Center for Advanced Solutions in Technocasting in Soccsksargen

12/12/2025

The CAST-SOX team, led by Dr. Ryan G. Banal together with Engr. Edmar S. Andang and Engr. Arniel Vhien A. Lisondra, recently assisted ATR Construction during their site visit for the upcoming CAST-SOX Building. Present from ATR Construction were Ray Gerson S. Repalbor, Site Engineer; Virginia S. Repalbor, Project Coordinator; and Efren A. Torrecampo, Foreman. The team carried out initial site assessments and layout planning to ensure that all structural, functional, and logistical considerations align with the project’s requirements. The construction is expected to be completed within 60 days, marking an efficient and timely rollout for the CAST-SOX facility. This collaborative effort stands as another significant step toward establishing a dedicated center that will advance innovation and technocasting in the SOCCSKSARGEN region.

05/12/2025

CAST-SOX continues to strengthen its commitment to delivering impactful and innovative solutions as it takes part in capacity-building initiatives that enhance project evaluation and strategic implementation. The project recognizes the importance of understanding how research outputs translate into real benefits for communities and industries, making impact assessment a crucial component of its ongoing development.

Representing the project, Dr. Ryan G. Banal, Project Leader of CAST-SOX, attended the “Impact Assessment Training for DOST-PCIEERD Project Leaders and Technical Evaluators” held on December 3–5, 2025 at Vivere Hotel, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. During the three-day program, he engaged in workshops, discussions, and case studies that deepened his understanding of evidence-based evaluation practices. The training covered essential frameworks and tools that focus on measuring outcomes, sustainability, and long-term societal value—far beyond immediate project outputs.

With these strengthened insights, CAST-SOX is better equipped to ensure that its initiatives remain aligned with national priorities and deliver meaningful, measurable impact. Dr. Banal expresses his gratitude to DOST-PCIEERD, the resource speakers, and fellow participants for organizing an enriching and thoughtfully structured training that will further guide CAST-SOX in achieving its objectives and supporting regional development.

13/11/2025

The Center for Advanced Solutions for Technocasting in Soccsksargen (CAST-SOX) proudly participated in the Balik Scientist Exit Presentation titled “METAL MATTERS: Advancing Alloy Design and Metal Additive Manufacturing for a Sustainable Future,” delivered by Dr. Clodualdo Aranas Jr., PEng, PhD, PMatE, on November 13, 2025.

Representing CAST-SOX were Dr. Ryan G. Banal, Engr. Edmar S. Andang, and Engr. Arniel Vhien A. Lisondra.

The event was organized by the University of the Philippines (UP), the Department of Mining, Metallurgical, and Materials Engineering (DMME), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the DOST–Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), and the Balik Scientist Program.

Dr. Aranas, an Associate Professor and Director of the Alloy Design Research Laboratory at the University of New Brunswick, Canada, is a Balik Scientist under DOST-PCIEERD. His presentation underscored the importance of advanced alloy design and metal additive manufacturing in building a sustainable and innovation-driven future for the metals industry.

CAST-SOX extends its appreciation to DOST, DOST-PCIEERD, UP-DMME, and Dr. Aranas for sharing valuable insights that continue to inspire local researchers and innovators in advancing metallurgical and materials engineering in the Philippines.

06/11/2025

CAST-SOX in Action: Day 2 of the Two-Day SolidWorks Workshop for ABE Students at MSU-Gensan’s ABE Complex

Day 2 of the SolidWorks Workshop concluded with a strong finish! ⚙️✨

The Center for Advance Solutions for Technocasting in Soccsksargen (CAST-SOX) continued its hands-on sessions for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE) students under ABE-054: Materials and Processes for ABE, focusing on applied design and simulation using SolidWorks.

Today’s session was led by Dr. Danilo Dadula, whose in-depth discussion and live demonstrations on advanced SolidWorks modelling and simulation gave students valuable insights into practical design applications. His expertise and engaging approach inspired participants to think critically about how digital tools drive modern engineering solutions. He was joined by Engr. Aian Rey Caladcad and Engr. Edmar Andang, who provided technical assistance and guided participants throughout the exercises, ensuring a productive and collaborative learning experience.

Held at the ABE Complex, Mindanao State University – General Santos, the activity was made possible through the support of the Department of Innovation and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Extension, and Innovation (OVCREI).

CAST-SOX expresses its appreciation to everyone involved for making this two-day workshop a success—equipping future engineers with essential design skills and a spirit of innovation.

05/11/2025

CAST-SOX in Action: Two-Day SolidWorks Workshop for ABE Students at MSU-Gensan’s ABE Complex

Day 1 of the Two-Day SolidWorks Workshop is in full swing! 🎉

The Center for Advance Solutions for Technocasting in Soccsksargen (CAST-SOX) is currently leading this hands-on training for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE) students under ABE-054: Materials and Processes for ABE.

Held at the ABE Complex, Mindanao State University – General Santos, the workshop is conducted in collaboration with the Department of Innovation and the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Extension, and Innovation (OVCREI).

