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 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.”
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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.
Additive Manufacturing and Innovation Centers in the Regions: Featured Topics During the KaSYENSYAhan sa CALABARZON Event
By Kai H. Negado
September 26, 2023
Promoting 3D Printing through the Advanced Manufacturing Center
“Revolutionize the industry using additive manufacturing (AM),” says Engr. Leif Oliver B. Coronado in his presentation. Engr. Coronado, Science Research Specialist II, shared that the use of AM or 3D printing still continues to develop. It will continue to do so, especially now that we have a national AM hub - the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen). Through the AMCen, AM is being utilized by various industries here in the country: aerospace, automobile, defense, and health, among others.
Engr. Leif Coronado discusses the AM technologies offered by AMCen.
AM represents a departure from conventional manufacturing practices. As Engr. Coronado highlighted, the field of AM or 3D printing is continually evolving, especially now with the establishment of the AMCen. The AMCen is promoting the adoption of AM in various industries across the country, including aerospace, automotive, defense, and healthcare, to name a few.
Empowering the Regions through the Metals and Engineering Innovation Centers (MEICs)
According to Engr. Mervin B. Gorospe, a Senior Science Research Specialist at the Department of Science and Technology-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) and a project member of the Metals and Engineering Innovation Center (MEIC), the MEICs are seen to become an “avenue to conduct research and development (R&D) activities.” The MEICs are poised to serve as catalysts for enhancing the technological capabilities and investment readiness of state universities and colleges nationwide, ultimately helping to address labor force shortages both domestically and internationally.
Engr. Mervin Gorospe explains the R&D challenges that MEIC aims to resolve.
In the CALABARZON Region, the MEIC will be located at Batangas State University and will be accessible to communities in the region. Researchers, particularly those focused on metals, engineering, and related industries, are encouraged to utilize the MEICs in their respective regions. This initiative is a significant step toward fostering the growth of science, technology, and innovation in the countryside.
This forum was part of the DOST CALABARZON’s 2023 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTIW) Celebration dubbed as “KaSYENSYAhan sa CALABARZON” on September 18 to 22, 2023 at the Baker Hall, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna. Watch out for more DOST-MIRDC activities in the regions, including exhibits and fora in the upcoming RSTIW celebrations around the country.
A group of students focuses on surpassing the demo game programmed in the Human Interface Machine (HMI) or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system.
For 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.
Title: Introduction to Plastic Injection Mold Making Process
Date: October 9-13, 2023
Time: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Training Fee: PhP 9,400
Reservation Link:
AMCen, MEIC, and Food Processing Equipment Among STI for Sustainability Technologies Featured at the DOST RSTIW 2023 Celebration in Sultan Kudarat
By Kai H. Negado
September 20, 2023
In the pursuit of its mandate of supporting the local metals and engineering (M&E) industry, the Department of Science and Technology-Metals Industry Research and Development Center’s (DOST-MIRDC) services reach even beyond the M&E industry - these services are relevant to end users such as businesses, the academe, and the end users as a whole.
At the request of DOST Region XII, DOST-MIRDC has brought its array of science, technology, and innovation (STI) outputs to Sultan Kudarat to showcase solutions for sustainability. These technologies address critical areas such as food security, digital transformation, and human development, aligning with DOST's current priority programs.
Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen)
“Together, let’s go beyond the conventional,” Engr. Alvin M. Buison, Senior Science Research Specialist (Sr. SRS) of the DOST-MIRDC and a project member of the AMCen, encouraged the audience to go beyond conventional ways of manufacturing products by utilizing one of the pioneering Industry 4.0 technologies - additive manufacturing (AM). Since its establishment in 2021, the DOST-MIRDC’s AMCen has manufactured AM products and engaged in collaborative research with partners from the academe, health sector, defense sector, government, and private institutions.
Engr. Alvin Buison describes AM and its advantages over conventional manufacturing.
Engr. Buison offered AMCen’s services to the people of Region XII, highlighting the fact that AMCen extends its assistance to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME), with AM’s
economically viable services for low-volume production, its ability to streamline production process, and accelerated product design iterations.
Metals and Engineering Innovation Center (MEIC)
“A country’s capacity to generate new knowledge is dependent on STI human resource,” Engr. Mervin Gorospe, Sr. SRS of the DOST-MIRDC, during the TeknoMETALino forum on STI for Sustainability.
Engr. Mervin Gorospe explains MEIC to the forum attendees.
As part of its commitment to fostering development in rural areas through STI, DOST-MIRDC has established innovation hubs in various regions, known as MEIC, now in its second phase of expansion, including Region XII.
Engr. Gorospe simplified to the forum attendees the concept of establishing a MEIC - it is a small metalworking laboratory, designed to replicate a scaled-down DOST-MIRDC in regional settings. The MEIC is seen to strengthen the region’s capabilities through equipment acquisition, human resource development, industry immersion, benchmarking activities, and product innovation.
Communities in the region may now look forward to having their own mini DOST-MIRDCs. In closing his presentation, Engr. Gorospe reiterated that the DOST-MIRDC, through the MEIC, looks forward to “transforming (your) ideas into innovation.”
Food Processing Equipment
“May demand for food processing,” Engr. Ulysses B. Ante, Sr. SRS of the DOST-MIRDC and a project member of the development of food processing equipment, highlighted the growing demand for food processing solutions. Citing a 2019 study by the Asian Development Bank, he noted that agriculture and food manufacturing contribute 126.7 billion US dollars to the Philippine’s GDP, accounting for 43% of the country's employment.
Engr. Ulysses Ante shows data on the country’s agriculture and F&B industry
The DOST-MIRDC has developed food processing technologies, namely: water retort, freeze dryer, spray dryer, and vacuum fryer. These food processing equipment, Engr. Ante explained, makes food edible, ensures food safety, preserves food that increases its shelf life, retains nutritional quality, offers convenience, and lowers the price of food especially when it is mass produced. It was also developed by the Center to lower the cost of acquiring equipment for our local MSMEs, as it is locally produced.
Engr. Ante encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs in the food and beverage sector to consider incorporating these equipment solutions into their ventures, given the expanding domestic market and the ever-growing demand for healthy and convenient food products, including opportunities in the export market.
This forum was part of the DOST Region XII's RSTIW 2023 celebration held from September 13 to 15, 2023, at the Sultan Kudarat Gym and Cultural Center in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat.
More RSTIW events in various regions are coming very soon! For updates on DOST-MIRDC and AMCen’s participation in the upcoming RSTIWs, stay tuned to the DOST-MIRDC and AMCen’s official FB pages dostmirdc and AMCenPH, and DOST-MIRDC’s official website mirdc.dost.gov.ph.
