By Engr. Kim Janzel D. Obdin, DOST-STII
“Kahit saan tayo tumingin, meron tayong bakal.”
This was emphasized by Engr. Ma. Girlie M. Millo of the Department of Science and Technology–Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) during a forum on strengthening the capabilities of the state universities on metals and engineering.
“From the tip of our ballpen to the cars that we drive, big structures and factories, we can see metal components,” she continued, underscoring the essential role of the metals and engineering industry in the nation’s economic growth and development.
Despite its significance, the industry faces a shortage of skilled workers and innovation initiatives. To address these challenges, DOST-MIRDC has worked to establish regional metal testing centers and extension offices that provide localized technical training and consultancy services to ensure a flux of innovation to reach the underserved areas nationwide.
However, Engr. Millo shared that the plan to establish these regional metal testing centers across Northern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao has faced significant hurdles, including limited human resources in science and technology, low R&D budget, underdeveloped research and innovation culture, weak linkages among stakeholders, and the lack of market-driven systems.
These challenges, while daunting, have only strengthened the center’s resolve to prioritize regional development.
Under these initiatives, the center has delivered advanced metalworking equipment to partner universities and facilitated capacity-building programs on welding, metal fabrication, technical drawing, customer discovery, and design thinking. These efforts not only empower local talents but also strengthen the competitive edge of the metals and engineering industries.
By solidifying partnerships with regional stakeholders, DOST continues to fulfill its mission of driving technological progress, fostering economic growth, and improving the quality of life for Filipinos. With MEICs expanding to more regions, the future of metals and engineering in the Philippines looks brighter than ever.
DOST-MIRDC serves as a crucial hub of expertise and innovation for the metals and engineering sector, benefiting both private and public stakeholders. Its research and development (R&D) efforts have yielded cutting-edge solutions, such as prototypes for pre- and post-harvest agricultural machinery, fiber processing equipment for abaca and pinya, disaster mitigation tools, and mass transport systems, including road and railway trains.
