The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) announced that it will establish the first metals and engineering innovation hub in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).
DOST Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña said the groundbreaking of the CAR’s first DOST-Metals and Engineering Innovation Center (MEIC) at the Ifugao State University (IFSU) - Lagawe Campus was held on June 16.
“DOST-CAR is leveraging regional advances in the metal craft industry for the benefit of researchers, MSMEs and other stakeholders in the locality,” he said during his weekly report on Friday, July 2.
He said the center aims to promote innovation culture and strengthen the capability of local human resources in the region, especially students and faculty members of the IFSU, in the field of metalworking.
The DOST chief said the MEIC will be used for intensive training on machine design and fabrication, among others.
“Through the Innovation Center, the IFSU will conduct research and development, consultancy, and technology transfer collaborations with local firms in the metals and engineering (M&E) sector,” de la Peña said.
"The Center will also be made available to other interested parties/users in the region, including other universities, particularly those connected with the regional R&D consortia. Ultimately, this project aims to enhance the competitive advantage of the M&E industries in the Cordillera,” he added.
The DOST- Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC) will provide several equipment, tools and materials for the center. The list includes a shielded metal arc welding machine, TIG welding machine, portable plasma cutter, power hacksaw, hydraulic shearing machine, drill press, workstations with CAD/CAE software, late machine, and electric hoist.
De la Peña noted that in 2016, prior to the establishment of the MEIC, the DOST-CAR provided assistance to the IFSU around P1.29 million funding for the acquisition of several equipment or machines under the project entitled “Competency Enhancement towards a Competitive Metal Industry in Ifugao (A school-based Project)”.
These include a homemade roller machine, wip arc AC/DC welding machine, MIG welder with MIG wire spool and gas tank, step speed head vertical milling machine, air compressor with spray gun, manual steel folding machine, metal iron bar shear, power slip roll machine, stainless steel sander polisher, and bench buffer.