Terante elected as PICE National Secretary

Dr. Danilo "Danny" Terante, Associate Professor in Civil Engineering, DLSU-Manila was elected as national director representing the academe and secretary of the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) National for the year 2011 during the PICE National Convention at Cebu City on December 2-4, 2010. Dr. Terante is also the chair of the Hydraulics and Water Resources Specialization of PICE.

Photo: FB photo taken in 2004 during his visit at Tokyo, Japan.

New Lasallian Civil Engineers - Nov 2010 CE Board Exams

Lasallian Civil Engineers - November 2010 CE Licensure Exams

De La Salle University Passing Rate: 68.00 % (17 out of 25)
First Timers Passing Rate: 68.42 % (13 out of 19)
Repeaters Passing Rate : 66.67 % (4 out of 6)
National Passing Rate: 40.57 % (2,040 out of 5,028)

Photo during the oath taking on Dec. 18, 2010 (From FB Photos of David Joseph Vidad)

Congratulations to the following:

1. Cruz, Jaime Jose Torres
2. De Guia, Haybert Josef Jaurigue
3. Espenilla, Nikko Nestor Festin
4. Gaw, Jefron Tan
5. Gawaran, Mac Andrew Gregor Tañag
6. Lim, Nathanael Sia
7. Llamado, Katrina Mae Genio
8. Lucas, Sherwin Mervin Burton Estrella
9. Manguera, Myron Julius Olan
10. Mariano, Allan Kristoffer Salomon
11. Oyonoyon, Gerald Parilla
12. Que, Richard Ng
13. Saldo, Mark Anthony Bolos
14. Santiago, Paul Benedict Basilio
15. Sudaria, Gerald Macadangdang
16. Tangonan, Ailene Perlas
17. Vidad, David Joseph Jacinto

Reported by Engr. Jason Ongpeng (CE Dept. Vice-Chair)

Fillone at BAQ 2010 - Singapore

Dr. Alexis Fillone of the Transportation Engineering Division, Civil Eng. Dept., DLSU-Manila was a speaker of the pre-event of the Better Air Quality Conference last November 8-11, 2010, in Singapore. Dr. Fillone talked about the The Estimation Of Co-Benefit From Bus Global Rapid Transit (BRT) Introduction In Metro Manila Using Instittue For Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) Co-Benefit Guideline.

Together with his co-authors (Prof. Dr. Atsushi Fukuda, Dr. Tetsuhiro Ishizaka, and Mr. Hidenori Ikeshita) from Nihon University-Japan, they also submitted the same paper as poster presentation in the Conference proper. Simply put, the Co-Benefit approach expands its coverage of cost-benefit estimation of a transport project by considering the environmental costs (i.e., air and noise pollutions) and traffic accident costs. While in public transportation, there is a growing consensus around the Asian region for developing countries to introduce the much cheaper BRT compared to the LRT, MRT or subway systems. Hence the paper used the proposed IGES co-benefit guideline to measure the impact of a proposed BRT line in Metro Manila.

Master Planning of Marina Bay Area, Singapore

Dr. Fillone also had a chance to go around Singapore and marvelled at the efficient public transport system of the City State as well as the way the city is being planned.

CE faculty supports 1M Safe Schools and Hospitals Campaign

Special Session Sepakers on Safe Schools and Hospitals - 1 Dec 2010

Photo by Jerry Velasquez

Dr. Andres Oreta and Dr. Renan Tanhieco presented papers in the Special Session on Safe Schools and Hospitals organized by the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) during the 3rd Asia Conference on Earthquake Engineering (ACEE) which was held on Dec. 1-3, 2010 at Bangkok, Thailand.

Dr. Oreta presented the paper on "One Million Safe Schools and Hospitals Campaign: Promoting Awareness, Preparedness and Risk Reduction", while Dr. Tanhueco will talked about "Assessment and Mitigation Planning for Safe Schools and Hospitals.". Dr. Oreta and Dr. Tanhueco prepared documents for the campaign. The documents are (a) Advocacy Guide, (b) Guidance Notes: School Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, (c) Guidance Notes: Emergency and Disaster Preparedness for Health Facilities, and (d) Guidance Notes: Assessment and Mitigation Planning for Risk Reduction. These documents can be downloaded at the campaign website information materials page. The campaign website was also designed by a team of DLSU faculty and students.

