Astrophysics, Particle Physics, and Nuclear Physics Research Cluster

𝗔𝗣𝗡 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗶𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

Unlike the previous hiking trips of 2024 and 2025 that covered unpaved trails from mountain base to peak, the APN group navigated the Makiling trail, starting from the end of the upper forestry area and ending at Agila Base (station 11).

Although walking on concrete road is much easier than in walking amidst root networks, bare soil, and an abundance of green flora that characterized previous hikes, our Makiling hike covered a total walking distance of more than 20 kilometers, with a total travel time of about 4 hours. This is more than twice as long as the trails of our two previous hikes.

We also made several detours and stops along the way. Our first trod off the beaten path led to Flat Rocks, a stream running past imposing boulders and rock formations. After we returned to the main road, we stopped by the stalls near the Makiling Rainforest Picnic area to enjoy some BJ (buko juice), followed by another detour to the mud spring. When we arrived there, we saw a small body of brownish water being heated like soup on a geologic stove. Warning signs declared that the spring is highly acidic with a pH value of 2-3. But that did not stop some morbidly curious members from dipping their fingers in the stream flowing away from the mud spring. Visiting Flat Rocks and the mud spring contributed a total of about 2 kilometers to our overall hiking distance covered.

At the end of the Makiling Trail, we ate our snacks and sampled some delicious buko pie from the shop there. Before we started their return trip, some friendly bikers helped us take pictures. Once we made it back, the group drove to 𝑆𝑡𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑐𝑎𝑣𝑒’𝑠 𝐻𝑜𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐶𝑟𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑦 𝑈𝑙𝑜 in Calamba to enjoy a sumptuous feast.

𝗔𝗣𝗡 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗡𝗥𝗜 𝗡𝘂𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺

Two APN members attended a forum held by the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute titled 𝘕𝘶𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘚𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘛𝘦𝘤𝘩𝘯𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘺 101: 𝘈𝘱𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴, 𝘖𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘴
last February 10, 2026 at the EE auditorium in UPLB. In the forum, speakers from PNRI and UPLB initiated a discourse on the applications of nuclear science and technology in energy, industry, and health, plans for radioactive waste management, and the socioeconomic challenges that come with pushing the country's nuclear science and tech industry.

Some key points raised during the forum include:
𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲, 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱
- installment of more renewable energy sources is currently not enough to keep up with the country's increasing energy demands
climate change goals stipulated in the Paris agreement are not being meet
- nuclear energy is needed to address these gaps
- nuclear energy is meant to facilitate the transition to using more sustainable, renewable energy sources

𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝘂𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆
- it is used in industry for soil testing, manufacturing, improving products and prolonging shelf lives of foods through irradiation
- it is used in medicine for radiopharmaceuticals, imaging techniques, radiation therapy, etc.
- other uses include tracing soil erosion, food authentication, pest control, plant growth promotion, and even groundwater dating

𝗡𝘂𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁
- any materials contaminated by radionuclides are identified as radioactive waste (RW)
- RW can be classified into three categories, in order of increasing radioactivity: High-level waste, intermediate-level waste, and low-level waste
- low-level wastes contribute most to the overall volume of RWs while high-level wastes contribute least
- the current best option for disposing RWs is by burying them in deep geological repositories, with high-level wastes buried the most deeply underground
- the Philippines does not currently recycle RWs, but is conducting studies on it

𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗼𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀
- the return of investment (ROI) in nuclear technology is slow and long-term
- the country has limited infrastructures and facilities for nuclear technology
- there is a lack of authentic public knowledge and education about nuclear science and technology
- building nuclear tech facilities might mean having future generations deal with RWs and other potential problems
- radioactive waste is a potential public health and environmental hazard; it needs to be managed carefully

The current PNRI projects can be grouped into three categories: Uranium search and extraction, reactor infrastructure research, and radiation waste facility research. Below are some of the studies being conducted in each category.

𝗨𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘂𝗺 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
- identifying where Uranium ore could naturally be found in the Philippines
- extracting Uranium from ores on a laboratory scale
- recovering Uranium from seawater

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗿𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵
- developing a comprehensive radiological environmental impact assessment checklist for the Philippines
- building accelerator-driven subcritical nuclear reactors for research purposes
- developing a comprehensive checklist for standards in building reactors
- identifying optimal locations to build nuclear reactors

𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵
- identifying optimal sites to build radiation waste facilities
- monitoring volcanic activities near radiation waste sites
- identifying strategies on managing radioactive waste

Knowing the multifaceted applications, benefits, and problems the country might face in embracing nuclear technology, its progress in this sector will be ultimately determined by whether the Filipino people choose to accept it.

