The University of San Carlos and the USC Department of Civil Engineering are filled with pride following the recent success of our graduate researchers. By winning Best Presentation awards at two different conferences, these scholars have showcased the high caliber of research and education at USC.

During the 11th International Conference on Building Materials and Construction (ICBMC 2026) held in Tokyo, Japan, from March 3 to 6, 2026, Engr. Hannah Faye Rafols, a graduate student of the Master of Science in Civil Engineering, was awarded BEST PRESENTATION for her paper titled “Green Concrete and Mortar: Meeting Local Requirements and Reducing GWP–A Case in the Philippines.” The study focused on sustainable construction materials to reduce environmental impact.

On the other hand, Fr. John Ferdinand Cruz, SVD, an M.Eng. in Structural Engineering student, was also awarded BEST PRESENTER for his paper titled “Storm Water Surface Runoff Utilization of the University of San Carlos Campus, Talamban, Cebu City, Philippines,” during the 14th International Mechanical Engineering Research Conference (IMERC 2026), last February 26 to 27, 2026.

IMERC 2026 was hosted by the USC Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, under the theme “Innovative Flood Management and Integrated Strategies for Safer Communities.”