Getting the Gist of GIS

Balik Scientist, Dr. Alejandro F. Tongco of Oklahoma State University, USA, conducted a “Training-Workshop on GIS Techniques and Preparation of GIS-engaged Proposals.” The training-workshop was held at the campus’ Plenary Hall on May 21-25, 2014.

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The activity, initiated by ORDEx-Main Campus, gathered forty-five faculty researchers from the five campuses of SLSU. Seventeen of total participants came from the host campus.

“I have to deliver. I am accountable to DOST-BSP. Let us seize and enjoy this opportunity”, Dr. Tongco said. An expert on the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technologies, he demonstrated to the participants how to develop a GIS curriculum, GIS Programs sustainability and the establishment of an institutional GIS technology center. He also talked about the importance of developing the GIS skills of faculty researchers especially in the production of GIS-engaged research/project proposals. Exercises follow

Dr. Al Tongco is a graduate of Mechanical Engineering at the University of San Jose Recoletos, earned his MS in Agricultural Engineering at the University of the Philippines – Los Baños and finished his PhD in General Engineering at Oklaoma State University. Few of his humble accomplishments include GIS Consultant of Ergo Intelligence and Knowledge in New York and Machinery Link, Inc. in Kansas City. He is also the founding Director of the Philippine GIS Data Clearinghouse and a Research Specialist at the department of Agricultural Economics, Stillwater, Oklahoma.

Last May 19, a program was held at the Administration Lobby to formally welcome Sir Al to SLSU as a Balik Scientist Program Awardee. It was followed by a merienda cena with the faculty, staff and university officials.

The intensive hands-on training was tough, however, nothing is more fulfilling than getting the gist of GIS.