The One Million Safe Schools and Hospitals Campaign was spearheaded by the UNISDR and partners (e.g. UNICEF, WHO, WB, UNESCO etc). The campaign calls individuals (students, faculty, administrators) or organizations to make a commitment by pledging online to do specific actions on any of the three components that could make schools and hospitals safer before a disaster: public awareness, emergency and disaster preparedness, and disaster risk reduction. The campaign aims to raise public awareness and create a demand for safe schools, hospitals and health facilities that will:

• Protect the lives of school children and the sick by ensuring that proper safety measures are installed;
• Assure the continuity of the functions of hospitals and health facilities in the treatment of the sick, and provide safe places in schools at all times;
• Improve the risk reduction capacity of all stakeholders of schools, hospitals and health facilities.

Visit the campaign website and pledge now.

CE Labs had a make-over

The Civil Engineering Department Laboratories at Miguel Building have a new look. Last Sept 2010, the laboratories were renovated. The rooms for the lab coordinators and faculty were redesigned. You will now find the research office rooms for the various specialization faculty members in CTM, HWR, GTE and TRE. The survey equipment room was relocated. The HWR and GTE laboratories are housed in one big room but can be partitioned into two by a sliding divider. Multimedia equipment have been installed in the labs.

Theory of Structures Laboratory

Third year BSCE students can now perform laboratory experiments in the new course on Theory of Structures Laboratory. The course was introduced when the curriculum was revised three years ago in compliance with a CHED directive.

The Structures Models Room at V513 houses the Modular Structures Teaching Equipment and computers with structural engineering software like GRASP, SAP2000 and ETABS. The Structures Teaching Equipment were developed by Tecquipment Structures. The department purchased the equipment for performing the folowing experiments:

(a) Bending Moments in a Beam
(b) Shear Force in a Beam
(c) Deflections of Beams and Cantilevers
(d) Pin-Jointed Frameworks
(e) Frame Deflections and Reactions
(f) Unsymmetrical Bending and Shear Center

The Theory of Structures Laboratory was offered this 2nd term SY 2010-2011 under Dr. Andres Oreta. The students perfom computational work at the Structural Engineering Instructional Laboratory at V512 and perform the experiments at the adjacent V513 room. So far, the students performed experiments on finding the relationships between Moment and Load, Shear Force and Load, Deflection and Load. Experiments on the effect of a moving load on moment and shear force and the use of influence lines were also performed. Deflections of beams due to various parameters such as length, material and support conditions were also performed. Analysis of a roof truss and a portal frame will also be conducted.

The laboratory course complements the lecture class on the Theory of Structures. By conducting the experiments, the students observed the behavior of simple structural elements and verify the theory. They also learn how to analyze experimental data and apply data analysis tools such a regresssion analysis and curve fitting. They prepare laboratory reports using computer-based tools like Microsoft Word, Excel and graphic software. They also improve their teamwork since the experiments are conducted in groups. Over-all, the course enhances the teaching and learning process in understanding concepts in structural analysis.

CE Dept. Honors & Awards - DLSU 2nd Term Graduation 2010

On October 9, 2010, De La Salle University, Manila will hold its 159th Commencement Exercises at the PICC Plenary Hall, Manila. Forty seven (47) students will graduate with a degree of BS in Civil Engineering - 15 with specialization in Construction Technology and Management (CTM), four (4) with specialization in Hydraulics and Water Resources (HWR), 18 with specialization in Structural Engineering (STE) and ten (10) with specialization in Transportation Engineering (TRE).

Practice session before the ceremony at DLSU (Photo from FB- Aizel Llanes)

The awardees during the COE Recognition Rites (Photo from FB: Linette Cornejo)

Awards will also be given to graduates who have outstanding achievements in academics, research and community service. Among the awardees are:

Academic Awards

1. Morgan Say - Magna Cum Laude

2. John Edchel Tugado - Cum Laude

3. Ammer Ali - Cum Laude

4. Anna Francesca Del Castillo - Cum Laude

5. Manuel Antonio Mayo III - Cum Laude

6. El Rey Morales - Cum Laude

7. Felvin Gurrea - Honorable Mention

8. Kenneth Ng - Honorable Mention

9. Maria Emilia Sevilla - Honorable Mention

10. Marlon Bryan Palisoc - Honorable Mention

11. Romwell Louis Tan - Honorable Mention

Departmental Awards

1. Outstanding Undergraduate Thesis - Ammer Ali and Aizel Ma. Kristina Llanes

2. Outstanding Civil Engineering Student - Maria Emilia Sevilla

3. Outstanding Contribution to the Department - Patricia Adiaz and David Joseph Vidad

Congratulations from the CE faculty and staff.

