About the Laboratory
The Rushurgent Working Group is the first multi-disciplinary research group at the University of the Philippines - National Institute of Geological Sciences. RWG was formed in 1991 when Dr. Graciano P. Yumul Jr. brought together a small group of researchers working on igneous petrology and geochemistry, and geophysics. It has grown and expanded over the years as researchers with other specializations joined the group. RWG integrates different approaches and specializations in understanding the complex tectonic setting and evolution of the Philippine island arc system. Our research group specializes in Igneous Petrology and Geochemistry, Exploration and Marine Geophysics, Metamorphic Petrology, Sedimentary Geochemistry, Economic Geology and Neotectonics.
Members of the RWG have been recognized to be very productive scientists and researchers and have been the recipient of various awards such as the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos, Outstanding Young Scientist, National Research Council of the Philippines Achievement Award and the UP Scientific Productivity System Award.
Research Interests
- Petrological, geochemical, and geophysical investigations of crust-mantle sequences
- Petrography and geochemistry of xenoliths and xenolith-bearing rocks
- Provenance, tectonic setting, and paleoclimate studies using sedimentary geochemistry
- Geophysical and geochemical proxies for crustal thickness of island arcs
- Investigating arc-continent collision zones
- Examining REE enrichment in mineral deposits
- Geophysical and geochemical investigations of subduction systems
- P-T-d conditions using petrological and geochemical data from metamorphic rocks
- Characterization of mineral deposits
Laboratory Heads
- Carla B. Dimalanta, D.Sc. - Overall Laboratory Head
- Jillian Aira S. Gabo-Ratio, D.Eng. - Economic Geology Head
- Leo T. Armada, Ph.D. - Exploration and Marine Geophysics Head
- Betchaida D. Payot, Ph.D. - Igneous Petrology and Geochemistry Head
- Gabriel Theophilus V. Valera, D.Sc. - Metamorphic Petrology Head
Contact Information
Website: rwg-tag.bravehost.com
Email: rwg@nigs.upd.edu.ph
rwgmails@yahoo.com
Telephone: (632) 8981-8500 loc. 3763
Location: NIGS Rooms 110, 120, and 124
Research Projects
DOST-Funded Projects
- Growth of an Island Arc (GAIA) Project 1: Evolution of the Luzon Arc: From Igneous to Sedimentary Processes
- GAIA Project 2: Tectonic Consequences of Subduction in Northern Luzon
- Green Tech Project 1: Removal and Stabilization of Arsenic Gold and Copper Ores Using Aqueous and Non-Aqueous Solvents
- Green Tech Project 2: Innovative Technology for Refractory Gold Extraction Using Deep Eutectic Solvent
- Green Tech Project 3: Rare Earth Elements in Bauxite: Characterization and Extraction of a Potential Resource
- Marine and onshore geophysical investigations of the Manila Subduction Zone
UP-Funded Projects
- Pressure-temperature-deformation-time (P-T-D-t) history and petrogenesis of Romblon metamorphic rocks: Implications for the western Philippine arc-continent collision zone
UP System Balik-PhD research project of Dr. Gabriel Theophilus Valera
NIGS-Funded Projects
- Investigating the mechanical characteristics of the Manila Trench subduction zone using geophysical data; Leo T. Armada, Ph.D.
- An Evaluation of Global Gravity Models in Central Philippines; Joshua Godwin Cuevas
- Determining subsurface features and faults in Luzon Island by applying edge detectors to gravity data; Carla B. Dimalanta, D.Sc.
- Mercury Mineralization in Santa Lourdes, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines; Jillian Aira S. Gabo-Ratio, D.Eng.
- Analysis of shallow structures and seafloor morphology in offshore western Luzon; Elisha Jane Maglalang
- Petrogenesis and tectonic significance of ultramafic-mafic rocks in Tablas Island, Romblon; Betchaida D. Payot, Ph.D.
