hermetic
Condition: Development of a Local Alternative
Authors: Ricardo F. Orge, John Eric O. Abon, and Guada C. Miranda

Experiences with the implementation of the government’s Hybrid Rice

Commercialization Program (HRCP) showed that hermetic storage can effectively
protect the hybrid rice seeds from insect pest infestation as well as from the quality-
deteriorating effect of humid environments. However, the current available technology,
being imported, is relatively expensive such that its wide use is limited especially at the
level of the small hybrid rice seed producers. Hence, this study was conducted to
develop a low cost alternative hermetic seed storage technology.

A flexible seed storage enclosure was designed and fabricated utilizing commercially
available plastic-lined sheets. It was equipped with a simple closing mechanism capable
of maintaining a hermetic condition. One-year storage test trials were conducted to
evaluate prototype performance in comparison with other storage practices/technologies.

Test results showed that the prototype enclosure could maintain a hermetic storage
condition comparably with the imported counterpart basing from the regularly monitored
oxygen concentration of air and the moisture content of the stored hybrid rice seeds (PSB
Rc72H) inside. Moreover, there was no insect infestation observed in the seeds stored
in both the prototype and the imported enclosure throughout the 1-year storage period.
In the conventional method (piled bags in open space under ambient condition), an
average increase of 150 insects (a combination of dead and alive rice weevils and lesser
grain borers) was observed per month per 500g seed sample examined. For the 3 test
trials conducted starting 2004, the prototype enclosure performed consistently and
significantly better than the conventional practice and comparably with the imported
enclosure in maintaining the viability of the stored hybrid rice seeds.

Costing only P5,000/ton capacity as against P17,500/ton capacity in the imported, the
locally developed enclosure hopes to enhance the capability of the local hybrid rice seed
producers to store their seeds.

13. Paper: Development of Mechanized Seed Handling and Processing System

Authors: R. F. Orge, J. E. Abon, E. C. Gagelonia, N. G. Parpados and E. U. Bautista

This study was conducted to ensure the quality of produced rice breeder/foundation
seeds. Specifically, it aims to develop a mechanized system of harvesting, handling and
processing rice seeds so as to lessen the labor and time requirements of the various
operations involved as well as minimize the risk of contaminating the seeds with other-
variety seeds.
The new system developed consists of a harvesting component, which makes use of a
mini-combine, and large jute bags as containers of the newly harvested seeds, a specially
designed trailer (which could be pulled either by a 2-wheel or a 4-wheel tractor) for
transporting the filled large jute bags to the drying area, and a rice hull-fed bag dryer. The
seeds are no longer removed from the large jute bags since these bags also serve as the
drying bin. Once dried, the seeds, while still in the jute bags are transported to the
cleaning area where they undergo final cleaning prior to packing.

Results of the field test showed that a labor saving of 111.23 man-hours/ha (equivalent to
48%) could be attained using the mechanized system. This figure could still be increased
since, during the time of test, the mini-combine used oftentimes bugged down because of
some problems encountered in its grain conveying components. Test results also showed
that with the new (mechanized) system, the whole operation from harvesting to drying,
for a 0.24 ha field, was accomplished within 23 hours with 2 persons involved as against
the conventional system which took 33 hours to accomplish with up to 7 persons
involved in some of the operations. With the new system, drying (using the bag dryer)
was carried out at night time thus seed MC was immediately lowered down to 12% 16
hours after harvesting was completed. On the conventional method, drying (sun drying)
can only be carried out in the following day. Thus the seeds, at high MC condition, have
to be temporarily stored overnight – a condition that may reduce seed quality.

Performance of drying component showed MC variations of less than 1% which showed

a more or less uniform drying of seeds in each individual bag. Results of seed analysis
showed a very high germination rate and purity.

14. Paper: Design and Development of Appropriate Bulk Handling System for Corn
at Farm Level
Authors: Edgar Allan Z. Bermundo, Edgar D. Flores and Edgar B. Testa

The project design and development of an appropriate bulk handling system for corn at
farmers cooperative level of operation was conducted in the province of Bukidnon. The
study was made to develop an appropriate bulk handling system for corn at farmers-
cooperative level of operation. Seventeen postharvest handling systems scenarios were
considered to identify the most appropriate handling system that would benefit the farmer
and based from this an appropriate bulk handling system would be introduced.

Systems 4 and 9 could provide the farmers with a highest net income of PhP 17, 676.82
during dry season. Both in these systems, corn grains were immediately sold after drying
operation. However, the farmers could derive the highest net income of PhP 16,983.24
using system 5 and 10 during wet season. These systems were both using mechanical
drying method due to inclement weather condition. The potential areas where bulk
handling could be introduced in the existing handling system are in the collection and
handling of grain during harvesting, shelling, drying, storage and marketing.

Allied fields (3)

1. Paper: An Impact Assessment of the Center of Excellence/Development in
Agriculture Engineering Program in the Philippines
Author: Orlando F. Balderama, Avelino Ramirez and Camilo Polinga

This study was primarily conducted to determine whether the set goals,
objectives, and targets of the Center Of Excellence/Development in Agricultural
Engineering were achieved (and to what extent these were achieved) by various
HEI recipients of a COE/COD Award.

The assessment was based on the Work and Financial Plan contained in their
approved Memorandum of Agreement with the Commission on Higher Education
(CHED) on the utilization of the COE/COD – Agriculture Engineering Award.

An “Impact Assessment Instrument” was prepared by a task force (from various

disciplines with COE/COD Awards) in coordination with CHED for the gathering
of data needed in the study. Information from the instrument and from CHED-
OPS was validated from the actual visit to HEI recipients and discussion with its
faculty and staff. Problems encountered were threshed-out during the actual visit
by concerned Technical Assistants (TA’s).

As Center of Excellence Center of Development, the HEI is entitled to a P3

million grant per year or a total of P9 million for the three-year duration of the
award. On the other hand, Center of Development grantees is entitled to a P1
million grant per year or a total of 3 million pesos for the three-year duration of
the award. This amount was used primarily for facilities enhancement/upgrading,
instruction and scholarship, research and publications, faculty development and
administrative cost.

Findings showed that the COE/COD Award was in general used in what they
were planned. On instruction, the COE/COD in Agriculture Engineering Award
made possible the curricular changes to comply with requirements by TPAE. This
included the revision of one of BSAE undergraduate programs.

During the period of the COE Award, only one COE has maintained/sustained an
enrolment (200-300 per year) level almost the same as that of the pre-COE
Award. This is the exact opposite of the downward trend in enrolment in the
agriculture engineering program of the other HEI grantees.

The enhancements/upgrading/updating of laboratory, audio-visual and library

facilities brought about by the COE/COD Award, provided students, faculty, and
other stakeholders environment conducive to teaching-learning process, and
conduct of research and development activities. As elicited during the validation
visit, this is an area where funding is difficult to source out (especially in the
regular budget allocation of the university).

At its present status, the COE/COD grantees in Agriculture Engineering Program

exhibits mostly or all of the desired indicators of a Center of
Excellence/Development in Agriculture Engineering. Among these are the
following: (a) sustained number of enrollees, (b) highly capable faculty with
active involvement in research and extension activities, (c) well-equipped
library/laboratory facilities, (d) good performance of graduates in licensure
examinations, (e) research outputs that contribute to science (as shown by
research papers published in peer-reviewed journals), (f) research outputs that
results to technological improvement (matured technologies, patented
technologies), and (g) involvement in community activities and programs.

Good practices that can be learned from the COE/COD Award implementation
are the following: (a) prepared work and financial plan before the project
implementation, (b) presence of a monitoring & evaluation scheme, and (d)
regular monitoring & evaluation of activities and accomplishments.

For future program implementation, it is recommended that program

implementers be given enough flexibility to cope up with unforeseen changes in
the plans which are crucial in the smooth implementation of the priority projects.

