MS. Leilanie O. Suerte, D. Eng. bagged the top prize in the Search for Outstanding Research and Development in Industry and Energy, the 8th Science & Technology Fora and Competitions conducted by the Philippine Council for Industry and Energy Research and Development (PCIERD) recently at the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippine Science Heritage Center, Science Avenue Complex, Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila.
Dr. Suerte, a geologist, is a senior science research specialist of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, Region 6.
Her research entitled Magmatism and Hydrothermal System of the Kingking Porphyry Copper Deposit: An Insight into the Mineralization of the Copper-Gold Belt in Southeastern Mindanao, provides geological data in exploring porphyry copper deposits which are significant sources of copper and gold.
This study focuses on the Kingking porphyry copper deposit in southeastern Mindanao . Kingking is a gold-rich porphyry copper deposit located in Pantukan, Compostela Valley. Porphyry copper deposits are generally described as low-grade copper, gold and/or molybdenum mineralization.
When asked on the importance of her study, Dr. Suerte stressed that it would provide investors and existing mining companies initial data and exploration tool in looking for porphyry copper deposits in southeastern Mindanao and other similar settings.
The study also excelled in its significance because of its socio-economic impact and opportunities and contribution to the advancement of science and technology. Specifically, her study will help cut exploration costs which will encourage investors in the minerals industry. It has also identified a possible new source of copper ore in porphyry copper deposits.
The Philippine minerals industry is considered as one of the key economic players of the country. It has enjoyed a boost in investments since its revitalization in 2004. Data of the DENR-Mines and Geosciences Bureau shows that collectively, mining, processing and exploration projects have invested from 2004 to middle of 2009 a total of 2.43 billion US dollars with potential additional investments to reach 14.84 billion dollars up to 2013.
Besting 90 other entries nationwide, she received the P300,000 cash prize and trophy as national winner.
Following in second place is the study on First and Second Generation Bioethanol Production from Sweet Sorghum using Locally Isolated Microorganisms which promotes the use of sweet sorghum as an alternative feedstock source of bioethanol. The ethanol obtained using sweet sorghum could be blended with gasoline imported from other countries.
Completing the set of winners is the study Development and Commercialization of Locally Designed Digital Wood Moisture Meter of the Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI) as the third prize. The device fabricated caters to needs of local furniture makers.
The winners were awarded during the PCIERD 28th Anniversary Celebration held at the Hyatt Hotel in Malate, Manila on March 17, 2010. (MGB-6)
Published in The Daily Guardian, April 15, 2010