A Scientist on the Run: Travel Report: Major Field Trip

Seminar Overview

This paper reflects my five day major field trip in the information and communications technology related companies situated in the cities of Metro Manila. With that, this will also illustrate what I have observed in the company’s respective working environments and even the company’s functions, services, and/or products that they have shown us. This may also show their top-of-the-line bragging rights and maybe their weak links. Aside from the seminars we have attended, this paper will also feature my point-of-view in our side trips with a taste of historical tour and a hint of sight-seeing and exploration.

Day 1

Today, I went on a seminar to the main office of the Department of Science and Technology otherwise known as DOST. There we were welcomed by the DOST-ICT undersecretary with a warm smile. Our lecturer was a fellow Bisaya from Mindanao. He said he was a graduate of MSU-IIT yet he worked at the main office of DOST. This government department has been developing local technologies through local talents since its establishment. The department has shown for the last five years that, indeed local technology works. Beyond that, our local technologies and brands can also be positioned globally and eyed to make a niche in the international market (2015, S&T POST Vol. 33 No. 1).

In the afternoon I went to the main office of the Social Security System otherwise known as SSS in the morning (AM). This company’s main office is located at the SSS Building, East Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City. The Social Security System is a government-owned company that serves the Filipino by providing in times of need as what is reflected in their mission:

“To manage a sound and viable social security system which shall promote social justice and provide meaningful protection to members and their families against the hazards of disability, sickness, maternity, old age, death and other contingencies resulting in loss of income or financial burden”

What I learned?

I have learned that the Department of Science and Technology has been developing cutting-edge technology in the field of disaster preparedness and mitigation. This feat has resulted in the creation of softwares and applications that help everyone before, during, and after a disaster. With this in mind the DOST has created the DREAM Project, which means Disaster Risk Exposure and Assessment for Mitigation. This project uses LiDAR, also known as Light Detection and Ranging, a type of technology that measures ranges of the Earth through pulsated laser. With this technology at hand we can now scan areas of our country in detail and pinpoint hazard prone areas. But the data are still raw and needs processing. Right now there are parts of the Philippines wherein hazards maps are finalized. The data generated by the DREAM Project are now used in the DOST’s mobile app named Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) that generates readily understandable information for everyone with a smartphone of the current weather system. I have asked the lecturer if the public or maybe we students may have access to this data in raw form from their servers for research purposes in the academe since they are a government agency. But the answer sadly is a no, the data is available only to scientists and experts inside the agency. Yet he said that we may file a partnership with DOST so that we may have direct access to select data. With this I was delighted but a bit scared because filing this partnership may demand us students to do more than what is expected of us.

Also, in the afternoon I have learned that the Social Security System has their computer system. In the past they have used an all-paper system wherein a library of physical documents has to be maintained by a large number of employees. This physical library was and is still very hard to maintain since every record needs to be updated for example in payment dues or when some members need to avail one of their services. This type of system is very complex yet it ran for many years. Now in the advent of personal computing and the lowering cost of computer hardware the Social Security System has updated to a computerized system. They now have their own servers for a well-synchronized data sharing system that enables multiple branches of SSS to access a very big centralized library of resources and member’s data. Their electronic library runs on Solaris OS and uses MySQL as database management software. This allows SSS to process documents faster thus making customer transaction more efficient.

What I liked?

I liked at the Department of Science and Technology main office seminar was the accommodating vibe of our lecturer. He was not shy at talking to us in our native tongue and he really has knowledge in the field of Information and Communications Technology. I liked that he answered my question and even gave those who asked inquisitively some souvenir; a fluffy stuffed toy keychain named Smarty – the DOST’s official mascot. Other than that the overall presentation of DOST was good as the presenter has highlighted what their agency has achieved, what they want to attain, what technology they use, and how they use it to help the common man.

As for the Social Security System, what I liked about their presentation was it was very enlightening as to what do they really do. They were very enthusiastic in encouraging us in making ourselves be active members by the time we work.

What I didn’t like?

I didn’t like in the AM tour was we were not able to see their scientists, experts, and researchers while doing their work. But overall, everything went well. As for the PM tour what I didn’t like was the presenter of their system. He was kind of not-in-the-mood or maybe its just the way he talks. He was explaining some interesting facts about their agency but his tone was not as inviting. Another thing was they were focusing too much on their frontline services when what we want as students is their computer network, file system, and their database management techniques.

Day 2

Today, I went on a seminar in International Business Machines Incorporated Philippines, otherwise known as IBM Philippines in the morning. This office of them is located at the Ayala Technohub, Diliman, Quezon City right inside the property of the University of the Philippines Diliman Campus. IBM is a world leader in hardware manufacturing since personal and corporate computing found its way in the market, now IBM is innovating in the cloud computing industry.

In the afternoon, I went on a seminar in Accenture Incorporated in McKinley Hill, Libis, Quezon City. Accenture is an outsourcing company known worldwide for its impact in various businesses and how it changed the way these businesses faced its problems with being Accenture as their solution.

What I learned?