2. Paper: The Open Academy for Philippine Agriculture – A Case Study on Bringing
Timely Rice and Rice-Based Information to Farmers
Authors: Roger Barroga, Eduardo Jimmy P. Quilang & Caesar Joventino M. Tado

The fast emerging gadgets on Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

should not be taken for granted as a tool not only for personal use but also for agricultural
purposes especially in bringing timely agricultural information to farmers. This paper
exemplifies some of the different ICT modes tested by the Open Academy for Philippine
Agriculture (OPAPA) in bringing timely information and linking experts to the farmers.
The six different ICT modes are the : 1. Pinoy Farmers’ Web Portal; 2. Farmers’ Text
Center; 3. Mobile Internet Bus; 4. Databases and e-content 5. Distance learning and 6.
Cyber Communities. The Pinoy Farmers’ Web Portal consists of relevant up to date
information on rice and rice based farming systems. Extension workers or even farmers
who have access to the internet can readily print information they need to solve the
problem in the field. Those who cannot access the internet can still get information and
consult experts thru the farmers’ text center. The mobile internet bus is used to introduce
ICT and train farmers and extension workers on basic computer operation, and internet
browsing. Building up of different Databases and e-content development is the main key
ingredient for ICT applications in agriculture because this is where information can be
obtained and eventually disseminated to farmers and extension workers. There are 12
cyber communities already established as test beds of these ICT modes. So far, the ICT
modes introduced and tested are very practical and now gaining popularity not only in the
cyber communities but nationwide. There are now more and more farmers who benefit on
these ICT modes.

3. Paper: Engineering Research & Development for Technology (ERDT)

Authors: Ireneo C. Agulto and Rowena Cristina L. Guevara
Engineering Research and Development for Technology (ERDT) is a massive human
resource development program for engineers. Its center piece is a Graduate Scholarship
Program for masters and doctoral degree programs in the various fields of engineering
under a consortium of seven (7) universities: UP Diliman, De La Salle University, Mapua
Institute of Technology, Ateneo de Manila University, University of San Carlos,
Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, and Central Luzon State
University. The scholarship program costs PhP540M over the next three years. The rest
of the proposal consists of infrastructure and research facility buildup. One of the
purposes of this initiative is to increase the global competitiveness of Filipinos who are
graduates of the various fields of engineering.

The President of the Republic of the Philippines instructed the Department of Science
and Technology (DOST) to shepherd the proposal. Thus, the program and its budget will
be placed under the DOST. Further, Her Excellency also instructed the formation of a
Steering Committee to ensure that the appropriate moves regarding this initiative will be
done accordingly. The DOST was tasked to Chair the Committee with CHED, DepEd, a
Private Sector, and UP as members.

This paper aims to present and promote the ERDT concept of a) making Science and
Technology work for Filipinos: from disaster mitigation to poverty alleviation, from
agriculture to semiconductor industries; ensure a sustainable environment and affordable
energy for the future; b) producing a critical mass of MS and PhD graduates in the
teaching and R&D staffs of engineering and science schools, in public R&D agencies and
in the laboratories of private companies; c) upgrading the qualifications of practicing
engineers; and d) implement a research agenda to support the country’s National Science
and Technology Plan (NSTP) and the Medium-Term Development

Modelling and Simulation of Agricultural and Biological Systems (8)

1. Paper: Estimation of Vegetation Parameter for Modeling Soil Erosion Using

Remote Sensing Data
Author: Alejandro M. de Asis

Soil conservation planning often requires estimates of soil erosion at catchments or

regional scale. Predictive models such as Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) and its
subsequent Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) are useful tools to
generate quantitative estimates necessary for designing sound conservation measures.
However, large-scale soil erosion model-factor parameterization and quantification is
difficult due to costs, labor and time involved. Among the soil erosion parameters, the
vegetative cover or C factor has been one of the most difficult to estimate over broad
geographic areas. The C factor represents the effects of vegetation canopy and ground
covers in reducing soil loss. Traditional method and extraction of vegetation
information from remote sensing data such as classification techniques and vegetation
indices were found inaccurate. Thus, this study presents a new approach based on
spectral mixture analysis (SMA) of Landsat ETM data to map C factor and use as
input in the modeling of soil erosion. A desirable feature of SMA is that it estimates
fractional abundance of ground cover and bare soils simultaneously, appropriate for
soil erosion analysis. Hence, C factor was estimated by utilizing the results of SMA on
a pixel-by-pixel basis. Results of the study showed that the C factor value estimated
using SMA correlated strongly with the values measured in the field. A comparative
analysis among classification technique, vegetation indices (NDVI) - and SMA-
derived C factor also showed that the latter produced a more detailed spatial
variability. Furthermore, SMA-derived C factor generated more accurate erosion
estimates when used as input to RUSLE model. A very high-resolution image
QuickBird coupled with field data was used in the validation of results.

2. Paper: Response of Guest (A Physical Process-Oriented Water-Induced Soil

Erosion Model) to Manning’s n at Steep Slope
Authors: Ritchie U. Nuevo and Alan L. Presbitero

The response of the Griffith University Erosion System Template (GUEST), a physical
process-oriented water-induced soil erosion model, to Manning’s roughness coefficient n
was evaluated at the 60% slope bare runoff plot of the Department of Agricultural
Engineering of the Visayas State University (LSU). Ten (10) different values of n from
0.03 to 0.12 at 0.01 interval and 32 recorded storm events were used in the analysis. The
average sediment concentration at the transport limit (ct), saltation shear stress (τsa),
saltation shear stress to total shear stress ratio (τsa/τ), and saltation shear stress to surface
shear stress ratio (τsa/τs) were computed using the new GUEST erosion theory for shallow
flows and high sediment concentrations. The results showed that all parameters analyzed
have a general inverse relationship to n. Variations were magnified during rilled storm
events and at high values of n. A curve-fitting analysis was done to express the computed
parameters as a function of n. The results of the curve-fitting analysis showed that all
b
parameters were consistently of the power form y = an where y is the computed
parameter, n is Manning’s roughness coefficient and a and b are constants. The results
2
showed that b<0 and the R is approximately equal to one. Rilled storm events displayed
2
slightly lower values of R probably due to inaccuracies in estimating rill geometry.
Curve-fitting analysis of the stress ratios against ct at different values of n showed that the
b
curve of best fit was also of the power form y = ax with the stress ratios directly related
to the ct. The tightness of the curve of best fit increased as n increased. Statistical analysis
using the RCBD showed that the analyzed parameters were significantly affected by n.
Further test using DMRT showed that the treatment means at low values of n (0.03 to
0.06) differed significantly from each other.

3. Paper: Optimizing the Cultivar Coefficients in Ceres-Rice Model Using Simulated

Breeding
Author: Jaderick P. Pabico

The Ceres-Rice model requires as inputs crop- and cultivar-specific data that provide
coefficients for considering the effects of the gene-environment interactions of a rice
cultivar. Crop modelers use two techniques to calculate these coefficients: By trial-and-
error, which is tedious to implement and error-prone, even when performed by expert
modelers; Or by the use of the Genetic Coefficient Calculator (GENCALC), which uses a
deterministic stepwise procedure to automatically adjust the coefficients with values
within the plant's realistic physiological ranges, but often results with non-optimal
coefficients. This paper presents a procedure that uses selective breeding as a metaphor
and guarantees near-optimal coefficients. A breeding program is performed on a
population of abstract entities whose genetic codes are the cultivar coefficients. These
entities will undergo a series of operations called selective mating and random mutation
over a number of breeding generations, allowing them to evolve with coefficients that can
provide simulated outputs closer to the experimental trial data. This strategy was used to
“breed” the cultivar coefficients in Ceres-Rice using the environmental and management
data from actual field experiments conducted in Pila, Laguna in 1985 involving IR58.
Using the mean relative error as a measure of closeness of the simulated growth variables
to that of the observed data, the result of the simulation using the coefficients found by
simulated breeding is closer to the actual trial data than that of the simulation using the
coefficients found by GENCALC.

