THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) celebrated the Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Week (RSTW) in Cagayan Valley on Nov. 14-16, 2023 with the theme, “Siyensya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Kinabukasan.”
DOST officials talked about the agency’s important role, along with its agenda and vision, in maximizing the advantages provided by the sciences, technologies and innovations for the country’s development and progress.
DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum, in his keynote speech read by DOST undersecretary Teodoro Gatchalian said the celebration showcased the products and successes of the DOST’s science, technology and innovation (STI) programs, projects and activities in the Cagayan Valley region, “bringing together various DOST agencies through a line-up of lectures, for a awards and exhibits.”
The event’s guest of honor, Cagayan Province Governor Manuel Mamba said “it’s always an honor to witness the unfolding of innovative ideas from brilliant minds who will shape the future of our nation.”
DOST undersecretary for regional operations Sancho Mabborang said the Region 2 celebration has served as the agency’s platform for recognizing the contributions of STI to the country’s long-term development. Mabborang’s message was likewise read by Gatchalian.
“The progress we have achieved throughout the years serves as a testament to our efforts in promoting and celebrating the triumphs of our scientific community and the fruits of the hard work of our Filipino scientists, researchers, innovators, and engineers for many years,” Mabborang said.
DOST Region 2 Director Dr. Virginia Bilgera said the event is DOST’s way of bringing its family of agencies, its programs, projects, and technologies, to a wider public.
“This only shows that DOST values the participation of all sectors, such as partner government agencies, the academe, the private sector, and civil society, in this program, particularly in identifying the gaps and in developing suitable solutions,” Bilgera said.
She said that as a result of the yearly celebration, DOST Region 2 has produced national winners in the past years under one of its flagship programs, SETUP or Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program.
The region supported 59 new SETUP beneficiaries this year, ready to grow and improve their firms through technology and innovation.
“This is a lifelong vision of DOST built on the foundations of collaboration, innovation, and progress to harness the power of science, technology, and innovation for the betterment of our people,” Solidum said.