LAGUNA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has committed to expanding government support for domestic manufacturers, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), to strengthen the country’s value chain and boost industrial competitiveness.
Speaking during an inspection of the Nuvali Steel Processing Center, Inc. (NSPC) in Laguna, the President highlighted the role of advanced technologies—such as robotics and artificial intelligence—in modernizing Philippine manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign imports.
“The advances that have been made in robotics are really quite impressive. So, it’s very good to see. We will do more of this, not only for Nuvali Steel but also for the other companies,” he said.
Marcos noted that localized production of essential parts ensures that economic benefits remain within the domestic market while creating more local jobs and improving supply chain resilience across various sectors, including agriculture.
“Hindi na tayo kailangang mag-import ng kung anu-anong piyesa. Karamihan na ng piyesa na ginagawa na motorsiklo, dito na nanggagaling. And therefore, the value-added stays here,” the President said.
“So, this is a very, very important step that we have taken in terms not only of the advancement of the technology, manufacturing technologies, but also in the coordination and synchronization between government and the private sector,” he added.
Located inside the Laguna Technopark Annex, NSPC produces automotive components, metal parts, and aluminum devices.
In 2023, the facility received assistance through the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), acquiring two Arc Welding Robots that enhanced production efficiency, quality control, and worker safety.
The visit comes as the administration continues to promote various state financing and technological upgrading initiatives through the DOST and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to help local businesses transition to smart manufacturing.