June 6, 2024 | The first of its kind in the Philippines as a research-driven service facility, Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao (Mapúa MCM) and the Department of Science and Technology – XI (DOST-XI) inked a formal partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for granting the X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) and the X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer to Mapúa MCM.

This partnership is essential in the establishment of the Davao de Oro Environmental Laboratory and Research Center (DELRC) Project with the goal of offering laboratory services from mineral to environmental testing. Mapúa MCM Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Engr. Alejandro H. Ballado, Jr., extended his gratitude to DOST-XI and its Regional Director, Dr. Anthony C. Sales, PFT, CESO III, for the partnership and for granting the state-of-the-art scientific equipment to Mapúa MCM. Dr. Gernelyn T. Logrosa, DELRC Project Leader and Head of the Office for Research, Development, and Innovation, expressed Mapúa MCM’s commitment to the research and development partnership.

The XRD and XRF are cutting-edge laboratory equipment that could contribute to the efficient and sustainable operation of mineral processing and environmental ventures by providing essential insights into the geological materials being extracted, processed, and utilized. Their capabilities in mineralogical and elemental analysis help miners and environmental advocates maximize resource recovery, minimize environmental impact, and ensure economic viability and sustainability.

Through this partnership, Mapúa MCM and DOST-XI are driving to achieve the sustainable development goals: SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth; SDG 9 – Industry Innovation and Infrastructure; SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production; and SDG 17- Partnership for the Goals