DOST hands over Metals and Engineering Innovation Center to Ifugao State University to advance innovation in the Cordilleras
LAMUT, IFUGAO, 7 August 2024 – Local businesses, students, educators, and researchers in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) can now explore opportunities for invention and innovation through the technologies available at the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-funded Metals and Engineering Innovation Center at Ifugao State University (IFSU) Lagawe Campus.
Leading the handover ceremony is DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., who emphasized the transformative potential of the Innovation Center. “This Center will provide our engineers, researchers, and industry professionals with access to advanced tools, facilities, and expertise… It will also serve as a collaborative platform where ideas can be exchanged, solutions can be developed, and new technologies can be incubated.” said Sec. Solidum.
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. delivering his speech.
The establishment of this Innovation Center is part of a national strategy to enhance regional capacities for knowledge and technology generation. Implemented by the DOST through one of its research and development arm, the Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC), this initiative underscores the department's commitment to promoting science, technology, and innovation (STI) across the country.
“We realized that we are not doing enough. We are supposed to be serving the whole country. The Metals and Engineering Innovation Center has been doing what MIRDC should be doing in the regions. With this event, we are not just turning over the facility; we are sharing with you our vision and mission,” stated Engr. Robert O. Dizon, Executive Director of DOST-MIRDC on fulfilling the DOST-MIRDC’s dream of putting up DOST-MIRDCs in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
From left to right: IFSU President, Dr. Eva Marie Codamon-Dugyon; DOST-CAR Regional Director, Dr. Nancy Bantog; DOST-MIRDC Executive Director, Engr. Robert Dizon; DOST-MIRDC Deputy Executive Director, Dr. Agustin Fudolig; DOST Secretary, Dr. Renato Solidum, Jr.; Undersecretary for Regional Operations, Engr. Sancho Mabborang; and Assistant Secretary for Development Cooperation, Mr. Rodolfo Calzado, Jr
IFSU President, Dr. Eva Marie Codamon-Dugyon, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership and in their commitment to bringing metals and engineering innovation to the whole region. "We are immensely grateful…the MEIC is a transformative initiative not only for IFSU but also for the Cordillera Administrative Region. We give our commitment not only to be good stewards of this center…we will strive to deliver impactful solutions,” she remarked.
The M&E Innovation Center in IFSU is equipped with industrial-grade metalworking machinery, including a hydraulic shearing machine, sheet metal roller, and lathe machine. These resources will be accessible not only for academic purposes but also for local industry use. Students can utilize the facility for thesis projects, while other state universities and colleges are encouraged to collaborate with the Center on research and development activities.
Local businesses can benefit from the facility through a time-sharing scheme, and local equipment fabricators are invited to engage in contract research or joint research activities. This Innovation Center aims to be a hub where university researchers, industry professionals, community leaders, and other stakeholders can come together to address pressing local issues through collaborative research.
During the ceremony, the project team presented their completed R&D projects, including a coconut grater with a presser, a coconut dehusker, and a vegetable slicer machine. These technologies are now being utilized by their beneficiaries, showcasing the tangible impact of the Center.
The handover ceremony underscores a robust partnership between DOST, DOST-MIRDC, and IFSU, and encourages the community in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) to transform ideas into innovations. From innovations, communities in the CAR can create value, generate jobs, and boost economic activities. Wide utilization of this Innovation Center will also strengthen collaborative relationships among the academe, industry, and government.
For more information and to explore collaboration opportunities, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Empowering Abilities: DOST-MIRDC and Philippine Welding Society Host Inclusive Training Workshop
By: Ella Vanesa L. Lopez
In celebration of National Disability Rights Week, the Department of Science and Technology - Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) partnered with the Philippine Welding Society (PWS) to provide specialized training to 15 differently-abled individuals at Tahanang Walang Hagdanan, Inc.
Tahanang Walang Hagdanan, Inc. (TWHI), a non-profit organization, is committed to enhancing the lives of differently-abled individuals by providing skill development, employment opportunities, and promoting greater independence and social integration through diverse services and programs.
On July 19, 22, and 23, 2024, participants from TWHI received training in welding safety procedures, sheet metal layout development, and materials inspection and evaluation. Participants acquired practical skills that will significantly improve their ability to create high-quality metal products, such as custom-designed wheelchairs. With improved skills, they now have increased potential to be more productive and employable.
DOST-MIRDC and PWS provided skills training at TWHI on July 19, 22, and 23, 2024 on the following topics: Sheet Metal Layout Development (top), Non-destructive Testing (middle), and Welding (bottom).
