Korea Institute for Development Strategy (KDS, President Shin Gi-deok) and the Korea Agricultural Machinery Industry Cooperative (KAMICO, Chairman Kim Shin-gil) announced a significant achievement in the KOICA-funded grant aid project, "Project for Establishing the Agricultural Machinery Design and Prototyping Center (AMDPC) and Strengthening Capacity in the Philippines." Ten participating researchers sat for the Korean professional certification exam in 3D Simulation Practical Ability (Level 1), with seven successfully passing the rigorous test.

The "Project for Establishing AMDPC and Strengthening Capacity" is a six-year (2021–2027) rural development initiative jointly conducted by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) of the Philippines. The project aims to develop and supply agricultural machinery tailored to the Philippine environment. Its core components include: 1) establishing the Agricultural Machinery Design and Prototyping Center (AMDPC) and providing equipment at the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech); 2) developing agricultural machinery; and 3) strengthening research and manufacturing technology capacities to accelerate agricultural mechanization in the Philippines.

To enhance their machinery development and manufacturing capabilities, the ten researchers have been undergoing intensive training from Korean experts since last April. Professor Chae Young-je and Professor Seok Hyeong-tae, who personally mentored the group, expressed great pride in the results, noting the high 70% passing rate and the exceptional performance of Ms. Lore Joy Alarcio, who received a perfect score.

The 3D Simulation Practical Ability certification evaluates the proficiency in using 3D design software to perform part modeling, assembly, disassembly, and blueprint creation based on 2D CAD designs. It also fosters the ability to easily build digital prototypes through part linkage according to design and specification changes, allowing professionals to quickly apply these skills to field-related tasks.

Dr. Dionisio G. Alvindia, Director of PHilMech, expressed his delight, stating, “These results were made possible thanks to the high level of expertise from KOICA, Korea Institute for Development Strategy (KDS), KAMICO, and other Korean experts, combined with the proactive dedication of our researchers.” He added, “I will continue to actively support the capacity building of our staff so that PHilMech can play a leading role in the modernization of Philippine agriculture.”

Following this certification, the researchers expressed their ambition to apply these skills to their own agricultural machinery development while sharing and disseminating technical knowledge. They plan to utilize AMDPC’s software and facilities to train other PHilMech researchers, university students, and practitioners from agricultural machinery manufacturers, thereby elevating the design and manufacturing capabilities of the Philippines. The implementing agencies, Korea Institute for Development Strategy (KDS) and KAMICO, plan to further accelerate support for Philippine agricultural machinery development by providing in-depth consultations to ensure the training content is effectively integrated into professional duties.

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