|
Wednesday, February 11, 2004
DOST 7 upgrades equipment of Mandaue firm
By Jessica B. Natad
THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) 7 launched its first project, the upgrading of the equipment and machinery of FAG Machine Shop & Services Co. (FAG), under the agency’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (Setup) Monday.
Setup, which was launched in 2002, is DOST’s response to President Arroyo’s call for more focused assistance programs for micro, small and medium enterprises in the metal, food processing and furniture sectors, DOST 7 Regional Director Rene Burt Llanto said.
FAG, located in Canduman Mandaue City, is one of the beneficiary-firms in Central Visayas chosen by DOST 7.
The other firms are Compostela-based furniture export-company MODS sa Philippines, Wellmade Motors Development Corp., Don Bosco Training Center and Cebu Fashion Accessories Manufacturers and Exporters, he said.
Upgrade
According to FAG proprietor Felix Gabiana, the firm’s productivity increased by 33 percent after it bought two upgraded machines using the P850,000 DOST lent the firm at zero interest.
The amount, which is payable in five years, was released to the firm last November.
FAG fabricates tools and metals, specializing in tool and die, for specific needs of manufacturing firms. Its clients include Eveready Philippines, Gabiana’s employer before he started his business in 1996.
Gabiana said it took only six months after FAG applied with DOST for the agency to release the funds needed by the company to buy upgraded machines to increase the quantity and quality of its production.
DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Florentino Tesoro congratulated Gabiana for gaining the confidence of the DOST 7, saying the agency “could not assist just any company because of the limitation of funds.”
Interest
He said companies that are interested to avail themselves of the DOST’s assistance may send a letter of interest to the regional director’s office where the company is based. The letter must identify current problems, improvements, and potential technological interventions needed by the company.
If the project is found viable, the DOST regional office will endorse the application to the national program management office for evaluation and final approval.
The DOST has allocated P100 million for the implementation of Setup throughout the country.
(February 11, 2004 issue)
Write letter to the editor. Click here.
Join the Sun.Star message board. Click here. |
|
[return to top]
[home]
[network page]
|
LOCAL NEWS
BUSINESS
OPINION
SPORTS
LIFESTYLE
FEATURE
SUPERBALITA
WEEKEND
|
