USTP research gains global spotlight at IEEE TEMSCON-ASPAC 2025, Thailand

By Mary Melody Gadiane, Research Associate, CDObites Office
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) made its mark on the international stage at the 2025 IEEE TEMS Conference Asia Pacific (TEMSCON-ASPAC 2025), held on September 13–19 at the Asawin Grand Convention Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand. Representing USTP was Dr. Franch Maverick Lorilla, who joined fellow researchers, academics, and industry leaders in one of the most important gatherings on technology and engineering management.

TEMSCON-ASPAC, the flagship conference of the IEEE Technology and Engineering Management Society (TEMS), has long been a hub for sharing new ideas in technology, business, and innovation. With the theme “Achieving Competitiveness in the Age of AI and Big Data Analytics,” this year’s sessions focused on how emerging technologies are reshaping industries and societies worldwide. Highlights included the Industry Forum, where global experts offered perspectives on the risks and opportunities that come with artificial intelligence and data-driven decision-making.

USTP Research Showcased on the Global Stage

Dr. Lorilla contributed to the conference by presenting two research papers:

  1. EcoFrost: DC-Powered Smart Refrigeration System with Solar Integration and Automated Control for Sustainable Tomato Preservation
  2. Assessing and Enhancing Startup Ecosystem Connectivity: Development and Evaluation of the DRIEMS (STARTUP PH MAP) Portal

The second study, the Startup PH Map Portal, is a publication output of the DOST-PCIEERD-funded MindSET4Innovation project. This digital portal is now accessible at mindset.ph, enabling stakeholders to explore, connect, and strengthen the Philippine startup ecosystem online.

These studies demonstrate how USTP research delivers practical solutions—whether in supporting agriculture through sustainable post-harvest technologies or strengthening the startup ecosystem through digital innovation. Beyond presenting results, Dr. Lorilla engaged with international peers, exchanged insights, and built new partnerships that could open doors for future collaborations.

From Participation to Partnership: A Road to 2027

More than just an opportunity to present, USTP’s participation created tangible partnerships for the Philippines. Together with Caraga State University (CSU), USTP put forward the intent to bring IEEE TEMSCON ASPAC 2027 to the country. This proposal received approval-in-principle from Dr. Sudeendra Koushik, IEEE TEMSCON Global President-Elect (2026–2027).

This milestone means that in 2027, the Philippines—through USTP, CSU, and the IEEE Visayas and Mindanao community—will co-host the prestigious IEEE TEMSCON. This will not only highlight Filipino innovation but also strengthen our role in the global IEEE ecosystem. Formal coordination with the IEEE Philippine Section (2026–2027)will soon commence to finalize the bid and planning process.

Why This Matters

TEMSCON 2027 in the Philippines will:

  • Provide a venue for world-class knowledge exchange in technology, engineering, and management.
  • Showcase Filipino talent and innovation to the global community.
  • Strengthen international partnerships that empower local industries and communities.
  • Reinforce the Philippines’ readiness to contribute to global conversations on AI, big data, and innovation.

 

Fun Facts on IEEE Members

Many of the world’s most celebrated inventors, engineers, and technology pioneers have been IEEE members:

  • Nikola Tesla – Legendary inventor and engineer, honored by the IEEE Nikola Tesla Award.
  • Claude Shannon – “Father of Information Theory,” who laid the foundation of digital communications.
  • Gordon Moore – Co-founder of Intel, famous for Moore’s Law.
  • Vint Cerf & Bob Kahn – Known as the “Fathers of the Internet,” recognized for their work on TCP/IP protocols.
  • Thomas Edison – Though predating IEEE’s founding, his legacy lives on through the IEEE Edison Medal.