DEE has established a robust portfolio of community development initiatives that bridge the gap between advanced engineering concepts and grassroots necessity. Since 2017, these programs have evolved from technical feasibility assessments—such as the Techno-Economic Feasibility Study of Micro-grids and Cascaded Micro-Hydro Power Plants (MHPP) — to high-impact, sustainable energy deployments. Notable among these is the Bigay-Liwanag Project in Tambacan and the recent Energization of Libandayan Elementary School through Aboitiz-Donated 6kW Off-Grid Solar PV, both of which demonstrate a commitment to utilizing renewable energy for educational and social upliftment. By integrating professional service through the “Brigada-Eskwela Program” in partnership with the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. – Iligan Bay Chapter (IIEE-IBC), the department ensures that its technical outreach is complemented by active civic participation and professional industry linkages.
The department has institutionalized community-centric research, with 54 undergraduate and graduate theses are intentionally designed with a community development factor. This "Research-to-Extension" pipeline ensures that student projects are not merely academic exercises but are utilized as viable solutions for local challenges. By treating these theses as active development components, the program fosters a culture of "Socially Responsible Engineering." This integrated approach provides a sustainable mechanism for ongoing initiatives, ensuring that the department remains a vital partner in the regional development of Iligan City and its remote communities.
Another community development was completed by the department, led by Dr. Noel R. Estoperez, in partnership with Iligan Light and Power Incorporated (ILPI), Iligan Bay Chamber of Industries (IBCI), and Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers - Iligan Bay Chapter (IIEE-IBC) to ensure that the underserved households in Sitio Libandayan, Brgy. Rogongon, Iligan City gains access to safe and reliable electricity. Through this community development and energy equity initiative, the residents of the said Barangay had the opportunity of free house wiring installations with professional care and precision. A "Pulong-Pulong" was held last January 23, 2026.
Furthermore, on November 8, 2025, MSU-IIT, led by the DEE, partnered with Meralco Power Academy to host the Young Engineers and Scientists Summit (YESS) 2025—the first in Mindanao—at the MSU-IIT Gymnasium, themed “Purpose-Driven Innovation.” The event gathered over 500 STEM-track Senior High School students from schools across Iligan City, including Abuno NHS, Iligan City East NHS, MSU-IIT Integrated Developmental School, and Philippine Science High School Central Mindanao Campus. The summit aimed to inspire students to approach innovation as a purposeful pursuit for positive societal impact. Through inspiring talks and shared experiences, YESS 2025 encouraged young minds to see innovation not just as a skill but as a purpose-driven pursuit that can transform lives and communities. The event also served as a platform for future college students to discover their passion and be inspired by stories of purpose, perseverance, and creativity.