DLSU-TIT Student Exchange 2010: Tokyo Tech Students Discover Anilao Batangas!

Last September 18 to 19, 2010, students from the Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo Tech, together with the Civil Engineering students of De La Salle University - Manila, DLSU-M, all ventured out an overnight experience at Eagle Point Resort Anilao Batangas which created many memorable experiences for both Tokyo Tech and DLSU-M students. The field trip is part of the activities of the TokyoTech students under the DLSU-TIT student exchange program.

Leaving at promptly 7 AM in the morning, the trip was already filled with memories as people started to sing (including the singing driver), take pictures, eat, and sleep. By the time the bus reached Anilao, everyone felt very energized since the vast ocean can already be seen.
Upon reaching Eagle Point Resort, everyone had to rush to their assigned rooms, place down their bags and started preparing their swim wears up since a boat ride is already waiting for the visitors to go to Sepoc Beach. The Japanese students were so excited to discover the lovely beach in Anilao as expressed by their shouting “U-MI! U-MI!”, in English “Beach! Beach!” Every Filipino would just really feel very pleased on how Philippine beaches are being appreciated by people from other countries. The Japanese students hastenly jumped into the clear water, snorkeling and swimming with the fishes. Although many people got stung by sea urchins, getting pricked was never a hindrance for the students keep on swimming and having fun with everyone! The day ended fast as the tides were getting lower as time progressed so everyone had to pack up their things and go back to the resort. By reaching Eagle Point resort, the numerous amenities covered up the time needed more at the beach. Together, everyone spent the whole afternoon swimming at the pool, taking underwater shots, jump shots, and feeling the stress relieving cool breeze while looking at the heart warming sunset!

By nightfall, everyone was busily talking to each other joyously while eating their dinner. But, the night did not just stop at the sumptuous dinner. In fact, the fun and laughter continued after dinner. Simple games such as “Ta ke No Ko, Yo Ki Ki!” , “Go, Back, Jump!” , and “Truth or Dare” created a very huge fuss, tons of memories, and laughter for everyone as persons lose each round. For people who do not know these games, well, you just missed a whole bunch of cool activities at Anilao together with Tokyo Tech students!

On the final day before leaving Anilao, some interested Japanese visitors maximized the Anilao trip. By waking up early in the morning, some watched as how ocean animals were fed by the owners of the resort such as fish feeding and shark feeding at their very own reef pool. Others on the other hand, enrolled themselves to an Introduction to Scuba Diving which deepened their love to the ocean by seeing more creatures underwater such as the ever colorful and cute clown fishes, nudi branches, and Christmas tree worms. Truly, going underwater is like entering a new world where only Scuba Divers can fully share its wonders and interests since they are the only ones who have tapped the underwater world and stepped its land, 50 feet deep.

Upon leaving Anilao Batangas, everybody was tired but traces of smiles on their faces showed a sign of contentment. Memories have been seeded on every mind of the studfents who ventured to Anilao Batangas. Many of these memories, may, one day be forgotten but one thing is for sure and will all stay in everyone’s mind and heart, WE ALL HAD FUN!

This article was written by Hanson Reyes-Lao and pictures taken by Alyssa Marie Sison.

CE Undergrad Thesis Presented at the 5th ERDT Conference

The undergraduate thesis of DLSU-Manila civil engineering students were presented at the 5th Engineering Research and Development for Technology (ERDT) Conference with the theme "Philippine Competetiveness through ERDT" held on Sept. 10, 2010 at Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Manila. Paper presentations were done on the following:

• "Strength Properties of Coconets Subjected to Different Weathering Conditions" by Allan Kristtoffer Mariano and Jonathan Albert Salumbides with Dr. Jonathan Dungca as adviser

• "Investigation of Concrete Mixtures for the Repair of Concrete Cover of RC Square Columns" by Anna Francesca Del Castillo, Sarah Linette Cornejo and Romwell Louis Tan with Dr. Andres Oreta as adviser

  

A poster of the thesis on "Physical Properties of Tailings from Selected Mining Sites in the Philippines" by Mac Andrew Gawaran, Paul Go and Ted Santos with Ms. Mary Ann Adajar as adviser was also presented.

