A significant milestone toward strengthening the regionβs quality infrastructure has been achieved as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region XII formally entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI) on July 2, 2026, paving the way for the expansion of the SOCCSKSARGEN Regional Metrology Laboratory. Spearheaded through the foresight and steadfast leadership of Regional Director Engr. Sammy P. Malawan, PhD, the partnership marks a bold step in realizing a larger, more advanced metrology facility that will deliver wider calibration and measurement services to industries, institutions, government agencies, and emerging enterprises across the region.
The ceremonial signing, led by DOST-ITDI Director Dr. Annabelle V. Briones together with officials from DOST XII and the DOST-ITDI National Metrology Division (NMD), reflected a shared commitment to bringing nationally recognized metrology services closer to the countryside. More than a ceremonial agreement, the MOU embodies a common vision of empowering regional development through precision, traceability, and measurement excellence β strengthening the foundations of manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, research, trade, and innovation in SOCCSKSARGEN.
Once established in Polomolok, South Cotabato, the expanded Regional Metrology Laboratory is envisioned to become a strategic hub that will significantly improve the accessibility of calibration services in the region. By reducing the need for stakeholders to seek metrology services outside SOCCSKSARGEN, the facility is expected to enhance operational efficiency, support regulatory compliance, improve product quality, and increase the competitiveness of local industries. It likewise reinforces DOSTβs commitment to building a robust regional quality infrastructure that supports science-driven economic growth and prepares local enterprises to meet both national and international standards.
In his message, RD Malawan underscored the transformative impact of the initiative, emphasizing that the laboratory represents an investment in the regionβs future. βWe see this laboratory as a valuable resource that will serve not only todayβs industries but also future innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs across the region. We are grateful to be part of this undertaking, and we look forward to building a stronger culture of quality and excellence that will contribute to the continued growth and development of SOCCSKSARGEN,β he said.
With DOST XII, DOST-ITDI, and the National Metrology Division working hand in hand, the initiative reinforces the Departmentβs commitment to making world-class measurement science more accessible to the regions β ensuring that precision, quality, and innovation remain at the heart of SOCCSKSARGENβs journey toward inclusive and sustainable development.