A Transformative Experience with Generative AI: Civil Engineering Students Thrive in the Inaugural 2024 NUS Young Fellowship Program

In an exciting development for students at the intersection of engineering and artificial intelligence, the National University of Singapore (NUS) recently hosted its inaugural 2024 NUS Young Fellowship Program. Among the participants were civil engineering students Ms. Bea Angela C. Gaw and Ms. Janelle Patricia S. Moa, who delved into the fascinating world of generative AI.

The program, which ran from June 24 – July 24, 2024, aimed to introduce students from diverse academic backgrounds to the emerging field of generative AI. Despite initial reservations about how well the program would align with their field of study, they embraced the opportunity and were met with an experience that exceeded their expectations.

Upon arrival, participants were greeted with exceptional care, being transported directly from the airport to the NUS dormitories. The university ensured a smooth transition, providing welcome kits and individually escorting participants to their rooms. The dormitory was a dedicated space for scholarship recipients and guest visitors with community-oriented facilities.

The program kicked off with a series of activities blending plenary sessions, site and laboratory visits, project work, and cultural excursions. It quickly became evident that NUS was not only focused on the classroom experience but also on fostering an environment of inquisitive curiosity. As part of the inaugural batch, students had no previous experiences to draw from, making the journey even more unique.

Official opening of the program and welcoming of participants

Initial meeting with groupmates

One of the highlights of the program was a series of hands-on workshops and laboratory visits that demystified the concept of generative AI. Participants engaged in discussions on tools like ChatGPT and explored their potential applications in fields ranging from semiconductor engineering to biotechnology.

A standout moment was the visit to NUS's net-zero energy building—the first of its kind in Asia. The building showcased adaptive tropical architecture, utilizing Singapore’s natural conditions to generate energy or reduce consumption. Features such as motion sensor-based lighting, acoustic baffles, and adjustable perforated metal sheets demonstrated the practical application of concepts they learned in their courses.

Some features of Asia’s first net-zero energy building

The program was not just about learning; it was also about networking and cultural exchange. Students from various countries and disciplines came together, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives. Groups consisted of representatives from civil engineering, law, biomedicine, mechatronics engineering, and sociology, hailing from countries like Italy, Vietnam, China, Malaysia, and Australia.

A photo with fellow Filipino participants from the University of the Philippines and Ateneo de Manila University

Photos of side trips with friends to different attractions

Outside the academic setting, participants explored Singapore, visiting iconic attractions such as Universal Studios, the Singapore Zoo, and Gardens by the Bay. These excursions provided ample opportunity for cultural exchange and bonding.

In summary, the NUS Young Fellowship Program is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary learning and the expanding role of generative AI across diverse fields. The program offered participants a unique blend of academic exploration, hands-on experiences, and cultural exchange, highlighting the growing relevance of AI technologies in areas beyond their traditional applications. This initiative broadened the horizons of students like Ms. Gaw and Ms. Moa and emphasized the value of stepping outside one's comfort zone to embrace new opportunities. The experience serves as a reminder of the importance of adaptability, open-mindedness, and the pursuit of knowledge in an increasingly interconnected and technologically advanced world.

TRE Division in the 30th Annual Conference of the Transportation Science Society of the Philippines (TSSP)

 

Last September 13, 2024, the 30th Annual Conference of the Transportation Science Society of the Philippines (TSSP), in cooperation with the City Government of Iloilo and University of the Philippines Visayas, took place at the Diversion 21 Hotel, Iloilo City, with the theme of Sustainable Transport and Mobility Choices for Healthier Cities. Scholars, transport professionals, practitioners, and students from across the country were present to share their research and gain knowledge with regards to promoting sustainable transportation in the country. 

Three (3) papers by students of the Transportation Engineering (TRE) Division of the Civil Engineering Department, led by Dr. Alexis M. Fillone, were presented in the Transportation Science Society of the Philippines (TSSP) conference in different sessions. Dr. Fillone also chaired one of the sessions and delivered the closing remarks.

The presented studies and researchers are as follows: 

1. Characterizing Traffic Behaviour on Flood Roads of Metro Manila by Lance Kenneth D. Mamuyac, Jon Robin D. Delos Reyes, Louise Shaola L. Lumanglas, Eian Lanz C. Rebotiaco (Undergraduate Students) and Dr. Alexis M. Fillone (Adviser).

2. Analysis of the First-Mile and Last-Mile Options of LRT/MRT Users in Metro Manila by Sophia Renée M. Dimla, Marie Patricia Denise U. Hong, Nicole T. Pelias (Undergraduate students) and Dr. Alexis M. Fillone (Adviser).