The 5th ERDT conference which was attended by about 7oo participants (researchers, faculty members, students) is sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

CE Faculty as committee members of ACEE 2010

DLSU-Manila Civil Engineering faculty members will serve as conference committee members of the forthcoming 3rd Asia Conference on Earthquake Engineering (ACEE-2010) to be held on Dec. 1-3, 2010 in Bangkok, Thailand. Dr. Andres Oreta is a member of both the International Steering and Scientific Committees. Dr. Bernardo Lejano, Dr. Jonathan Dungca and Dr. Renan Tanhueco will serve as members of the International Scientific Committee which is tasked to review the papers for presentation in the conference.

The ACEE-2010 is organized by the Association of Structural Engineers of the Philippines Inc. (ASEP), the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), the Center for Urban Earthquake Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech CUEE), the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT) and the Earthquake Engineering Society of Korea (EESK). The theme of the conference is “Disaster Risk Reduction and Capacity Building for Safer Environments.” ACEE-2010 will provide an excellent forum to bring together researchers, professionals, engineers, scientists and academicians to promote and exchange new ideas and experiences in the broad fields of seismology, earthquake engineering, seismic risk and disaster mitigation.

Papers by DLSU-Manila faculty members and students will also be presented during the conference.

DLSU-Manila was a cooperating institution during the 2nd Asia Conference on Earthquake Engineering (ACEE-2006) held in Manila on March 10-11, 2006.

Two CE DLSU Thesis Groups win UP ACES Undegrad Project Competition

Two DLSU CE undergrad thesis groups won at the Civil Engineering Undergraduate Project Competition sponsored by the University of the Philippines Association of Civil Engineering Students (UPACES) during the National CE Summit 2010 held at UP Diliman. The 1st place award was given to the group of Patricia Adiaz and David Vidad with Dr. Bernardo Lejano as adviser for their thesis on "Effects of exterior post-tensioning on retrofitting deformed wide flange steel beams." The group of Morgan Say, Mickel Fernandez and Luigi Franco with Engr. Jason Ongpeng as adviser won 3rd place for their thesis on "Sustainable Development in the Construction Industry through ISO 14001 EMS (Environmental Management System)." The 2nd place was awarded to a group from UP Los Banos. About 20 groups participated in the competition.

The top 3 finalists presented to an audience of over 2000 guests, mostly civil engineering students and faculty members coming from various schools all over the country at the UP Theater, Diliman, QC on Sept. 3, 2010. The recognition is a mark of victory of De La Salle University’s Civil Engineering department’s continued excellence in the field of research and development. Congratulations!

Based on the write-up by Morgan Say

Photos by Margan Say

CE Faculty to present at CECAR 5 - Sydney, Australia

DLSU-M faculty members, Prof. Andres Winston Oreta, Assoc. Prof. Danilo Terante and Assoc. Prof. Alexis Fillone and Lasallian alumni (COE Graduate Studies) will present papers at the 5th Civil Engineering Conference in the Asian Resion (CECAR 5) which will be held on August 8-12, 2010 at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, Australia. The theme for the Conference is Innovative Community Building. This conference will be an "opportunity to discuss innovative civil and structural engineering projects and to network with colleagues". It will also "provide engineers with the opportunity to hear presentations from academia and industry leaders on their visions for building enhancement in the community."

The papers that will be presented by the faculty are as follows: (Click the title to view the link to the abstract)

(1) A Concept for the Campaign of Promoting Safe Schools and Hospitals

by Dr. Jerry Velasquez (UNISDR), Dr. Andres Oreta (DLSU- CE Dept), Dr. Renan Tanhueco (DLSU-CE Dept) and Dr. Florante Salvador (DLSU - CCS)

(2) Risk-Based Analysis of a Flood Plain: A Case in the City of Malabon, Philippines

by Dr. Danilo Terante (DLSU CE Dept), Albert Lamberte (DLSU BSCE Student) and Emilia Sevilla (DLSU BSCE Student)

(3) The Use of Remote Sensing and GIS for Parking Inventory Study

by Dr Alexis Fillone (DLSU CE Dept) and Dr Maria Cecilia Paringit (DLSU CE Dept)

The papers that will be presented by the DLSU alumni (COE Graduate Studies) are as follows:

(1) Seismic Risk Mapping at Microscale: The Case of Brgy. Carmen, CDO, Phils.

by Dexter Lo (Xavier Univ. ) and Dr. Andres Oreta

(2) Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings in the City of Manila, Phils.

by Dr. Cesar Vallejo (Isabela State University)

