Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) cooperators, entrepreneurs, and other organizations gathered for a technology pitching session as part of the 2024 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) in Davao Region, held on November 11, 2024, at Ayala Malls Abreeza.
One of the entrepreneurs inquiring about DOST-ITDI’s technologies
This two-part event showcased the latest innovations developed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), offering cutting-edge solutions across various sectors to encourage collaboration and investment that drive economic growth and societal impact.
Among the featured technologies in the first part was a test kit for detecting heavy metals in mining wastewater. This technology provides a quick and reliable method for detecting mercury and lead in water without the need for sophisticated equipment or procedures.
Engr. Crijamaica L. Oceña-Godoy during her LeaCury Kit pitch
“We’ve developed a reliable way to make the invisible visible,” shared Engr. Crijamaica L. Oceña-Godoy as she pitched the testing kit.
Given the presence of mining sites in the region's cities, knowing whether contamination exists within the community is essential. The LeaCury Kit, a project funded by the Young Innovator Program, is led by project head Dr. Chosel Lawagon.
Prof. Keno M. Mendoza introducing the ZappIFY, an agri-solution to rice pest
Meanwhile, Assistant Professor Keno M. Mendoza presented the ZapPify, a rice black bug eliminator offering farmers a solution to pest problems in rice production. This technology provides mechanical pest control through light traps and swatters to zap insect pests in rice fields. Its key features include remote monitoring, an electric zapper, insect counter, full moon detection, and solar-powered functionality. Data, such as insect counts, are remotely transmitted to a central database.
Mr. Audric Zuriel C. Cruz discussing the Shoes and Footwear Accessories from the R&D on Textile-based Omnibus Solutions (SAFATOS) Program of DOST-PTRI
In the second part of the event, a forum on natural textiles highlighted the SAFATOS Program by the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI). This initiative aims to establish a sustainable textile-footwear ecosystem in the country by using natural fiber-based materials and developing a national footwear sizing system. It also supports Filipino footwear production, linking to footwear hubs in Marikina, Liliw, Cebu, Leyte, and Davao.
“Looking ahead, the challenges we face continue to evolve, but the role of science and technology remains constant,” said DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. during his keynote address at the 2024 RSTW opening ceremony in Davao Region.
Secretary Solidum acknowledged DOST Davao’s commitment to crafting initiatives that meet the needs of diverse sectors by advancing technologies that are relevant, accessible, inclusive, and impactful for each unique community.
This year’s theme for the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week in Davao Region, “Siyensiya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan,” highlights sustainable solutions and innovative S&T projects of the region through a two-day celebration.
For more information on the region’s S&T programs and projects, please visit the official Facebook page of DOST Region 11 https://www.facebook.com/dostregion11.(By Kesha Shua V. Leosala, DOST-STII; Photos from DOST Region XI)
