In a bid to foster innovation and collaboration within the agricultural sector, the DA-PCC at Central Luzon State University (DA-PCC at CLSU) hosted a benchmarking activity for its select developed products.
The benchmarking mission aimed to offer participants an in-depth understanding of the products and technologies developed by DA-PCC at CLSU, specifically centered around mozzarella cheese and processed buffalo meat. The ultimate aim was to foster networking and collaboration throughout Central Luzon, solidifying the region’s position as an agricultural and technological hub.
Said activity was held alongside the 3rd quarter meeting of member agencies of the Provincial Inclusive Innovation Center (PIIC) Nueva Ecija and representatives of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises on August 16 in the Science City of Muñoz, NE.
The PIIC collaborated with the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Council to harness the potential of technology adaptation from both private and public sectors, fostering unique product innovations through Research and Development Projects across Region III.
During the event, Dr. Ericson N. Dela Cruz, center director of DA-PCC at CLSU, took the opportunity to unveil a range of newly developed carabao leather hide novelty products that are set to launch this year, further diversifying the product offerings available.
Dr. Richard Simangan, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Provincial Director of Nueva Ecija Provincial Office (NEPO), highlighted the importance of leveraging existing mature technologies within the region. He emphasized that through collaborative efforts with partner stakeholders, these technologies could be promoted and integrated into Central Luzon’s commercial landscape, with a long-term vision of extending the reach nationally.
Dr. Simangan outlined a two-pronged strategy to achieve these goals. First, he advocated conducting surveys to ascertain the specific needs of MSMEs. This information would then be communicated to technology developers, suppliers, and service providers to ensure alignment. The second approach involved integrating traditional research and technology resources with survey data to refine and improve ongoing projects.
Present at the meeting were representatives from different MSMEs, dairy cooperatives, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), DA-PCC, DA-PCC at CLSU, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST)-TBI, CLSU-AFTBI, PhilRice, and DTI as the lead agency.