Dr. Alfaro: Geotechnical Engineering Expert to hold lectures

The Department of Civil Engineering, in cooperation with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) invites everyone to a two-day lecture on Geotechncial Engineering by visting lecturer, Dr. Marolo C. Alfaro, a Civil Engineer specializing in Geotechnical Engineering on August 2-3, 2010. The schedule and topics of his lectures are as follows:

• August 2 (Mon) 9AM - 5PM : Design and Construction of Geosynthetic-Reinforced Soil (GRS) Structures
• August 3 (Tue) 9AM- 12NN: Riverbank Stabilization Using Rockfill Columns

Dr. Alfaro is a registered professional engineer in the Province of Manitoba, Canada. He is a member of the Canadian Geotechnical Society (CGS), Canadian Society for Civil Engineering (CSCE), American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), International Society of Geosynthetics (IGS), and International Association of Lowland Technology (IALT).

His research interests include: geosynthetics in civil engineering applications, soil and ground improvement techniques, soft clay engineering, and transportation geotechnics. Dr. Alfaro has authored or co-authored technical papers in international refereed journals and conference proceedings. He is a co-author of the book Improvement Techniques of Soft Ground in Subsiding and Lowland Environment published by Balkema Publishers, Netherlands. He co-authored a book chapter on Seismic Aspects of Geosynthetic-Reinforced Soil Walls and Slopes in Geosynthetics and Their Applications published by Thomas Telford in England.

If you are attending the lecture, we would appreciate if you send us your name and organization on or before July 29, 2010 (Thursday) to avoid any inconvenience in entering the campus. Send to bernardo.lejano@dlsu.edu.ph.

The Luzon 1990 Earthquake Symposium

Last July 15-16, 2010, The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) commemorated the 20th anniversary of the July 16, 1990 Luzon Earthquake by holding a symposium with papers from seismologists, geologists, civil engineers, structural engineers, disaster managers and researchers presented during the two day symposium.

Dr. Andy Oreta presented a paper on "AIJ Level 1 Seismic Screening of Some RC Buildings Damaged by 1990 Luzon Earthquake." He also presented the paper of Lasallian post-graduate alumnus (MSCE), Engr. Dexter Lo of Xavier University on "Seismic Risk Mapping at Micro-Scale: The Case of Barangay Carmen, CDO, Philippines."

Twenty years ago, on July 16, 1990, an earthquake with magnitude 7.8 struck central Luzon. The human consequences were severe - at least 1200 people were killed and more the 3000 injured. Major destruction occured in Baguio City where hotels and school buildings collapsed like pancakes and Dagupan city where extensive liquefaction caused settlement of buildings and bridges. What lessons can we learn from this earthquake? This video - part of the "Understanding Earthquakes and Disasters: Photo-Video Presentations" by Dr. Oreta highlights some lessons from the 1990 Luzon Earthquake.

DLSU and other Lasallian schools should learn lessons from the Luzon 1990 earthquake. As a start, it should hold earthquake drills in the campus to help prepare the students and staff on how to respond in case the big ONE occurs. Another possible project is to install an eletronic alert system (similar to the Bruin alert of the UCLA) wherein students and staff can receive alerts via email and text message during an emergency.

Welcome CE Frosh 2010

The Civil Engineering Society in cooperation with the Civil Engineering Department held the CE Freshmen Convocation on June 18, 2010 at the Yuchengco Hall from 2:00 PM. CE Dept. chair gave the welcome remarks and introduced the CE Faculty and staff. Lasallian alumni, Engr. Dan Aquino and Engr. Yen Ubay gave their talks about their experience as students at DLSU-Manila. (Photo by Joenel Galupino)

DLSU-Tokyo Tech Socio-Cultural and Technical Exchange Program

A Lifetime Experience

by

El-Rey Morales (DLSU BSCE STE Student)

Setting aside our introspections about the recently concluded national elections, 31 DLSU students comprising of 21 Civil Engineering (CIV) and 10 Manufacturing Engineering Management (MEM) students flew to Tokyo, Japan last May 14, 2010 for the annual DLSU-Tokyo Tech Student Exchange Program. Spearheaded by professors Engr. Ronaldo Gallardo and Dr. Nilo Bugtai, this 10-day trip is designed to provide students the opportunity for extended learning and exposure to Japan’s socio-cultural and technical aspects. Furthermore, it is also a way of encouraging students to venture into pursuing graduate studies at the Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech) by availing the scholarship program provided by the Japanese government.