4. Paper: Predicting Copper Transport in an Undisturbed Calumpang Clay Soil

Column Using a Two-Region Contaminant Transport Model
Authors: Nathaniel R. Alibuyog and Victor B. Ella

Leaching of heavy metals resulting from intensified use of agro-chemical, application of

sewage sludge, leachate from sanitary landfills and chemical waste deposits has become a
major concern worldwide. This study aimed to characterize and model the transport
behavior of copper in an undisturbed Calumpang clay soil column. The batch-type and
miscible displacement experiments were used to characterize and model the behavior of
copper transport in an undisturbed soil column using the two-region non-equilibrium
transport model.

Results showed that copper ions are strongly adsorbed in the soil (4255 mg kg-1),
implying that heavy metals such as copper may not be easily leached to groundwater but
may be retained in the soil. The adsorptive capacity of the soil, however, is not infinite
and thus the risk of groundwater contamination should not be overlooked.

Compared to the classical advection-dispersion-retardation model, the two-region

transport (TRT) model showed adequate capacity to simulate the transport of copper in
the soil. Simulated breakthrough curves using this model fitted well with the measured
breakthrough curves and exhibited high coefficient of model efficiency ranging from 90
to 98 percent.

5. Paper: Application of Geographic Information System and Erosion Model in

Watershed Management: the Case of the Bohol Watershed, Philippines
Author: Imelida C. Genson

The use of geographic information system and an erosion model in land management
assessment in the Upper Inabanga Watershed, Philippines is presented. GIS tool was
used to prepare and derive model inputs. Local data such as soil properties, land use
information, a DEM and a one-year 5-minute climate data were assembled for use by the
model. The WEPP erosion model was applied to assess erosion at watershed and farm-
scale levels. Erosion was predicted from a conventional and a conservation-oriented
agriculture practice in terms of on-site and off-site effects. Significant decrease in
erosion was predicted with the adoption of contour farming practice. The results of this
study indicated the advantages of the use of an erosion model and GIS in scenario
assessment for watershed management and planning. The temporal variation of soil loss
over the simulation period can be used to plan farm activities that would minimize
erosion. Although constrained to a number of local parameters especially the crop
management and tillage parameters, the study is an initial step into the use of erosion
model and GIS in understanding erosion processes at different scales in agriculture and in
conservation planning within watersheds. A further improvement of the data and data
collection is recommended in order to establish local parameter values and validate the
applicability of the model in the Philippine setting.

6. Paper: Development of Pedotransfer Functions for Predicting Hydraulic

Properties of Philippine Soils Using Artifical Neural Network Analysis
Authors: Nathaniel R. Alibuyog, Victor B. Ella, Eduardo E. Paningbatan Jr., Danielito
T. Franco, and Avelino M. Ramirez

Soil hydraulic functions involving the soil water retention curve and hydraulic
conductivity are key input for models simulating water and chemical transport in soil.
However, these properties are not easily obtainable because measuring them is resource
intensive. One approach to address this data gap is through the development of
pedotransfer functions. Thus, this study was carried out to developed soil water retention
curve pedotransfer functions(SWRC-PTFs) using artificial neural network (ANN) to
predict water retention properties from basic soil physical properties namely sand, silt
and clay percentages, bulk density and geometric mean particle-size diameter.

Results showed that the developed PTFs were adequate in predicting water retention
curves of Philippine soils. Among the soil properties, bulk density was an important input
variable in the model as it reflects the effect of soil structure on the flow of soil water. Its
inclusion in the model had increase prediction of water retention by about 24%. All the
developed PTFs account more than 91% of the total variation of soil water retention with
coefficient of efficiency (EF) ranging from 0.49 to 0.62. Likewise, the new PTFs had
relative improvement (RI) of more than 50% over Rosetta and more than 60% over
Neuro-m in predicting water retention of Philippine soils.

The PTFs developed in this study provide improved relationships for estimating the
hydraulic properties of Philippine soils from soil texture and related properties, and as
such may prove useful in studies dealing with assessment of physical soil quality (i.e.,
contaminant transport) and other hydrological and agricultural problems.

7. Paper: Modeling the Adsorption and Desorption Isotherm of Hybrid Palay and
Brown Rice
Authors: Ethcel Princess H. Patulot and Arnold R. Elepaño
Equilibrium moisture content models were developed to describe the adsorption and
desorption phenomenon of hybrid and inbred palay and brown rice. RC 18 (inbred) and
Mestizo 1 F1 (hybrid) seeds were used. Inbred samples for adsorption path were dried to
moisture content ranging from 6% to 7% while fresh samples were used for desorption
path. Hybrid samples for desorption path have an initial moisture content ranging from
12% to 13%. The equilibrium moisture content of these samples was determined using
three temperatures: 30°C, 45°C and 60°C at relative humidity ranging from 11% to 97%.

Results showed that equilibrium moisture content increases with relative humidity at
constant temperature and decreases with increasing temperature at constant relative
humidity. The equilibrium moisture content of hybrid is not significantly different from
inbred. The equilibrium moisture content of palay is lower than that of brown rice. Rice
hull retains less moisture than brown rice. Equilibrium moisture content of samples from
desorption path is slightly higher than that of adsorption path due to hysteresis effect.
Hysteresis effect was observed only at RH ranging from 20% to 55%. Equilibrium is
attained faster at higher temperatures. The most suitable model equation for all data set
was Modified Chung Pfost since it gave the highest R2, lowest SE and P-value and
random pattern of residual plot.

8. Paper: Moisture Sorption characterization of Hybrid Rice Seeds: PSB Rc72H

(Mestizo 1) and NSIC Rc116H (Mestizo 3)
Authors: Jeffrey A. Lavarias, Francisco D. Cuaresma, and Romualdo C. Martinez

Rice self-sufficiency in the country has potentially exhibited increasing productivity with
the nationwide implementation of hybrid rice technology. Hybrid rice technology
increases rice yield by 15% better than inbred varieties. Postproduction technologies are
geared towards the development of suitable practices and facilities such as dryers and
storage facilities. Simulating postharvest operations may be hampered due to insufficient
data in the literature to predict rates of adsorption of moisture by the recently released
varieties of hybrid rice seeds.

Equilibrium moisture content (EMC) data are necessary for the optimization of most
postharvest operations. Hence, the study was conducted to establish the moisture
sorption characteristics of two public-bred hybrid rice seeds. .

Equilibrium moisture contents (EMC) of PSB Rc72H (Mestizo 1) and NSIC Rc116H
(Mestizo 3) were measured at 25, 35, 45°C with relative humidities (RHs) ranging from
5.6 to 84.43%. Equilibrium moisture content was determined using the gravimetric static
method. Five EMC model equations and their estimated parameters were evaluated for
goodness of fit, namely: (1) Henderson Equation, (2) Oswin Equation, (3) Chung-Pfost
Equation, (4) Halsey Equation and (5) GAB Equation.

The generalized correlation (R2), standard error of estimates (SEE), mean standard error
(MSE) and the mean relative percentage error (P) of the developed models were in the
range of 96.33790 - 99.8523, 0.2062 - 1.02682, 0.04251 - 1.0544, -3.99184 - 0.240997,
respectively for Mestizo 1 and Mestizo 3. Using the SEE, MSE and P values as criteria
to evaluate the ability of the developed models to provide a well fit curve, the modified
Henderson is the best model used.

A single model equation can be used for Mestizo 1 and Mestizo 3. Developed models are
generally adequate to describe the fitting performance of the predicted EMC values
against the experimental values. Henderson equation is the best model having the least
residual errors.

Soil and Water Engineering (6)

1. Paper: Critical Stage for Irrigating Mango
Authors: Ireneo C. Agulto, Armando N. Espino, Jr. and Marvin M. Cinense

One of the important factors influencing the growth and production of horticultural crops
is the application and availability of water at critical stages of growth. Results of studies
on water management on mango in the Philippines have not been fully established to be
able to identify an appropriate package of water management recommendations at the
various growth stages of mango.

One hundred forty mango trees that are 12 years old were subjected to the following
irrigation treatments: T(1) – Control (no irrigation), T(2) – Application of water up to
field capacity per irrigation period starting at the first week of the season; T(3) –
Application of water up to field capacity starting at 30 days before flower induction, T(4)
– Application of water up to field capacity starting at 7 days after flower emergence,
T(5) – Application of water up to field capacity starting at 14 days after flower
emergence, T(6) – Application of water up to field capacity starting at 30 days after
flower emergence, T(7) – Application of water up to field capacity starting at 42 days
after flower emergence.

