By Sharah Ibrahim
Taguig City- In an effort to strengthen international collaboration and knowledge exchange, the Department of Science and Technology - Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI) hosted an industrial study tour for the officials of Bhutan's Department of Industry on June 13, 2023.
The tour, which primarily focused on Industrial Parks, Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs), and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), was organized by Corporate Training Bangkok Co. Ltd.
The event marked an important step in fostering cooperation and promoting the sharing of best practices among different nations to stimulate economic growth.
In her welcome remarks, DOST-TAPI Director Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena, expressed her excitement for the outcome of the study tour.
During his welcoming remarks, DOST-TAPI Director Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena laid out the institute's primary mission, which involves promoting, transferring, and commercializing technologies on both local and international fronts. She welcomed the opportunity to stimulate insightful discussions with the Bhutanese officials and was keen on exploring potential areas of collaboration.
Ms. Shreejana Shrestha, Team leader and Program coordinator from Corporate Training Bangkok, shared a brief background of their organization.
Representatives from Bhutan's Department of Industry, shared the objectives and expectations of the study tour.
The Bhutanese delegation included Mr. Tandin Wangdi, Chief, Industry Sustenance and Support Division, who showed interest in the Philippines' strategies in developing and promoting SMEs. Mr. Tshesum Dawa, Chief of Invest Bhutan, provided a comprehensive overview of their sectors, notably production and manufacturing services. Furthermore, Mr. Kuenzang, Deputy Chief, CSI Promotion Division, expressed his curiosity about the mechanisms of promoting SMEs for economic development in the Philippines.
Josiah Poyugao of ACU-i, (first photo), along with Matthew Villanueva from ACU-n, (second photo), lead an in-depth discussion about the DOST-TAPI's programs and services.
Afterwards, Josiah Poyugao of Applied Communications Unit for Inventors (ACU-i) and Matthew Villanueva of Applied Communications Unit for non-Inventors (ACU-n) presented the department's varied programs, which span from ideation, protection to commercialization linkages, technology promotion, and marketing services.
DOST-TAPI Director Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena, addressed and clarified the issues and questions raised by the Bhutanese delegation, facilitating a productive exchange of views during the open discussion.
DOST-TAPI officials proudly stated a success rate of more than 90%, with their budget primarily sourced from the national government.
The day concluded with a site visit to Bienvenido Food Supply Corporation (BFSC), where the Bhutanese officials and Corporate Training Bangkok representatives were given an overview of the manufacturing process, from raw material preparation and packaging to actual cooking.
During their site visit, the delegation from Bhutan embarked on a tour of the Bienvenido Food Supply Corporation (BFSC) in Paranaque City.
BFSC, a previous beneficiary of DOST-TAPI's financial assistance through various programs, is an example of a successful intervention, adherence to environmental regulations, increased production, and job creation. The site visit provided the Bhutanese delegation with a tangible case study of effective SME policies and interventions.
The collaboration between DOST-TAPI, the Bhutan government officials, and Corporate Training Bangkok Co. Ltd represents a significant stride in enhancing international cooperation and shared learning. The study tour highlighted the potential of SMEs as catalysts for economic growth and innovation. With an impressive success rate, DOST-TAPI's programs demonstrated the powerful impact of government support in fostering technological advancement and economic development.