The weather in Japan was around 14 °C when we arrived at the Narita International Airport. All of us were glad and thankful to escape even for a while the extremely hot weather in the Philippines during that time. Immediately after disembarking from the plane, we were enthralled by the modern facilities they have such as the automatic doors, faucets, immigration screening devices, transit system and other amusing things that most of us had never seen before. At times, we felt ignorant to some extent about the many splendour things Japan has to offer. After undergoing a series of inspections in the airport, we then went to our respective accommodations located at the Tamagawa and Nakanobu stations.

The exchange program officially commenced with a campus tour at the Tokyo Tech led by the Japanese professors and students. In the morning, we walked around their spacious campus and became fascinated at some of the high-tech facilities they have. We were amazed to see the huge centrifuge machine and load testing equipment in their structural laboratory. The supercomputer TSUBAME which is one of the largest computing clusters ever built was also shown to us during our tour. Student representatives from Tokyo Tech and DLSU delivered a brief presentation in the afternoon about some of the highlights of the respective country and school. The campus was also the venue for the welcome party prepared by the Japanese. Overflowing with food and drinks, that night gave everyone a chance to get to know each other and have a great time. Alvin Christopher Varquez and George William Hong, both alumni of DLSU and are currently taking up graduate studies at the Tokyo Tech also joined us in the said event.

The vibrant city of Tokyo has an incomparable combination of modern and traditional architecture. It presents a unique travel experience for tourists who wish to spend their holidays. That is why we grabbed this opportunity to visit some of the famous tourist destinations in Tokyo. We went sightseeing on our first day at the panoramic observation deck in Tokyo Metropolitan Government building located at Shinjuku where an overlooking of the city skylines of Tokyo is possible. We also explored the serene environment of the Meiji Temple in Harajuku where we walk through the long, scenic and spiritual path to the temple. At the temple, we were fortunate enough to witness a Shinto ceremonial wedding. A newly built entertainment area and known to be a perfect dating spot in Tokyo is found on a reclaimed area in Odaiba. This is where we took pictures of the amazing replica of the Statue of Liberty and saw the latest Toyota cars at the Toyota City Showcase in Megaweb. Our visit in Japan would not be complete without going to the Disney theme park. It was a very fun experience going to the Disney adventure since they have everything you can ask for. From the exciting rides to the grandiose parade, indeed it is a one of its kind entertainment venue and a must visit for every tourist travelling to Tokyo.

Aside from the city tour, we also devoted two days for the company visit at the two distinguished companies in Japan. The first company is the Kajima Technical Research Institute (KaTRI) of the Kajima Corporation. KaTRI is a leading company when it comes to performing extensive research and development of construction materials and construction-production technologies to build high-quality structures efficiently, safely and yet economically. Highly innovative state of the art technologies were introduced to us such as the base isolation seismic resistance method for high rise buildings, 1:1 scale of loading test equipments, wind tunnel testing facilities to examine the wind-induced vibrations in different structures and the technique of incorporating fiber materials to produce a high strength, high fluidity and high performance concrete. The second company we visited is famous for its mass production of small pumps as well as refrigerating machines, fans and blowers. This is the Fujisawa District of the Ebara Corporation. We toured around their modern laboratories and observed how the pumps and other materials are being manufactured.

Tokyo is absolutely a paradise for shopaholics. With its numerous shopping malls, you can find anything and everything you need as long as you take some time to explore. Some of the shopping centers that we visited are the streets of Ginza, Harajuku, Ueno, Akihabara and Asakusa. Ginza which is situated at the center of Tokyo is known for luxury shopping streets. There is an almost infinite array of fashion outlets such as Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Coach, Armani Exchange, etc. The narrow and populated streets of Harajuku is packed with young fashionable people and lined with fashion boutiques and cafes. While you might find it difficult to find your way around the Ameyoko shopping district in Ueno at first, you will be blown away by the wide selection of shops like food, shoes and clothing. If there’s one place where most of us went back several times to shop, it was at Yodobashi-Akiba in Akihabara. As the definitive shopping center for all things technological, you will be dazzled by the many storeys of electronic devices available such as digital cameras, computers, gaming consoles and collector’s items. Lastly, if you’re looking for something affordable, the Asakusa shopping street provides tourists with a variety of traditional snacks and souvenir items of reasonable price.

Before returning back to Manila, we attended a farewell party organized by the Japanese to celebrate the success of this event. It was the time where we expressed our deepest gratitude and bid our goodbyes to the Japanese students who wholeheartedly spent their time and efforts in guiding us on our trip. We are all very grateful for the opportunity of providing us this once in a lifetime experience of learning, adventure and enjoyment that we’ll truly treasure for many, many years. A special thanks goes out to all those who made this event possible!

