Seoul, 06 November 2026 – Philippine Embassy’s Deputy Head of Mission and Consul General Edwin Gil Q. Mendoza met with the Department of Science and Technology – Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) delegation on 06 November 2026 at the Sentro Rizal Conference Room of the Embassy. 

The DOST-MIRDC team introduced one of their flagship initiatives called CUATRO or “Connected and Unified Autonomous Technologies with Automation and RObotics” which aims to advance the Philippines’ Industry 4.0 technologies to further improve productivity and efficiency of MSMEs, academic institutions and government agencies. The program focuses on integrating smart technologies including autonomous robots, big data, augmented reality, additive manufacturing, cloud computing, cybersecurity, IoT, system integration and simulation. The DOST-MIRDC implements the CUATRO program through an ecosystem framework and smart hub approach by conducting technical needs assessment, expert consultancy, training and seminars, and other initiatives to assist in the smart technology adoption of relevant stakeholders. 

Consul General Mendoza shared with DOST-MIRDC a list of ROK institutions which they may collaborate with in the areas of science and technology policy, R&D and funding, as well as micro, small, and medium enterprises. 

During their official mission from 26 October to 07 November 2026, the DOST-MIRDC delegation participated in the 2026 International Symposium on Intelligent Signal Processing and Communications Systems (ISPACS 2026) in Busan, where they presented research papers focusing on sensory framework for factory equipment modernization and intelligent drip irrigation in coffee farms under the CUATRO program. They also participated in the International Robot Business Conference 2026 held from 4-5 November 2026 at KINTEX, Goyang City, ROK. END