DOST-Davao, PWC launch 1st Halal research, innovation center
THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Davao Region officially launched the first Research and Innovation Center for Halal Science (Riches) in the Philippine Women’s College (PWC) of Davao in support of boosting the Halal industry in the country.
RICHeS will serve as a center to conduct cutting-edge research, various Halal innovation programs, and capacity-building activities to further assist the growing market of Halal.
The Innovation Center is equipped with various facilities such as a gas range, freezer, refrigerator, proofing cabinet, kitchen hood, stainless steel tables, LED screen display, stainless steel racks, mixer, induction cooker, rice cooker, food processor, pressure cooker, and pasta maker to aid in innovation and Halal Research and Development (R&D) activities.
Prof. Vicente Antonio Pijano III, PWC Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer, said that the Center will be at the forefront of pioneering research to drive innovation and foster collaboration in the Halal industry.
“This event is a testament to the unwavering testament of DOST and PWC to propel the Halal ecosystem forward. As we launch the center and embark in this transformation journey, we must remember that together we can shape the future of the Halal industry and become a model of excellence for the global community,” he added.
DOST-DavaoRegional Director, Dr. Anthony Sales said that the establishment of the Center started as a dream after seeing the importance of putting more focus on R&D and capability building for Halal stakeholders.
“When we were consulted for the Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Act, we recommended the establishment of Halal R&D and training facilities as a component of the program that will be implemented by DOST,” he added.
The Innovation Center was established through the DOST Halal Research Ecosystem for Development and Innovation Program. The program aims to support the development of the Philippine Halal tourism industry.
“This is something that we can be proud of as a contribution to the S&T Community and to the overall program of government on Halal,” Dr. Sales concluded.(PR)