Talisay City, October 2 – In a major stride toward supporting local industries and empowering the future workforce, the Technological University of the Philippines Visayas (TUPV), in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), officially launched the upgraded Shared Service Facility (SSF) on Metalworking – Powder Coating at the TUPV Montinola Learning Resource Center.

The upgraded facility is expected to enhance the capabilities of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by providing access to advanced metalworking technologies. These services will support productivity, product quality, and competitiveness — vital elements in industrial modernization.

“This metalworking and powder coating facility will act as a catalyst to industrial modernization and, through aiding MSMEs, will foster economic growth, generate income, and secure jobs,” said DTI Provincial Director Lynna Joy Cardinal during her keynote address.

A Dual Mission: Industry Support and Academic Development

TUP System President Dr. Reynaldo Ramos underscored the university’s commitment to innovation and community engagement. He emphasized that beyond supporting local industries, the facility also presents immense value for academic enrichment.

“This initiative is not only income-generating but instrumental in providing students with real-life industry exposure,” Dr. Ramos said. “It creates opportunities for collaborative growth between the university and local businesses.”

Strengthening Partnerships

The ceremonial event featured the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between TUP and DTI, represented by Dr. Ramos and Director Cardinal, respectively. Also present were key administrators of TUP Visayas Campus: Engr. Eric Malo-oy and Dr. Lainie Mae Bala-an, who expressed optimism for the opportunities the facility will bring to both students and entrepreneurs.

Paving the Way for Regional Progress

The Shared Service Facility is a product of DTI’s ongoing initiative to empower MSMEs by providing them access to better equipment and services that would otherwise be unaffordable. The facility’s upgraded powder coating capabilities add significant value to the Visayas region’s metals and manufacturing sectors.

This collaboration marks another step forward in fostering innovation, skills development, and inclusive growth in Western Visayas.

Posted by: Danica Pahilanga
Photos by: Geo Gedalanga
Source: The Philippine Artisan Visayas
#TPAVUniversityNews #TUPVisayas #DTIPartnership #MSMEsupport #IndustrialModernization #AcademicIndustryLinkages