CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, LA UNION– The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña, together with Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang and Filipino Inventor’s Society Producer Cooperative (FISPC) President Francisco “Popoy” Pagayon visited the first face mask production facility in Northern Luzon located at Brgy. San Marcos, Agoo, La Union on February 18, 2022.
The face mask production facility is owned by Mr. Richard S. Chan of Modulhaus Incorporated, who has been a DOST- 1 Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) beneficiary since 2016. Modulhaus Inc. is one of Luzon’s manufacturer of modular cabinets and uses top-of-the line materials that made them competitive in the industry.
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the pressing issue on the scarcity of face masks supply, Mr. Chan thought of establishing a production plant for surgical masks, as his way of helping the province in this fight against COVID-19.
He led the tour around the facility and mentioned how he came up with the idea. “The pandemic isn’t over pero ‘yung demand ng face masks and PPEs for the health workers tuluy-tuloy pa rin” he said.
Secretary de la Peña recognized the initiative of Modulhaus Inc. in addressing the impact of COVID-19 pandemic, particularly on the health workers.
Also present during the visit were DOST 1 Regional Director Dr. Armando Q. Ganal, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Division Ms. Racquel M. Espiritu, Officer-in-Charge for Field Operations Mr. Jonathan M. Viernes, Officer-in-Charge Provincial Director Engr. Edison M. Acosta and DOST 1 staff.
A token of Appreciation was awarded to Secretary de la Peña and Undersecretary Mabborang for their full support and commitment to Modulhaus Inc. through the SETUP program.
After the tour, the DOST Secretary answers questions from the DOST 1 media partners, Philippine Information Agency- La Union (PIA-LU) and DZAG Radyo Pilipinas Agoo. (story by: Eiryz Clyde Angelique D. Orpilla)