The Department of Science and Technology-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) recently showcased its two facilities that continue to contribute to the enhancement of the skills, productivity, and competitiveness of the human resources specifically of the local metals, engineering, and allied industries.
The Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen) and the Advanced Mechatronics, Robotics, and Industrial Automation Laboratory (AMERIAL) were both featured in the webinar entitled ‘Smart Manufacturing Solutions for MSMEs’ held last Sept. 20.
The webinar is part of the ongoing celebration of the DOST-Cordillera Administrative Region’s (DOST-CAR) National Science and Technology Week (NSTW).
Engr. Franz Joseph D. Libao of DOST-MIRDC presented the AMERIAL facility. AMERIAL is a technology hub that promotes the use of Industry 4.0 technologies such as mechatronics, robotics, and industrial automation to allow MSMEs to cope with the competition among local and global businesses.
AMERIAL offers services, mainly research and development, training, and consultancy to MSMEs. In addition to reiterating the various benefits that MSMEs can gain from availing of AMERIAL services, Engr. Libao also shared the various technical, financial, competency, and socio-cultural challenges that hinder businesses from adopting new technologies.
Engr. Denise Daryl A. Florante spoke about additive manufacturing (AM). He emphasized that the AMCen is geared to be the Philippines’ national hub for additive manufacturing/3D printing, constantly improving capabilities in the AM materials development and prototyping, and fostering effective collaborations among industry, government, and the academe.
DOST-MIRDC said that during his talk, Florante also gave the participants a virtual tour of the AMCen for better understanding of what this national hub for additive manufacturing has to offer.
"It feels good to be able to celebrate the NSTW again this year. This year's NSTW will allow us to showcase MIRDC's capabilities, particularly the AMCen's. We hope that the participants recognize the government's efforts not only for this generation but also for future generations,” said Florante.
In addition to the AMCen and the AMERIAL, the DOST-MIRDC also showcased its R&D outputs in the DOST-CAR’s NSTW. The DOST-MIRDC’s exhibit booth features various food processing equipment, the Automated Guideway Transit, and other services that cater to the requirements of local industries.