Bioenergy innovation centre approved at Philippines university

The Philippines’ Department of Trade has approved a proposal for a Bioenergy Innovation – Incubation Hub and Co-Working Space /Product Testing Centre. The new Shared Service Facility (SSF) will come under the operation and supervision of Mariano Marcos State University’s National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center.

With a proposed budget of almost PHP50million (approx. €800,000), the centre is expected to start operation in the second or third quarter of 2019. When established, the facility will be able to offer services such as laboratory, consultation, training and incubation for business.

According to a Mariano Marcos State University statement, the first year projection for the facility shows a total income of PHP6.02 million, with the facility expected to generate PHP50.5 million over the next five years in gross sales produced.

In addition, it is projected to create 360 jobs in the countryside, benefit 3,272 micro and medium enterprises in the Ilocos region, and create 25 new product designs for various food stakeholders.

“This proposed incubation hub will provide stimulus and needed machinery for local entrepreneurs working on bioenergy and other bio-based products,” Dr. Agrupis said, hoping that the SSF will not only promote technology expertise, but will also help the SMEs in giving them livelihood through trainings.

Equipment to be purchased for the programme includes apparatus for biomass handling, bio-processing, bio-separation, bio-conversion, and biogas.