Meet Julius Sempio:
1) What do you do?
I am an engineer and researcher with expertise in GIS-based satellite data processing-- satellite image processing and interpretation, spatial pattern analyses, thematic mapping, etc.-- and geospatial database design and management. I also handle some computer programming tasks that aid in completing the above-mentioned tasks efficiently, particularly in Python and Java.
2) Where do you work?
I am currently involved with the PHL-MICROSAT Program, more often referred to as the Diwata Program, as part of Project 3: Data Processing, Archiving and Distribution (DPAD).
3) Tell us about the photos!
[Top:] I gave an introductory talk on the Diwata Program and the prospects of the nation having its own space agency during the Geodetic Engineering Days of FEATI University in Quiapo, Manila. (Photos courtesy of FEATI SAGE)
[Bottom:] I am also involved in the arts! I was one of the Indie Tiangge exhibitors at November Komikon 2016, selling copies of my pet comics project titled “Tatlonghari”. So in case there’s going to be a comics event – at least in Metro Manila – expect my presence there either as an exhibitor or as a customer. (And in case you’re wondering, yes, I made the “diwata” drawing appearing on the “Top” photo collage. :)) (Photos courtesy of my elder sister)
4) Tell us about your academic career path so far.
Elementary: Holy Spirit Academy of Malolos
High School: Philippine Science High School – Diliman
BS Geodetic Engineering: University of the Philippines – Diliman
Research Assistantships:
GIS Component: Pasig River Tributaries Survey and Assessment Study (Phase 2)
Watershed Modeling Component: Project Climate Twin Phoenix (Cagayan de Oro and Iligan)
MS Geomatics Engineering – Geoinformatics: University of the Philippines – Diliman
Research Associate: PHL-MICROSAT DPAD
5) Anything else you’d like to share?
I’d like to share three things:
1) Truth be told, in my undergraduate years I was a skeptic when it comes to a space program for the Philippines, pointing out other issues such as poverty and economic growth as more pressing concerns. But during my work at Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, I realized that the space program is itself a means to address poverty and economic growth because:
Disaster preparedness will greatly reduce the impact of short-term poverty due to post-event consequences
Space-based monitoring aids in designing efficient management systems for industries such as agriculture, forestry, urban planning and even commerce
The Philippines is not going to be tied to foreign space services and won’t suffer in case such services are cut off
The space program itself provides new job opportunities
Others (please specify): __________________________________________
If you’d like some further reading, I’ll recommend this article as a spur: Why the Philippines Needs a National Space Agency (GMA News Online).
2) Almost everyone who would meet me and realize that I am an engineer would also be surprised to know that I am working on a comic book-- and dreaming of being a storyteller and concept artist for an animated series or even a video game-- saying that science and the arts are polar opposites. Personally, a scientist can also be an artist-- provided of course that he or she can provide ample time to work on both, as it does take dedication and a lot of willpower to achieve both. So when it comes to balancing your work with your passion, here is my advice: love both.
3) And if you want to read something to relax yourselves, go ahead and visit my comics project’s facebook page at fb.com/tatlonghariproject-- and if you did like it, please click on the “Like” button :)
