DOST-MIRDC Brings 3D Printing to the Forefront at Central Luzon’s Innovation Summit, Paving the Way for Rural Technological Advancements
By: Ella Vanesa L. Lopez
October 26, 2023
In a bid to extend the benefits of innovation beyond urban centers, the Department of Science and Technology-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) showcased the power of additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing at the TECHNO FORA: Thrive Central Luzon Innovation Summit 2023 held at LGU-Botolan Hall, Zambales. The event, organized by DOST Central Luzon, served as a platform for innovators and pioneers from both public and private sectors to present their cutting-edge technologies to representatives from small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and higher education institutions (HEIs).
"Innovation should not be a distant dream but a tangible reality for all, especially in the countryside," remarked DOST Central Luzon Regional Director (RD) Julius Caesar Sicat during his opening speech at the summit. RD Sicat underlined that technological advancements should reach even the most remote areas, fostering inclusive development. In this pursuit, the DOST-MIRDC has been proactively promoting AM and the services of its Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen) to the countryside to catalyze potential research and development (R&D) collaborations and partnerships.
Engr. Denise Daryl A. Florante, Senior Science Research Specialist of DOST-MIRDC, took the stage during the summit to expound upon the significant advantages of AM or 3D printing compared to traditional manufacturing methods. Unlike conventional processes like formative and subtractive manufacturing, AM offers an efficient and streamlined approach to production, eliminating the grueling and time-consuming aspects of conventional manufacturing. Furthermore, AM opens doors to creating complex geometric shapes and designs, transforming creative concepts into reality.
Engr. Denise Daryl A. Florante presents the 3D printing potential for sustainability in the regions during the TECHNO FORA: Thrive Central Luzon Innovation Summit 2023 held last October 19, 2023 at LGU-Botolan Hall, Zambales
“Manufacturing complex geometries is practically impossible in traditional manufacturing, but through AM, you can include cooling channels and light-weighting without affecting its structural integrity,” said Engr. Florante during his talk.
Events like the Thrive Central Luzon Innovation Summit offer AMCen a platform for spreading the advantages of additive manufacturing to a broader audience, furthering the cause of technological innovation in the region. The introduction of AM holds the promise of unlocking new opportunities in rural areas, promoting economic growth, and bolstering the competitive advantage of Central Luzon.
As the second phase of Project AMCen commences, Filipinos can anticipate a wave of new initiatives in the field of AM that will benefit society significantly. In support of AMCen's mission to bring AM technology to rural communities, the AMCen is currently strategizing the establishment of satellite offices in the regions. Once this materializes, provincial residents will no longer need to make the trip to Metro Manila, as they will have a conveniently located mini-AMCen right in their backyard for their 3D printing requirements.
Engr. Denise Daryl A. Florante talking about the advantages of AM during his presentation at the TECHNO FOR A: Thrive Central Luzon Innovation Summit 2023 held last October 19, 2023 at LGU-Botola Hall, Zambales
Further, AMCen advocates for the technological transformation of the country through the integration of 3D printing in various sectors. In alignment with this vision, AMCen is committed to advancing key areas identified in the AM Roadmap, including manufacturing, medical, construction, consumer goods, and education.
In line with the government's commitment to fostering science and technology, these developments mark a significant step towards an innovative and thriving future for the whole country, in harmony with AMCen's tagline: Let’s go beyond the conventional.
