The Philippines’ first 3D printing R&D institution will soon rise in the country. Called the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen), it will promote research and development in Additive Manufacturing commonly known as three-dimension (3D) printing technology.

Leading  the groundbreaking ceremony of the said research center at the DOST Complex  on 15 March 2019 was no less than DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña.

The AMCen will feature two state-of-the-art research facilities that will focus on Additive Manufacturing research and development.  Additive Manufacturing allows rapid fabrication of various three-dimensional objects ranging from small parts to structures as big as bridges. It has limitless potentials—from aircraft and automobile to medical and fashion applications.

The DOST tapped Dr. Rigoberto Advincula, a Balik Scientist and Case Western Reserve University professor,  as consultant for AMCen.

“The AMCen presents a unique position for the Philippines as it will be one of the first government-led centers in the ASEAN region that aspires to be a game-changer leading to Industry 4.0 goals,” says Dr. Advincula.

Dr. Advincula, with the support of DOST PCIEERD, will lead the development of the center together with researchers from the DOST- Industrial Technology Development Institute and the DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center.

AMCen is likewise seen to strengthen the country’s capabilities in 3D printing and advanced design and manufacturing in the following areas: 1) aerospace and defense, 2) biomedical/healthcare, 3) printed rlectronics, 4) agricultural machinery, and 5) automotive. (By Enrico P. Belga Jr, DOST-STII)