“Napakalaking tulong kaalaman [ng mga training] para sa aming [mga] manggagawa,” said Mr. Domingo Literal, Production Director at TWHI. “Malaking tulong para ma-maximize ang output ng mga materials [at] akmang-akma sa araw-araw na trabaho sa wheelchair production.”
Initiatives such as this training program not only equip differently-abled individuals with valuable skills but also highlight their incredible potential and capabilities, “Matagal na nating partner at tinutulungan ang Tahanang Walang Hagdan,” said DOST-MIRDC’s Industrial Training Section Chief, Mr. Reynaldo L. dela Cruz Jr. “noon pa man din ang assessment natin sa kanila, ay meron na talaga [potential]… more on upgrading and additional knowledge na lang.”
By fostering inclusivity and empowerment, TWHI, DOST-MIRDC, and PWS are making significant strides towards a more inclusive society where everyone can contribute and thrive.
For more information about DOST-MIRDC’s training programs, including regular, packaged, and regional trainings, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
High School Student Bested Industry Pros in National Welding Competition
By: Ella Vanesa L. Lopez
Bicutan, Taguig – Red A. Singin, a Grade 11 student from Rizal High School in Pasig City, emerged victorious in the Flux Cord Arc Welding (FCAW) in Carbon Steel (CS) Plate - 3G Position competition, despite competing against 13 seasoned industry professionals for the category.
From L to Right: Dr. Agustin Fudolig (MIRDC), Mr. Dominador Eleazar Jr. (PWS), Edralin C. Icabales (PWS), Ernesto Policarpio (PWS), Engr. Isidro Millo (PWS), Mr. Red Singin, Engr. Robert Dizon (MIRDC), Ms. Lina Afable (MIRDC),and Engr. Reynaldo dela Cruz Jr. (MIRDC)
Singin's welding skills and perseverance drove him to claim the championship. Reflecting on his unexpected win, he shared, "marami po mas may experience sa akin kaya ‘di ko inakala na ako ang magiging champion. "
Despite currently taking up Automotive in senior high school, Singin's triumph underscores his deep-rooted passion for welding. He also offered advice to aspiring young welders, urging them to “practice at focus sa goals lang po… manuod din po sila ng mga tutorials kung paano mag-welding para makadagdag din sa skills nila.”
Red A. Singin during the Welding Competition held last June 11, 2024.
The welding competition was part of the Metals and Engineering (M&E) Skills Competition, which was held to celebrate M&E Week every third week of June. The event included skills competitions in welding, robotics and mechatronics, and computer-aided design, intending to promote excellence in the metals and engineering industries.
The DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC), in collaboration with the Philippine Welding Society, Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines, and Philippine Die and Mold Association Inc., invited students, industry professionals, and other stakeholders from across the country to participate in this skills competition.
During the awarding ceremony on June 19, 2024, DOST-MIRDC Executive Director Robert O. Dizon emphasized the importance of using one's skills to contribute positively to the nation's progress, "Our country needs us. Sana unang makinabang ang ating bansa sa mga skills ninyo."
Guests and participants during the M&E Skills Competition Awarding Ceremony
The M&E Skills Competition is just one of the many activities lined up for M&E Week 2024, hosted by the DOST-MIRDC. For more details about the M&E Week 2024 and future events, please visit the DOST-MIRDC's official website and follow the official Facebook page.
DOST’s AMCen Launched as the Third Advanced Manufacturing Institute: Towards an Industry 4.0-Ready Filipino Workforce
by Faith P. Macatangay
“AMCen’s vision to become a leading hub of additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping aligns perfectly with USAID’s mission to develop a highly skilled workforce for this innovative sector,” USAID Acting Mission Director Betty Chung shared about the launch of AMI in the metropolis.
The Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Development Alliance (AMDev) Program, under the partnership of Unilab Foundation, Inc. (ULF) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Philippines, formally launched Department of Science and Technology-Metals Industry Research and Development Center‘s (DOST-MIRDC) Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen), as the country’s third Advanced Manufacturing Institute (AMI) on July 29, 2024, at the DOST-MIRDC Compound, Taguig City.
Officials from the ULF, USAID, AMDev, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and DOST during the unveiling of the AMDev marker located at the AMCen Building.
AMI is one of the flagship initiatives of the AMDev program. These institutes, established through collaborative partnerships, will serve as a learning hub that will prepare the Filipino manufacturing workforce for the fourth industrial revolution.