Results show that irrigating mangoes at 30 and 42 days after flower emergence (AFE)
helped increase the yield significantly, both in terms of weight and number of harvested
fruits per tree. Applying water the whole cropping season, as well as application of water
starting at 30 days before flower induction gave the lowest yields. Likewise, application
of water starting at 14 days AFE increased the yield significantly when compared to those
trees without irrigation, but irrigating mangoes starting at 30 and 42 days AFE had
significantly higher yields and number of harvested fruits than the rest of the treatments.

With the yield and other yield parameters as bases, Carabao mango trees need to be
irrigated four times at most, starting at either 30 or 42 days AFE, with total amounts
ranging from about 3,500 to 4,000 liters.

2. Paper: Extent of Groundwater and Tailwater Reuse Contamination with

Agricultural Chemicals in UPRIIS
Authors: Ireneo C. Agulto, Evangeline B. Sibayan, Nerissa A. Candelaria and Allan
Ross E. Agulto
Groundwater and surface water are good sources for both potable and irrigation waters in
many places in the Philippines. Pollutants like pesticides and other agricultural
chemicals like fertilizers, including domestic wastes are threats to the quality of these
waters, especially if these waters are tapped for use by human beings, animals and plants.
The pesticides and fertilizers as sources of pollutants are brought about by the intensive
use of many farmers nowadays. Hence, there maybe a possibility that their
concentrations keep on increasing to the point that they will exceed the tolerance limit or
standards that are set for human beings.

Groundwater and surface water samples were collected from selected farm areas in the
four districts of the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation Systems (UPRIIS). The
samples were subjected to chemical analysis (pH; dissolved oxygen, DO; biochemical
oxygen demand, BOD; phosphorus; nitrates; calcium; magnesium; sodium; chlorinated
pesticide); and bacteriological analysis. Results obtained were compared with the
National Standards for Drinking Water.

The analyses indicate that in spite of the increases in pollution input, groundwater
in UPRIIS is still generally accepted for household use and irrigation purposes. Thus,
groundwater in UPRIIS is safe as drinking water. Surface water was found to be not
accepted for household use in five of the eight sampling sites. However, it is safe for
irrigation purposes.

3. Paper: Improved Land and Water Use in Northern Thailand: A Case Study of the
Irrigation System Improvement
Author: Kittipong Vuthijumnonk

The upper watershed areas in Thailand covering the provinces of Chiangrai and Phayao
including three districts of Chiang Mai province, namely: Fang, Mae Ai and Chaiprakarn,
are divided into three areas of Nam Kok, Nam Ing and Nam Khong watersheds.

The development of water resources for irrigation purposes in these areas is under the
responsibility of six government agencies comprised of the Department of Irrigation,
Department of Land Development, Department of Cooperative Promotion, Department of
Energy Promotion and Development, Office of Rural Development and Department of
Local Governance. In these areas, there are a total of 444 irrigation projects, which cover
an area of 1,080,995 rai (6.25 rai = 1 hectare) and are classified into 115 irrigation weir
projects irrigating an of 510,010 rai, 147 reservoir projects irrigating an area of 402,454
rai, 48 electrically-pumped water projects irrigating an area of 62,120 rai and 35 other
kinds of irrigation projects irrigating an area of 106,411 rai.

Problems concerning with the management of irrigation projects in these areas are almost
similar to those that occur in other sites, such as the lack of coordination among
government agencies in terms of planning and implementation of each bureau or
watershed area. However, the efficiency in water usage is considered the most important
problem together with the lack of care and maintenance of the irrigation project. Most of
these irrigation projects are not inspected and there are no measurements of water entry
and exit in irrigation receiver areas thus efficiency value assessment of irrigation project
could not be attained. As a result, no water fee can be collected, which is actually
intended for use in management and maintenance, thus they could not be implemented
efficiently, most particularly, among the huge irrigation projects which have yet no water
users group that govern all the irrigated areas of the project.

The improvement of the irrigation projects must solve the causes of the problem in which
there should be coordination among government agencies in the planning and
implementation of the irrigation project. The inspection and measurement of collected
data for the assessment of the efficiency of the irrigation project. The management of the
large irrigation projects in particular, must be implemented with the participation of the
farmers themselves, starting from project planning, water allocation planning and
maintenance and support to allow the grouping of water users including the
implementation of fee collection for maintaining the irrigation project thus helping to
reduce state expenses incurred by the water users.

4. Paper: Degree of Soil Erosion of Bataan Upland Areas Covered with Pineapple
Using Different Planting System
Authors: Ricson L. Ines, Walter G. Valdez, Jonathan E. Lacayanga

Pineapple production is one of the major commodities of Samal and Abucay, Bataan.
Most of the products come from the upland areas where temperature and climate is
suitable for the growing. Other than this, it is intercropped with different crops or fruit
trees without conservation measures.

Hence, this farmer’s practices possess great risk to the environment because it will
adversely affect soil condition due to erosion. Continued upland farming without
conservation practices will eventually leads to upland degradation damaging lowland area
brought about by soil erosion in many forms.

Pineapple planted along the slope generated 23.275 tons/hectare/year mean of soil eroded
higher than the pineapple planted across the slope with a mean of 13.036 tons/
hectare/year mean while the unproductive or undisturbed land exhibited 0.0072 tons
/hectare/year. Conditions laid on the 17.36 percent slope were related to 3,320.5 mm of
rainfall intensity during the study period. The generated weight of soil erosion was 80.37
percent higher than of obtained soil erosion in revised universal soil loss equation
(RUSLE = 4.756 tons/ha).

Severe soil erosion was found on both planting system while planting along the slope
exhibited 44 percent higher (10.239 tons/ha/year) than erosion on pineapple planted
across the slope.

The study likewise develop an equation to estimate soil erosion (tons/ha/year) on two
planting systems using non-linear regression analysis; unproductive land or undisturbed
land, Y = 0.00000001X2 – 0.0000046X + 0.002553; pineapple planted along the slope, Y
= 0.0000609X2 – 0.01678X + 0.75714; and pineapple planted across the slope or
contouring, Y = 0.00203X2 – 0.005933X + 0.25238. This equation utilizes data on
rainfall depth as a factor of soil erosion. The generated soil loss equation would primarily
estimate volume of soil erosion in relation to rainfall depth and served as benchmark for
policy makers, researcher and farmers on what method of planting should be used.

5. Paper: Soil and Water Conservation: Agroforestry Perspective in the Uplands

Author: Herminia C. Tanguilig

The hilly land areas in the Philippines are conducive to severe erosion. To prevent land
degradation and the impoverished living condition of the hilly land farmers to continue to
worsen, acceptable cropping system alternatives with built-in soil conservation and
rehabilitation measures should be adopted.

Soil and water conservation studies conducted ranged from monitoring soil erosion and
surface run-off under areas with different vegetation cover and determining the effects of
different vegetation covers on soil erosion and surface runoff to finding approaches for
soil moisture retention to improve the micro-environment.
To better advance the knowledge and practice of soil and water conservation in the
Philippines, several studies have been conducted by various agencies and institutions.
Aware that there are several efforts done in the past, the researcher explored the results of
researches conducted over the last two decades for an updated knowledge in soil and
water conservation. These research results were compared and analyzed to come up with
a synthesis of a number of related studies.

Several researchers who studied the effects of different vegetative cover on runoff and
soil loss found out that sweet potato was the most effective vegetative cover in
controlling soil loss and runoff. This is because of the crop’s ability to produce greater
herbage density in a shorter time compared to other species, like corn.

On the other hand, leguminous tree species can be planted in strip with sweet potato. The
accumulated top soil ranged from 0.60 cm to 2.00 cm. These trees minimize soil
movement by acting as soil traps and as a source of organic fertilizer.

The integration of furrow contour farming, hedgerows, and other farming practices with
appropriate farming systems in agroforestry schemes could check soil erosion and
improve the productivity of the land.

