CSIW 2012: Rise of Energia: Conducting the Hunt And Access to a Renewable Generation of Energy

“Rise of Energia: Conducting the Hunt and Access to a Renewable Generation of Energy”
by Nissi Abigail Buenaobra

One major touchdown in the history of PSYSC occurred last October 22-25, 2012 when NCSIW was held in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, thus finally conquering the northern part of the country. A total of four hundred seventy four delegates congregated at  Hotel Plaza del Norte.

In celebration of 2012 as International Year of Sustainable Energy for all, this year’s NCSIW bears the theme “Rise of Energia: Conducting the Hunt and Access to a Renewable Generation of Energy”. PSYSC recognizes the importance of renewable energy for sustainable development and the need to create awareness about the renewable energy  industry in the Philippines.

Junior Navis, Senior Navis ad Energia
Maga! The participants were introduced into the world of Energia, a place that for a long time was dependent on four mythical eggs known as Lacrima for its power source. The eggs were then stolen thus threatening Energia’s very existence. The Flicker Union (NEC) and the Crackerjacks (CSIW Core) tasked the Junior Navigators (students) to search for the Lacrima and learn the art of cultivating renewable energy.
They were guided by their Cadets (Ates and Kuyas). For four days, the students underwent trainings, lectures and  workshops. There were 377 students and 97 teachers and they were divided into subcamps.

The Paragons
The paragons are the experts who imparted knowledge about renewable energy during the students and teachers sessions. Prof. Ma. Ines Rosana Balange-Tarriela, Associate Professor of Geology in National Institute of Geological Sciences (NIGS) at University of the Philippines, actively engaged the students about geothermal energy. She discussed how the Philippines, being located at the Pacific Ring of Fire, is at a competitive advantage when it comes to generation of energy. She also explained the mechanisms necessary for tapping the energy beneath the earth’s crust. Engr. John Michael Constantino tackled Wind and Hydro Power. He explained how the waves and the wind are harnessed for commercial and residential use. Sir Constantino is a UP College of Engineering faculty and is a civil engineer. Ms. Claire Lee, Assistant Vice President for Operations, in the Solutions Using Renewable Energy, Inc.,  shared her knowledge about solar panels and solar plants.  She discussed how solar panels can power simple devices and massive structures like houses and buildings.

Workshops followed each lecture. For the Geothermal Energy Workshop, the students were tasked to build their own steam-powered boats and candle-powered lanterns. Students also designed their own Solar Power Plant and made a Solar Panel model during the Solar Energy Workshop. The students also participated in the Overall Workshop, a more interactive, amazing race –patterned workshop which integrated fun science concepts with challenging and exciting  physical  activities.

Highlights of NCSIW include “The  Shadow’s Scintilla” or Entertainment Night where schools showcased their talents through a shadow play and “Spectral Solstice: Alchemy for the Golden Light”, more commonly known as Pledge Night, a PSYSC tradition. The students didn’t miss out in showcasing their wits as they battled in “Enerion’s Battle of Wits” or School Quiz Bee and in the “District Face Off ” or Subcamp Quiz Bee.



CIRCUMNAVIGA: The Ultimate Expedition
The Circumnaviga or field trip sites were the UNESCO World Heritage Paoay Church,  the mystical and famous Paoay Lake, and the Malacanang of the North, the house of former President Ferdinand Marcos. The delegates also visited the oldest lighthouse in the country, Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. They were also thrilled to see the Bangui Wind Mills. The NCSIW concluded with "The Final Spark" where the winners for the various activities and contests were awarded.