I learned in the seminar in the International Business Machines Philippines the advantages in cloud computing. In that seminar our lecturer was Mr. Alexis Pantola a Technical Manager in the Cloud Ecosystem Project of the IBM. Their team’s main concern is Cloud, Analytics, Mobile, Social Business, and Security also known as CAMSS. With this in mind they have made a product named Bluemix, a cloud-based computing software which was derived from and a predecessor of WATSON (the artificially intelligent software that played in Jeopardy. Now, defining cloud computing basically means “doing the computing through the internet” (quoted from Mr. Pantola, non-verbatim). This means that networking, platform driven applications, and even internet applications can now be done right in the comforts of your own home. For example, you want to create an application that requires a server or multiple servers. As much as you want to test your product the hardware constraints becomes your biggest problem. If you buy a server for your own consumption this may take you five to six digits off your own pocket just to acquire one. More so the delivery of this hardware right at your doorstep takes more time. With cloud computing you can now “rent” a server online with way lesser cost but having the same power of a server of your own. Cloud computing really has different meanings, according to Mr. Pantola. Cloud computing may be an Infrastructure-as-a-service, or a Platform-as-a-service, or as a Software-as-a-service, or all of them at one. “Renting a server” fits in with the first one, with this you only pay for what you use, you can terminate the service anytime you want, it is flexible since you may install different software, but most of all this saves you the capital expenses. With Platform-as-a-service, like Bluemix, this will give you the convenience of developing your software with the support of the online community. In Bluemix there are various applications that can be cross-coupled to create a new application. Since Bluemix is online what others develop and what you develop can now be shared, collaboration will now become easier. The only constraint with Platform-as-a-service is that this cannot support every software, you can only use what the service provides and from there create something innovative. While in Software-as-a-service you are provided with user ready software that makes your communications, transportation, businesses, and even social interaction possible. Example of Software-as-a-service is Google Docs wherein Google’s servers give you the power to create your documents, presentations, spreadsheets, etc. online. You do not need to install the application to your personal computers; all you have to do is open your web browser and viola you can now edit on the fly.

In the afternoon seminar at Accenture, I have learned how business process outsourcing companies work. Although they have not mentioned how they really work but I guess I now have an idea as to what BPO’s do. As far as my knowledge can conceive that BPO’s not only do or specialize in call center services, they also lead the way in solving business problems such as in sales and marketing strategies.

What I liked?

I liked about the IBM visit was that he showed us what cloud computing is since I myself is still puzzled as to what cloud computing is not until that day. I also liked it when he showed us samples on how to use IBM’s Bluemix, it will surely be helpful when the time and idea comes to me.

In the Accenture Incorporated I liked how they entertained and enlightened us as to what does a BPO really do. I also liked how they convinced us into working with them in the near future. But what I liked the most is when they showed us some of the applications they have developed for some of their customers that greatly enhanced the reach and capabilities of those companies. Their ideas really push us to be more innovative in solving real life problematic scenarios.

What I didn’t like?

I didn’t like in the IBM Philippines was that there was only one presenter, not to mention I have witnessed him before demonstrate Bluemix. I also hoped that they would show us their assembly site or maybe let us see their newest hardware products but sadly none of it happened.

In Accenture Incorporated I didn’t like that we were not allowed to take photos around their offices. I think it’s about their company branding and logo that we were not allowed to show to the public since we signed a non-disclosure agreement. It is unfortunate though since their offices were cozy and their building was architecturally beautiful. I also didn’t like that they showcased what their company has achieved without showing us how they did them. It is really frustrating since I was looking forward to the feeling of working in a corporate setting; getting the taste of what it takes to be one of them must be present, most important of all they must show us what they did to get those amazing numbers out of the blue.

Day 3

Today, I went on a seminar to the Youth for Information Technology-Philippine Youth Congress held at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia. It was a whole day event filled with learning from various experts of game design, hardware, mobile networking, information security, startup, and also from big IT-related companies such as Oracle, Microsoft, Intel, and Mozilla. The event kicked-off at the welcome address of our very own Professor Randy Gamboa which imbibed us to what will come to us in the near future. Indeed it is a big wide world outside the four corners of our classrooms.

What I learned?

I have learned from the Y4iT Convention that the future is really upon us. They have presented what are already on top-of-the-line nowadays and what will become of technology in the coming months or maybe a year or two. But what will become of technology for the next five to ten years and the economy will ultimately come from our hands. One innovation may be so small yet its impact on the progress of information technology may be as big as it gets, we never know. For example, Microsoft is currently developing a hardware that lets the user visualize what he is doing. With the power of the microprocessor and its family of chipsets, combined with the fuelled enthusiasm of technologists users can now move, expand, shrink, warp, and maybe touch what he is constructing; more of like putting the virtual world into our own reality and not just on the computer screen. This hardware seemed so far from the future five years ago. But now it is nearing its inaugural release. Right now we may only see this as a tool for geeks to explore or for gamers to use in their world, but it may hit its hallmark at the research stage. This innovation is just one of the many under development across the world. What the convention made me realize is that there is so much to learn and explore in this field of information technology. I myself is struggling to formulate ideas for my incoming IT project, Research Methods, Simulation, and other subjects offered for the semesters to come. Yet this Y4iT Convention has given me hope that my idea will come in time, and I hope and pray that I may do this right. And beyond that the next big idea or the next IT breakthrough may come from one of us.