Accordingly, alley and multiple-storey cropping systems which are soil conservation-
oriented agroforestry systems appropriate for farming hilly areas have become acceptable
to hilly land farmers in some parts of the Philippines. Erosion rates on steep slopes can
be brought down to a tolerable level when alley cropping system is practiced with soil
conservation practices such as contouring, mulch, minimum tillage, and waterways.

6. Paper: Controlled Irrigation Adoption for Efficient Water Management at the

System Level for Increasing and Sustaining Water Productivity
Authors: E. B. Sibayan, J. L. de Dios, M. A. Florague, L. C. Javier, A. S. Espiritu , R.
M. Lampayan, and A. S. Nangel
Water productivity is the ratio of grain yield over water input, where water input is the
sum of effective rainfall and irrigation applications from transplanting to harvest, or from
sowing to harvest in the case of direct seeding. In farms covered by a reservoir backed
irrigation system like the Upper Pampanga Integrated Irrigation System (UPRIIS), most
of the farmers especially those at the upstream and the midstream are assured of two
croppings in a year. However, this is unlikely with the farms located at the downstream
because most of them are not covered during the dry season especially when the optimum
level of water in the reservoir is not met. Rice farmers not only in the Philippines but
also in other rice producing countries keep their paddies continuously flooded as a
normal practice, maintaining 5 to 7 cm water above the soil. This practice is not only
wasteful but also detrimental to the rice crop. This aggravates the looming water scarcity
and the increasing demand to produce more food for the growing population. To address
these, scientists explored and experimented trying to find ways on how rice can be
produced with less water, and water saving techniques were developed. One of these is
alternate wetting and drying (AWD) or controlled irrigation (CI). In 2002 and 2003 the
Technology Transfer for Water Saving (TTWS) project was successfully implemented in
some parts of the country where water is scarce. The idea is to apply reduced amount of
water in rice without significant yield loss compared to the continuously flooded culture.
The technology truly proved that the same rice yield can be attained with lesser water.
However, attempts had never been made to transfer the technology in farms covered by
irrigation systems where the prospect of saving water in a larger spatial scale has a great
potential. The scheme is for the upstream and midstream farmers to adopt the technology
and in so doing, more water will flow towards the downstream. Initial results of the two
season activity resulted in higher water productivity of 0.59 g of grain per kg of water,
almost doubled the lower limit of 0.3 g grain per kg of water. The possibility of
increasing water productivity is high since the farmers who adopted the technology in
2007 have not reached the minimum level of water in the soil. This paper shows how the
adoption of CI was used as a tool for efficient water management at a larger spatial scale
and possibly at the system level by replicating what were done here for increasing and
sustaining water productivity. It also captured the benefits derived from the adoption of
the technology by the farmers, individually as a person and collectively as the irrigators’
association.

Agricultural Machinery and Mechanization (8)

1. Paper: Design and Evaluation of Prototype Cherry Picker for Pruning Longan
Tree
Author: Samerkhwan Tantikul

The objective of this study is to design a prototype Cherry Picker for pruning longan tree
by introducing a hydraulic system for driving and lifting the basket in both vertical and
horizontal directions. With the driving and lifting system being manually operated by the
operator in the basket, the Cherry Picker lifting height can be varied between 1-6 meters
from ground to the bottom of the basket. The maximum velocity for lifting and lowering
the basket was 0.1 and 0.46 m/s respectively, while the speed for moving the basket
forward and backward was 0.13 and 0.18 m/s, respectively. Meanwhile, the forward and
backward ground speed was 9.31 and 7.85 km/h, respectively, with the narrowest turning
radius of 3.03 meters. Fuel consumption of the 11-horse power diesel engine was 0.56
litters per hour. The Cherry Picker can be operated by only one man for both controlling
and pruning.

The Cherry Picker performance test in long-term period showed its capacities were 1.77
and 1.56 trunk per hour for 5 and 6-meters height tree, respectively, as compared to the
conventional ladder used for pruning at 0.45 and 0.44 trunk per hour for the same tree
heights. From economic evaluation with service rate of 185 baht per trunk and working
day of 200 days/year, the maximum net profit was 161,043.54 baht per year and pay-back
period was 1.24 years.

2. Paper: AMTEC Performance Rating System, a Guiding Tool in the Appropriate

Selection of Agricultural Machinery
Authors: Arsenio N. Resurreccion, Romulo E. Eusebio, Darwin C. Aranguren, Romeo
P. Santiago, and DelfinC. Suministrado

The Agricultural Machinery Testing and Evaluation Center (AMTEC) has come up with
a machinery Performance Rating System which will guide the prospective users in the
selection of agricultural machinery according to tested performance. The Performance
Rating System was developed by AMTEC in consultation with the Agricultural
Machinery Manufacturers and Dealers Association, Inc. (AMMDA). The system gives
machines a rating in the scale of 2 to 10. A rating of “6” implies that the machine just
meet the minimum requirements. A rating above “6” implies above minimum
performance and below “6” implies below minimum performance. The parameters in the
system are based mostly on Philippine Agricultural Engineering Standards and if there
are no established standards yet, they are based on test data of AMTEC.

As an initial output, AMTEC has come up with three Catalogues of AMTEC-tested

machines. These catalogues contain machines tested from 1993 - 2003. They contain
information on the machines and rating points based on the AMTEC Performance Rating
System. Based on the catalogues, 46% of engines and 40% of Hand Tractors tested were
within and above the minimum requirements. While for Centrifugal pumps, 72.6% of
bare pumps and 32.4% of pumpsets were within and above the minimum requirements.
For dryers and ricemills, 66.7% and 41.7% were within and above the minimum
requirements, respectively. These data are very useful to the prospective buyers/end-
users of agricultural machines.

In general, the Performance Rating System can improve the energy use efficiency of
machines being use, since it recommends those machines whose performance ratings are
within and above the minimum requirements. For the manufacturer, if their machines are
below the minimum requirements they will not be able to sell their machines unless they
make some improvements to meet/pass the minimum requirements.

3. Paper: Evaluation of the System Efficiencies of Different Pump-primemover

Combinations for Shallow Tubewell Irrigation
Authors: Arthur L. Fajardo and Delfin C. Suministrado
Cost effectiveness and sustainability of shallow tubewell (STW) makes it popular in
irrigated agriculture. One factor which affects STW’s cost effectiveness is efficient
pump set operation, thus, it is important to make a comparative assessment of the system
efficiency of the different pump sets used for STW.

Fifty eight (58) pump-primemover combinations were set up by matching each of five (5)
centrifugal pumps with three (3) types of primemovers namely: diesel engines (six units),
gasoline engines (three units), and electric motors (three units). Each of the 58 pump sets
was run at varying pump test speed: 1300, 1500 and 1800 rpm for non-self priming
pumps; and 1500, 1800 and 2000 rpm for self priming pumps.

The average fuel consumption obtained by diesel engine pump sets was about 0.92 liters
per hour while the average electrical consumption obtained by electric motor pump sets
was about 3.40 kilowatt-hour.

Overall system efficiency of self priming pump sets was about twice as much when
compared with overall efficiency of non-self priming pump sets with the same
primemover and pump test speed.

The average overall system efficiency of all electric motor pump sets was about 23.85%
compared to diesel engine pump sets with only about 9.39% and gasoline engine pump
sets with only about 5.60%. Highest overall system efficiency of about 41.05% was
obtained by 4x4-Electric Motor A pump set operated at 1300 rpm while the lowest
overall system efficiency of about 2.30% was obtained by NS 50-Gasoline Engine 11.5
pump set operated at 1500 rpm.

The best option to be considered as primemover for STW irrigation would be the electric
motors considering high overall system efficiency obtained by electric motor pump sets.
However, due to limitations of electric motors in the field, diesel engines were the
popular primemover used in STW irrigation. The 5.22 kW diesel engine used for this
study had shown relatively good performance when operated with all pumps especially at
lower pump speeds of 1300 and 1500 rpm.