- Host Rock Petrography and Ore Mineralogy of the Andrea Vein, Kematu Gold Deposit, Tboli, South Cotabato, Philippines; Kirk Justin S. Ramos
- Isograd mapping in north and southern Tablas: insights on the metamorphic field gradient preserved in the Romblon Metamorphics; Gabriel Theophilus V. Valera
Research Activities for 2024
Papers in Web of Science and Scopus-Indexed Journals
- Ausejo, J.M., Perez, A.d.C., Pasco, J.A. & Payot, B.D. (2024). Melt generation and magma storage conditions of primitive arc lavas in the Macolod Corridor, southwestern Luzon arc, Philippines. Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research, 455, 108206.
- Barrientos, M.A., Gabo-Ratio, J.A.S., Yamada, T., Jabagat, K.D., Francisco, A.M. & Yonezu, K. (2024). Co, Sc, and Ni enrichment in the Cagdianao nickel laterite deposit, Dinagat Islands, Philippines. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 1373, 012041.
- Campos, I.R.V., Gabo-Ratio, J.A.S., Payot, B.D. & Balela, M.D.L. (2024). Ionic liquids and its potential as a new green solvent for REE extraction in Philippine bauxite residues. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 1318, 012051.
- Chen, W.H., Yan, Y., Carter, A., Clift, P.D., Huang, C.Y., Yumul, G.P.Jr., Dimalanta, C.B., Gabo-Ratio, J.A.S., Zhang, L., Wang, M.H. & Zhang, X.C. (2024). Evolution of arc‐continent collision in the southeastern margin of the South China Sea: Insight from the Isugod Basin in Central‐Southern Palawan. Tectonics, 43(6), e2023TC008078.
- Gabo-Ratio, J.A.S., Arenque, L.A., Payot, B.D., Balela, M.D., Vegafria, M.C., Guzman, J., Manalo, P.C. & Tungpalan, D.K. (2024). Rare earth elements enrichment and extraction potential of bauxite deposits in Samar, Philippines. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 1318, 012033.
- Novero, M.J., Sangalang, K.J., Gabo-Ratio, J.A.S., Dimalanta, C.B., Payot, B.D., Garcia, M.Y.R., Amoroso, J.A.V., Manalo, P.C. & Takahashi, R. (2024). Unlocking clues on the provenance of the Zigzag Formation in Mountain Province, Northern Luzon, Philippines using sedimentary geochemistry. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 1373, 012069.
- Soberano, N.P.L., Payot, B.D., Valera, G.T.V. & Olfindo, V.S. (2024). Metasomatic enrichment of the sub-arc mantle: Evidence from the petrography and geochemistry of the xenolith-bearing andesites from Dinem Island, Batanes, Philippines. Journal of Asian Earth Sciences, 105999.
- Tizon, A.R.B., Gabo-Ratio, J.A.S., Manalo, P., Takahashi, R., Garcia, M.Y.R. & Amoroso, J.A.V. (2024). Characteristics of the Kematu epithermal gold deposit at Tboli, Mindanao, Philippines. Resource Geology, 74(1), e12339.
International Conference Presentations:
- Taiwan-Philippines Summit on Active Volcanoes, Earthquakes, Marine, and Environmental Disasters
- June 17-21, 2024
- Chiayi, Taiwan
- 9 presentations
- 37th International Geological Congress (IGC)
- August 26-30, 2024
- Busan, Korea
- 9 presentations
- 4th International Conference on Geological Engineering and Geosciences (ICGoES)
- September 12-13, 2024
- Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- 2 online presentations
Local and National Conference:
- 12th DOST ASTHRDP Scholars’ Conference
- September 12-13, 2024
- Dusit Thani Mactan Resort, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu
- 1 presentation
- 19th NIGS Research Symposium
- November 14-15, 2024
- National Institute of Geological Sciences
- UP Diliman
- 14 presentations
- 5th Graduate Student Research Conference
- November 25, 2024
- College of Science, UP Diliman
- 3 presentations
- GeoCon 2024
- December 4-5, 2024
- Novotel Hotel, Quezon City
- 14 presentations
Book Chapters:
- Rediscovering Laguna de Bay: A Vital Natural Resource in Crisis
- Authors from RWG:
- Decibel V. Faustino-Eslava, Ph.D.