𝗔𝗣𝗡 𝗚𝗢𝗘𝗦 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟: 𝗝𝗚𝗥𝗚 𝟯𝟰 𝗮𝘁 𝗞𝘆𝗼𝘁𝗼 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆

Two members of the APN, together with Dr. Allan L. Alinea, attended the 𝗝𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 (𝗝𝗚𝗥𝗚) 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 held at Kyoto University, Japan, from January 19–23, 2026. Since 1991, JGRG has been hosting annual workshops that bring together researchers working on various aspects of general relativity, gravitation, cosmology, and related fields.

Dr. Alinea and John Onesimus G. Ancheta (undergraduate student) presented their work during the poster sessions, while Cedrix Jake Jadrin (graduate student) delivered an oral presentation in one of the sub-plenary sessions:
• Percolation of ‘Civilisation’ in a Homogeneous Isotropic Universe (Oral Presentation by Cedrix Jake Jadrin)
• On the KG-Constrained Bekenstein’s Disformal Transformation of the Einstein–Hilbert Action (Poster Presentation by Dr. Allan L. Alinea)
• Primordial Cosmological Perturbations under Disformal Transformation (Poster Presentation by John Onesimus G. Ancheta)

For the two students, this marked their first time visiting Japan and attending an international conference. The workshop served as a valuable opportunity to present their research, engage with the international community, and learn about the latest developments in gravitation, cosmology, and particle physics.
For Dr. Alinea, the trip was also a meaningful return to Japan—an opportunity to revisit his alma mater, Osaka University, and reconnect with colleagues and mentors.

𝐀𝐏𝐍 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐆𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐓𝐰𝐨 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬

To mark the end of another productive year, the APN group held a simple gathering to celebrate the group's achievements, share some plans for the future and welcome two new apprentices joining the cluster, namely, Mr. Justin Ryuki Tobias and Mr. Dash Baticados.

The evening opened with a quiz con played individually. Each participant received prizes with the top three receiving the top three prizes and the rest receiving consolation treats.

After the game, the group shared food and spent time talking. The new members also had the chance to introduce themselves further and get to know the rest of the members.

Here's to signing off the year 2025 and awaiting a new one with brand new possibilities.

𝐀𝐏𝐍 𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐏𝐕𝐌 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓⁣
⁣
Last October 22, undergraduate members of the APN Research Group, together with Dr. Allan Alinea, attended the 27𝘵𝘩 𝘚𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘗𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘬𝘢 𝘯𝘨 𝘝𝘪𝘴𝘢𝘺𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘔𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘰 (𝘚𝘗𝘝𝘔) held in Iloilo City. The event featured developments in physics, technology, and sustainability, through poster and oral presentations while also providing a platform for students and researchers to present their work and network with fellow colleagues from all over the country.⁣
⁣
⁣
𝐀𝐏𝐍 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬⁣
⁣
Our undergraduate members showcased the following research works during the SPVM Poster Session. ⁣
⁣
• “𝘐𝘧 𝘝𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘴 𝘈 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘊 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘈 × 𝘉 = 𝘊, 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘉?” – Poster by Dr. Allan Alinea, JO Ancheta, John Kyrie Elieson Bunsay, and Corinth Gale Garcia⁣
• “𝘐𝘯𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘋𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘋𝘪𝘴𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘭 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘌𝘹𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘎𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘺” – Poster by Yurev Ivan Ross Carag, co-authored with Dr. Alinea⁣
⁣
Meanwhile, two of our APN alumni also presented the following works during the ICPR sub-plenary sessions:⁣
⁣
• “𝘚𝘤𝘩𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘻𝘴𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘏𝘰𝘭𝘦 𝘌𝘷𝘢𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯: 𝘏𝘢𝘸𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘙𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘓𝘪𝘧𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘔𝘢𝘴𝘴” – Oral sub-plenary by alumnus Francis Lance Leal⁣
• “𝘎𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘓𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘺 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘏𝘰𝘭𝘦𝘴: 𝘔𝘢𝘴𝘴, 𝘋𝘦𝘧𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘈𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯” – Oral sub-plenary by alumnus Emmanuel Christian Chua⁣
⁣
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𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞⁣
⁣
Members described the conference as both memorable and educational, appreciating the diversity of topics and the welcoming atmosphere of the hosts. They also valued the chance to connect with fellow physics students, educators, and researchers from around the country. APN head Dr. Alinea also noted a growing interest among Filipino physicists in traditionally challenging fields such as general relativity, high-energy physics, and nuclear physics—an encouraging sign for the continued growth of fundamental research in the Philippines.⁣
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The APN team returned inspired and motivated to continue advancing their research and contributing to the local and national physics community.

