A Department of Science and Technology (DOST) project that targets to scale up and support the forest-based industries is on a roll. This, after the DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) recently turned over modern wood processing equipment to select state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the country.
The initiative was part of the project “Establishment of Regional Forest Products Innovation and Training Centers (FPITCs) in the Philippines”, which is a collaboration among DOST-FPRDI, DOST Regional and Provincial offices and SUCs.
DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. sees this as an important move to advance the forest-based industries in the Philippines. “Regional FPITCs will accelerate innovation and technology transfer in the country, while improving the efficiency, sustainability, and profitability of forest-based industries. Through these centers, we will provide solutions and open opportunities for MSMEs.”
“The forest products industry is one of the major players contributing to Philippine economy. We want to take advantage of it by putting up state-of-the-art forest products facilities throughout the country. These Centers are expected to uplift the R&D activities in the regions and enhance sustainable practices in the use of forest products,” explained DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon.
Through this initiative, the SUCs will be equipped with advanced processing machines, while staff will be trained on product design, processing of wood and non-wood forest products, and machine operation and maintenance, among others. To maximize the impact of the project, a series of lectures and seminars will also be conducted for faculty, students, local communities, and industry stakeholders.
The regional FPITCs are being established at the Caraga State University (CSU) in Butuan, Agusan del Norte for Mindanao; Visayas State University (VSU) in Baybay, Leyte for Visayas; and Isabela State University (ISU) in Cabagan, Isabela for Luzon. The project is being led by Engr. Edward Paul S. Marasigan.
The 1st batch of the machines were turned over to ISU, VSU and CSU last January 9-12, January 22-25 and February 3-7, respectively. Delivered machines included CNC and lathe machines, dust collectors, hot press machine and table saw. ### (Apple Jean C. Martin-de Leon,5 February 2025)
Machines delivered at ISU (top) and VSU (bottom) last January 2025. A series of trainings will be conducted to familiarize the staff with the operation of the equipment, and update them on sustainable production techniques for forest products utilization and furniture production.