3. Commuter Mode Choice Analysis in Roxas Boulevard: Examining the Significant Attributes Influencing Commuter Preferences by Ashley Nicole Alcano, Angeline Grace Ayuban, Dylan Andre Capuno, Matthew Perry Wamelda (Undergraduate Students) and Maria Cecilia Paringit (Adviser).

In addition to the conference, the 3rd Workshop for Young Researchers (3rd WYRe) was held last September 12 by the Transportation Science Society of the Philippines at UP Visayas, Iloilo City. It aims to provide a venue for both undergraduate and graduate students to interact with different professionals to discuss opportunities and dilemmas in the transportation sector, as well as build connections among students and institutions. 

The students were also inducted into the conference as new student members of the Transportation Science Society of the Philippines (TSSP). 

Prepared by:

Sophia Renée M. Dimla

BS Civil Engineering

DLSU Civil Engineering Undergraduate and Graduate Students Participated in the 17th Asian Transportation Research Society (ATRANS) Annual Conference

  

In collaboration with the International Association for Traffic and Safety Science (IATSS), the 17th Annual Conference of the Asian Transportation Research Society (ATRANS) took place at the Chatrium Grand Bangkok, Thailand, on August 30, 2024. ATRANS organized the conference under the theme: “Transportation for a Better Life: Managing Transport Decarbonization.” The event gathered scholars, transport professionals, and practitioners to share and acquire knowledge on innovative strategies and solutions for reducing carbon emissions in transportation. 

Seven (7) papers by students of the Transportation Engineering (TRE) division, led by Dr. Alexis M. Fillone, were presented in the ATRANS Young Researcher’s Forum (AYRF) which was held in the afternoon session of the conference. Dr. Fillone also chaired one of the parallel sessions. The researchers and their studies presented are as follows:

1. “Developing Route Choice Model for Road Freight Transport: An Analysis of Toll Road Usage by Truck Vehicles” by Asst. Prof. Maryrose Mariano-Vallejos (PhD Student), Engr. Angelyn Ilagan (MS Student), and Prof. Dr. Alexis M. Fillone (Adviser)

 

Asst. Prof. Mariano-Vallejos (left) presenting their paper, Developing Route Choice Model for Road Freight Transport: An Analysis of Toll Road Usage by Truck Vehicles

2. “Analysis of Integration of Bus Systems in Katipunan Avenue, Metro Manila as an Access and Egress Option to and from LRT Katipunan” by Sophia Renée M. DIMLA, Nicole FELIAS, and Marie Patricia Denise HONG (Undergraduate Students), and Alexis FILLONE (Adivser)

 

Ms. Dimla (right) presenting their paper, Analysis of Integration of Bus Systems in Katipunan Avenue, Metro Manila as an Access and Egress Option to and from LRT Katipunan

3. “Analyzing Pedestrian Facility Preferences at a Transport Hub in Alabang, Muntinlupa City” by Paul John Mamert Orendain Sevilla, Felicia Regille Sawali, Noel Franco Umali (Undergraduate Students), and Engr. Paolo Ian Lucero (Adviser)

 

Mr. Sevilla (left) presenting their paper, Analyzing Pedestrian Facility Preferences at a Transport Hub in Alabang, Muntinlupa City

4. “Investigating How Different Demographic Groups Perceive Rail Transit Services” by David Angelo Valenzuela, Uzziah Galero, Dane Marion Uy (Undergraduate Students), and Dr. Nicanor Roxas, Jr. (Adviser)

 

Mr. Valenzuela (right) presenting their paper, Investigating How Different Demographic Groups Perceive Rail Transit Services

5. “Augmenting Urban Mobility: Implementation of a Modernized Jeepney Transit System along Roxas Boulevard Service Road” by Ashley Nicole Alcano, Angeline Grace Ayuban, Dylan Andre Capuno, Matthew Perry Wamelda (Undergraduate Students), and Dr. Maria Cecilia Paringit (Adviser)

 

Ms. Alcano (middle) presenting their paper, Augmenting Urban Mobility: Implementation of a Modernized Jeepney Transit System along Roxas Boulevard Service Road

6. “Assessing Flood Impact on Vehicle Speeds in Metro Manila's Road Network” by Louisse Shaola Lumanglas, Lance Kenneth Mamuyac, Jon Robin Delos Reyes,  Eian Lanz Rebotiaco (Undergraduate Students), and Dr. Alexis Fillone (Adviser)

 

Ms. Lumanglas (podium) presenting their paper, Assessing Flood Impact on Vehicle Speeds in Metro Manila's Road Network

7. “Alternative Methods for Estimating Pavement International Roughness Index Value” by Adrian Natividad, Louie Shane de Leon, Sophia Claire Mirafelix, Marc Wesley Tuaña (Undergraduate Students), and Dr Krister Ian Daniel Roquel (Adviser)

 

Mr. Natividad (podium) presenting their paper, Alternative Methods for Estimating Pavement International Roughness Index Value

One of the four best paper and presentation awards was given to the group of Mr. Paul John Mamert Orendain Sevilla. 