4. Paper: Design, Construction, Testing and Performance Evaluation of Manually

Operated Four (4) Row Rice Hill Seeder for Wetland Paddy
Authors: Jonathan E. Lacayanga and Walter G. Valdez

Direct seeding method of rice cultivation has gained wide range of acceptability
especially to small farmers majority of whom produce rice through out the year. With the
existing design of seeders used in direct seeding both for hybrid and inbred rice,
recommendations prevails as to its design. The basis of the design was focused in
generating actual information on the seeder metering mechanism that will constitute a hill
similar to the transplanted rice, the appropriate and simplest design of metering activator,
the seeder capacity, seeding rate, seeding efficiency, percent missed hills and the seeder
cost and its operation.
The prototype seeder was designed and fabricated for the purpose of further reducing the
direct seeding, improve crop establishment, increase efficiency and capacity and to
capture a wider range of acceptability to farmers engaged engage in direct seeding. The
seeder was made from locally available materials where some can easily be acquired
from second hand shop or junk shop. It can easily be fabricated with out requiring
technical skills and ability.

The seeder is manually operated by only one person. It is light in weight, thus reducing
the drudgery of pulling. The seeder consists of major parts like the ground wheel, furrow
opener, ski, main frame where all parts are attached to it and the pulling handle. The most
important part is the seed metering and hopper assembly that has the ability to
accommodate and drop 2-3 seeds per hill spaced at 20 cm between rows and hills.

On a well prepared paddy, the seeder was tested using three (3) rice varieties namely PSB
Rc 66 considered high yielding, SL-8 hybrid rice and Dinorado a fancy inbred rice
variety. The purpose was to determine whether the seeder would perform using different
rice seed varieties. Field tests showed that there was no significant difference in
parameters under observation using 3 rice varieties. It includes seeding rate (kg/ha),
Seeding efficiency (%), Field capacity (ha/hr), Field efficiency (%) and Percent missed
hills (%). During the actual field testing, an average forward speed of 1.61 km/hr was
maintained.

Under this condition, tests revealed the seeder achieved an effective Field capacity of
0.631 ha/day, Field efficiency of 65.22%, Work capacity of 8.239 hr/ha, Seeding rate of
16-20 kg/ha and Missed hills of 13.79%, Seeding efficiency of 83. 11% and acceptable -
6.12% slippage.

With an initial costs of Php 2,164.80, considering that a custom rate/ha of Php1,200/ha
the seeder must be operated at a rate of 0.607 ha/year (607 square meters) to break even.

5. Paper: Evaluation of BPRE Developed Pneumatic Corn Planter Using Corn Seeds
Inoculated with BIO–N
Authors: Andres M. Tuates Jr., Ofero A. Capariño, Jimmy P. Esguerra, Reynaldo P.
Gregorio, Ruben E. Manalabe, Juliet A. Anarna, Mercedes U. Garcia

Among the major factors to increase the corn yield and productivity of the corn farmers
are the use of mechanized planting and the application of biological fertilizer. This study
was conducted to evaluate the BPRE developed pneumatic corn planter using corn seeds
inoculated with Bio–N. Specifically, it aims to: 1) assess the effect of corn planter
pneumatic metering system on the inoculated corn seeds on the number/population of
bacteria; 2) demonstrate the effect of corn planter pneumatic metering system to
inoculated corn seeds on growth, and; 3) validate the performance of BPRE pneumatic
corn planter to inoculated corn seeds under field condition.

Results showed that the available living bacteria obtained in planting inoculated corn
seeds using the BPRE pneumatic corn planter are above the acceptable limit set by the
UPLB-Biotech. This reveals that the available bacteria still can enhance shoot growth and
root development, replace 30 - 50% or more of the plant’s total nitrogen requirement,
increase nutrient absorption facilitated by the improve roots system, and reduce incidence
of corn ear-worm attack, and higher quality of their harvest (bigger ears and kernels).
This was confirmed during pot experiments grown under screen house using different soil
samples and testing and evaluation under field condition; the plant height, oven dry
weight of shoots and roots, corn ear and kernel recovery, kernel density and potential
yield between planting Bio-N inoculated corn seeds using traditional manual planting and
BPRE developed pneumatic corn planter have no significant differences. The leaf color is
also similar.
The BPRE developed corn planter now is a 5 in 1 machine. It can plant, apply basal
application, cover seeds and fertilizer, create furrow and can plant a corn seeds inoculated
with Bio-N at the same time. Moreover, the utilization of BPRE developed corn planter
in corn production can further increase the yield.

It is recommended that planting of corn seeds inoculated with Bio-N using BPRE
pneumatic corn planter should follow the set procedure of UPLB–Biotech in inoculating
corn seeds or place sufficient amount of inoculants in a container and moisten with water,
pour corn seeds and mix thoroughly until the seeds are evenly coated. Avoid using any
adhesive compound specially oil to achieve the tight coating of inoculants on seed
surface because this will affect the performance of the vacuum system.

6. Paper: Minimizing Costs and Improving Labor Productivity and Energy

Efficiency in Rice Production Through Alternative Tillage and Crop
Establishment Techniques
Authors: Manuel Jose C. Regalado, Paulino S. Ramos and Rolando T. Cruz

Field experiments were conducted at PhilRice CES to test tillage and crop establishment
methods and evaluate these techniques in terms of unit production cost, labor
productivity and energy efficiency.

In establishing the 2007 DS and WS PSB Rc82 crops, the tillage methods used were
conventional preparation, comprised of one 4-wheel tractor rotavation, three hand tractor
harrowings and one riding hand-tractor leveling, and reduced tillage, which consisted of
two puddlings using floating tiller and one riding hand-tractor leveling. Planting
techniques applied were mechanical transplanting (30 x 15 cm spacing; 40 kg seeds/ha)
and drum-seeding (20 cm row spacing; 50 kg seeds/ha).

Yields of both transplanted and drum-seeded Rc82 were higher with conventional tillage
in the DS, but in the WS there were no significant differences in yield. Mean labor
productivity for mechanically transplanted Rc82 with conventional tillage (89.3 kg paddy
per man-day) in the DS was higher than with reduced tillage (86.2 kg/md) owing to
higher yields attained in the former. However, it was lower in the WS (93.0 vs. 98.6)
since yield differences were insignificant. Unit production costs of mechanically
transplanted Rc82 with conventional land preparation were higher in both DS and WS
(P6.67/kg and P6.25/kg, respectively) than with reduced tillage (P5.00/kg and P5.88/kg).
In terms of the overall energy output-input ratio (OER), production of mechanical
transplanted rice with conventional tillage (OER=5.98) was as energy-efficient as with
reduced tillage (OER=5.92). Total energy input with thorough tillage was higher (16,356
vs. 14,885 megajoules/ha) but this was compensated by higher yields. In the WS,
however, OER was higher with reduced tillage (7.56 vs. 6.89).

With drum-seeded Rc82, mean labor productivity with thorough tillage (127.2 kg/md)
was higher in the DS than with reduced tillage (125.8 kg/md), but was lower in the WS
(95.6 vs. 100.6). Unit production costs in both DS and WS drum-seeded crops were
higher with thorough land preparation (P5.00/kg and P5.88/kg, resp.) than with reduced
tillage (P4.76/kg and P5.26/kg, resp.). The drum-seeded crop with thorough tillage was as
energy efficient (OER=7.7) as with reduced tillage (OER=7.8), but in the WS the latter
was more efficient (7.4 vs. 6.8).

The results imply that tillage operations could be reduced to lower unit production cost,
without significant reduction in yield, and improve labor productivity and energy
efficiency. Moreover, drum-seeding with reduced tillage would be a promising option to
lower production cost below P5.00/kg and improve labor productivity beyond 120 kg/md.

7. Paper: Force Analysis Optimization of Decortication of Coconut (Cocos nucifera)

Husk
Authors: Lerjun M. Peñaflor and Arnold R. Elepaño

The study was conducted using the Response Surface Methodology to determine the
optimum mechanism for decorticating coconut husk through the basic analysis on
shearing test as applied to existing decorticating machine. The factors studied were
retting period, crosshead speed, and position of the husk. Response variables considered
were shearing force, stress, and extension.

