In a move to advance robotics and automation in the region, Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) officially launched the Smart Manufacturing, Automation, and Robotics Technology (SMARTECH) Center, solidifying a strategic partnership with key industry and government stakeholders.
The launch event, held at ISAT U on October 28, 2025, featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between ISAT U and its collaborators – the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office VI (DOST VI), Developers Connect Iloilo, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Iloilo, and the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines Western Visayas Chapter.
In his speech, Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., ISAT U President, expressed his gratitude for this groundbreaking partnership with DOST, DEVCOM Iloilo, PCCI, and the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines. Accordiing to him, beyond education, this center aims to transform industries, promote sustainable development, and contribute to the progress of our communities.
Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, Vice President for Research and Extension gave an overview of the SMARTECH. He explained that the SMARTECH Center is envisioned as a regional hub for innovation, research, and capacity building in robotics and automation. As part of its commitment, ISAT U will take on four pivotal roles such as delivering of technical training, research support, and capacity building programs in robotics, automation, and related disciplines; opening of the SMARTECH Center as a collaborative space for experimentation, prototyping and research; facilitating knowledge exchange, extension services, and academic-industry linkages to bolster regional robotics development; and integrating robotics and mechatronics into its academic and research programs to nurture future innovators.
The event was graced by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Dr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST VI Regional Director Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., and Vice President for Research and Extension Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut.
With the establishment of the SMARTECH Center, ISAT U aims to be a driving force in cultivating a robust robotics ecosystem in Western Visayas, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government to meet the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
