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.
DOST Solidifies the Future of Additive Manufacturing in the Philippines
By Kai H. Negado
October 25, 2023
“We had a vision of how we can augment the ability to design and manufacture with digital technology,” said Dr. Rigoberto C. Advincula during his keynote message on what he envisions the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen) can offer to the advancement of innovation in the country, even before its establishment.
The Department of Science and Technology-Metals Industry Research and Development Center’s (DOST-MIRDC) AMCen held an event that fosters innovation through collaboration. Dubbed AMCen CONNECT3DMINDS PartnerShape Day, guest speakers and officials from various partner organizations highlighted AMCen’s activities geared toward realizing the country’s Ambisyon Natin 2040 agenda of a matatag, maginhawa, at panatag na buhay.
In pursuit of this goal, AMCen has launched the Central Hub for Advanced Manufacturing R&D in the Philippines (CHAMP) Program. This program aims to support advancements in five key areas as identified in the Advanced Manufacturing (AM) Roadmap: manufacturing, medical, construction, consumer goods, and education.
While the adoption of AM in these sectors is crucial, it is equally essential for AMCen to establish partnerships with experts in these fields, experts who make up the AMCen Steering Committee. The Steering Committee is headed by DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development, Dr. Leah J. Buendia. As far as expertise is concerned, the AMCen Steering Committee members will provide effective oversight, coordination, and help shape the policies and guidelines that will underpin future AMCen projects under the CHAMP Program.
The Steering Committee members were presented during the PartnerShape Day. Each priority sector is represented by a Steering Committee member. The following are the representatives from the five priority sectors for AM intervention:
- Manufacturing Sector - Mr. Jonathan F. Co, Business Unit, General Manager, Manly Plastics, Inc.
- Medical Sector - Dr. Rafael C. Bundoc, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, Philippine General Hospital
- Construction Sector - Dr. John Ryan C. Dizon, Director, DR3AM Center, Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU)
- Consumer Goods Sector - Dr. Marissa Paglicawan, Scientist I, DOST-Industrial Technology Development Insitute (DOST-ITDI)
Education Sector - Dr. Sheryl Lyn C. Monterola, Director, University of the Philippines-National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP-NISMED)
Steering committee members pose for a photo during the PartnerShape Day. From left to right: Engr. Robert O. Dizon, Executive Director of DOST-MIRDC; Dr. Annabelle V. Briones, Director of DOST-ITDI; Dr. Rigoberto C. Advincula, AMCen consultant; and Engr. Fred P. Liza, Chief, Materials and Process Research Division, DOST-MIRDC and AMCen project head.
In further solidifying AMCen’s commitment to develop a stronger AM in the country, technical working groups (TWG) composed of members from organizations, representatives of the academe, government, and industry partners were also presented. Various agreements were signed by the TWG members, committing to work toward the development of AM for the education sector, manufacturing sector, and research and development.
Representatives from MakerLab Electronics, UP-NISMED, and Puzzlebox3D sign the Memorandum of Agreement on the Development of National AM Curriculum for SHS STEM, along with DOST-MIRDC Exec. Dir. Robert O. Dizon, and Engr. Fred P. Liza as witness.
The whole-day affair was a way for AMCen to actively encourage the industry, academia, and the public sector to embrace and adopt AM. AMCen, being a technology hub and a center of excellence for AM that promotes creativity and encourages innovation to flourish, advocates the technological transformation and advancement of the country through the celebration of the CONNECT3D Minds PartnerShape Day.
With the expanding network of partnerships that AMCen is forming, it is now conceivable to envision a Philippines where businesses revolutionize manufacturing, and the education sector prepares industry-ready leaders and professionals in the AM field.
Attendees from the government, industry, and academe during the PartnerShape Day on October 10, 2023 at the Acacia Hotel, Manila.
DOST-MIRDC Brings the Future of Manufacturing to the Cordillera Administrative Region: AMCen for MSMEs
By: Ella Vanesa Lopez
October 5, 2023
Additive manufacturing (AM) is one of the cutting-edge technologies that the Department of Science and Technology-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) has been actively advocating for in recent years through the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen). With AM, rapid, convenient, and cost-effective prototyping is now possible. Unlike conventional manufacturing processes, which mainly use bulky and expensive machines, AM uses printers that come in different sizes and price points, making manufacturing methods more accessible and affordable to everyone.
The DOST-MIRDC brought AM closer to the Cordillerans through a forum on September 28, 2023, held as part of the 2023 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTIW) celebration in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).
Forums like this one allow AMCen to reach a broader audience and potentially gain new partnerships and R&D collaborations.