Analysis of variance showed that all the independent variables significantly affected
dependent variables. Second degree polynomial model was generated for shearing the
coconut husk. Through superimposition of the responses contour plots optimum
condition for shearing were established.

Utilizing these results from shearing test and applying it to the existing decorticating
machine. The factors studied were retting period, decorticating speed, and number of
blades of decorticator. Results revealed that the retting period is the most important
factor affecting loading and defibering capacity, fiber recovery, defibering efficiency and
power and the length of fiber. Speed significantly affected loading and defibering
capacity, decorticating efficiency and power. While number of blades affected only the
loading capacity, power and length of fiber. Through superimposition of the significant
responses contour plots optimum condition for decortication of coconut husk were
established.

8. Paper: Comparative Study on Direct Seeding Technologies for Lowland Rice Seed
Production
Authors: E. C. Gagelonia, J. E. Abon, N. G. Parpados and M. J. C. Regalado
The production and maintenance of foundation seeds of all currently grown and newly
released varieties is a rigorous and important activity being done to assure availability of
pure, weed free and high quality seed for the benefit of seed growers and farmers. In seed
production, transplanting of seedlings in straight rows is often practice by breeding
institutions and seed growers because volunteer seeds could be easily identified during
vegetative growth. However, labor is becoming a problem due to increasing cost and lack
of labor during peak period.

Direct seeding technologies are available but seed growers are hesitant in using this
method in seed production because they are not assured of attaining high quality seeds
due to several factors that could affect seed purity. This study is being conducted to
evaluate different direct seeding technologies in seed production.

The different direct seeding technologies used in this study were broadcasting, drum
seeder and precision seeder with transplanting as control. Results revealed that precision
seeding achieved the lowest seeding rate of 15 kg/ha, which is lower than the
recommended rate of 20 kg/ha in transplanted method for foundation seed production.
The seeding rate for drum seeded and broadcasted is the same, which is at 40 kg/ha.

The broadcast method gave the highest seedling emergence per sq.m., followed by drum
seeded and precision seeded with 368, 216 and 84 seedlings, respectively. However,
precision seeded gave the highest number of grains per panicle followed by drum seeded
and broadcasted with 118, 103 and 76, respectively. Precision seeded gave the highest
number of grains per panicle due to lesser density of seedlings achieved per sq.m.

For the yield, broadcast method obtained the highest yield followed by precision seeded
and drum seeded. However, the yield difference between broadcast method and precision
seeded is insignificant. Although, broadcast seeding obtained the lowest number of grains
per panicle, yield was compensated by the number of plant population.

Result of seed analysis for different direct seeding methods revealed 100% production
efficiency and passed seed certification standard for foundation seeds. On the other hand,
although it passed seed certification standards, broadcast seeding incurred higher labor
cost during rouging almost thrice with that of precision and drum seeder. Thus, precision
seeder is potential for direct seeding methods in seed production, considering the seeding
rate attained and ease of rouging. However, improvement on the performance of the
precision seeder is to be done for ease of maneuverability.

Renewable Energy, Biomaterials, Biofuels and Environment (9)

1. Paper: Study on the Techno-Economic Viability of Photovoltaic Pumping System
for Domestic Supply and Agricultural Production in the Cagayan Valley
Region
Author: Orlando F. Balderama
This study was conducted in December 2005 – February 2006 at the Technology Park of
the Isabela State University, Echague Isabela to pilot test the applicability of a solar
powered pumping system for domestic and agricultural uses in the Cagayan Valley
region.

The research utilized the existing 24-unit Photo-voltaic installation with a submersible
pump. Climatic data was collected from the nearby agrometeorological station jointly
operated by PAGASA and Isabela State University A water level recorder was used to
measure drawdown during pumping test and standard electrical multi-meter was likewise
used to monitor the amount of current and voltage generated by the PV system. The
CROPWAT simulation model was also used to benchmark existing climate condition in
the study area to verify the suitability of PV-pumping system and in estimating crop and
irrigation requirements.

Result of the study reveals that PV-pumping is most suitable from the month of
December to April since crop water requirements far exceed available rainfall.

The study also shows the high correlation on the relationship between solar radiation,
discharge and voltage. Through this relationship, a regression model was established as a
useful tool for further analysis and forecasting purposes.

Economic viability indicators manifested that the use of photovoltaic pumping system
has proved to be sustainable. It is expected that after three and a half the invested money
is repaid and one can achieve a long-term profit within 20 years of its lifespan

A general protocol and framework for implementation has been developed to upscale the
technology to potential users.

2. Paper: Development of BPRE Rice Hull Fed Furnace System for Heating
Mechanical Dryers
Authors: Edgar D. Flores, Nestor T. Asuncion, Robelyn E. Daquila, Wryan Quiel Z.
Viloria, Romualdo C. Martinez, Ruben E. Manalabe

A rice hull fed furnace was developed to solve problems of current furnace designs. It
had automatic feeding of rice hull and synchronized removal of ash to operate with
minimal manual attention and minimized operator’s exposure to dusts, heat and fumes. It
had heat exchanger to avoid contamination of dried product with fly ash and harmful
gases. The furnace also had temperature controller to maintain uniform temperature of
heated air. It had fly ash collector/scrubber to control emission of fly ash. Results showed
that the furnace adequately provided the heating requirement of batch recirculating rice
dryers. It attained furnace efficiencies of 50 to 59 % which met the 50 % minimum level
set in Philippine Agricultural Engineering Standards. Moreover, emission of fly ash was
maintained at 15.1 mg/NCM which was way below the maximum 150-200 mg/NCM
NESSAP limit set by DENR. Analysis showed that BPRE rice hull fed furnace system
reduced considerably the cost of drying from PhP 45.73 to Php 47.09 per bag using
kerosene as fuel down to PhP 24.36 to Php 27.01 per bag when used with a single batch
recirculating dryer and down to PhP 21.34 to Php 22.92 per batch when retrofitted to two
dryers.

3. Paper: Development of an Environment-Friendly Biodegradable Composite

Materials and Evaluation of Their Mechanical Properties
Authors: Edgar D. Flores, Masahiro Funabashi, Masao Kunioka

Polymer composites are widely used in the industry nationwide; however, most of these
are non-biodegradable and difficult to manage their wastes after used. These wastes
become white pollution as a worldwide environmental problem. Development of a
biodegradable polymer composite is one of the solutions to abate the above-mentioned
problem. Biodegradable composites can be developed by combining biodegradable
matrices and biodegradable fillers. Polymer composites consisting of poly(butylene
succinate) (PBS) as matrix and corn starch (CS) as filler with a small amount of furfural
(FR) produced from agri-wastes, were prepared by a hot-pressing method at 120 oC and
20 MPa. Mechanical properties of the composites’ films were investigated using tensile
test method based on ISO standard. The strain of these films were found to be developed
by adding CS and further improved by adding FR. In the case of PBS with 15 wt % of
FR, the strain was found to be improved by more than 16 times the strain at break of PBS
without FR from 27% to 450% which showed similar mechanical properties of some
traditional and non-biodegradable thermoplastics which are currently being used by the
plastic industry nationwide. In addition, biomass carbon ratio of these composites was
determined due to certification and promotion of biomass products in the commercial
market. The biomass carbon ratio of polymer composites were evaluated by 14C
concentration ratio measured by accelerator mass spectrometer (AMS) based on
American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) D6866. PBS with 40 wt % of CS had a
biomass carbon ratio of 31.1 %. PBS with 15 wt % of FR had a biomass carbon ratio of
3.41% which was relatively lower than the carbon ratio of FR (16.5 mol %) in all the
carbons of PBS composites calculated based on added composition. A substantial amount
of added FR was confirmed to be evaporated or squeezed out during hot-pressing.

4. Paper: Design and Fabrication of a Biofermenting Machine on a Village Level

Author: Guillermo S. Rillon, Jr.