- Carla B. Dimalanta, D.Sc.
- Leo T. Armada, Ph.D.
- Jillian Aira S. Gabo-Ratio, D.Eng.
- Betchaida D. Payot, Ph.D.
- Published by the UP Press
Visiting Researchers Hosted:
- Dr. Pearlyn C. Manalo - Akita University, Japan
- Dr. Atsushi Shibayama - Akita University, Japan
- Dr. Akira Imai - Kyushu University, Japan
- Dr. Shu-Kun Hsu - National Central University, Taiwan
- Dr. Wen-Hsuan Liao - National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan
- Dr. Hou-Chun Liu - National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan
- Dr. Chia Yu Chen - National Chung Cheng University, Taiwan
- Dr. Yuan Hsi-Lee - National Chung Cheng University, Taiwan
- Dr. Tai-Sheng Liou - National Chung Cheng University, Taiwan
- Dr. Liang Chi Wang - National Chung Cheng University, Taiwan
- Dr. Frederic Mouthereau - Paul Sabatier University, France
- Dr. Manuel Pubellier - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, France
- Dr. Anne Battani - Université de Pau, France
Internship and Short Visit Programs
- Sakura Science Exchange Program
- January 5 to 19, 2024
- Kanazawa University, Japan
- RWG Participants: Betchaida D. Payot, Mariz L. Alcancia, Nikko M. Balanial, John Kenneth Badillo, Andrew Exequiel Tabilog
- Sakura Science Exchange Program
- March 3 to 9, 2024
- Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC)
- Yokohama, Japan
- RWG Participants: Carla Dimalanta, Leo Armada, Allen Dreu Sipoy, Kenneth Jan Sangalang, John Michael Ausejo, Berlyn Eleazar, Joshua Godwin Cuevas
- Contractor Training Program of the International Seabed Authority (ISA)
- May to June 2024
- BGR, Germany
- RWG Participants: Elisha Jane Maglalang, Faye Anne De Leon, Chelsi Grace Mendoza, Kristine Joy Motol
- Taiwan Experience Education Program
- June 17 to July 29, 2024
- National Chung Cheng University, Taiwan
- RWG Participants: Nikko Balanial and John Kenneth Badillo
Faculty, Researchers, and Student Members
(as of December 2024)
Economic Geology Group:
Researchers and Graduate Students
- Kreyvin Geonathan Andal
- Lyle Andre Arenque
- Marco Alfredo Barrientos
- Erwin Bautista
- Ma. Yna Rose Garcia
- Reign Megino
- Mark Joshua Novero
- Kirk Justin Ramos
- Lawrence Glen Sabaria
- Kenneth Jan Sangalang
- Mark Sumaden
- Alan Royce Tizon
Undergraduate Students
- Aron Jeriel Albano
- Mary Grace Casañas
- Leandro Ceasar Cediño
- Andrea Dayrit
- John Kenneth Diamante
- Jared Dolatre
- Gem Adrian Escultor
- Moreen Lacsamana
- Andre Lorenzo
- Aldren Sevilla
- Gianh Tyrone Song
- Monzam Wang
Project Staff
- Mark John Reyes
- Mark John Reyes
Exploration and Marine Geophysics Group:
Researchers and Graduate Students
- Alfred Apolinario
- Armando Bambao
- Joshua Godwin Cuevas
- Faye Anne de Leon
- Jennel Raven Dytuco
- Joshua Herras
- Krystel Hugo
- Elisha Jane Maglalang
- Chae Ann Malipol
- Karla May Sayen
Undergraduate Students
- Clarence Aquino
- Jules Arones
- Tom Carani
- Marc Hachuela
- James Beaver Llorin
- Jewel Pel-ey
- Jon Rafael Sesante
- Allen Iverson Sipoy
- Beatrice Tingzon
- Glenn Vallespin
Project Staff
- Berlyn Eleazar
Igneous Petrology and Geochemistry Group:
Researchers and Graduate Students
- Mariz Alcancia
- John Michael Ausejo
- Nikko Balanial
- Noel Patrick Soberano
Undergraduate Students
- Robbie Abellanoza
- Nathaniel Angue
- Iyumi Gaela
- Jhun Kenneth Ignacio
- Mikylla Lapitan
- Ron Josef Magarzo
- Jan Rey Pelagio
- Jericho Ronquillo
- Alliah Linel Santos
- Theodore Tulod Jr.