Engr. Marc Adrian O. Yu presents the Advanced Manufacturing Center, its facilities, services, and possible collaboration with MSMEs in CAR on September 28, 2023
Engr. Marc Adrian O. Yu, AMCen’s Project Technical Specialist I, introduced the AMCen, as well as AM or 3D printing, to the micro, small, and medium enterprises’ (MSMEs) representatives from the different provinces of the region. Additionally, Engr. Yu underscored the Center’s commitment in sharing the technology and the know-how behind its use through training programs, he said “inaayos na po namin ang mga training offerings, syempre hindi naman po pwede na ‘yung knowledge ay mananatili lang sa AMCen.”
AMCen, the national hub for AM or 3D printing in the Philippines, has achieved numerous successes, including various R&D partnerships with diverse organizations and sectors. Engr. Yu shared some of these collaborations including those with the Philippine Army, Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, ONEWAT Industrial AI Solutions, and Maya Tech.
The road to integrating AM or 3D printing in the country has just begun. AMCen is currently developing initiatives in order to (1) provide Industry 4.0 technologies in the regions; (2) facilitate easier online job ordering and payment system through the AMCen Integrated Online System (AMCen-AIOS); (3) integrate AM in secondary education curriculum, and; (4) provide support in the key priority sectors, namely: manufacturing, medical, construction, and consumer goods.
DOST-MIRDC booth for the 2023 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week in CAR
Apart from this forum, DOST-MIRDC also showcased its different services, technologies, and facilities through an interactive three-day exhibit at the Provincial Gymnasium of Abra.
Watch out for more DOST-MIRDC activities in the regions, including exhibits and fora in the coming RSTIW celebrations around the country.
DOST Launches MEIC and Introduces Innovative Solutions to Industries and Academe in Caraga Region
by Faith P. Macatangay
October 12, 2023
Project Unveiling of MEIC
"We are inviting Surigao del Norte scientists, innovators to be with Surigao del Norte State University (SNSU). We will be able to serve you by providing you the necessary facilities for your innovation (and) invention," was what Dr. Gregorio Z. Gamboa Jr., SNSU President confidently said during the project launching of the SNSU Technology Business incubator (TBI) Waves, and project unveiling of the Metals and Engineering Innovation Center, and the Bamboo Industry Research and Innovation Center of Surigao del Norte.”
The project unveiling was part of the 2023 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTIW) in Caraga, held on September 29, 2023, at the SNSU Main Gymnasium, Surigao City.
Dr. Agusting M. Fudolig receives the Plaque of Recognition during the Project Launching of the SNSU Technology Business incubator (TBI) Waves, and Project Unveiling of the Metals and Engineering Innovation Center, and the Bamboo Industry Research and Innovation Center of Surigao del Norte
The DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC), through the MEIC, aims to bring science, technology, and innovation (STI) to the countryside by serving as a hub that encourages research and development (R&D) project collaborations among the industry, the academe, and other government agencies in the regions.
During the project’s first phase, five MEICs were already established in Regions I, II, III, X, and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). MEIC in the Caraga Region is one of the 10 more innovation centers to be put under the project's second phase.
On sharing her expectations for the MEIC, DOST Surigao del Norte Provincial Science and Technology Center (PSTC) Director Mariel P. Makinano said, "there will be a series of capacity building activities related to metalworking which will benefit not only the metalworking industry but also our mining companies in Caraga region." In addition, Dir. Makinano also mentioned that "the facility is already being built in Surigao City but the expected delivery of equipment will be in 2024, in collaboration with MIRDC."
Dr. Fudolig, resource speaker, discusses DOST-MIRDC's Research, Development, and Innovation Outputs to Surigaonos
During his presentation entitled "DOST-MIRDC's Research, Development, and Innovation Outputs," Dr. Agustin M. Fudolig, DOST-MIRDC Deputy Executive Director for R&D and MEIC Project Leader, emphasized that through the equipment that the Center will provide, MEIC-SNSU can now fabricate various equipment, such as spray dryer and water retort, which are two of the food processing equipment designed and developed by the DOST-MIRDC.
More Innovative Solutions Provided by the DOST-MIRDC
Dr. Fudolig also presented the DOST-MIRDC facilities that can assist in boosting the local metalworking and allied industries. He highlighted the technologies developed by the Center, emphasizing that the R&D programs of the DOST-MIRDC are focused on four priority areas - agro-industrial machinery, health, mass transport, and defense and security.
The following are some of the innovations developed under each sector of its R&D program: farm mechanization machineries and automation system for smart farming for agro-machinery, development of localized and low-cost hemodialysis machine and adult ventilator for health, hybrid mass transport vehicles to solve traffic congestion and lack of public transport, and remote controlled weapon system for the Philippine Navy and a 3D printed improvised explosive device (IED) disruptor for the Philippine Army for defense and security.
For possible R&D collaborations and more information on the Center’s available technologies and services, interested parties may contact the DOST-MIRDC through This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. For updates on DOST-MIRDC’s activities, follow our official Facebook page dostmirdc, and visit our website at mirdc.dost.gov.ph.
