The Department of Public Works and Highways gathered researchers, engineers, and academicians from public and private institutions to discuss innovations in public infrastructure during its 8th Research Symposium at the University of the Philippines-Ang Bahay ng Alumni, Diliman, Quezon City on Friday.

With this year's theme "Smart Construction," the event aims for a collaborative talk on the current conditions and new developments of public infrastructure, engineering, and construction technology in the country.

DPWH also said that the symposium also seeks to create links between participants and entities for future collaborations.

"The DPWH believes that modern and cost-effective use of technology is crucial in providing quality infrastructure that can meet the demands of our developing country," DPWH Undersecretary for Information Management and Technical Services Maximo Carvajal said.

Present during the symposium are five representatives from several universities in the country, such as UP-Diliman, De La Salle University-Manila, Central Luzon State University, Far Eastern University-Institute of Technology, and Adamson University.

Representatives from four private firms also gave their insights during the event.