The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) marked a major milestone in the country’s innovation agenda with the launch of 19 regional Advanced Manufacturing Centers (AMCen) and the unveiling of a national additive manufacturing (AM) curriculum during the Asian Conference on Advanced Manufacturing (ACAM) 2025 held this week at Solaire Resort and Casino in Paranaque City.
The event, led by DOST secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., gathered scientists, industry leaders, and global partners to advance the Philippines’ capabilities in additive and advanced manufacturing — a key pillar in the country’s science, technology, and innovation (STI) roadmap.
In his keynote, Solidum underscored the role of advanced manufacturing in transforming the entire STI cycle — from knowledge generation to innovation.
“Science generates knowledge, technology transforms that knowledge into application, and innovation brings those applications into the real world where they create value,” he said.
He emphasized that the Philippines stands at a “critical juncture” amid global disruptions in supply chains, climate, and public health — but also with unique opportunities driven by its young workforce and natural resources.
“Advanced manufacturing strengthens every part of that cycle,” Solidum said, citing real-world applications in healthcare, agriculture, aerospace, and disaster resilience.
He noted that through AMCen’s network of laboratories, “when disasters strike, we can immediately produce spare parts, fabricate relief components, and even develop modular shelters close to where they are needed.”
The newly launched 19 AMCen Regional Laboratories will serve as innovation hubs across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao — linking researchers, MSMEs, universities, and industries.
DOST undersecretary for regional operations Sancho Mabborang said the initiative aims to “propel connected innovation ecosystems in the regions,” ensuring that science and technology reach communities faster and more inclusively.
“An idea may begin in one of our iHubs, be prototyped in an AMCen regional lab, tested through the Metals and Engineering Innovation Center, and automated with AMERIAL,” Mabborang explained. “No region should be left behind — connectivity is the key to inclusivity.”
The conference also saw the introduction of a National Additive Manufacturing Curriculum for junior and senior high schools, along with specialized undergraduate and graduate courses and 16 technical programs for industry reskilling and upskilling.
DOST officials highlighted the collaboration among its key agencies — the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), the Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC), and the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) — in building a full-spectrum innovation ecosystem.
Dr. Annabelle Briones of ITDI introduced AMCen’s Materials Development Laboratory, which is developing sustainable 3D-printable materials from rice husks, coconut shells, and other local byproducts.
Robert Dizon of MIRDC presented the Fabrication and Prototyping Laboratory, where Filipino engineers are already producing precision parts for aerospace, automotive, and medical industries.
Dr. Enrico Paringit of PCIEERD outlined the strategic support being provided through funding, standards alignment, and startup programs such as CRADLE and SETUP.
“Together, these facilities form the backbone of a national advanced manufacturing ecosystem — one that turns research into real-world impact,” Paringit said.
In closing, Mabborang led the ceremonial launch of AMCen’s regional labs and digital platforms, joined by DOST officials, calling it “a bold step forward” toward a truly connected innovation ecosystem.
“These are not just facilities or programs — they are bridges that connect our regions to the national ecosystem of science, technology, and innovation,” Mabborang said. “Let us make these laboratories living spaces of innovation.”
