An orientation on Thin Section Preparation and Analysis was held on 28 January 2026 at the Rock Preparation Laboratory of the National Institute of Geological Sciences, facilitated by Dr. Gabriel Theophilus V. Valera, Deputy Director for Research and Development / Assistant Professor. The activity aimed to introduce participants to the basic concepts and importance of thin section preparation and petrographic analysis in geological studies.
Figure 1. Renato P. Bautista (left) and Dr. Gabriel Theophilus V. Valera (right) explaining rock cutting procedure.
The orientation was attended by NIGS administrative personnel, motorpool staff, custodians, and students from Village School of Parkwoods and Partido State University, reflecting the Institute’s commitment to inclusive learning and skills development. The program began with a discussion on the principles of thin section preparation, emphasizing its role in understanding rock composition, texture, and mineralogy.
Figure 2. Hands-on polishing of rock samples.
This was followed by demonstrations and hands-on activities on rock cutting, rock polishing, and thin sectioning procedures, guided also by the Laboratory Aide, Renato P. Bautista and Joval Y. Esponilla, where participants were able to try the techniques themselves under their supervision. To complete the learning experience, attendees also tried using the petrographic microscopes to examine prepared thin sections, allowing them to observe mineral features and textures firsthand and gain a better appreciation of laboratory workflows in geological research.
Figure 3. Viewing of prepared thin sections using petrographic microscopes.
Through this combined hands-on experience in both preparation and analysis, the orientation enhanced participants’ understanding of laboratory workflows and emphasized the critical role of proper sample preparation and microscopic examination in geological studies. The activity contributed to capacity building and strengthened appreciation for the technical work carried out at the Rock Preparation Laboratory. This is an ongoing initiative of the National Institute of Geological Sciences to train its administrative staff and those who are interested to acquire skills and knowledge on thin sectioning and other related activities.