 Dr. Chula Sukmanop (middle) and the four best paper and presentation awardees in the 17th ATRANS Young Researchers’ Forum.

Prepared by:

Engr. Angelyn Ilagan

MS Student, Department of Civil Engineering

2024 SIEP Japan

2024 SIEP Japan

The annual DLSU Civil Engineering Student International Exchange Program (SIEP) happened last August 23, 2024 to September 1, 2025 in Tokyo and Nagoya, Japan. The SIEP was conducted and organized in collaboration with the prestigious Japanese universities namely Tokyo City University, Tokyo Institute of Technology, and Nagoya University. The program aimed to enhance the graduating students’ knowledge in civil engineering while immersing them in Japan’s cutting edge technologies and advancements as well as its rich culture. Moreover, the program also aimed to strengthen the ties between DLSU and the Japanese universities.

The program was participated by 40 BS CIV and BSMS CIV students from across all five specializations. The students were accompanied by the following faculty members: Dr. Mary Ann Adajar (DCE Department Chair), Dr. Joenel Galupino (SIEP Organizer and OJT Coordinator), Dr. Richard de Jesus (STE Specialization Head and Assistant Professor), Dr. Erica Elice Uy (OBQA Coordinator and Associate Professor), and Engr. Lawrence Valdez (Instructor, DLSU SIS).

DLSU CIV Students and Professors at Haneda International Airport

The first three days of the program focused on immersing students in Japanese culture through the various tours and cultural site visits. On the first day, students and professors arrived in Japan with excitement and anticipation. The group spent the rest of the day separately exploring the city of Tokyo. On Day 2, the group traveled to the viewing area at Lake Kawaguchi, a serene location at the base of the mountain, to take a peak of Mt. Fuji. The group indulged in a taste of local cruising, including a unique experience of trying basahi (Raw Horse), a delicacy in Japan. This was followed by a shopping spree at Gotemba Outlets, where the group splurged on clothing, toys, shoes, etc. while enjoying stunning views of Mt. Fuji.

Mt. Fuji View from (a) Lake Kawaguchi (b) Gotemba Outlets

SIEP Group Photo Outside a Local Restaurant in Lake Kawaguchi Area

On Day 3, the group toured Tokyo city proper, starting with a visit to Hachiko, exploring the bustling Shibuya Crossing, and attending mass at the peaceful Meguro Church. They experienced the vibrancy of Tokyo’s old-meets-new charm in Asakusa, where they visited the famous Senso-ji Temple. The day concluded with a scenic boat ride from Asakusa to Odaiba, showcasing Tokyo’s urban beauty from the waterways.

Hachiko Memorial (b) Shibuya Crossing

Meguro Church (b) Sensoji Temple

Views from Asakua-Odaiba Boat Ride

SIEP Group Photo at Asakusa

SIEP Group Photo at Odaiba

The academic portion of the SIEP started with a visit to Tokyo City Univesity’s Segayama Campus on Day 4. The day started with a brief campus tour at the university library and laboratory facilities of the TCU’s Civil Engineering department. Students had a chance to witness facilities that were not yet available at DLSU such as the centrifuge equipment. The visit concluded with an academic discourse through a seminar. Two DLSU CTM groups represented by Moa et al. and Su presented the findings of their thesis, engaging a thought discussion with their Japanese counterparts. Certificates of appreciation and tokens were given to the TCU hosts by Patricia Mae Niña Santos(CES EVP AY ‘23-’24), Ryanne Spencer Lim(BS CIV CTM Student), and Dr. Mary Ann Adajar(DCE Chair).

