In order to support our frontliners in battling the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Science and Technology accelerated its production of face shields to be distributed in various hospitals in the country.
Two research and development institutes of DOST and one research laboratory in a state university have devoted their resources in creating the face shields. The DOST Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC), led by its Executive Director Engr. Robert O. Dizon, is now doing mass production of face shields using injection mold. “Initially, we produced 3D printed face shields as our stop-gap measure. But we wanted to help meet the high demand for face shields, that is why we geared up for mass production.
We are able to ramp up our production to around 5000 face shields per day,” said Executive Director Dizon, by fabricationg the mold for the face shield frames at the DOST-MIRDC, and we mass produce using a technology called the plastic injection.
Increased production volume of these face shields is also made possible through DOST-MIRDC’s technology partners: the Omnifab, and the Megasamsotite Plant in San Pedro, Laguna.
The Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), another DOST research and development institute, has already delivered to the Philippine Heart Center 100 3D printed face shields. Led by ITDI Director Dr. Annabelle V. Briones, the agency worked 24 hours to produce the face shields and more will be produced by the Philippine Science High School Main Campus with the materials provided by DOST-ITDI.
