An inventor, businessman, and philanthropist from Bacolod City was honored with the prestigious Legacy Trophy Award by the Department of Science and Technology – Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) on Friday, June 21.
Ramon Uy Sr., the founder and owner of RU Foundry and Machine Shop, received the award during the Metals and Engineering (M&E) Week 2026 held at the Acacia Hotel Manila in Alabang.
The DOST-MIRDC said Uy was chosen as this year’s recipient “in recognition of his excellence and significant contributions to the Philippine metals and engineering industry.”
“For decades, RU Foundry and Machine Shop has exemplified resilience, craftsmanship, and industry leadership, helping shape a stronger and more competitive local manufacturing sector,” the agency stated in its citation.
Uy was specifically honored because his life’s work demonstrates that “engineering is at its best when it improves the lives of people.”
For decades, the Bacolodnon inventor has championed innovations aimed at helping farmers reduce production costs, transforming waste into valuable resources, and creating new opportunities for livelihood and growth.
The DOST-MIRDC noted that these innovations have reached communities across the country, proving that technology becomes truly valuable when it is practical and accessible to local challenges.
Beyond his mechanical inventions, Uy was also commended for building opportunities for others through grassroots initiatives such as the Pandayan ng Bayan program.
“Throughout his career, Uy has demonstrated that innovation is not simply about technology, it is about ensuring a lasting impact,” the DOST-MIRDC added, noting that his achievements reflect the ideals embodied by the Legacy Trophy Award: innovation, resilience, service, and community empowerment.
In his acceptance speech, Uy shared the honor with those who supported him throughout his career, stating that the recognition does not belong to him alone.
“It belongs to my family, my colleagues, my mentors, and everyone who became part of this journey,” Uy said.
“My life has taught me that success is not about how many times we avoid failure. It is about how many times we rise after falling, continue learning, and keep moving,” he said.*
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