PHilMech supports student innovations

STUDENTS from Top Link Global College Inc. in Cabanatuan sought the guidance of the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech) in developing the Solar-Powered Automatic Rice Transplanter and Alitangya Control (Spartac).

Spartac was developed by the students with the aim of revolutionizing rice farming by integrating robotics and solar energy, according to PHilMech.

«During their visit, the students presented their project and gained valuable insights from experts at the Agricultural Mechanization Division (AMD), including Raymund Joseph Macaranas, chief science research specialist of AMD, and Richard Avila, science research specialist II. They offered constructive feedback to help refine the Spartac prototype's design and improve its feasibility for practical use,» PHilMech said in a Facebook post.

Scientists from the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization, and students from Top Link Global College Inc. in Cabanatuan discuss the merits of the Solar-Powered Automatic Rice Transplanter and Alitangya Control developed by the students. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The students also toured the PHilMech Technology Management and Demonstration Center, allowing them to witness the latest advancements in agricultural machines that can inspire them to make further enhancements to their own project.

The meeting between the students and PHilMech representatives also sparked discussions about potential collaboration to conduct real-world testing of Spartac, which aligns with PHilMech's mission to promote sustainable and advanced agricultural practices while reinforcing its support for young innovators.