The Packaging Technology Division (PTD) of the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), serves as the Philippines’ premier institution for packaging science, innovation, and testing. Located in Taguig City, DOST–ITDI–PTD plays a pivotal role in supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), exporters, and government agencies through advanced packaging solutions, technical services, and research-based consultancy.
Core Mandate and Functions
PTD’s primary mandate is to develop and promote appropriate packaging technologies that:
- Extend the shelf life and ensure the safety of food and non-food products
- Improve marketability and competitiveness of Philippine-made goods
- Support the packaging needs of MSMEs and other government-assisted clients
- Provide regulatory-compliant packaging standards and design services
Its operations are aligned with the DOST’s broader goal of promoting inclusive innovation and industrial competitiveness across the country.
Service Offerings and Capabilities
DOST–ITDI–PTD offers a comprehensive range of packaging-related services categorized into three main domains:
-
Technical Services:
- Packaging Design and Evaluation
- Accelerated Shelf-Life and Leak Testing
- Drop, Vibration, and Compression Testing for transport simulation
- Environmental Conditioning and Barrier Property Testing
- Nutrition Facts Labeling compliant with FDA standards
-
Facility Rental and Pilot Scale Production:
- Vacuum Packaging
- Retort Processing (for ready-to-eat meals)
- Sacheting Machines for powdered and liquid products
- Shrink Wrapping and Sealing Systems
-
Consultancy and Training:
- In-plant Packaging Development and Troubleshooting
- Label Design and Compliance Audits
- Good Packaging Practices (GPP) Seminars and Technical Workshops
- Standards education (ASTM, ISO, FDA)
These services are heavily utilized by MSMEs, food processors, packaging suppliers, and even government disaster-preparedness programs.
Industry Impact and Technical Reach
DOST–ITDI–PTD has served thousands of clients nationwide:
- Over 3,000 packaging tests conducted annually
- Technical support extended to more than 500 MSMEs each year
- Packaging designs developed for over 1,200 products since 2019
- Delivered 80+ trainings and webinars on food-grade packaging, FDA compliance, and shelf-life extension
The division also regularly collaborates with DTI, FDA, DA, and other national agencies to develop packaging interventions for priority industry clusters under OTOP, SETUP, and KMME programs.
Strategic Collaborations and Innovation Projects
PTD is involved in national and international R&D programs such as:
- Smart Packaging R&D Projects for traceability and tamper detection
- Biodegradable Packaging Innovations in partnership with the Environment and Biotechnology divisions of DOST
- Packaging Standards and Labeling Guidelines Development with FDA and PhilExport
These projects aim to improve sustainability, reduce import dependency, and align local packaging standards with global export requirements.
Infrastructure and Laboratory Accreditation
PTD operates fully equipped laboratories and pilot-scale production facilities in Taguig City, including:
- Package Testing and Development Laboratory (ISO 17025-ready)
- Environmental Conditioning Chamber for packaging behavior simulation
- Equipment for accelerated shelf-life analysis and thermal processing
- In-house designers and food technologists for product-specific packaging needs
The division continues to expand its capabilities with upgraded analytical tools and digital packaging platforms.
Regulatory and Certification Alignment
PTD ensures compliance with the following:
- Department of Health–FDA regulations on food packaging and labeling
- ASTM and ISO standards for packaging integrity and safety
- DOST-GIA guidelines for research-based support to MSMEs
- Civil Service Commission (CSC) and COA standards for transparency and service delivery
Its services are frequently used by clients seeking FDA approval, export accreditation, and international trade readiness.
Public Engagement and Knowledge Dissemination
PTD actively shares packaging innovations and standards through:
- YouTube training videos and Facebook webinars
- Technical bulletins and manuals published via DOST-ITDI
- Exhibits in food expos such as IFEX, WOFEX, and regional DTI trade fairs
These initiatives help build a knowledge ecosystem around science-based packaging and food safety compliance.
Major Achievements
- COVID-19 Packaging Response: Developed and validated packaging for emergency food packs distributed by DSWD and LGUs
- Sachet Waste Reduction Studies: Partnered with circular economy groups to pilot alternative pouch materials
- Training of Trainers (ToT) Initiatives: Helped institutionalize packaging education in regional DOST offices
- OTOP Packaging Upgrade Support: Helped over 800 local brands improve product appearance and shelf stability
Future Directions
PTD is working toward:
- Full ISO 17025 accreditation for its analytical packaging laboratory
- Expanding its network of satellite packaging hubs in Visayas and Mindanao
- Establishing a National Center for Packaging and Labeling Innovation
- Piloting the development of packaging lifecycle assessment tools and AI-based design simulators
The DOST–ITDI Packaging Technology Division remains a cornerstone of the Philippine government’s efforts to uplift local industries through science, innovation, and world-class packaging solutions.
