BY: RIZALIE A. CALIBO
SIQUIJOR, March 24 (PIA) ---- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)- Provincial Science and Technology Center (PSTC) has released P980,000 to one of the beneficiaries of its Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program (SET-UP).
NR Food Shop owned by Imelda Rubio of Poblacion, Siquijor received the check from DOST OIC-ARD for Technical Services Engr. Jesus F. Zamora, Jr. and Provincial Director Mario de la Pena on March 14 at Larena Triad in Nonoc, Larena, Siquijor.
The turnover was witnessed by DOST 7 Inventory Team who conducted the inventory of equipment at Larena Triad.
The fincial aid is intended for the upgrading of its production specifically the upgrading of meat processing equipment, said Provincial Director Mario de la Pena of DOST here.
He said that upgrading of NR meat processing equipment will enhance efficient processed meat products, increase production, product diversification and maintain quality processed meat products.
Rubio said that she was happy with the DOST SETUP assistance because it helps Siquijor SME’s in their quest to further improve their production, increase productivity, and enhance product quality.
De la Peña said that this is the second round of assistance they availed from DOST-SETUP.
The first was on metals and engineering sector.
DOST will allow more than one assistance as long as the firm is a good payor, never requested for re-alignment, and submit reports on time.
Under the SETUP program, the agency gives technology assistance and innovation support to Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to upgrade their production equipment, said de la Pena.
It is a nationwide strategy to encourage and assist MSME’s to adopt technological innovations to improve their operations and thus boost their productivity and competitiveness, he said. (RAC/PIA-Siquijor w/reports from MEP/DOST-Siquijor)