Hybrid Electric Road Train: Seals Partnership between the DOST-MIRDC Ilagan City
By: Zalda R. Gayahan
Ilagan City, in the province of Isabela, seeks to realize a ‘liveable city’ concept – one which includes accessible and sustainable mobility among its most important features. The city’s strategy to achieve this goal is the adoption of the Hybrid Electric Road Train (HERT) technology developed by the Department of Science and Technology – Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC).
The city of Ilagan and the DOST-MIRDC signed the Memorandum of Understanding on August 11, 2021. This event signals the beginning of a partnership that will lead to the realization of Ilagan City’s goal to be a ‘liveable’ city.
Key officials who were part of the event are as follows:
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Undersecretary Sancho A. Mabborang. ‘We will help Ilagueños realize the true value of science and technology.’ |
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DOST Secretary Fortunato T. De La Peña. ‘The HERT will serve the best interest of the people of Ilagan City, particularly its need for an environment-friendly mass transportation system.’ |
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DOST-MIRDC Executive Director Engr. Robert O. Dizon. ‘The HERT in Ilagan City offers a win-win situation: good for the economy, good for the constituents, and good for the academe and the DOST as we continue to do research to further make improvements and innovation.’ |
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Ilagan City Mayor Josemarie L. Diaz. ‘The HERT is a wonderful gift to the people of Ilagan….ang higit na matutulungan nito ay ang manufacturing sector …’ |
With the MOU for the adoption and manufacture of the HERT signed between the DOST-MIRDC and the city of Ilagan, Ilagueños will soon experience the benefits of having in their hometown a Filipino-made mass transportation that will help in achieving the goal of becoming a ‘liveable city’– safe, clean, comfortable, and one which will allow businesses to grow and flourish.
