By Christian Dominic I. Casimiro, DOST-I
Photos from DOST-I
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region I recently concluded the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) with the theme “Siyensya, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Kinabukasan,” focusing on providing solutions and opening opportunities in the green economy of Region I on July 4-5, 2024, at Plaza Del Norte Hotel and Convention in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, was a significant back-to-back event with the Handa Pilipinas Luzon Leg.
The celebration began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony graced by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST Undersecretary for Research & Development Dr. Leah J. Buendia, and Hon. Rafael Chua Medina, representing Sen. Imee R. Marcos, DOST-TAPI Director, Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena, and DOST-I Regional Director, Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog, along with various DOST & local executives. This momentous occasion set the stage for a series of transformative dialogues and showcases.
Undersecretary Mabborang's welcoming remarks ignited a spirit of collaboration and innovation among the participants. He emphasized the power of technology to enhance well-being, foster economic prosperity, and strengthen resilience in communities across Region I. This sentiment was echoed by DOST-TAPI Director Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena encouraged all attendees to push the boundaries of scientific inquiry for a better tomorrow.
Secretary Solidum's address resonated deeply with the event's theme, emphasizing STI's role in shaping a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future. He stressed that the green economy extends beyond technology and innovation, emphasizing that it is about creating opportunities that uplift communities and empower individuals. Secretary Solidum emphasized that the goal is to ensure the transition to a green future is inclusive and beneficial for everyone, underscoring the holistic approach and community-centric focus of DOST's initiatives for Region I. DOST-I Regional Director Dr. Tabaog then introduced the keynote speaker, Sen. Imee R. Marcos, represented by Ilocos Norte Senior Board Member Hon. Rafael Chua Medina.
A highlight of the celebration was the launch of the Smart and Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP) Roadmaps, accompanied by the awarding of Smart Innovation Grants to the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, City of Laoag, City of Batac, City of Candon, City of San Fernando, and City of Alaminos. These initiatives, aimed at transforming cities and provinces into smart and sustainable communities, underscored DOST's commitment to fostering local development through science and technology. Mayor Hermenegildo Gualberto of the City of San Fernando, La Union, shared his city's roadmap under the SSCP, emphasizing the partnership with DOST as instrumental in their journey towards sustainability. His statement, "Science is by the people, of the people, and for the people," encapsulated the collaborative spirit driving local innovation.
DOST-I also showcased the achievements of the DOST-I Science Ambassadors, who have been working hand-in-hand with DOST-I to make STI more accessible to the people. Additionally, seven (7) new DOST-I Science Ambassadors were introduced: Sen. Imee R. Marcos; Mayor Crescente N. Garcia of Burgos, Ilocos Norte; Mayor Joey Warren A. Bragado of San Emilio, Ilocos Sur; Dr. Elbert M. Galas, President of Pangasinan State University; Dr. Jaime L. Manuel Jr., President of Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University; Mr. Edmundo P. Casulla, President of United Pangasinan ICT Council; and Mr. Richard S. Chan, CEO of Modulhaus, Inc.
A press conference was conducted on groundbreaking collaborations, including the success story of MMSU's Black Garlic, an innovation supported by DOST that gained international acclaim through the collaboration with Bauertek Corporation.
The event also featured a variety of activities under the four (4) pillars of DOST: Wealth Creation, Wealth Protection, Sustainability, and Human Well-being. TechAdvantage sessions were conducted for high-value crops such as coconut, cacao, coffee, and mango, as well as for agri-aqua products such as bangus, salt, bamboo, and dragon fruit. Activities for the youth included Damdamag Siyensya, nuLAB, Creative Conversations, and robotics training and workshops. DOST Assistant Secretary Napoleon K. Juanillo Jr., PhD, discussed DOST Propel and participants were provided updates on DOST’s Project LODI and the programs of DOST-TAPI. The SILLAG Region I event served as a pre-activity for the RSTW in Region I.
In collaboration with DOST-PTRI and Ms. Amor Albano, the Kathabi Fashion Show: Philippine Textile Fabrics Reimagined which featured Ms. Jamie Herrell, Miss Earth 20I4, and Nana Magdalena Gamayo, a Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) awardee and master weaver of the inabel cloth, provided a vibrant showcase of local creativity and innovation. This cultural celebration, alongside MOA signings, reinforced the importance of preserving and advancing indigenous crafts in a modern context. Related to the activity were the textile innovation dialogue and the weaver’s forum.
In conclusion, the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week in Region I served as a testament to the transformative power of STI in building resilient and sustainable communities. It fostered collaboration, celebrated innovation, and paved the way for a greener and more prosperous future for all residents of Region I.