SIEP Group Photo at Tokyo City University

Presentation of Certificates and Tokens of Appreciation to the TCU Hosts

On Day 5, the group visited Tokyo Institute of Technology where they were welcome by Engr. Ronaldo S. Gallardo, former DLSU DCE Department Chair, and Dr. Alvin Varquez, DLSU Alumnus and former CES President. The program at Tokyo Tech began with quick visits at the university’s library, official merchandise store and bookstore, and its co-working spaces. The students also sat in a lecture hall and participated in a seminar on Transportation Engineering. In the afternoon, the students were assisted by Engr. Kyle Cabatit, DLSU Alumnus, and Tokyo Tech officials in the laboratory visits and tours. Lastly, the day concluded with a presentation of Tokyo Tech’s scholarship programs for their graduate studies. The certificates of appreciation and tokens were given to the Tokyo Tech hosts by Patricia Mae Niña Santos(CES EVP AY ‘23-’24), John Nathanael Cadiente  (BSMS CIV CTM Student), and Dr. Mary Ann Adajar(DCE Chair).

Photo Op by the Famous Art Piece in Tokyo Tech

Students Viewing the Centrifuge

SIEP Group Photo at Tokyo Institute of Technology

Presentation of Certificates and Tokens of Appreciation to the Tokyo Tech Hosts

The sixth day of the program began with a half day visit to Nippon Steel, where students and faculty members witnessed firsthand the company’s groundbreaking yet simple innovations that contribute to building earthquake resistant structures. This visit offered students a valuable insight into how Japan’s construction industry integrates technology and materials to enhance structural safety in one of the most seismically active regions in the world. Students also tried the VR earthquake simulator of the company. The certificates of appreciation and tokens were given to the Nippon Steel hosts by Patricia Mae Niña Santos(CES EVP AY ‘23-’24), Raul Reyes Jr.  (BS CIV STE Student and CES STE Representative AY’23-’24), and Dr. Mary Ann Adajar(DCE Chair). The remainder of the day was free for students and faculty to explore Tokyo at their own convenience and leisure.

Students Tried the VR Simulator for Earthquakes

SIEP Group Photo at Nippon Steel

Presentation of Certificates and Tokens of Appreciation to the Nippon Steel Hosts

On the 7th day, the group traveled from Tokyo to Nagoya via the iconic Shinkansen bullet train, allowing them to experience Japan’s efficient high-speed rail system. The group was greeted with heavy rains upon arriving at Nagoya due to a typhoon. Despite the weather conditions, the group remained optimistic and in high spirits as they continued to explore Nagoya’s shopping district.

SIEP Group Photo at Tokyo Station

SIEP Group Photo at Nagoya Station

Day 8 marked the last academic tour of the group to Nagoya University where they were joined by Nagoya University Alumni and DLSU Professors, Dr. Andres Winston Oreta and Dr. Rodolfo Mendoza Jr. The program at Nagoya University began with a warm welcome from Prof. Nakamura Sensei and representatives from their international studies office to discuss the graduate scholarship opportunities at their university. Moreover, students from Nagoya University’s Civil Engineering libraries discussed what they do and have to offer to prospective graduate studies. The DLSU students and faculty were elated to see Engr. Angelo Edora, a doctorate student at Nagoya University and former DLSU professor. The group then toured around the Disaster Mitigation Research Building where they were able to try various interactive displays around the first and second floor. After the warm welcome and  insightful morning at the Disaster Mitigation Research Building, the group joined Nagoya University professors and students for lunch and had a quick chat with each other. In the afternoon, the group toured around the campus and the multiple laboratories. It was great to see the group immerse with the bridge set-up in one of their laboratories. The certificates of appreciation and tokens were given to the Nagoya University hosts by Antonio Bolaños (CES President AY ‘23-’24), Robert Pilapil (BSMS CIV CTM Student and CES CTM Representative AY’ 23-’24), Shaynn Ramos (BS CIV STE Student), and Dr. Mary Ann Adajar(DCE Chair).

Students Trying Out the Interactive Displays at the Disaster Mitigation Research Building

Nagoya University Civil Engineering Laboratories

SIEP Group Photo at Nagoya University

The group embarked on a Nagoya City tour on the 9th day, beginning with a quick visit to Nagoya Castle on a rainy morning. This was followed by a visit to Toyota Museum, where the group learned about the history of the automaker’s innovations and witnessed multiple car displays across generations.The tour ended with a comforting and hearty sukiyaki lunch, which was especially appreciated given the rainy weather. 

SIEP Group Photo at Nagoya Castle

Fun Photo Op at Toyota Museum

The 10th day was a bittersweet day for the group, especially the students, marking the end of their SIEP journey. As the saying goes, “all good things must come to an end”. The students reflected on their experiences over the past 10 days and it ended in good faith. The SIEP has been an invaluable opportunity for learning, friendship, and cultural exchange, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.