What I liked?

What I liked about the Youth for Information Technology-Philippine Youth Congress is that they introduced so many facts normally not taught inside the classroom. Unlike other conventions where speakers generally talk about what they do in their work this people in the Y4iT convention talked about the ideas that are currently booming and what may come of it in the future. This encouraged students like me to think of what may I present to the future as my contribution. Another thing I liked in the Y4iT Convention is the exhibit wherein you get a chance to see what these big companies can offer not just to regular customers but to a big pool of fresh minds wanting to be part of their industry. Some of them gave freebies and flyers to encourage all those who visited to take time and see what they can offer. I also liked the Y4iT Souvenir Shop where they offered various mementos related to the event.

What I didn’t like?

What I didn’t like about the Youth for Information Technology-Philippine Youth Congress is that the atmosphere of some speakers was so low, like they were just talking to themselves. Some were kind of not ready to face that size of a crowd. Can we find someone who excites the crowd as he talks? I was and still interested at the topics that were presented there at the convention but due to this low energy approach add to it our stress from yesterday’s trip I honestly felt drowsy. I don’t know if it’s me or them or a combination of both but I guess everyone agreed to come outside and see the booths and the Mall of Asia itself. It just felt wasted but if they may set another like it I would surely come well rested and with a jug of hot coffee.

Day 4

Today I went on a seminar at the Metro Manila Development Authority Command, Control, and Communications Center also known as MMDA Metrobase v.2.0. This office housed the latest and most advanced traffic control system in Metro Manila. This Metrobase operates 24-hours everyday to monitor and control the traffic in all major avenues and thoroughfares in Metro Manila.

What I learned?

There they explained how their traffic system works in a regular day, in an emergency situation, and even when there is a VIP. The Metrobase is equipped with very High Definition cameras that can zoom in and out enabling the operators to asses an emergency situation remotely. The cameras have also been used in the implementation of the non-contact apprehension of traffic violators, but that service of the MMDA was suspended temporarily by the court. The MMDA Metrobase 2.0 also addresses the concern regarding the heavy traffic of EDSA. Yet even at their high technological advantage they are still defeated by stubborn traffic violators who keep on repeating their acts and all the while complaining at the traffic situation. The MMDA Metrobase is still under the warranty of its foreign service provider yet it is operated by highly skilled local IT professionals. Their system uses cable and telephone lines to transfer data from the cameras to their servers. Other telecommunication systems they use are WiMAX for the cameras and Short Wave Radio signals for their dispatching.

What I liked?

I liked at the Metro Manila Development Authority Metrobase v.2.0 was that we can ask all questions regarding their system since our speaker was an IT specialist. I also liked that we were allowed to see the live-feed room and some of their archived footages of traffic accidents and even criminal acts that were caught by their cameras. I also commend their honesty regarding the traffic in Metro Manila but they assured everyone that steps are being taken in mitigating this undying issue.

What I didn’t like

I didn’t like in the MMDA Metrobase v.2.0 was that we were not allowed to go inside their surveillance and control room and the time allowed for questioning was very limited and some of us who actually had quick questions were not entertained.

Day 5

Today I went on a seminar at the University of the Philippines Diliman Campus Department of Computer Science. This facility houses the country’s top “iskolar ng bayan” in the field of Computer Science. Their students specialize in Computer Security, Computer Vision and Macine Intelligence, Networks and Distributed Systems, Scientific Computing, Service Science and Computer Engineering, and Web Science. They also offer programs for a master’s degree in Computer Science.

What I learned?

I learned that various interesting dissertations are created by Computer Science students in the UP Department of Computer Science. Their thesis ideas are awe inspiring that may help us to innovate more in our chosen field. This also helped us realize that the field of Computer Science is not directly locked up in high-level languages or low-level languages but it can be linked to the world through the science of data gathering, data analysis, and scientific experimentations and explorations. Their level of enthusiasm and intelligence is a challenge for us who also want to step into the battlefield of Information and Communications Technology.

I also learned that only Computer Science is offered in the UP Diliman Campus. Their students after the second year of study must choose what major course to focus. This courses include Computer Security, Computer Vision and Macine Intelligence, Networks and Distributed Systems, Scientific Computing, Service Science and Computer Engineering, and Web Science.

What I liked

I liked in the University of the Philippines is there school environment. I have been to the Diliman Campus years ago and it is fun to know that the acacia trees that line the university avenue is still there. I also liked that the students of the UP Department of Computer Science presented their dissertation titles.

What I didn’t like

I didn’t like in the UP Department of Computer Science is the too short time allotted in the presentation of their dissertations. We, the students of USeP are somewhat disappointed with this since we are much interested on how those UP minds work and think. We also didn’t have the time to ask deeply about their works since some of them have classes to attend.

Fig. 1 - Day 1 at SSS Main Office and Trinoma