Pinoy invents 'aircon for the poor'

MANILA, Philippines – A Filipino inventor has come up with a multi-cooler fan as a cheaper alternative to the air conditioner.

Dubbed by inventor Rodolfo Biescas as the “aircon for the poor,” the cooling device consumes the same power as a regular electric fan but produces cooler air.

“Kaya nga na-design natin ‘yan para sa problema ng electric fan. Kapag mainit kasi ang panahon, mainit din ang hanging inilalabas dahil ‘yung motor nu’n sa likod eh, umiinit ‘yun,” Biescas said.

The device just needs some ice and it can cool a room for 8 hours.

It can even be used as a beverage cooler and won't overheat even after several hours of use.

“Nilagyan natin ng blower. Tapos ‘yung box na ‘yun, nilagyan natin ng cooling system. Nung nakita ko ‘yung mga tindahan, minsan pagdating ng hapon, itinatapon nila ‘yung tubig galing sa ice box nila. So ‘yung tubig na natutunaw, ‘yun ang ginagamit kong cooler,” said Biescas.

Biescas, who has many inventions under his belt, invented the multi-cooler fan in 1985.

However, the product didn't go anywhere since he lacked government support.

“Marami tayong award pero hindi ‘yun ang kailangan natin. Ang kailangan natin ay i-produce ito sa tulong ng gobyerno,” he said.

With Biescas’s many inventions, the multi-cooler fan is perhaps the most timely product for the summer.

Power demand has risen as people use electric fans and air conditioners more often due to the heat.

The state weather bureau forecasts temperatures across the country will remain high in the coming weeks.