DLSU Program on Concrete Engg presented at ASEP Conference

Dr. Bernardo Lejano presented a paper co-authored with Dr. Andres Oreta and Dr. Jonathan Dungca (CE faculty members under the Structural Engineering Division) on "Teaching and Research on Concrete in the Undergraduate Program" at a plenary session of the Association of Structural Engineers of the Philippines (ASEP) Convention on Concrete Engineering Practice and Technology 2010 (A.CONCEPT'10) held at the Manila Pavilion on May 20-21, 2010.

The paper presented the courses dealing with concrete that are incorporated in DLSU Civil Engineering curriculum. These courses were then compared with those offered at other top universities such as the University of California (Berkeley). Lejano observed that the DLSU curriculum has more units offered than the UC Berkleey.

Undergraduate thesis related to concrete were also featured to illustrate that the students have developed an interest on problems related to concrete.

The strategies (lectures, experiments, projects) and experiences of the faculty and students in the concrete courses such as Reinforced Concrete Design and Concrete Laboratory were also discussed to show the effectiveness and weaknesses of the present program.

The New Lasallian Civil Engineers (May 2010)

Congratulations to our civil engineering graduates who passed the Civil Engineering Licensure Exam (May 2010). May you be become Lasallian Civil Engineers for God and Country.



DLSU-Manila passing rate: 88%
NATIONAL passing rate: 36%

DLSU- Manila ranked 1st in the top performing schools with 20 and above examinees


The New Lasallian Civil Engineers are:
1. Amata, Marco Paolo Guadalupe
2. Aquino, Dan Emmanuel Abrencillo
3. Codilla, Ma Caroline Trangia
4. Cokee, Richard Raymond Ang
5. Credo, Pedro Christopher Banua
6. De Guzman, Andro Paul Tansengco
7. De Guzman, Louie Caliboso
8. Delgado, Mark Andrew Libo-On
9. Galupino, Joenel Gales
10. Gatbonton, Aaron Paul Gorospe
11. Hong, Charles Casing
12. Jao, Julie Ann Lim
13. Lee, Carbert Ralston Miran
14. Lim, Edrick Dan Po
15. Manalo, Federico Marco Comia
16. Medel, Julian Antonio Gregorio
17. Pascual, Shurwin Kim Mariano
18. Policarpio, Nicole Yalung
19. Pulhin, Arnold Arcilla
20. Puente, Fernando Martin Rodriguez
21.Que, Phoebee Boaqueña
22. Sto Domingo, Mel Clarisse Enriquez
23. Tan, Ralph Jefferson Biteranta
24 Torres, Mark Wilson Manzano
25. Uy, Erwin King
26. Yang, Philip Joseph Uy
27 Yap, Ma Ronna Lambino
28. Yu, John David Tung
29. Zapata, Liano Jerico Dizon

Note: If your name was not included in the list, please inform us.

CE Dept Summer Workshop 2010

The CE Department faculty and staff held their summer workshop and team building at the Dona Jovita Garden Resort, Calamba, Laguna last April 23, 2010.

Introducing Civil Engineering at DLSU-Manila

So you want to take civil engineering at De La Salle Unviersity - Manila? Watch this video and learn more about what to expect when you enroll here. Get to know the present and past professors of the department. Learn about the academic program and curriculum and the various activities which will mold you to become Christian achievers for God and country.

Alumnews: AnimoSibil turns 2

AnimoSibil, the DLSU-Manila alumni association of civil engineering (a subchapter of the COE Alumni Association) celebrated its 2nd foundation anniversary on March 5, 2010 at the Yuchengco Lobby. Faculty, undergraduate students and alumni came and joined the celebration. The affair was hosted by ID106 and ID96. The president of AnimoSibil is Engr. Jason Maximino Ongpeng, the vice-chair of the CE Department.

DLSU-M Civil Eng'g: CHED Center of Development

Congratulations to Civil Engineering Department, the Chair and Vice Chair and all its faculty members, staff and students for the C.E. Program was granted the Center of Development award by the Commision on Higher Education (CHED).

Animo La Salle.

