Officials and faculty from the Mariano Marcos State University’s College of Engineering (MMSU-COE) paid a visit to the Agricultural Machinery Testing and Evaluation Center (AMTEC), to explore the Center’s operations and current technologies, as part of their benchmarking activity in UPLB’s College of Engineering and Agro-industrial Technology (CEAT) last May 21, 2024. 

Director Arthur L. Fajardo, under the direct supervision of CEAT Dean Rex B. Demafelis, led the staff by accommodating the guests through an orientation about AMTEC, and a tour around its laboratories and various testing equipment.

The MMSU team headed by their COE Dean, Dr. Sharona Q. Barroga, conducted the benchmarking activity to observe and gain new insights from CEAT’s instruction, research, and extension activities, in preparation for their application for international accreditation. It also aimed to document practices that have been proven effective in elevating quality standards within similar institutions.

AMTEC Engineers showcased the upgraded technologies utilized in AMTEC laboratory operations through brief introductions, specifically the testing setups for small engines, walking-type agricultural tractors, agricultural pumps, and four-wheel tractors.

As the country’s premier and reference testing center for agri-fishery machinery and an active service and extension unit of the Philippines’ premier research university, AMTEC is committed to not only excelling in its field of practice but also assisting other SUCs and HEIs in the development of its programs.

Apart from AMTEC, the guests also visited other CEAT units to document and gather insights that would guide them in improving their existing curricula further and effectively comply with the requirements as they apply for accreditation.