Empowering the Next Generation of Filipino IC Designers: Highlights from the 5-Day Training Program on Full Custom CMOS Inverter Layout Using Synopsys Toolsย
In a powerful stride toward advancing semiconductor design education in the country, thirty-one engineering faculty members and delegates from higher education institutions across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao gathered for an intensive learning journey. Held from October 19 to 23, 2026, at the Activity Loft, Hero Library of Caraga State University (CSU) in Butuan City, the 5-Day Training Program on Full Custom CMOS Inverter Layout Using Synopsys Tools successfully bridged foundational microelectronics theory with cutting-edge industry application.
A Collaborative Vision for National Microelectronics Excellence
The landmark event was spearheaded by the Center for Integrated Circuits Design (CICD) of Mindanao State UniversityโIligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), under the framework of the Chip IP Block Program (Project 1: Development of Design Analysis and Methodologies for Ultra-Low Power SMPS Power Management for 6G sub-THz and mmWave Communication Circuits).
The program was made possible through a robust multi-institutional partnership involving MSU-IIT, Caraga State University, Advanced Computing Solutions (ACS), Xinyx Design, the Philippine Integrated Circuits Design Association (PICDA), and the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the PhilippinesโIligan Bay Chapter (IECEP-IBC).
The momentum kicked off with a high-level courtesy visit to CSU Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Alexander T. Demetillo, and College of Engineering and Geosciences Dean, Dr. Abigael Balbin. Led by CICD Director and MSU-IIT College of Engineering Dean Dr. Jefferson A. Horaโalongside ECE Department Chair and IECEP-IBC Governor Engr. Gene Fe P. Palencia, ECE Program Coordinator Assoc. Prof. Ace Virgil Villaruz, and BS Microelectronics Engineering Program Coordinator Engr. Mike Martin C. Diangcoโthe leaders aligned on a shared mission: to cultivate local semiconductor expertise and empower educators with industry-grade electronic design automation (EDA) tool capabilities.
Bridging Theory and Practice: From Fundamentals to Full-Custom Layouts
The five-day engagement was meticulously structured to take participants from basic MOS physics all the way to a fully verified physical layout:
Days 1 & 2 (Theoretical Foundations & Layout Principles): Engr. Mike Martin C. Diangco led the introductory technical modules covering Analog IC Design, MOS Transistors, and MOS DC Characteristics. This was followed by comprehensive sessions on transient response, fabrication processes, and analog/digital standard cell layout rules facilitated by Engr. Ace Virgil Villaruz and Xinyx IC Design Engineer Engr. Andrew Algado. To maximize engagement, interactive digital quizzes kept participants energized and eager to test their comprehension.
Days 3 & 4 (Hands-On Laboratory Implementation): Moving from the lecture hall to practical execution, participants tackled eight rigorous laboratory exercises. Working directly with industry-standard design workflows, they navigated software challenges, translated theoretical principles into physical structures, and designed custom cells.
Day 5 (Culmination & Closing Ceremonies): The program culminated in the successful completion and verification of full-custom CMOS inverter layouts by the delegates.
Special Recognition and Sincere Gratitude to Partners and Sponsors
A training program of this magnitude relies heavily on the generosity, vision, and active collaboration of industry leaders and professional organizations.
Synopsys & Advanced Computing Solutions (ACS): The organizers extend their deepest gratitude to Synopsys, through its partner Advanced Computing Solutions (ACS) led by President and CEO Mr. Genesis D. Orozco, for sponsoring the event and providing the foundational electronic design automation (EDA) tools and software environments. By granting educators direct access to industry-grade design tools, Synopsys and ACS played an instrumental role in shaping the future of microelectronics education in the Philippines.
Xinyx Design & IECEP-IBC: Special appreciation goes out to Xinyx Design (Xinyx Consultancy and Services Inc.) for their invaluable technical contributions and insights shared through experts like Engr. Andrew Algado, as well as to the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the PhilippinesโIligan Bay Chapter (IECEP-IBC) under the leadership of Governor Engr. Gene Fe P. Palencia. IECEP-IBC significantly bolstered the professional value of the training by granting 40 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points to the participating engineers and faculty members.
PICDA: Gratitude is likewise extended to PICDA and Xinyx Campus Connect for their continuous support in driving microelectronics initiatives nationwide.
Looking Ahead
As the training drew to a close with an inspiring closing ceremony featuring participant testimonies, special awards, and certificates of completion, the collective sentiment was one of profound accomplishment. Armed with new insights, technical proficiencies, and official CPD credits, the faculty delegates returned to their respective institutions ready to cascade these vital skills to the next generation of Filipino engineers.
This successful endeavor marks another monumental milestone in strengthening the countryโs semiconductor design ecosystem, proving that through synergy between academe and industry leaders, the Philippines is more than ready to power the future of global microelectronics.
