The Department of Science and Technology -Negros Oriental Provincial S&T Center (DOST NegOr PSTC), in cooperation with Foundation University, has concluded a two-day, four-part materials innovation seminar series for selected homegrown designers and representatives of some micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) held November 12-13, 2015 in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental.
“The seminar series is aimed at equipping local designers with some technical knowledge on various types and properties of materials so that their designs become more suitable to specific types of materials,” said DOST NegOr PSTC Director Gilbert R. Arbon, adding that the activity hopes to create a pool of local industrial designers to support the province’s craft and furniture industry.
Five experts on materials innovation from the different DOST Research and Development Institutes (RDIs) came to share their knowledge and expertise, representing the following agencies: Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI), Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI), Metals Industry Research and Development Institute (MIRDC) and Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI).
Engr. Adela H. Montalvo of PTRI discussed natural and synthetic fibers as materials for craft industries. Ms. Josefina R. Celorico, an expert from TDI explained on the use of plastic, ceramics and fiberglass as essential materials for the craft industry, while Engr. Edilbert M. de la Peña of MIRDC talked about metals and related resources. For their part, Foresters Robert A. Natividad and Moreno L. Santander of FPRDI lectured on wood, bamboo and other forest products.
“FPRDI is mandated to conduct research and development on wood and non-wood forest products. We transfer technologies and provide technical services and trainings especially to MSMEs, since majority of the businesses in the country come from your sector,” Forester Natividad said, addressing the participants. “We ensure the global competitiveness of environment-friendly forest-based products and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of existing forest-based industries and assist in the establishment of new enterprises,” he added.
Most of the participants came from the MSME sector, which included manufacturers of furniture, gifts and decors, handicrafts, and fashion accessories. Potential product designers also attended the two-day activity. (Sean Adrian T. Guardiano, S&T Media Service, DOST PSTC Negros Oriental)