- Erika Claire Vargas
- Karl Harvie Villoso
Project Staff
- Rachel Bacale
- Raven Barcelo
Metamorphic Petrology Group:
Researchers and Graduate Students
- John Kenneth Badillo
- Andrew Exequiel Tabilog
- Jose Rainier Trinidad
Undergraduate Students
- Gladenn Apon
- Maui Apundar
- Timothy Daran
- Mary Elizaga
- Ella Lopez
- Carlos Pineda
- Patricia Rodriguez
- Nicole Tenorio
- Lorenzo Valeriano
Project Staff
- Regie Cortez
Partnerships with Academic and Research Institutions
International Institutions
- Akita University
- Guangshou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences
- Kyushu University
- National Central University
- National Cheng Kung University
- National Chung Cheng University
- Paul Sabatier University
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University
- Universite de Pau
Local Partners
- Mines and Geosciences Bueau
- Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology
- Mapua University
- Adamson University
- Siliman University
- University of Southeastern Philippines
- Partido State University
- Batangas State University
Public Service and Extension Works
- Academic mentorship and support for the undergraduate theses of students from partner universities (Adamson University, Mapúa University and University of Southeastern Philippines)
- Expert mentorship of geology students from Adamson University, Mapúa University, Silliman University, and the University of Southeastern Philippines on rock sample identification in preparation for the 2024 Geologists Licensure Exam
- Lectures for students of the Partido State University and University of Southeastern Philippines in preparation for the 2024 Geologists Licensure Exam
- Technical support for the local government of San Vicente, Palawan in the preparation of materials to promote geological sites for tourism
- Information and education campaign on ‘Career paths to pursue in the Geosciences’ and ‘Geology of Sagada and Mountain Province’ for the STEM senior high school students and faculty at Sagada National High School
Awards and Recognitions
- Betchaida D. Payot, Ph.D.
- University Scientist III, UP Scientific Productivity System
- Carla B. Dimalanta, D.Sc.
- 2024 Gregorio Y. Zara Awardee for Basic Science Research, Philippine Association for the Advancement of Science and Technology
- Nikko Balanial
- 5th Place Oral Presentation Category, GeoCon 2024, Geological Society of the Philippines
- 1st Place Poster Presentation Category, 12th DOST ASTHRDP Scholars' Conference, Department of Science and Technology
- Recipient 2024 UP Geology Merit Award
- John Michael Ausejo
- 5th Place Oral Presentation Category, GeoCon 2024, Geological Society of the Philippines
- Student Achiever, Parangal sa Mag-aaral 2024, UPD Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs
- Andrew Exequiel Tabilog
- 1st Place Oral Presentation, 19th NIGS Research Symposium, National Institute of Geological Sciences
- John Kenneth Badillo
- Best in Poster Presentation, 5th Graduate Student Research Conference, UP College of Science
- Leandro Ceasar Cedino
- Recipient, Dr. George C. Bacuta Undergraduate Thesis Grant 2024
- Recipient, 2024 UP Geology Merit Award
- Joshua Godwin Cuevas
- 3rd Place Oral Presentation, 19th NIGS Research Symposium National Institute of Geological Sciences
- Allen Iversion Sipoy
- Recipient, Dr. George C. Bacuta Undergraduate Thesis Grant 2024
- Chae Ann Malipol
- 1st Place, Poster Presentation, 19th NIGS Research Symposium, National Institute of Geological Sciences
- 5th Place, Oral Presentation Category, GeoCon 2024, Geological Society of the Philippines
- Mark Sumaden
- Recipient, 2024 UP Geology Merit Award