𝗔𝗧𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: By now, BSAP students must be aware that all undergraduate BSAP students are required to join a research group for their advancement to APHY 200 and eventual graduation.

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𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗣𝗡 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿

The 𝗔𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝘀, 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝘂𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗣𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝘀 (𝗔𝗣𝗡)
research cluster is one of the existing research groups under the
Institute of Physics. Our group hones undergraduate students
with an insight for a long term goal to pursue physics in-depth.
We wish to sharpen the skills and deepen the knowledge base
and understanding of bright minds who wish to pursue physics
as a life-long career.

Every year we receive more applications to the research cluster
than we can accommodate. From time to time, however, we send
invites like this to streamline the process of application before
opening it to everyone; that is, to students with good potential.

𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

The Astrophysics, Particle Physics, and Nuclear Physics (APN)
Cluster is one of the seven research clusters under the Institute
of Physics. The cluster covers the following fields of Physics:

--> Einstein's General Relativity
--> Astronomy/Astrophysics
--> Primordial Cosmology and Nuclear Physics
--> Quantum Field Theory/High Energy physics/Particle Physics
--> Computational tools in APN
--> Other related fields

The thesis under the APN cluster may be
theoretical (e.g., extending Einstein general theory of relativity)
computational (e.g., programming the spread of alien civilisation in an isotropic homogeneous universe)
experimental/observational (e.g., study of Cepheid variables, detection of particles from outer space)
Here are the positive aspects of the cluster

𝗔𝗣𝗡 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀

(a)
Students get to study fields of physics that are not an integral
part of the current BSAP curriculum, but are fundamental requirements in understanding nature (relativity, astrophysics, particle physics, etc.)

(b)
We have weekly or biweekly reading sessions to nourish our group members. Here, members get to report, ask questions, discuss beautiful ideas, be updated about recent developments in astrophysics, particle physics, and nuclear physics, etc.

(c)
We work hard so that students can graduate on time. Thesis topics are decided prior to APHY 200 enrollment or during their first weeks of enrollment. We set weekly of biweekly thesis meetings to guide our thesis students. Intelligent adjustments are made for the successful completion of APHY 200.

(d)
We hold telescope viewing sessions for basic observational astronomy, study of the operation of telescopes, and in the near future, for exploring astrophotography. The sessions also serve as the get-together of the group to stand in awe of the wonders of the Universe.

(e)
Students perform some mini-research to improve their research
skills. Outputs of this research are presented in local conference(s). We also present in international conferences subject to availability of funds. Depending on the quality, undergraduate thesis may also lead to an international journal publication.

This year, have recently attended the national and international conference in Iloilo city. Early next year (Jan), we will attend a conference in Japan (Kyoto University) to present papers, gather new frontiers, and explore Japan. Previously, we had two of our students complete their internship in Japan.

𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

Our most recent international publications stemming from the
the undergraduate theses of our former undergraduate members:

2025 Alinea & Ordoñez, On the KG-constrained Bekenstein's disformal transformation of the Einstein-Hilbert action
https://arxiv.org/abs/2408.06915

2024 Alinea & Ordoñez, On the KG-constrained general disformal transformation of the Einstein-Hilbert action
https://arxiv.org/abs/2408.06176

2023 Alinea & Jadrin, Percolation of civilisation in a homogeneous isotropic universe
https://arxiv.org/pdf/2309.06575

2023 Alinea & Chua, Extending the symmetry of the massless klein gordon equation cdots
https://arxiv.org/abs/2208.10953

Each publication corresponds to an international publication award of about at least PhP 55,000 from the university to honour the perspirations of the authors to extend our sphere of understanding of nature.

𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗷𝗼𝗶𝗻?

As of now, the APN Research Cluster accepts membership applications to any current student taking BS Applied Physics in UPLB.

We are open minded and welcome quirkiness associated with intelligent minds. Our group accepts shy students, boastful students, loner students, students of any gender inclination, rich students, poor students, bad students, ... but capable students. Your business, as long as it does not interfere with the workings of the group, is yours to keep.

We have good times together. APN is a mix of introvert, extrovert, geek, etc. Boundaries and the nature of our group members are respected.

We have a long term view that our members would pursue graduate studies in physics or related fields.

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Should you find our cluster interesting,
you may apply by sending a letter of intent addressed to

Akion Alinea
Head, APN Research Cluster
Institute of Physics
[email protected]

The letter of intent should include your:
(a) intention to join the group
(b) your research interest
(c) possible future career path.

