By Michelle Ducut
Growing up in the typhoon-prone Bicol region, Ma. Luz Manalo’s early life was shaped by the challenges of extreme weather events. Today, she stands as a beacon of Filipino excellence abroad, contributing to the fight against climate change as a research engineer at the Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS).
Manalo’s journey began after witnessing the devastation wrought by Super Typhoon Reming (international name: Durian) in 2006, which left villages buried under mudflows from Mayon Volcano and plunged Albay into darkness. As a chemical engineering student at the time, she was deeply moved by the destruction. “That experience became a driving force for me to use my knowledge and skills to promote sustainable solutions to real-world problems,” she recalled.
In 2016, her determination led her to SERIS, Singapore’s national institute for applied solar energy research, where she now develops photovoltaic solar cells that convert sunlight into electricity. These innovations are vital to the transition to renewable energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and helping to mitigate climate change.
“Renewable energy like solar power is a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels,” Manalo explained. “Both the Philippines and Singapore, being tropical countries, have abundant solar energy resources.”
Manalo attributes her success to the adaptability and strong work ethic that Filipinos are known for. She fondly recalls colleagues at SERIS saying, “The lab won’t run without the Pinoys,” highlighting the critical role Filipinos play in the institute’s operations.
Her former team leader, Dr. Pradeep Padhamnath, praised her contributions, noting her leadership in managing industry collaborations and ensuring the timely completion of experiments. Before moving to Singapore, Manalo gained valuable experience working in a solar cell manufacturing plant in Batangas.
Her overseas journey began in 2013 when she accepted a role at a wastewater treatment research lab in Singapore, drawn by the opportunity to earn more and explore new cultures. “Adapting to new things and being open to different perspectives has been key,” she shared.
Now eight years into her role at SERIS, Manalo is motivated not just by financial rewards but by the belief that her work contributes to slowing climate change. “What we’re doing might somehow make an impact someday,” she said proudly.
Beyond her professional achievements, Manalo considers her ability to balance work and personal life as her greatest success. She has traveled extensively, explored diverse cultures, and pursued hobbies such as baking, hiking, and attending musicals.
Financially, she has secured investments, purchased land in Albay, and built a retirement fund. To her fellow overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), she offers simple but powerful advice: “Be financially literate and acquire as much knowledge and skills while abroad.”
While she misses her family, particularly her 82-year-old mother, Manalo remains committed to her work overseas, continuing her mission to advocate for sustainable energy solutions. Her story is a testament to the impact Filipinos can make on the global stage, blending passion with purpose in the fight against climate change.