SustainaFLOW: Community Water Empowerment Through Mechanical Engineering Knowledge Transfer
SustainaFLOW is a technology-driven community water empowerment initiative developed by the Mechanical Engineering Department of the College of Engineering and Architecture of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU). The program focuses on the design, fabrication, and deployment of a sustainable hydraulic ram pump system that offers an energy-free, low-maintenance solution to water scarcity in remote rural communities. Implemented in Barangay Tubtubon, Sibulan, Negros Oriental, SustainaFLOW directly addresses the long-standing challenge of limited access to potable water by delivering a continuous and reliable water supply that relies on neither electricity nor fuel.
Grounded in engineering innovation and practical knowledge transfer, the program integrates academic research, field-based learning, and participatory community engagement. Faculty and students collaborated to refine the ram pump design, optimize system efficiency, and adapt its components to locally available materials. Community members were trained to operate, troubleshoot, and maintain the system, ensuring long-term sustainability and ownership. This strong emphasis on capacity building transforms beneficiaries from passive recipients into empowered co-managers of the technology.
The program’s outcomes demonstrate both technological and social impact. Households in remote areas now experience improved water availability, reducing the burden of manual water collection and enhancing daily living conditions. The initiative has also contributed to academic advancement, with its innovations documented in a Scopus-indexed publication. SustainaFLOW highlights how educational institutions can convert engineering expertise into practical, high-impact solutions for underserved communities.
Overall, SustainaFLOW exemplifies effective technology development and application by creating accessible water systems, promoting community resilience, and showcasing a replicable model for sustainable water interventions. The program advances NORSU’s mission of extending technical knowledge for societal benefit while fostering innovation and real-world learning among future mechanical engineers.
SITE SURVEY, FEASIBILITY STUDY, AND RESOURCES ALLOCATION
Images show one of the natural springs in Barangay Tubtubon, Sibulan identified as a potential site for the ram pump installation. The spring provides clean water suitable for daily household use.
SYSTEM DESIGN
The figure on the upper portion illustrates the 2D perspective of a ram pump, while the figure on the lower section shows the 3D design of the ram pump.
SYSTEM DESIGN
The figure on the upper portion illustrates the sketch plan of the water source to the tank, while the figure on the lower section shows the sketch plan of the water source to the communal faucet.
MATERIAL SELECTION
The image shows the essential materials and tools for assembling the ram pump, including various pipe sizes, valves, and installation components.
PROCUREMENT
These images capture the collection of materials and tools required for ram pump assembly. The last photo highlights the completed ram pump, featuring its air chamber and installed pressure gauge.
INSTALLATION OF RAM PUMP
The images show the installation of the intake box and the fully assembled ram pump. The water source is located 5.3 meters from the intake box, and the ram pump is positioned 5 meters from the intake box.
LAYING PUMPS
Shown here is the installation of PVC pipes linking the water source to the intake box. The hoses were subsequently buried to protect the setup and prevent any inconvenience to the landowners.
WATER STORAGE
These photos highlight the installation of the water tanks, linked to the ram pump via a 30-meter ISO black hose. The tank platform was reinforced with cement to keep the structure stable and secure.
INITIAL TESTING
Following the installation of the ram pump, initial testing was conducted and proved successful. The images show residents using water from the communal faucet for bathing and for various household needs.
MOA SIGNING
Dr. Noel Marjon E. Yasi, NORSU President, and Dr. Josef Vill S. Villanueva, Project Leader and Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture, formally signed the required documents for the community extension proposal.
MOA SIGNING CEREMONY
The MOA signing ceremony opened with an invocation and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem. This was followed by the opening remarks delivered by Dr. Josef Vill S. Villanueva, Project Leader and Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture.
SITE VISIT
The images capture the on-site visit of Dr. Josef Vill S. Villanueva (Project Leader and CEA Dean), Engr. Winston B. Gomez (Assistant Project Leader), Ms. Jeyziel Joy B. Jabel (Extension Technical Staff), and Mr. Noriel Cuesta (Extension Personnel). The ram pump is shown operating successfully.
The picture was taken at the location of the communal faucet of the ram pump.
After visiting the communal faucet, the extension team completed their final inspection of the ram pump and water tank, both of which were functioning very well. The images show team members evaluating the system alongside a resident of Barangay Tubtubon, Sibulan.
