 |
Testing Fees |
 |
Other Lab Services |
 |
GAD Corner |
DOST showcases green innovations in Sustainability Expo
- Details
The DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) bannered its green innovations during the Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX) held at the SMX Convention Center Aura, Taguig City.
With the theme “Innovation towards Environmental Stewardship,” the Institute highlighted its innovations in forest products that champion sustainability. Among these are the Solidrum— a drum shell made from engineered bamboo, and Silyang Pinoy— a multi-functional school furniture that can be converted into a bed and used during emergencies.
Both innovations showcase the potential of bamboo for high-value products while promoting eco-friendly practices and supporting local bamboo industries.
The opening of the event was marked with a “Sustainability Beat”, with DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy playing the Solidrum and angklung.
In his keynote message, Secretary Solidum emphasized the importance of moving from words to measurable action.
“My call is simple: enough talk. We have had summits, forums, declarations that fill up shelves and inboxes. What we need now is proof. Businesses must set their sights on real, tangible goals, not pretty brochures, not slogans, but numbers you can measure, promises you can check. Data empowers delivery of services, and delivery improves and saves lives”, he said.
DOST traces history of Spoliarium, other Juan Luna’s artworks
- Details
In a landmark discovery linking science and national heritage, the DOST- Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI), in partnership with the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP), has identified the wood species used in the massive frame of Juan Luna’s Spoliarium—Shorea astylosa or Yakal, a durable hardwood native to the Philippines.
The finding is part of a broader initiative to study the materials behind Luna’s historic artworks through scientific wood identification. This initiative underscores the critical role of science and technology in heritage preservation.
Included in the National Fine Arts Collection are 6 oil-on-panel paintings by Juan Luna, a seminal figure in Philippine art and the late 19th-century Propaganda Movement. Using advanced analysis of wood patterns, which are distinct for each species, DOST-FPRDI experts were able to determine the geographic origin of the artworks based on the wood species used.
Three of these works—Mi hermano en nuestra celda en la Fuerza de Santiago (My Brother in Our Cell in Fort Santiago, c. 1896–1897), Altos hornos de Vizcaya (Study for Obreros en el taller de convertidores Robert de "La Vizcaya", c. 1893–1894), and Chula Madrileña (Madrid Wench, undated)—were found to have been painted on Philippine-native species: Intsia bijuga (Ipil) and Litsea species (Batikuling). These findings indicate that the artworks were created during Luna’s time in the Philippines.
FPRDI Innovation Hub Set to Boost Forest-Based Industries in Caraga
- Details
A new hub for innovation and training in forest products has officially opened in Butuan City, bringing fresh opportunities for local industries and communities that depend on forest-based resources.
Launched on 30 July 2025 at the Caraga State University (CSU), the Forest Products Innovation and Training Center (FPITC) in the region is a joint initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), CSU, and the DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI). The Center is designed to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the wood and non-wood forest sector by helping them modernize operations and upgrade skills. Additionally, it seeks to increase the application of sustainable forestry methods in Caraga and neighboring areas.
