BY LEANDER C. DOMINGO
BENITO SOLIVEN, Isabela (August 17, 2024)—To enhance recycling efficiency and innovation, the Department of Science and Technology (DoST) in Region 2 (Cagayan Valley) recently conducted a technology needs assessment validation for a Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program applicant firm based in this town.
DoST’s validation aims to “evaluate and address the technological needs of Isabelino Scrap Trading to support their mission and optimize recycling processes,” says Duane Carodan, project technical assistant of the Regional Project Management Office and Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO)-Isabela.
Founded in 2017, Isabelino Scrap Trading was inspired by the idea of repurposing discarded plastic sacks into raw materials to produce plastic chairs intended for schools.
Carodan added, “With the increasing volume of plastic waste in Isabela, the Isabela Scrap Trading’s initiative presents a significant opportunity for both environmental and economic benefits.”
As one of the DoST’s flagship programs, the PSTO in Isabela is implementing the program as a primary means to reach out to Filipino entrepreneurs in Isabela.
This nationwide strategy encourages and assists SMEs to adopt technological innovations to improve their operations and thus boost their productivity and competitiveness.
According to Carodan, the program is DoST PSTO Isabela’s way of supporting and sustaining the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises, and directly and immediately addressing the needs of local businesses to avail themselves of the appropriate technologies. DoST resource person, SME and Review Technical Evaluation Committee (RTEC) members will identify and provide the most suitable technological intervention specific to each firm.
Carodan led the project validation along with Bernardino Mabborang and Rolando Rupac, both RTEC members for the metals and engineering sector.
He said the validation represents a key step for Isabelino Scrap Trading toward operational excellence and sustainability by “addressing technological gaps and recommending improvements.”
The firm can “enhance its recycling processes and contribute more effectively to environmental conservation and economic growth.”
Carodan noted that the improvements will position Isabelino Scrap Trading to “make a significant impact in recycling and tackle plastic waste in Isabela.”