Allan Francis Daraug, Department of Science and Technology provincial director for Negros Occidental, yesterday called for local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME's) to avail the DOST's Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) by filing applications on or before the August 15 deadline.

As a proposal-based program, any small or large-scale company or individual firm based in the Philippines, especially in Negros Occidental, and owned by Filipino citizens who are willing to apply technological improvements to existing operations can submit their application, Daraug said.

Daraug said that SETUP encourages and assists MSME's to address their technical problems through technology transfer and technology interventions, by improving product quality, developing human resources, minimizing costs, enhancing waste management and other operation-related activities.

Daraug listed SETUP's expanded priority areas which include food processing, furniture, gifts, decors and handicrafts, aquatic and marine resources, horticulture or agriculture, metals and engineering, information and communications technology, electronics, and health products and services.

SETUP was first implemented nationwide in 2002 and within the province in 2003, when it only first catered to two firms. Ever since, SETUP is now able to reach Negros Occidental's more or less 60 firms who are now availing the facilities, funds and techniques provided by the program, Daraug said.

Daraug added that firms in the province may contact the government agency through landline (034) 707-0170 or visit the Provincial Science and Technology Center and look for the DOST provincial director or Glady Reyes to inquire about the list of requirements and other details of SETUP.*PSF

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