High humidity storage system (94-97% RH) already gained popularity in storing fruits
and vegetables. This type of storage technique maintains the freshness of the produce by
preventing excessive moisture loss. Negative ions are introduced in the system to reduce
microbial growth associated with high moisture. Negative ions are known to prevent the
growth of microorganisms and reduce the foul smell in the enclosed high humidity
storage. Ionization at high humidity is difficult particularly using corona discharge. An
accurate balance of humidity, temperature and volume of negative ions are necessary to
have significant effect on the shelf life of the stored produce.
A fuzzy logic program was embedded in a 16 bit microcontroller to accurately control the
volume of negative ions in real time. Ion, humidity and temperature sensors were
installed to monitor the conditions while in storage. Volume of ions is maintained by
digitally manipulating fan speed and high voltage trigger of the negative ion generator.
Result showed that volume of negative ions in the storage was accurately controlled
within the set threshold level.

5. Paper: Economical Analysis on Rural Green-village Considering Solar Energy in

Korea
Author: Dae-sik Kim and Sang-woon Nam

This study aims to analyze economical energy balance for design of rural green-village in
Korea, considering solar energy, which is one type of new & renewal energy. The solar
energy can be applied to rural villages in environmental friendly planning. This study
analyzed not only a case area designed by solar energy in village unit of Korea, but also
energy balance in economical aspect for the case village with 68 houses. The unit cost of
electricity generation per kW using solar energy was estimated as about 8,000USD in
Korea. The total amount of electricity per year in the village was surveyed as
250,104kWh, showing the peak value 21,760kWh/month on August. In order to fit the
energy balance for the used amount in the village, it designated that the 38 modules with
the 3kW electricity generation capacity should be constructed in the village, which could
generate 255,025kWh from the 38 modules due to weather condition of the case area.
The plan with 38 modules showed that NPV is 2,958kWh after 42 years for the case
green-village. The results of this study, the appropriate combination of variable
renewable energy resources can be also applied to making energy recycling villages if the
characteristic of energy potential for the area is considered.

6. Paper: A Multi-fuel Auto-fed Biomass Furnace for Grain Dryers

Author: Manolito C. Bulaong

An indirect-fired auto-fed biomass furnace was developed by the author at the Bureau of
Postharvest Research and Extension (BPRE) using corn cobs or ricehull as fuel. The
furnace is made of refractory bricks and the heat exchanger made of high quality fire
tubes. Fuel is fed via twin augers controlled by a PID temperature controller. Tests made
by the Agricultral Machinery Testing and Evaluation Center (AMTEC) with the furnace
attached to a 6-ton LSU-type recirculating dryer revealed a burning efficiency of 99.9%
for corn cobs and 97.6% for ricehull. Heating system efficiency obtained was 63.14% for
corn cobs and 68.5% for ricehull. When a 20 liter/hour diesel burner of an 8-ton LSU-
type recirculating dryer was replaced with the furnace, a total of P295,680 worth of diesel
fuel was saved from drying 512 tons of corn in Maddela, Quirino. A second unit
installed in Benito Soliven for a 6-ton recirculating dryer has dried 192 batches of corn at
at average drying time of 6.5 hours at drying air temperature set at 70°C using corn cobs
as fuel. The third unit installed to a 6-ton recirculating dryer in Baler, Aurora has already
dried 55 tons of palay at average drying time of 4-5 hrs per batch using ricehull as fuel.
The investment cost for the furnace can be recovered in one season of utilization.

7. Paper: The Philippine Biofuels Option: Opportunities and Challenges

Author: Norberto A. Orcullo, Jr.

The continuing dilemma faced by the Philippines due to the escalating prices of imported
petroleum products continually pushed the government to address localized sources of
energy to propel its development objectives. As the primary agency of the Philippine
government tasked to address energy concerns, the Department of Energy ( DOE ) is
mandated to develop and implement the overall agenda for the energy sector as embodied
in the Philippine Energy Plan. The Alternative Fuels Program is one of the five (5) key
components of the Arroyo Administration’s Energy Independence Agenda, which
outlines the roadmap that will lead to the country’s attainment of 60% energy self-
sufficiency by 2010.

The paper presents the Philippine’s biofuels agenda inspired by the Biofuels Act of 2006
which mandates the use of biodiesel on a B1 blend starting May 2007 and B2 blend
within two years after its implementation. The Biofuels Law also mandates that within
two years of its implementation, at least 5 percent of bioethanol shall comprise the annual
total volume of gasoline fuel actually sold and distributed by each and every oil company
in the Philippines. The use of bioethanol as fuel blender for gasoline is also mandated to
be upgraded to B10 or 10 percent after the effectivity of the Biofuels Law.

The paper puts forward the challenges and opportunities for the biofuels initiatives in the
Philippines in relation to its agriculture sector and the business sector as well. It also
touches on the climate change implications of the biofuels usage in the Philippines. The
paper also discussed some concerns on food versus fuels issue and some issues
associated with biofuels feedstock as well as regional/global developments affecting
biofuels production or business prospects. The paper presents an academic views on the
challenges, opportunities as well as prospects of biofuels vis-à-vis the energy supply
agenda of the Philippine government and other considerations associated with
considering biofuels as an option for the country.

8. Paper: Opportunities to Improve the Governance of the Electricity Sector Using

Environmental and Social Principles of Governance: Selected Cases in
Renewable Energy
Author: Alan S. Cajes

The paper takes off from the findings of the Electricity Governance Initiative, which
conducted a pilot assessment of governance of the electricity sector in the Philippines.
However, the focus is on the Environmental and Social Aspects (ESA) of the governance
toolkit used. The ESA indicators are then applied to selected cases of renewable energy
(RE) projects to expound the governance principles. The objectives are to show concrete
examples whether the environmental and social aspects are considered in the governance
of the electricity sector and to pinpoint opportunities to enhance the governance of the
said sector.

In the process of expounding the ESA indicators, the paper will delve into the following
subtopics:
1. Energy as a crucial commodity;
2. RE sub-sector;
3. Lessons learned from the implementation of RE projects since the 1970s;
4. Considerations in designing and implementing RE projects;
5. RE case studies (small hydro power, wind farm, solar PV and biodiesel), and
6. The way forward for RE in the context of the Philippine Agenda 21 and principles of
governance.

The paper expounds clear ideas to RE project implementers, financiers, regulators,

communities and other stakeholders regarding the “myths and realities” of RE projects.

9. Paper: Strategies for the Production of Biodiesel from Jatropha and Other
Oilseeds
Author: Reynaldo M. Lantin

The issues surrounding the production of biofuels, particularly from Jatropha curcas
impinge on policies regarding land use (for fuel vis-à-vis for food production),
environmental concerns, commercial viability and social or poverty-alleviation aspects.
This paper proposes three strategies with accompanying policies to support the
production of oilseeds of jatropha or tuba-tuba and other hardy trees (e.g., lumbang,
Aleurites moluccana) for processing into crude oil. The objective is a financially viable
and sustainable production and processing system for oilseeds, particularly of jatropha at
this time, into biofuel while also addressing the above-mentioned issues.

The strategies include the following: (1) confining the production of jatropha and other
suitable oilseed crops or trees to barren mountains, such production to be carried out by
cluster-organized and technology-trained mountain dwellers who will be given long-term
land leases; (2) interim exporting of oilseeds to developed countries having biofuel
programs while waiting for the establishment of local crude oil refining facilities; and (3)
increasing the value or buying price of jatropha crude oil in support of the producers of
jatropha and other oilseeds in the barren mountains where the usual commercial row-crop
and monoculture farming cannot be practiced profitably and yet be friendly to the
environment and therefore, no large investors will dare venture into the enterprise..

The supporting policies include, but are not limited to, making selected barren mountains
alienable through presidential proclamation or by legislation, specifically for jatropha and
other oilseed production but limiting lessees to actual mountain dwellers consisting of
tribal or indigenous people and to willing poor migrants or informal settlers in urban
areas; institutionalizing the export of oilseeds and a fair trade policy whereby mountain
dweller producers are given preferential price for their on-site produced jatropha crude
oil, the high costs to be recovered from sales of exported oilseeds and locally sold blend
of biodiesel and fossil diesel which are to be socially priced.