QCU Hosts WEST Fair and Symposium 2024 in Partnership with
Maynilad Water Academy
Quezon City University (QCU) hosted the Water Engineering Science Talks (WEST) Fair and Symposium 2024 on November 6, 2024, at the QCU Auditorium, gathering a dynamic group of educators, students, industry leaders, and sustainability advocates to explore innovative solutions to global water and environmental challenges.
In partnership with Maynilad Water Academy (MWA), and supported by Envirokonsult, WaterKonsult, Museo El Deposito, and Xylem, the one-day event spotlighted groundbreaking ideas in water engineering, sanitation, and climate resilience.
The symposium was a platform for presenting cutting-edge technologies, hosting thought-provoking discussions, and showcasing the latest research in water sustainability. Through this event, QCU reaffirmed its commitment to advancing research, fostering innovation, and empowering communities to meet the challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity.
The event opened with an engaging morning session that set the tone for the day. Attendees were invited to explore interactive exhibits that highlighted key innovations in water management.
The exhibits, featured contributions from partners such as Maynilad Water Academy, Museo El Deposito, and Xylem, including scale models of water systems, telemetry tools, and miniature sculptures of historical water infrastructure, such as the Carriedo Fountain—a symbol of Manila’s rich water heritage. These displays not only demonstrated modern water solutions but also connected attendees to the historical context of water systems in the Philippines.
With a keynote address by Dr. Theresita V. Atienza, President of QCU, who emphasized the university’s role as a Green University, she highlighted QCU’s dedication to sustainability, aligning its research and campus practices with global environmental goals. Her speech underscored the importance of empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators to address pressing environmental issues, particularly in water management.
Following the keynote, the morning session featured expert-led talks that delved into the history and future of water systems. Mr. Jonel Rabusa from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) presented a fascinating talk on The history of water systems in the Philippines, tracing the evolution of Manila’s water infrastructure and its cultural significance. His presentation explored how historical systems like El Deposito have shaped the city’s water supply and management practices.
Engr. Rodora N. Gamboa, Executive Director of the Maynilad Water Academy, then addressed the challenges and opportunities in the Philippine water sector. Engr. Gamboa’s presentation focused on the importance of technological innovation and strategic partnerships to tackle water access, sanitation, and sustainability issues. Her talk resonated with students aspiring to enter the field of water management, emphasizing the role of emerging technologies in solving water-related challenges.
Mr. Edmundo M. Perez II, also from Maynilad, concluded the morning session with a talk on “green jobs” for a sustainable future. He encouraged students to pursue careers in sustainability, particularly in fields such as renewable energy, water systems management, and environmental engineering, which are essential to achieving global sustainability goals.
The afternoon session shifted focus to the cutting-edge research and innovation happening at QCU. Mr. Angelito Bautista Jr., Director of QCU’s Research Management Office, presented the university’s Research Agenda for 2021-2025, opening with a compelling question: “What if we could transform Quezon City into a beacon of sustainability, where technology, innovation, and nature work in harmony?” His talk explored how QCU’s research is addressing pressing global challenges, with a particular focus on water sustainability, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship.
Dr. Anthony V. Gedang, President and CEO of Envirokonsult and WaterKonsult, followed with a presentation on innovative solutions in water management and wastewater treatment. He shared real-world applications of their technologies, addressing urban and industrial water challenges and demonstrating their potential to improve water quality and accessibility.
The final presentation of the afternoon was delivered by Mr. Jerome A. Montes, Program Manager for Youth Engagement and Community Social Impact at Xylem. He introduced sustainable water technologies designed to address water scarcity and improve sanitation in underserved communities. His presentation emphasized the transformative potential of such technologies in creating sustainable, resilient water systems.
The WEST Fair and Symposium 2024 exemplified QCU’s leadership in driving collaboration between academia, industry, and the community. It was an inspiring day that highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to solving global water challenges. The event left participants energized and equipped with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful impact in the field of water engineering, sanitation, and sustainability.
As the symposium concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the innovative ideas and solutions shared throughout the day. Through events like these, QCU continues to be at the forefront of addressing the world’s most urgent environmental issues and empowering the next generation of leaders in water sustainability.
#1QCU
#QCU30
#WaterEngineering
#EnviroKonsult
#WaterKonsult #Maynilad
