From July 18 to July 30, 2025, the University of the Philippines Diliman National Service Training Program (NSTP) Office welcomed students and faculty from Lehigh University for a two-week fieldwork collaboration in Manila. This partnership brought together innovative minds to tackle pressing issues in the Philippines—from plastic waste and metal recycling to sustainable packaging and public health.
This year, four ventures participated in the fieldwork, guided by three Lehigh faculty members: Vice Provost Khanjan Mehta, Asst. Prof. Thomas E. Gartner III and Prof. Sean Vassilaros. Together with UP Diliman students, NSRC Reservists, and NSTP staff, these projects explored real-world solutions for environmental sustainability and community well-being.
PlasTech Ventures (From sachets to solutions: Turning trash into treasures)
The Philippines consumes over 2 million tons of single-use plastics annually—most of which ends up polluting the environment. PlasTech Ventures is reimagining sachet waste as a valuable resource. This year’s team conducted a case study at the Baseco Material Recovery Facility (MRF), which collects and processes sachets for upcycling into usable products.
They also explored innovative ideas such as turning sachets into 3D printing filament, collaborating with local researchers, and even developing community-based board games to encourage sachet collection.
“MRF workers expressed their advocacy to help the environment and community through their work; however, despite the tedious nature of their job, they do not receive fair wages. This work is valuable, and it deserves recognition.” -Mars Maglangit, Senior Research Associate for Research and Development
AgriWrap (Converting food waste into biodegradable packaging products)
In Manila’s vibrant street food scene, single-use plastics dominate. AgriWrap seeks to change this by transforming agricultural waste into biodegradable packaging.
This year’s fieldwork involved surveying street vendors on packaging use and cost, visiting bioplastic manufacturers like Oikos, and studying how greener alternatives can be made accessible to small businesses.
“The visit to Oikos was inspiring. Seeing women-led leadership and their passion for sustainability was empowering. It reminded me that protecting our planet requires both innovation and heart.” -Raine Nakpil, UPD NSRC Reservist
MetalMatter (Transforming the metal recycling landscape)
MetalMatter is tackling the environmental and economic challenges of metal waste, with a focus on aluminum recycling. The team mapped out current recycling processes, visited junk shops, and studied the potential for localized, higher-value metal products.
“The dedication of the MetalMatter team was unmatched. Even in heavy rain and flooding, we continued our fieldwork. I learned not only about metal recycling but also the importance of communication, teamwork, and resilience.” -Anthony Sy, UPD NSRC Reservist
TrackTB (Revolutionizing tuberculosis treatment adherence)
The Philippines has the highest TB incidence rate in the world. TrackTB is developing the Philippines Application for Tuberculosis Treatment Adherence (PATTA), a low-data tool designed to help patients and healthcare providers monitor treatment in real time—even in remote areas.
Through collaboration with ConnectTB and local health stakeholders, this project aims to close the gap in treatment adherence and save lives.
A Partnership that Inspires
Despite challenges—such as a week-long typhoon that delayed fieldwork—both Lehigh and UP Diliman teams maximized their time through community visits, stakeholder interviews, and hands-on research.
“We saw the realities in places like Baseco MRF. There is a clear need for better infrastructure, fair wages, and education for workers. Projects like these can spark the change they need.” -Ameda Tomie, Junior Office Associate for NSRC
The NSTP Diliman Office extends its heartfelt thanks to Vice Provost Khanjan Mehta, Asst. Prof. Thomas E. Gartner III, Prof. Sean Vassilaros, and the entire Lehigh University team for their dedication and collaboration.
We look forward to continuing this partnership—transforming innovative ideas into tangible solutions that benefit Filipino communities. Together, we are building a more sustainable and equitable future.