DOST Intensifies Support to Manufacturing Industry through Boosting R&D and Innovation in the Education Sector via AMCen and MEIC
By: Ella Vanesa L. Lopez
The Metals and Engineering Innovation Center: A Force for Regional Development
“Yung mga kakilala ko na nag-aral abroad, karamihan ay di na bumabalik dahil trained nga sila to do R&D (research and development), pero wala namang available facilities to conduct R&D,” this sentiment was shared by Mr. Osric Primo Bern A. Quibot, Senior Science Research Specialist (Sr. SRS) of the DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC), during his presentation for the TeknoMETALino forum held in Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) on September 21, 2022 as part of the Central Visayas Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTIW) celebration.
Mr. Osric Primo Bern A. Quibot presented the establishment of Metals and Engineering Innovation Center (MEIC) in Region VII
Low R&D outputs in rural areas have long been an issue as most R&D activities are concentrated in the National Capital Region. In its effort to foster R&D engagements in the region, the DOST-MIRDC established Metals and Engineering Innovation Centers (MEIC) across the country. There are MEICs already established in host state universities and colleges (SUCs) in five regions: in the Cordillera Administrative Region, as well as in Regions I, II, III, and X as the outputs of the MEIC Batch 1 project. Now in its second batch, the DOST-MIRDC will cover 10 additional regions including Region VII in which NORSU will be the host university.
The objective is to capacitate SUCs and their faculty researchers through the acquisition of industry-grade machinery and manpower development. Mr. Quibot mentioned that through the establishment of this facility, there is a high expectation that there will be more R&D proposals from SUCs to address specific challenges in their respective regions.
The establishment of this facility will also have positive implications for the local metalworking industry in the region. MEICs will offer a range of services, such as consultancy, machinery design, fabrication, facility use, and training.
As Mr. Quibot said, “We want the services of the DOST-MIRDC to be present in the region.” With the establishment of MEIC in NORSU, communities in Region VII will soon enjoy the services of DOST-MIRDC right in their backyard.
Additive manufacturing is now being made accessible to young learners in Negros Oriental
The integration of additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing in secondary schools’ curriculum is being advocated by the DOST-MIRDC and the University of the Philippines National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP NISMED).
Attendees of the consultative forum for the proposed piloting of Additive Manufacturing to secondary schools
A consultative forum attended by officials from Department of Education-Dumaguete (DepEd-Dumaguete), DOST Region VII, DOST-MIRDC, UP NISMED, Central Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (CVAARRDEC), Puzzlebox 3D, and principals and coordinators from different secondary schools in Negros Oriental was held on September 22, 2023, at the Ramon Teves Pastor Memorial (RTPM) Dumaguete Science High School (SHS).
The proposed integration of AM or 3D printing into the secondary education curriculum is seen to revolutionize the current education system and ultimately pave the way for a more scientific and innovative nation. Dr. Sheryl Lyn C. Monterola, UP NISMED’s director, presented evidence of the advantages of integrating AM into the secondary school curriculum. Her team at UP NISMED conducted a study where AM was integrated into the curriculum of UP Integrated School (UP-IS) students for one semester. The results showed a significant improvement in the students' creativity, particularly their originality and ideation.
RTPM Dumaguete SHS has already expressed its intent to integrate the National AM Curriculum developed by UP NISMED into its senior high school curriculum. Preparations are underway for additional science high schools to follow RTPM Dumaguete SHS. According to Dr. Monterola, UP NISMED will tailor-fit the AM curriculum depending on the needs of the students and the timeline of the school. DOST-MIRDC, through its AMCen program, will also provide manpower development to the personnel of the DOST Regional Offices, who will later train the teachers in their respective regions.
A representative from AMCen’s partner supplier, Puzzlebox 3D, Mr. Roberto Manuel, also shared the company’s commitment to the advancement of the education sector, he said “nag-agree na ang management namin na i-offer ang mga affordable at fast-moving printers namin sa education sector, before kasi ‘di namin yun ino-offer sa government bidding dahil ang taas nga ng demand ng retail.”
The integration of the AM curriculum in secondary schools in Negros Oriental will apparently materialize soon, with the support and commitment from the different offices and organizations. Engr. Fred P. Liza, AMCen’s program leader, emphasized the need for dedication from everyone involved in the initiative. He also stressed the importance of establishing a steering committee to oversee the achievement of its objectives, he said “sa mga multi-sectoral activities, kailangan talaga natin ng champions, hindi lang para maging members kung hindi para mag-work hard and share their time and knowledge para maging successful yung program.”
\
AMCen Program Leader, Engr. Fred P. Liza, during his presentation in the consultative forum with secondary school’s officials and teachers.
The future outlook for 3D printing is highly optimistic, and there is a projected surge in demand for 3D printing across different industries, including the education sector. With AMCen at the forefront of navigating this technology, there is high hope for the future of manufacturing in the country.
