THE BALIK Scientists of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) embarked on their groundbreaking research journey on nanotechnology and smart systems in achieving green innovations through industrial waste transformations.
Two Balik scientists from DOST-PCIEERD (Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development), Dr. Khino Parohinog and Dr. Chosel Lawagon, presented their cutting-edge breakthroughs and innovative key projects at the University of Mindanao (UM) Matina campus on Aug 13.
These DOST-funded projects are the Center of Aerogel Technology for Energy and Environment (CATEE), Collaborative Research and Development to Leverage Philippine Economy (CRADLE), the AIRGAS on upcycling agricultural and industrial waste, and other projects led by engineers that contribute to sustainable solutions and are designed for real-world impact.
Parohinog, an expert in nanomaterials for resource recovery and environmental remediation, went through six segments throughout his research, which are hosted at three academic institutions (University of Mindanao, University of St. La Salle, and University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos), project and proposals, partnerships, presentation, training people, and publication.
His period of engagement as a medium-term Balik scientist began Feb 5, 2024, until Apr 14, 2025.
The Balik Scientist Program (BPS) has served as a critical platform for Filipino scientists abroad to return and share their knowledge and expertise. This also fosters innovation as well as capacity building.
The program involves long-term research collaborations that are aligned with national priorities in sustainable development and environmental solutions.
BPS milestones include the inauguration of the Center of Green Nanotechnology Innovations for Environmental Solutions (CGNIES) research facility in August 2021 and the UM Biomolecular Engineering Laboratory (UMBEL) in July 2024.