Fun Photo Op with Matching Jackets at Chubu Centrair International Airport

 

2024 DLSU x Chula Exchange

 

2024 DLSU x Chula Exchange

Twenty-nine students from De La Salle University (DLSU) Manila and Laguna campuses participated in a 10-day Student International Exchange Program (SIEP) in Bangkok, Thailand, from August 23 – September 2024. The annual program began in 2012 and aims to strengthen ties between DLSU and Chulalongkorn University (CU). This year, the student delegation was accompanied by three DLSU faculty members, including two CU alumni: Associate Professor Dr. Irene Olivia Ubay–Anongphouth and Assistant Professor Cheryl Lyne Roxas, and Assistant Professor Miller Cutora. The program allowed students to experience Thai culture through various educational, cultural, and social activities.

The first three days of the program focused on a cultural immersion tour of the city, during which students sampled local cuisine and engaged with Thai customs and beliefs. Led by the faculty members, students explored popular local landmarks in Bangkok to help them acclimate to their new environment. They visited cultural and religious sites, such as the Royal Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Saket, Ban Bat, Wat Suthat, Wat Ratchanatdaram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Chai Wattanaram, gaining a deeper appreciation for Thai culture.

On Day 4, the students attended an orientation and seminar at CU, hosted by Assistant Prof. Dr. Chayut Ngamkhanong, Deputy Head of Research and International Affairs at the university's Department of Civil Engineering. They were also welcomed by the department chair Professor Kasem Choocharukul. The seminar provided an overview of the civil engineering program at CU, including available courses and scholarships for prospective graduate students. Six DLSU students and seven CU students also presented their research across various specializations, including Construction Technology and Management (CTM), Hydraulics and Water Resources Engineering (HWR), Geotechnical Engineering (GTE), and Transportation Engineering (TRE).

In the afternoon, students toured CU’s geotechnical, concrete testing, and material testing laboratories, gaining insight into the practical applications of civil engineering concepts. They also visited the engineering library.

The visit concluded with a simple ceremony, during which DLSU presented a certificate of appreciation to CU Department of Civil Engineering in gratitude for their hospitality. Henri Haggai Cua, the DLSU SIEP student representative for the Thailand delegation, presented the certificate and tokens of appreciation to the CU professors.

On the fifth day, the students visited Tipco Asphalt Public Company, where they received a tour and an orientation covering the company’s overview, operations, and industry connections. During the visit, the students explored the Research and Development laboratory, where they learned about the processes involved in testing various asphalt mixes to determine their specifications and properties for different applications.

DLSU SIEP delegation visits Tipco Asphalt Public Company.

DLSU SIEP delegation visits the CH Karnchang construction site in front of the Parliament Building

On the sixth day of their exchange program, the students visited the CH Karnchang office, where they gained firsthand insight into the ongoing construction of the MRT Purple Line, which features ten underground and seven elevated stations. They had the unique opportunity to visit one of the underground stations near the Parliament House, where they learned about the construction process and the use of specialized machinery like the Tunnel Boring Machine.

The remaining days of the program were dedicated to exploring more of Bangkok’s rich cultural heritage. The student delegation visited several iconic sites, including the Ancient City Museum and Muang Boran, which offer a detailed glimpse into Thailand’s historical architecture and traditions. They also toured the Jim Thompson House, a museum showcasing the history of the Thai silk industry and the life of Jim Thompson, an American businessman credited with revitalizing the silk trade in Thailand. To complete their cultural immersion, the students spent time at the bustling Cha Tu Chak Weekend Market, one of the largest markets in the world, where they experienced local commerce, crafts, and street food.

Exploring Thai culture and cuisine

Overall, the SIEP to Thailand, organized by the DLSU Department of Civil Engineering, proved to be a valuable and enriching experience for its participants. Beyond the academic seminars and research presentations, the program offered students a balanced combination of cultural exposure and practical learning opportunities. From exploring Thailand’s history and traditions to gaining firsthand knowledge of cutting-edge civil engineering practices, such as those seen in the MRT Purple Line construction and the Tipco Asphalt laboratory, the students broadened their perspectives both as future engineers and global citizens.

This program not only strengthened the academic ties between DLSU and CU but also fostered personal and professional growth for future DLSU civil engineering graduates. By engaging in cross-cultural exchanges, networking with international faculty and students, and experiencing the application of engineering concepts in a global context, participants returned home with a deeper understanding of their field and the broader world around them. This holistic experience prepares them to contribute meaningfully to the civil engineering profession both locally and internationally.