We do not guarantee acceptance to the cluster. In a similar same way, we respect the decision of students to pursue other research clusters in the institute.

The deadline for submission of the letter of intent is on 14 Nov. 2025. Nevertheless, we would appreciate it if we could receive the letter earlier.

Congratulations to Joshwa Ordoñez!

Because of his excellent performance in all four core courses, he is exempted from the MS Physics written examination.

The MS Physics program in the Institute of Physics, UP Los Baños, requires its students to take a comprehensive written examination in Classical Mechanics, Electrodynamics, Quantum Mechanics, and Statistical Mechanics to assess their foundational knowledge, a requirement for applicants to pass the program. With his exemplary performance in all four core courses, Joshwa has demonstrated mastery and proficiency at a high level, granting him this rare exemption.

The APN Organization proudly congratulates your achievement!

𝑻𝒘𝒐 𝑨𝑷𝑵 𝑪𝒍𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑴𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝑱𝒐𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑭𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝑺𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝑺𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑨𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒐𝒎𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆

Driven by curiosity and deep interest, two members of the Astrophysics, Particle, and Nuclear Physics (APN) Research Cluster joined the first-ever orbit of the Philippine Space Science and Astronomy Research Conference (PSSARC), held last August 11–12 at Adamson University. The event brought together curious students from a variety of universities, alongside prominent researchers and professionals from around the world. It was capped off with a surprise visit from Aisha Bowe, former NASA rocket scientist and Blue Origin astronaut.

Talks on recent trends and ongoing research in the broad field of astrophysics and astronomy filled the two-day event. On the first day, topics ranged from asteroid observations, AI applications in space missions, and orbital security, to satellite maneuvering to avoid space junk, and even a DIY antenna capable of communicating via the DIWATA cubesat with people seas apart. The second day explored equally fascinating ideas: the development of the Gamma-ray Transient Monitor aboard Formosat-8b, advances in amateur space photography, tracing the universe’s history through dwarf galaxies, detecting signs of life using circular polarization in telescopes, and measuring the mass of supermassive black holes using the GRAVITY instrument.

Beyond the talks, the students had the rare opportunity to interact with these passionate researchers — asking questions, receiving advice, and exchanging stories. They also found themselves building connections with fellow students who share the same dreams, swapping insights and planting the seeds for future collaborations. The environment wasn’t just intellectually rich; it was deeply encouraging, reminding them that there is indeed space for them, quite literally — in astrophysics, particle physics, and nuclear physics.

In the end, the experience wasn’t just about attending a conference. For the two aspiring researchers, it was a reminder of why they started, and a push to keep going. It became a meaningful experience that inspired students to dream bigger, work harder, and see themselves as future contributors of the field. Events like PSSARC introduce students to contemporary works that lead to collaborations and cultivation of ideas, placing them in a good position to do well in the field.

"𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔' 𝒇𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒔𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒆—𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒃𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒔𝒐 𝒊𝒏 𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒑-𝒔𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔—𝒊𝒔 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒉 𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒇."

This is how our alumnus, Joven Galliguez, drawn by his interest in mission design, describes his vision for the country's space sector.

Congratulations to Joven Galliguez for being offered a scholarship to two prestigious international programs, namely the 𝗘𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗺𝘂𝘀 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 (𝗘𝗠𝗝𝗠) 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗚𝗲𝗼𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 (𝗚𝗲𝗼𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗡𝗲𝘁) and the 𝗘𝗠𝗝𝗠 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 (𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗦)!

The GeoPlaNet program aims to train the next generation of geologists, planetary scientists, and experts in space missions through exposure to space exploration centers and academies all over the world. Meanwhile, the MASS program covers cutting-edge research in Gravitation and Cosmology, Stellar Astrophysics, Exoplanets, Astrophysical Techniques, Astrostatistics and Big Data, and Space Science delivered by Tor Vergata, University of Bremen, Universite Cote d'Azur, and the University of Belgrade.

We are happy and proud of Joven who will be exposed to these enriching opportunities. Cheers!

𝗗𝗲𝗳𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆: 𝗔𝗣𝗡’𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗣𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀

Einstein once said, “Gravitation cannot be held responsible for people falling in love.” But for 𝗘𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗵𝘂𝗮 and 𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝘀 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗹, love and gravity aren’t just matters of the heart—they’re matters of science.

These two standout members of the 𝗔𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝘀, 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝘂𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗣𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝘀 (𝗔𝗣𝗡) 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 have successfully completed their undergraduate journey, earning their degrees in 𝗕𝗦 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝘀. They didn’t just end their college journey on a high note—they made their mark both in the classroom and beyond.