Dr. Pag-asa Gaspillo

Dean, College of Engineering

A Lecture on GIS & Spatial Visualization by University of Melbourne Professor

The Department of Civil Engineering, De La Salle University – Manila is hosting the Lectures on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Spatial Visualization: "Collaborative Virtual Environment for Planning and Management" by Dr. Ian Bishop on 25 February 2010 from 2:40 – 5:00 PM, Thursday at the Ariston Estrada Seminar Room, (L216) De La Salle University– Manila. This lecture is co-sponsored by the Dept. of Geodesy, College of Engineering, University of the Philippines through the ERDT Program. (Seats Available(40 pax)). The activity is coordinated by Dr. Renan Tanhueco (renan.tanhueco@dlsu.edu.ph).

About the Speaker:

Dr. Ian Bishop Is a Professor in the Department of Geomatics, School of Engineering at the University of Melbourne.

He completed a M.Sc. in Geophysics degree at the University of Melbourne. His doctoral research involved mathematical modeling of land use and completed his Ph.D. in the same university. This led to his interests in a wide range of computer applications in environmental assessment, planning and design.

In 1979, Dr. Bishop was a Research Fellow in the Centre for Environmental Studies at the University of Melbourne, working on several areas: computer based land use planning, analysis of the visual impact of transmission lines, assessment of information system requirements and tender documents and performance tests for major computer systems in State Government Departments. At the same time, Dr. Bishop focused his work on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications to landscape planning, particularly on visual analysis and GIS based visual simulation. These were supported by research grants from the CSIRO, the Electrical Research Board and the Australian Research Council.

In 1988, he joined the Texas A & M, as an Assoc. Professor and Associate Dean for Information Technology in the College of Architecture. His sustained interest and expertise in visualization technology were supported by grants from the Institute for Innovation in Design and Engineering and the USDA Forest Services. In 1991, he returned to the University of Melbourne as Director of CGISM and continues to serve and collaborate with partners in the academe and industry to improve the management of natural resources and to contribute to public participation in planning and design issues by utilizing the power of GIS and visualization technology. With 140 refereed articles and over 70 conference papers in systems modeling and integration, landscape perception and environmental decision support system, Dr. Bishop is here to share his work and professional experiences with the academic community.

Visiting Lecturer from NZ: Engr. Paul Finlay

Engr. Paul Finlay, visiting lecturer of the Civil Engineering Department with Dr. Andres Oreta as host delivered a lecture on Timber Design for the undergraduate 4th yr CIV students on Jan. 27, 2010 and a public lecture co-sponsored by PICE-Lungsod ng Maynila Chapter on "Climate Change and Landslides: The New Zealand Experience" on Jan 29, 2010.

Paul Finlay, who was born in New Zealand, completed a B.E. degree under Professor Tom Paulay, and was selected to study at Kyoto Imperial University on a UNESCO Fellowship. He studied at the Earthquake Engineering laboratory in Kyoto Imperial Universtiy, and in the field near Kobe, particularly the Satsukiyama Faultline, a side fault of the Nojima fault, which ruptured in the Kobe Earthquake. This work was under Professor Hazuo Fujita – the ‘father of earthquake study in Japan”.

He completed an M.E. degree at Auckland University, studying Earthquake Engineering, Structural Geology, and Slope Engineering. He completed a thesis on D.C. mV as a precursor to an Earthquake, testing the Chinese 1975 Haicheng Earthquake data and its practical application.

He is pioneering in New Zealand, the relationship of dating landslides to simple rate of tree growth in determining the approximate date the landslide occurred in conjunction with known hurricane dates and the resultant frequency of failure of the land.

He supports and applies the Australian Geomechanics Guidelines for Landslide Susceptibility, Hazard and Risk Zoning for Land Use Planning, and the New Zealand GNS Science Guideline for assessing planning policy and Consent requirements for Landslide prone land.

He was involved in the West Coast Shakeout, the inaugural earthquake preparation for the coming M8 Alpine Fault earthquake.

He hopes to interest and support Philippine Engineers to study this fault and ramifications in New Zealand, and apply for faultlines in the Philippines.

Be a Scholar at Chulalongkorn U - Bangkok

Hello, Lasallian Alumni if your are interested to study in the Civil Engineering Master's Program of Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand under the AUNSEEDNet scholarship, there will be an orientation tomorrow (January 12) at Miguel 104 (DLSU Campus) at around 2pm. The monthly stipend if you are accepted for the June 2010 opening is around Baht 18,000 (Php25,000) for 24 months. Contact: Dr. Alexis Fillone (alexis.fillone@dlsu.edu.ph) for details.