KIDAPAWAN CITY, Cotabato Province (PIA) — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has reiterated that adopting “technology and innovation” through its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) will boost the efficiency of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) in the Soccsksargen region.
According to Michael Ty Mayo, the provincial director of DOST in Cotabato, the program uses science and technology to help small and medium-sized enterprises in the country grow.
“It helps increase production, improve product quality, and encourage innovation to make local industries more competitive in the global market,” he explained.
This month, DOST approved the implementation of the program that aims to improve operational efficiency, productivity, and the competitiveness of products and services for the MSMEs in Cotabato.
The MSMEs that are recipients of the DOST program will acquire innovation funds through machinery upgrades.
They are J&R Computer and Adz Services in Kidapawan City with an innovation fund of P500,000; Nio Print Studio in M’lang with P800,000; Glend’s Bakeshoppe and Catering Services in Makilala with P2 million; and MP Communications Networking and Data Solution in Kidapawan City with P2.5 million.
“This is a great help for SMEs who want to strengthen their capabilities to help the local economy and boost science and technology in every community,” Jojo Pagaduan, owner of the MP Communications Networking and Data Solution, said.
Pagaduan’s enterprise focuses on systems integration, connectivity, and public safety solutions with expertise in various aspects of telecommunications, network design, structured cabling systems, fiber and wireless networking, firewall and network security, fire detection, alarm systems, CCTV, checkpoint security, access control, as well as internet infrastructure, automation, electronics, IT services, and consultancies.
Also, Glenda Serag, owner of Glend’s Bakeshoppe and Catering Services, hailed DOST’s program as an important mechanism for enhancing the operational capability and productivity of their business.
The bakeshop, an accredited partner of the DOST-Food and Nutrition Research Institute in the production of nutribuns, is also one of the major suppliers of the feeding program of the Department of Education.
“With the assistance provided through SETUP, there emerges new technologies and innovations for adoption,” she noted.
Meanwhile, the provincial government has also expressed its support to DOST for its intensified implementation of the program in Cotabato.
DOST has also gained backing from the congressional offices of the second and third districts of the province.
With the program’s huge impact, DOST Regional Director Sammy Malawan has reassured MSMEs of the agency’s commitment to provide them with all the necessary support, especially in promoting science, technology, and innovation as driving agents to propel them toward success. (SJDM – PIA Cotabato Province)
