July 3–4, 2025 | Central Luzon State University (CLSU), through its University Research Program Office and Nanotechnology Research and Development (R&D) Facility.
The Central Luzon State University (CLSU), through its University Research Program Office and Nanotechnology Research and Development (R&D) Facility, successfully conducted a
two-day Training-Workshop titled “Empowering the Researchers in Nanotechnology and Quantum Dots” on July 3–4, 2025. Held at the Nanotechnology R&D Facility in the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, the workshop aimed to provide participants with a strong foundation and hands-on experience in nanotechnology, quantum dots, and phytochemical analysis. The event brought together researchers, graduate students, and science educators from various institutions including Aldersgate College Inc. (ACI), Camp Tino National High School, and on-the-job trainees and graduate students enrolled in CLSU’s Master’s and Ph.D. programs.
Representing Aldersgate College Inc. were Kristine Ellen Marie Nanglihan, Desirae Abenoja, Engr. Ashley Calica, Engr. Florie Mae Vacaro, Engr. Carlo JD Melegrito, Lhyca Ann Sibal, and Chelsey Joy Dacumos. The team was supervised by Ms. Jovelyn Detablan and supported by Ms. Adeline Belga, a Master of Science in Environmental Science student at CLSU. The program officially began with participant registration and the administration of a
pre-test by Mr. Jhericsonelle Pineda, a graduate student in Environmental Science, to assess baseline knowledge. The opening program featured Dr. Danila S. Paragas, Head of the CLSU Nanotechnology R&D Facility, who welcomed participants and introduced the objectives and expected outcomes of the training.
The first day consisted of technical lectures in the morning and workshops in the afternoon. Four key topics were discussed during the lecture sessions: What is Nanotechnology and Its Applications by Dr. Sharon E. Lazaro, Quantum Dots by Dr. Cesar V. Ortinero, Applications of Nanotechnology: Researches Done in CLSU by Dr. Luzviminda S. Quitos, and Roadmap of Nanotechnology by Dr. Danila S. Paragas. These lectures introduced participants to the fundamentals of nanotechnology, the properties and potential of quantum dots, and the
current and future direction of nanotechnology research, particularly in agriculture and environmental science.
In the afternoon, participants engaged in two workshops. The first, facilitated by Dr. Quitos, involved capsule proposal planning where participants conceptualized research proposals on nanotechnology and quantum dots. The second workshop covered laboratory techniques in phytochemical analysis, including plant sample preparation, extraction, and phytochemical screening using the test tube method. These hands-on activities aimed to integrate theoretical learning with practical skills and to introduce participants to the role of natural
products in developing nanomaterials.
The second day began with an attendance check led by Ms. Angela Denisse B. Berin, followed by laboratory sessions. Initially, the ACI team attempted to synthesize nanoparticles using Santol (Sandoricum koetjape) extract, but no nanoparticles formed during characterization. Upon consultation with the facilitators, the team shifted to using Duhat (Syzygium cumini) extract, which successfully yielded silver nanoparticles. Participants then engaged in two laboratory procedures: green synthesis of nanomaterials and characterization using UV-Visible Spectroscopy (UV-Vis) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). These methods helped confirm the presence of nanoparticles and analyze their structural properties.
In the culminating activity, participants presented their capsule proposals. The ACI team, represented by Lhyca Ann Sibal and Kristine Ellen Marie Nanglihan, presented their study titled “Bioefficacy of Syzygium cumini Leaves Synthesized with Silver Nanoparticles as a Botanical Larvicide Against Aedes aegypti: From Ovicidal to Adult Emergence Inhibition.” Their presentation demonstrated the scientific rigor and potential of green nanotechnology in addressing public health issues such as dengue. After the presentations, a post-test was
administered to measure knowledge acquisition. The workshop concluded with a reflection session, awarding of certificates, and closing remarks from Dr. Danila S. Paragas, who acknowledged the dedication and potential of the participants.
Overall, the training-workshop successfully merged theory with application, enriching participants’ skills and perspectives in nanotechnology and phytochemical research. Through collaborative activities, laboratory exposure, and research proposal development, participants—especially the team from Aldersgate College Inc.—demonstrated enthusiasm and readiness to contribute to innovative scientific research and future advancements in the field.
