Five new research and development (R&D) laboratories were recently presented by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) to bolster innovation in the country.
The DoST-PCIEERD-supported R&D laboratories were presented in a virtual event through the Institution Development Program (IDP) – the University of the Philippines Cebu Laboratory; Cavite State University Simulation, Modeling, and Measurement Laboratory (CvSU SiMM Lab); the University of the Cordilleras Geographic Information System Innovation Laboratory (UC GIS InnoLab); the Bataan Peninsula State University Additive Manufacturing and Research Laboratory (BPSU AMReL); and the DoST-Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) Capability Building on Energy Efficiency and Conservation for State Universities and Colleges (ITDI CapDev Energy Efficiency).
The UP Cebu Cybersecurity Laboratory aims to create a solid platform for cybersecurity research, develop cybersecurity courses for the UP Cebu Department of Computer Science (DCS), develop training curriculum for end-user and non-tech users for their protection, and contribute to producing a security-ready workforce. With the facilities now in place, the lab now is ready for training and research purposes.
The CvSU SiMM Lab aims to create an environment that accelerates the productivity of engineers, scientists, and student researchers on simulation and modeling of designed machines, devices, and equipment to create efficient and reliable prototypes.
The University of the Cordilleras Geographic Information System Innovation Laboratory (UC GIS InnoLab) is deemed to serve as a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration through GIS-technology-driven research, education, and extension for local, regional, and national development.
The Bataan Peninsula State University Additive Manufacturing and Research Laboratory (BPSU AMReL) is envisioned to be the regional center for 3D printing to develop new materials and technology, generate new products, and undertake world-class research projects.
The DoST-Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) Capability Building on Energy Efficiency and Conservation for State Universities and Colleges (ITDI CapDev Energy Efficiency) aims to develop the energy auditing skills of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) to improve the efficiency of energy use in their operations and management practices.
The DoST-PCIEERD said that two new laboratories will be added to its roster of supported labs under IDP, the Solid Freeform Fabrication Research Laboratory (SoFFReL) of the Pangasinan State University (PSU) and the Center for Green Nanotechnology Innovations for Environmental Solutions (CGNIES) of the University of Mindanao (UM).
The SoFFReL will be the first laboratory in Pangasinan to employ 3D printing in metalcraft fabrication for concept modeling, prototyping, rapid tooling, and digital manufacturing. Through the lab, it is envisioned to strengthen the metal industry in Pangasinan and revolutionize its industry structure by providing a shorter value chain, cost and time reductions through elimination of assembly steps, greater customization and design freedom, and minimal waste.
The CGNIES will be established to ascertain concerted efforts to use nano-innovations to solve environmental problems in Region 11 by being the premiere center to bolster the capability of UM to undertake science and technology research that establishes nanomaterials safe use and disposal policy to ensure that preventive measures protecting the health and safety of nano-workers and the environment.
IDP provides financial support for the establishment and upgrading of research laboratories and facilities of academic and research institutions in the country.
Since 2015, the IDP has helped set up and upgrade 23 laboratories all over the country with a total investment of P125.1 million.
The grant covers purchase of laboratory equipment and facilities, including highly specialized software and other relevant operational expenses.