DOST Ilocos Region Backs P6.4M Tech Upgrades for Inclusive Regional Growth of MSMEs

by Info @Business News | April 24, 2026

Photo: DOST

𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗢𝗙 𝗦𝗔𝗡 𝗙𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗢, 𝗟𝗮 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗻 — The Department of Science and Technology Ilocos Region (DOST Ilocos Region) awarded financial assistance to the 2nd batch of 2026 beneficiaries of the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) during a ceremony at the DOST Ilocos Region Innovation Hub on March 19, 2026. Known collectively as “Batch SIBOL” (Siyensya at Inobasyon para sa Bagong Oportunidad at Lunti-lunting Pagyabong), six cooperators received support and are set to “sprout,” embarking on a journey toward greater competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability.

Three firms from Ilocos Sur (Torres Ricemill, Melody’s Food Products, and Niks Printing Shop) collectively received ₱4,610,000.00 in financial assistance. Heisabelle Wood Works of La Union was granted ₱257,600.00, while HN Chicken Dealer and Obet Mushroom Farm in Pangasinan received a combined ₱1,549,800.00, further expanding support for MSMEs across the region.

Ms. Racquel M. Espiritu, Supervising Assistant Regional Director for SETUP, emphasized that the initiative supports long-term enterprise growth beyond financial aid. “This program is about giving our MSMEs the chance to sprout, grow, and flourish – bringing jobs, products, and services that uplift families and communities across the nation,” she stated.

Furthermore, Ms. Mary Ann B. Ofiana, Project Technical Assistant I, led the Gender Sensitivity Training, where she emphasized integrating gender perspectives and promoting equal opportunities in the workplace. This was followed by Ms. Katrina F. Ronquillo, SETUP RPMO Head, who outlined the beneficiaries’ duties as stipulated in the Memorandum of Agreement, discussed required reports, and answered participants’ questions.

Regional Director Teresita A. Tabaog congratulated the beneficiaries and emphasized the role of MSMEs in economic growth and inclusive development. “I hope that you will not be content with just receiving that fund and improving your current processes but do better in coming up with more creative things and more innovative things. And while you do those, you will be mirroring some of the best practices that other MSMEs can learn from,” she said.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Katrina F. Ronquillo, who thanked the Batch SIBOL beneficiaries for their trust and collaboration. “Your trust inspires us to do more, to serve better, and to continue bringing programs that truly make a difference,” she remarked. The ceremony highlighted the DOST Ilocos Region’s commitment to empowering MSMEs to grow, innovate, and achieve sustainable success, bringing ‘Agham na Ramdam’ closer to communities across the region. (Eldrick John Viluan and Katherine Grace Balanag)

DOST SOCCSKSARGEN joins preparatory meeting for NSTW 2026

by Info @Brand Zone | March 16, 2026

As the next host of the National Science and Technology Week 2026, the Department of Science and Technology SOCCSKSARGEN joined the preparatory meeting held on March 6, 2026 at the DOST Main Building, Bicutan, Taguig City. The meeting was led by Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang and Host Region Regional Director Engr. Sammy P. Malawan to begin key planning activities for the national event.

Discussions focused on updates on the preparations for NSTW 2026, presentation of proposals, review of the Special Orders for the NSTW 2026 Steering Committee, and the proposed monthly schedule of committee meetings to ensure the smooth and coordinated implementation of the event.

The meeting marked an important step in mobilizing the organizing teams as SOCCSKSARGEN gears up to host one of the country’s biggest celebrations of science, technology, and innovation (STI).

DOST, Cong. Caoagdan explore innovation support for coconut and cattle industries in Cotabato DOST

by Info @Brand Zone | February 23, 2026

Integrating technology across the livestock value chain is seen as key to increasing farmer incomes and supporting regional food security. Following the meeting, the delegation toured ITDI’s state-of-the-art laboratories and technical divisions, where they were briefed on available technologies ready for adoption and commercialization

Through the Department of Science and Technology Region XII (DOST SOCCSKSARGEN), Hon. Rudy S. Caoagdan, Representative of the Second District of Cotabato and member of the House Committee on Science and Technology, paid a courtesy visit to the Department of Science and Technology Central Office in Bicutan, Taguig to explore science-driven opportunities that can accelerate agricultural and industrial development in his district.

Congressman Caoagdan together with DOST SOCCSSKARGEN Regional Director Engr. Sammy P. Malawan met with DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., Regional Operations Undersecretary Sancho A. Mabborang, Countryside Development Assistant Secretary Engr. Maria Teresa B. De Guzman and Annabelle V. Briones, Executive Director of the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), to discuss potential collaborations that would harness innovation for coconut processing and cattle production in Cotabato Province.

As one of the key agricultural provinces in SOCCSKSARGEN, Cotabato has strong potential to move beyond raw commodity production toward value-added processing. Discussions highlighted the need to enhance coconut processing technologies to improve extraction efficiency, product quality, and compliance with national and international standards. 

By leveraging ITDI’s expertise in food processing, packaging, testing, and national metrology, local farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can be supported in developing higher-value coconut products such as virgin coconut oil, coco sugar, flour, and other derivative products that command stronger market demand. The collaboration aims to ensure that producers are not limited to selling copra or raw nuts, but are empowered to participate in processing, branding, and commercialization.

Beyond coconut, the meeting also highlighted the need to strengthen Cotabato’s cattle industry. Recognizing the province’s growing livestock sector, Congressman Caoagdan sought DOST’s support in modernizing cattle production and meat processing through science-based interventions. 

Discussions focused on research-driven feed formulation, food safety testing, meat preservation, and improved packaging to enhance productivity, ensure quality standards, and expand market access. Integrating technology across the livestock value chain is seen as key to increasing farmer incomes and supporting regional food security.

Following the meeting, the delegation toured ITDI’s state-of-the-art laboratories and technical divisions, where they were briefed on available technologies ready for adoption and commercialization. The visit showcased ITDI’s capabilities in industrial research and development, standards and testing services, materials science, chemical and analytical services, food innovation, and national metrology – core pillars in strengthening local industries and accelerating economic growth. 

The convergence reflects a shared commitment to building an integrated innovation ecosystem that bridges national research institutions with grassroots communities.

With coconut and cattle identified as strategic growth drivers, Cotabato Province is positioning itself for a transition toward science-enabled, value-added agriculture. Through strengthened partnerships between national R&D institutions and local leadership, the province moves closer to transforming its natural resources into sustainable economic opportunities – demonstrating that from research laboratories to rural livelihoods, innovation is shaping the future of Cotabato.