Today’s talks and demonstrations are delivered by Engr. Edmar Andang, Engr. Aian Rey Caladcad, and Dr. Danilo Dadula, who are sharing their expertise in 3D modeling design visualization, and simulation using SolidWorks.

This initiative underscores MSU-Gensan’s commitment to equipping future engineers with practical skills and fostering innovation through collaboration and hands-on learning. Stay tuned for Day 2!

04/11/2025

The CAST-SOX team successfully held its Year 2 Quarter 2 Project Monitoring online, facilitated by Ms. Francesca Angeline Carranza from DOST-PCIEERD, together with Ms. Roxanne delos Reyes, Ms. Lie Villaflor, Ms. Judy Mae Asis, and Mr. Angelo Buenar Bayle.

Project Leader Prof. Ryan G. Banal, D.Eng, led the presentation of updates and milestones achieved during the quarter, alongside core members Dr. Danilo P. Dadula, Dr. Cristina P. Dadula, and Engr. Aian Rey A. Caladcad, with project staff Engr. Edmar Andang, Engr. Arniel Vhien Lisondra, and Ms. Joecil Quibol.

The discussion focused on the progress of project activities such as patternmaking, sand testing, and the development of training materials for foundry operations. Updates on the construction of the foundry building and the status of equipment procurement were also highlighted. DOST-PCIEERD representatives shared valuable insights and constructive feedback, emphasizing their continued support for the project’s implementation and objectives.

The session concluded on a positive note, underscoring the team’s commitment to sustaining momentum in developing local foundry capabilities and promoting innovation in metallurgical practices within the region.

27/10/2025

The Center for Advanced Solutions on Technocasting in SOCCSKSARGEN (CAST-SOX) presented its extended abstract titled “A Digital Approach to Patternmaking: Modernizing Foundry Practices in the Philippines” during METCON 2025: The Future of Metals and Minerals in the Philippines, held on October 25, 2025, at Aziza Paradise Hotel, Function Hall A. The presentation was delivered by Engr. Arniel Whien Lisondra.

14/10/2025

Two of our core team members, Dr. Danilo and Dr. Cristina Dadula, were among those recognized during the 𝗣𝗥𝗔𝗜𝗦𝗘 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 for their remarkable contributions and long years of dedicated service to Mindanao State University–General Santos.

Their steadfast commitment, professional excellence, and enduring support have significantly contributed to the University’s continued growth and pursuit of academic distinction. Their recognition stands as a testament to the values of dedication and integrity that define the MSU-Gensan community.

14/10/2025

Our heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Ryan G. Banal, D.Eng., CAST–SOX Project Leader, and Engr. Irene Lara Abad Caladcad, CAST–SOX Collaborator and Project Leader of “Assessment and Profiling of COVID-19 Pandemic-Induced Wastes in General Santos City: Basis for the Development of Appropriate Solid Waste Management Technologies for the City,” for receiving a recognition from MSU–General Santos for their publication “Tracking Coronavirus 2019 Pandemic-Related Waste Generation in Urban Waterways.”

Their paper, published in a Scopus-indexed (Q1) journal, reflects their shared commitment to advancing environmental research and promoting sustainable waste management practices.

03/10/2025

CAST-SOX proudly recognizes our project leader, Prof. Ryan G. Banal, for attending the 11th Balik Scientist Program Convention as a Balik Scientist awardee. His leadership reflects CAST-SOX’s mission to drive research and innovation, with MSU–GenSan as a proud host institution of the Department of Science and Technology’s program.

Credits to Chancellor Shidik Zed T. Abantas for the original post

Currently attending the 11th Balik Scientist Program Convention alongside Prof. Ryan G. Banal, our Director for Innovation.

Prof. Banal is a Balik Scientist recepient who has joined the faculty of the College of Engineering. Mindanao State University–General Santos proudly served as one of the host institutions for the Department of Science and Technology’s Balik Scientist Program, reaffirming our commitment to advancing research, innovation, and national development through strategic partnerships.

23/09/2025

Dr. Ryan G. Banal, Regular Member of NRCP, Director of the Innovation Division, and Project Leader of the DOST-PCIEERD-funded Metal Casting Project, was invited as a Plenary Speaker. His presentation highlighted the persistent challenges confronting the Philippine foundry sector, such as the shortage of skilled workers, limited academic engagement, and the continuing decline in domestic manufacturing output. Drawing from the experiences of the pilot foundry project in SOCCSKSARGEN, Dr. Banal emphasized the importance of advanced casting technologies, human capital development, and stronger academe-industry partnerships in fostering sustainable progress.

The session provided participants with valuable insights on how strategic investments in workforce development and technological innovation can address key gaps in the metal casting industry, paving the way for a resilient and globally competitive manufacturing sector.
The 2025 NRCP Annual Scientific Conference and 23rd Mindanao Regional Cluster Assembly was held on September 18, 2025, at the Research and Development Hall of the University of Southeastern Philippines, Davao City, with the theme “Empowering a Sustainable Future: Science, Technology, and Social Innovation, and Human Capital in Global Challenges.”