UWE Bristol in collaboration with Polytechnic University of the Philippines and British Council Philippines organised an International Conference and World Café: Advancing Transportation and Construction Management in the Philippines and United Kingdom.
Dr Tariq Umar, Senior Lecturer from the School of Architecture and Environment, at UWE Bristol, was the co-chair of the conference that was held on 22 November 2024 at Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP). The President of Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Manuel M Muhi, served as a Chair of the conference.
This conference was part of the existing collaboration between UWE Bristol, Polytechnic University of the Philippines and the British Council in the Philippines. A delegation consisting of the president Polytechnic University of the Philippines (Manuel M. Muhi) and the Head of Education, Pierre Pecson, from the British Council Philippines explored opportunities to expand the existing collaboration. This conference was part of those efforts.
A funding of £5,000 from the British Council in the Philippines was granted to the Polytechnic University of the Philippines to organise this international conference.
The conference was opened with the opening remarks from the Chair, Manuel M Muhi and Dr Tariq Umar (co-chair). In his speech, Dr Umar stated: “Transportation and construction are the backbones of economic progress and social development. Whether it’s a high-speed rail network connecting cities in the UK or an ambitious infrastructure program transforming urban and rural landscapes in the Philippines, these industries shape how we live, work, and connect with one another.”
“However, alongside opportunities come significant challenges. The United Kingdom is grappling with issues like ageing infrastructure, cost overruns, and achieving net-zero carbon goals. Meanwhile, the Philippines is navigating rapid urbanisation, climate resilience, and the pursuit of technological integration in a developing economy. While these contexts differ, the common denominator is the need for sustainable solutions that balance efficiency, cost, and environmental impact.”
“This conference provides a unique platform to bridge knowledge, share experiences, and inspire collaborative innovation. By bringing together two nations with distinct challenges and opportunities, we can spark fresh perspectives, foster partnerships, and build a future where advancements in transportation and construction management benefit both our societies and our planet.”
“Over the next sessions, we will hear from leading experts, policymakers, and innovators who will share insights into cutting-edge technologies, best practices, and strategies to overcome barriers. We encourage you to engage actively, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities for collaboration beyond this forum.”
“As we embark on this journey today, let us remember the immense responsibility that comes with the work we do. The decisions we make and the innovations we pursue will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities and ensure that the future of transportation and construction is not just advanced but also equitable, inclusive, and sustainable”.
The conference was well-attended by the delegates from the government, academic, industry and students from difference levels. The conference included keynotes, several plenary sessions and roundtable discussion in which speakers from diverse background cover topic related to trends and challenges, innovations and best practices in railway and construction management.
In his keynote speech, Dr Umar covered the “Current trends and challenges in railway and construction management”. He outlined the key trends in railway and construction management, the challenges faced by the UK and the Philippines and explored similarities, differences, and opportunities for collaboration.
The teams from both sides agreed to continue this collaboration and explore opportunities to organise such events in the following years.