UERM Prosthetics and Orthotics wins first place in DOST 2024 Regional Search for Grassroots Innovations
Undergraduate thesis of BS Prosthetics and Orthotics graduates won first place at the DOST 2024 Regional Search for BEST Grassroots Innovations and Circular Economy Solutions Expo,
with their research study titled “A Comparative Study: Use of Natural Fiber with Leaf Extract (PSPO sock) as an Alternative Material to Cotton Prosthetic Socks used in the Philippine School of Prosthetics & Orthotics”
Under the Circular Economy Category, GuaBaNIKA explores the use of the natural fibers of guava, banana and abaca to develop a prototype prosthetic sock with antimicrobial properties, aimed to be an alternative to the conventional silicone liners and foams, more suited for the tropical climate, offering comfort and sustainability. Keziah Michal Sampaton and Andre Dominic Rubiano, faculty members of UERM BS Prosthetics and Orthotics, presented the research on behalf of the research authors.
From left to right: Iris Cecile M. Ambatali, CPO, Primary Research Investigator and current staff of UERM Physical and Medical Rehabilitation Krisha Kate T. Tansiongco, CPO, Nicko Sean S. Cantiga, CPO, Alexander L. Abellon, CPO, and Faculty adviser and co-author Marichelle A. De Castro RN, CPO.
“Through the robust research foundation provided by the BS Prosthetics and Orthotics program, we were able to bag the top award despite several challenges. We express our gratitude to UERM Medical Center for their support in our venture,” presenter Andre Dominic Rubiano shared.
The success of the thesis paved the way for its inclusion as a proof of concept for one of the Neolimb pillar projects, which aligns with the College of Allied Rehabilitation Sciences’ (CAReS) research agenda, with Andre and Keziah now part of the Neolimb team.
GuaBaNIKA is recognized as one of the grassroots innovations in the expo
The researchers credit their achievement to the solid foundation provided by UERM’s BSPO program. The program’s rigorous research training, coupled with the unwavering support of the administration, helped build the expertise and confidence necessary to excel in national-level competitions.
“The culture of research and the institution’s unwavering commitment to support the needs of the community is evident with the feats of our dearest graduates. We are very proud of them and we will continuously support their pursuit of research,” College Dean Dr. Raquel S. Cabazor said.
The 2024 Regional Grassroots Innovation and Circular Economy (GICE) Expo under the DOST-NCR’s Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND) Program highlights the ability to address the real needs of the community through sustainable innovations in support of the country’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
With this achievement, the researchers secure a spot and are set to compete this November in the National Search for BEST Grassroots Innovations in Davao City.