DOST-CAR Showcased Science, Technology, and Innovation Milestones in Baguio City and Benguet

by Info / Nelson Santos @Technology | August 15, 2025

PCSO Joins Unified Senior Citizens’ Medical and Dental Mission Program

As part of the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) celebration in the Cordillera Administrative Region, the Department of Science and Technology – CAR (DOST-CAR) spearheaded a series of major events on August 8, 2025, held in both Baguio City and La Trinidad, Benguet. The activities were led by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., together with DOST executives, regional stakeholders, and media partners.

The day began with an STI Site Visit to Northland Food Products in Baguio City, an adopter of the DOST-FNRI Enhanced Nutribun Technology. The company, assisted by DOST-CAR in 2021 through PSTO-Benguet, launched its "Good Baker" brand featuring squash, carrot, and sweet potato variants of the e-Nutribun. In 2025, it introduced Nutribunnet and Nutricookies, using FNRI’s latest product enhancements. Secretary Solidum lauded the enterprise for supporting the fight against hunger and malnutrition through food innovation.

Following the site visit, DOST-CAR officially launched the DOST-PSTO Baguio-Benguet Innovation Hub (iHUB), strategically located along Governor Pack Road. The iHUB was envisioned as a collaborative space for MSMEs, startups, and academic researchers to access technical support, resources, and S&T-based solutions. Secretary Solidum emphasized the hub’s role in advancing innovation ecosystems and promoting a stronger S&T presence in the region.

A significant highlight of the day was the unveiling of the plaque for the Artificial Groundwater Recharge Facility (AGRF) at the Athletic Bowl in Burnham Park, Baguio City, led by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. Another AGRF site is situated at the Strawberry Farm in Betag, La Trinidad, Benguet, attended by DOST delegates and La Trinidad, Benguet representatives led by its City Mayor, Hon. Roderick C. Awingan. The AGRF is a climate-resilient, science-based solution to recurring challenges in water scarcity, flooding, and extreme weather. It works by injecting clean rainwater into aquifers through recharge wells during the rainy season, boosting groundwater infiltration and storage. This reduces flood risks, minimizes damage to agriculture and infrastructure, and helps secure a steady year-round water supply. The pilot initiative was funded by the DOST, implemented by ERDB–WWRRDEC under the DOST NICER Program, and is monitored by DOST–PCIEERD.

Capping the day’s lineup of activities, DOST inaugurated the Advanced Manufacturing Center – Cordillera (AMCEN-CAR) at Benguet State University. This marked the first AMCEN in the Cordillera and the fifth in the country, providing local industries and institutions with access to equipment, expertise, and research in advanced manufacturing. The launch demonstrated DOST’s commitment to strengthening regional industrial competitiveness through cutting-edge science and technology.

Through these back-to-back events, DOST-CAR showcased how S&T investments and partnerships are creating tangible impacts across sectors. As host of RSTW 2025, the regional office reaffirmed its mission to bridge innovation and inclusive development for the people of the Cordilleras. (Nelson Santos)

DOST to hold 3rd International Smart City Expo in Isabela

by Info @Brand Zone | May 21, 2025

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in partnership with the local government unit of Cauayan City Isabela (ISU) is set to hold the 3rd International Smart City Exposition and Networking Engagement (iSCENE) on May 22-24, 2025, at the Isabela Convention Center, Cauayan City.

Cauayan City, Isabela is the first smart city in the Philippines, designated by the DOST in 2025. The city has implemented various digital solutions to improve network and services such as the installment of free WiFi in its 65 barangays.

With the theme, “Empowering Smart and Sustainable Communities through Government-Academe-Industry Collaboration,” the three-day event will showcase a wide range of activities including talks on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in disaster management, smart cities and communities, and in mobility and smart transportation.

Also, some of the highlights of the event will be the Philippine Smart and Sustainable Cities Awards, the Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MOCCOV) Operations Olympics, E-Sports tournament, and the Hackathon.

There were also exhibits of AI, robotics and startup innovations, and cutting-edge advancements in water management, textiles, smart agriculture, and circular economy. These exhibits will serve as a platform to discuss details and commitment for possible transfer of technologies and commercialization.

Moreover, with the aim to transform communities through active citizen-engagement, and to further promote the Smarter Philippines mission, the DOST Regional Office 2 is also set to secure its partnership with various government agencies, and academic institutions such as the Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) Region 2, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Isabela State University (ISU), King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) in Thailand and the Cauayan City LGU.

For the past two years, the iSCENE has become an opportunity to bring together government agencies, academe, industry players, and international partners for collaboration and knowledge-sharing to achieve smart, resilient, and sustainable communities.

To know more about the event, visit the official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/iSCENE.PH  (By Claire Bernadette A. Mondares, DOST-STII)

One of the most anticipated parts of the 3rd International Smart City Exposition and Networking Engagement (iSCENE) is the awarding of the Philippines Smart and Sustainable Communities. 

The 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐒𝐂 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 is a prestigious recognition given to 𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐠𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 in their localities. (Photo credits to https://iscene.ph/ ).

Maynilad partners with DOST to develop waste-to-energy solutions through the DOST-Balik Scientist Program

by Info @Brand Zone | Sep. 21, 2024

West Zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services, Inc. (Maynilad) teamed up with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to explore waste-to-energy solutions, particularly in converting biosolids — an organic byproduct of Maynilad’s wastewater treatment process—into biogas.

This partnership, which emerged from Maynilad’s participation in the DOST’s “Balik Scientist Program,” involved tapping the expertise of returning Filipino scientist Dr. Mario Rebosura to help assess and pilot technologies that can transform biosolids into a source of renewable energy.

Maynilad is the first water utility to participate in the DOST-Balik Scientist Program, a government initiative aimed at promoting the exchange of scientific knowledge and advancing technology in the country. The program encourages Filipino scientists to return to the Philippines and share their expertise, enhancing the development of various sectors, including health research and development.

During his six-month stint with Maynilad under the program, Dr. Rebosura shared innovative approaches in biosolids management to fine-tune Maynilad’s ongoing study of waste-to-energy technologies. This collaboration supported Maynilad’s goal of reducing the environmental impact of biosolid disposal while also providing opportunities for energy generation.

“As part of our commitment to environmental stewardship, Maynilad constantly seeks ways to reduce waste and promote circular economy principles. This partnership with the DOST allowed us to address the challenge of biosolid disposal while tapping into renewable energy solutions, which can benefit both our operations and the environment,” said Maynilad President and CEO Ramoncito S. Fernandez.

The DOST’s Balik Scientist Program played a pivotal role by linking Maynilad with Filipino scientists who have gained specialized expertise abroad. “We are excited about the potential of this project to contribute to the country’s renewable energy goals. This collaboration with Maynilad underscores the critical role of science in overcoming key challenges in the water sector.  Indeed, through science and technology, we can provide solutions and open opportunities for the Filipino people,” said DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr.