THE Department of Science and Technology (DoST) highlighted the benefits of the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (Setup) to the three projects in the Ilocos Region.

DoST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. led a visit to three Setup projects in the Ilocos Region on January 10 in Agoo, La Union, and in Tubao, La Union, and Sta, Barbara town in Pangasinan on January 12 to determine the accomplishments and developments of the said projects.

These three Setup projects were Safetech by Modulhaus Inc. in Agoo, La Union; JC Laroco Ricemill in Tubao, La Union; and Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corp. in Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan.

The DoST also highlighted the projects' success and underscored the possible collaborations and positive impact of the technical and technological assistance provided by DoST under Setup.

The DoST has been at the forefront of studies, research and development to showcase the possible benefits of science, technology, and innovation in improving business operations.

Solidum was accompanied by key department officials, including Assistant Secretary Rodolfo Calzado Jr. and Undersecretary for Research and Development Leah Buendia.

The delegation also included representatives from various DoST divisions, namely the Special Projects Division, Research & Development, Financial Management Services Division, Administrative and Legal Services Division, and the Commission on Audit.

Joining the DoST officials' visit in three Setup projects were DoST-1 Regional Director Teresita Tabaog with Assistant Regional Director for Field Operations Decth-1180 Libunao, PSTO-La Union Provincial Director Jonathan Viernes, PSTO-Pangasinan Provincial Director Arnold Santos, Supervising SRS Edison Acosta, Supervising SRS Bernadine Suniega, and other DoST-1 staff.

JC Laroco Rice Mill, having graduated from Setup in 2016, is currently in the second phase of Setup 2021. The focus is upgrading existing rice milling equipment and incorporating DoST's Iron Fortified Rice (IFR) technology.

Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corp. (NFMC), located in Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan, excels as a technology adopter of the DoST-Food Nutrition Research Institute, contributing significantly to the production of complementary and emergency food products.

Safetech by Modulhaus Inc. in Agoo, La Union, showcased adaptability by transitioning to the production of eco-friendly three-ply surgical face masks, exemplifying innovation and social responsibility as a Setup beneficiary.

The project visit underscores DoST's commitment to fostering innovation, supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and driving economic development through science, technology and innovation.

The success stories of these Setup projects serve as a testament to the transformative vision and strategic interventions that the agency offers, reflecting a positive impact on businesses and communities.