Atty. Jose Maria Ochave, Executive Director of ULF, emphasized the goals of the partnership, “By uniting AMDev’s vision of accessible innovation hubs with DOST-MIRDC’s extensive resources and network, we hope to forge a path toward a future-proof workforce.”
AMCen is the Philippines’ first technological hub for additive manufacturing or 3D printing. As an AMI, the Center will provide training programs on additive manufacturing to 11,000 people who are currently employed or will be employed in the manufacturing industry.
During the event, AMCen Steering Committee member Dr. Rigoberto Advincula introduced the pilot batch of 23 trainees. Their training on emerging technologies commenced right after the launching program.
Engr. Noilan S. Santiaguel from TDK Philippines Corporation stated his expectations for the training, “Isa sa mga functions ko is to do factory innovation. Pinadala ako to learn new ways to do manufacturing.”
Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. also stated DOST’s full support to the AMI’s initiative, “In addition to pursuing the enhancement of skills of the workforce, AMCen as the newest AMI, will also focus its attention to materials R&D, prototyping and fabrication, collaborations and partnerships, technical services, training services, and policy standards. As such, AMCen is going to be the one-stop solution center for additive manufacturing concerns of the industry.”
DOST-MIRDC Executive Director Robert O. Dizon added, “As agents of positive change, clients and stakeholders rely on us and look up to us for direction to set a clear path. The path that we will create is the one that is sure to lead us to increased productivity and competitiveness.”
Attendees from the industry, academe, media, and government during the AMDev – DOST-AMCen AMI Launch at the DOST-MIRDC Compound, Taguig
For detailed information about the latest technologies, services, and collaborative activities of the DOST-MIRDC, like and follow our DOSTMIRDC Facebook page and visit our website www.mirdc.dost.gov.ph.
DOST and DENR launched the Floating Solid Waste Collector System – A Filipino-made Technology to Solve Solid Waste Concerns
Manila, Philippines – Technology makes life easier, better, and more comfortable. Our country’s problem on floating solid wastes remains a major challenge for many years now, and various imported technologies have been tried to address this challenge.
This June, in the celebration of the Philippine Environment Month, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) launched the Floating Solid Waste Collector System at the Pasig River Esplanade.
(T) One of the barges of the Floating Solid Waste Collector System and (B) key officials and representatives from DOST, DENR, and greater Manila LGUs present during the launching of Floating Solid Waste Collector System on June 13, 2024 at the Pasig River Esplanade.
The Floating Solid Waste Collector System represents a significant milestone in efforts to combat the challenges posed by solid waste and invasive water hyacinths in our rivers. DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. highlighted the benefits the technology will bring during his speech, “I am proud that this joint R&D project, the development of the floating solid waste collector, is one perfect example of a solution that not only address a challenge but also promises to open opportunities.” He emphasized that it will not only improve the environment but the fishermen’s productivity and provide livelihood not only to the fisherfolks but to the handicrafts and metal industry as well.
This innovative system is poised to address the persistent issues of solid waste and the overpopulation of water hyacinths in Metro Manila's waterways.
It features three essential components: a water hyacinth harvester, a dedicated trash collector, and a power barge for water hyacinth management. These components work synergistically to prevent flooding caused by clogged waterways, ensuring cleaner and more navigable bodies of water.
"The innovative solutions we have developed will not only help in the efficient removal and collection of floating solid wastes but also in preserving the ecological balance of our rivers and estuaries in Metro Manila... Let this project be a shining example of what we can accomplish when we unite for a common cause," said DENR- Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Dir. Jacqueline A. Caancan,
The launch of this technology underscores the government's collaborative efforts in promoting sustainable environmental practices and innovative technological solutions. By integrating science and technology with environmental stewardship, the DOST and DENR are paving the way for a cleaner, more resilient Metro Manila.
“This Floating Solid Waste Collector System will breathe life and hope towards a greener future… The City of Manila, through the Department of Public Services whose mandate is ecological solid waste management and environment sanitation, is committed to promoting and upholding initiatives and interventions to nurture our environment" said Manila Mayor Maria Sheila Lacuna-Pangan on her hopes for a cleaner and greener environment.
Project Leader, Engr. Rodnel O. Tamayo, said that the prototype developed by the DOST will be subjected to performance testing in Cardona, Rizal. With optimism, the DOST and the DENR are certain that the system will be turned over to the DENR by the end of the year. Representatives from other local government units (LGUs) in the Greater Manila area were also present at the event, hoping that more LGUs would adopt this technology.
For more information, please visit DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center’s (MIRDC) official website https://mirdc.dost.gov.ph/ and Facebook page www.facebook.com/dostmirdc.