𝗕𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺

𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝘀 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗹 served as a member of the 𝗣𝗛𝗬𝗦𝗜𝗞𝗔, 𝗨𝗣 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗲𝘁𝘆, and took on the role of Vice President during A.Y. 2023–2024. He actively participated in efforts that promoted physics to the public, including Liknayan, a national event promoting physics to high school students. His leadership reflected not only a passion for physics but also a commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive science community.

𝗘𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗵𝘂𝗮, meanwhile, made his mark in the athletic arena as a member of the 𝗨𝗣𝗟𝗕 𝗧𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗧𝗲𝗻𝗻𝗶𝘀 𝗩𝗮𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺. Competing in several tournaments representing the university. Emmanuel reached the quarterfinals at STRASUC 2024, proving that excellence isn’t limited to the classroom. Balancing sports and academics. Whether in physics or table tennis, he will always serve.

Their academic accomplishments are further magnified by their active involvement in organizing telescope viewings, engaging with research journals, and enrolling in advanced electives beyond the core curriculum—a testament to their intellectual curiosity and drive.

𝗔 𝗚𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗽𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵
While their journey was impressive, their theses were nothing short of stellar.

Lance's Thesis: “𝗦𝗰𝗵𝘄𝗮𝗿𝘇𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗘𝘃𝗮𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗛𝗮𝘄𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘀”

Lance’s research dives deep into the mysterious phenomenon of Hawking radiation, a quantum process through which black holes gradually lose mass and eventually vanish. Focusing on non-rotating, uncharged (Schwarzschild) black holes, his work analyzes how different types of massless particles contribute to this slow cosmic evaporation.

The lifetime of a black hole is highly sensitive to its initial mass—smaller black holes evaporate much faster. His study also explores how cosmic background radiation can act as a kind of “brake,” slowing down this process. Lance offers a nuanced look into the ultimate fate of black holes.

Emmanuel's Thesis: “𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝘆 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗲𝘀: 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘀, 𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻”

Emmanuel turns his gaze toward the phenomenon of gravitational lensing—how massive objects like black holes warp spacetime and bend light. Using numerical simulations, his study explores how Schwarzschild black holes affect the paths of photons and the formation of distorted images, such as Einstein rings and asymmetric arcs.

His findings reveal that light deflection increases with the mass of the black hole and diverges near the photon sphere. He also demonstrates how image symmetry depends heavily on the alignment between the light source and the black hole. Emmanuel’s work provides a strong foundation for interpreting data from cutting-edge observations, like those of the Event Horizon Telescope.

These two students didn’t just survive physics—they thrived in it. As they move forward, their journey reminds us all that even when pulled by the gravity of life, passion and curiosity can still help us soar.

Congratulations, Lance and Emmanuel! Your work continues to inspire the Physics community—and proves that not even gravity can hold you down.

𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 𝗔𝗣𝗡 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗲𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

To celebrate the upcoming graduation of two members, the APN group caps off the academic year with a road trip across Laguna and Quezon. The natural wonders, great food, and and sky full of stars made for an unforgettable experience for the group.

In San Pablo, Laguna, we visited two out of its seven lakes. The first stop was Yambo Lake, a 28.5-hectare paradise located away from the city proper. This lake is almost of paradoxical nature that although it seems closed off from the world by dense forest, it is more than large enough to accommodate the vastness of the sky. The second stop was the closest lake to the city hall: Sampaloc lake. This 104-heactare pool of freshwater is lined with souvenir shops, e-bike rentals, and scenic boardwalks. Blending in with the lakeside vibe is 𝐸ℎ 𝐾𝑎𝑝𝑒, a cafe serving hearty meals, hefty sandwiches, and beverages you drink with edible straws. The group ate here before setting out for Quezon.

Driving through the Candelaria Bypass road, we parked to our main destination, 𝐷𝑎𝑔𝑎𝑡, 𝐶𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑎, 𝐺𝑢𝑏𝑎𝑡. The large, high-roofed hutlike structure that shelters the restaurant also houses no shortage of 19th century artifacts like jukeboxes, old weighing scales, as well as limited-edition bikes. The interesting blend of Filipino art and foreign antiques was a warm background to a sumptuous feast of seafood paired with large servings of halo-halo and fruit shakes.

In the late evening, the group held a telescope viewing session under the starry sky of Sariaya, Quezon for the apprentices to practice setting up a reflecting telescope in an outdoor field setting.

So much of the day has been spent that the group borrowed an extra hour from the next day to arrive back in Los Baños at 1AM. The expedition was truly a fitting celebration to conclude the school year.