Cebu Technological University (CTU) now stands at the forefront of technological innovation together with Shoketsu SMC Corporation, as it opened the Philippines’ first ₱29-million Automation Laboratory on Friday, November 28, providing mechatronics, industrial technology, and engineering students with hands-on training in robotics and advanced automation systems.
Donated by Shoketsu SMC Corporation, the FMS–200 Flexible Integrated Assembling System, will provide students with hands-on training in advanced components such as motors, robotic arms, sensors, and pneumatic and hydraulic systems, preparing them for future careers in mechatronics, robotics, automation, graphics and design, and other fields in technology.
Highlighting the significance of the event, Dr. Janice A. Alivio, the Dean of College of Technology (COT), emphasized CTU’s forward-looking mission.
“Through this launch, we aim to strengthen the mission of CTU to deliver quality, accessible, and relevant programs aligned with Industry 4.0, responding to the evolving needs of our institution and the communities we serve,” Dr. Alivio said.
In his keynote message, Mr. Carlito F. Quintano, Provincial Director at Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), emphasized the transformative impact of this milestone.
“By establishing this state‑of‑the‑art training facility here in CTU, the institution is directly addressing the skills gap in our workforce and ensuring that the students and graduates of CTU are equipped with industry‑relevant competencies and meet global standards,” Mr. Quintano said.
In his keynote message, Mr. Carlito F. Quintano, Provincial Director at Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), emphasized the transformative impact of this milestone.
“By establishing this state‑of‑the‑art training facility here in CTU, the institution is directly addressing the skills gap in our workforce and ensuring that the students and graduates of CTU are equipped with industry‑relevant competencies and meet global standards,” Mr. Quintano said.
Mr. Terry Yeo, Country Manager of Shoketsu SMC Corporation, followed by expressing his gratitude to CTU and affirming their commitment to making this initiative a cornerstone of progress in education and sustainable automation.
Meanwhile, during his presentation, Mr. Imanol Palomar, Business Developer at SMC Spain, highlighted the opportunities SMC provides in industrial automation, mechatronics, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
“SMC offers training equipment for skill development in industrial automation, mechatronics, and Industry 4.0 technologies; e-learning courses in related fields; and certification programs,” Mr. Palomar said.
Furthermore, CTU Main Campus Director Dr Gregorio P. Pajaron Jr. emphasized the value of partnership in his speech.
“We are privileged to partner with an organization that shares our dedication to cultivating a generation of engineers and technologists who are equipped not just with knowledge but with critical thinking and problem‑solving skills that today’s rapidly evolving world requires,” Dr. Pajaron expressed.
Dr. Ramel C. Genobiagon, Vice President for Administration and Finance, noted that strengthening industrial automation enables the CTU community to energize local industries and drive economic vitality in Cebu, nearby provinces, and the nation.
Carmina Valderama-Nate, Engineering and Marketing Manager of Shoketsu SMC Corporation, served as the demonstrator of the FMS-200.
The launching also highlighted the awarding of winners in the Basic Electro‑Pneumatics Skills Competition. Team CTU Moalboal took first place, composed of Ezer G. Monteclar, Serge Thomas Villanueva, and Nilo Minyamin. Team North secured second place, represented by Rommel Canencia, Romelito Banyo Jr., and Annalyn Rosell, while third place went to Team Bang, consisting of Ronilo Cuanchon, Reycher Mortejo, Gal Gamboa, Wilson Cabillo, and Eleazar Opura.
Shoketsu SMC Corporation is the Philippine subsidiary of SMC Corporation in Japan, the world’s largest manufacturer of pneumatic automation products since 1959.
To recall, CTU President Dr. Joseph C. Pepito signed a supplemental Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Shoketsu SMC Corporation on August 7, 2025, further strengthening collaboration to enhance hands-on training with industry‑standard tools.
