Lamut, Ifugao, August 7, 2024 – The Department of Science and Technology-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR) has successfully launched the 2024 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) celebration at the Ifugao State University-Main Campus in Nayon, Lamut, Ifugao. Running from August 7-9, the event, held under the overarching theme of “Siyensya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Kinabukasan,” highlights the critical importance of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in society. It also brings together key officials, government representatives, academic leaders, and various stakeholders to showcase advancements and future directions in STI for the region.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., alongside DOST Assistant Secretary for Development Cooperation Mr. Rodolfo J. Calzado Jr., DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST-TAPI Director Atty. Marion Decene (represented by Atty. Joycel Aguilar), and DOST-CAR Regional Director Dr. Nancy A. Bantog. They were joined by Hon. Solomon R. Chungalao, Congressman of the Lone District of Ifugao (represented by Mr. Ram Cabbigat), Provincial Governor of Ifugao Hon. Jerry U. Dalipog, and Mayor of Lamut Hon. Victomar Hagada Bunnol. Ifugao State University officials and employees, led by Dr. Eva Marie Codamon-Dugyon, also actively participated in the event.
Guests and partners from state universities and colleges (SUCs), higher education institutions (HEIs), local government units (LGUs) in CAR, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), media partners, as well as private sectors and industry representatives were also in attendance.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Nancy Bantog, DOST-CAR Regional Director, emphasized the benefits of DOST’s programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) for the region. She highlighted the importance of strengthening the STI ecosystem in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and called for active community involvement to shape the future through STI. Atty. Marion Decene, Director of DOST-TAPI, represented by Mr. Joycel N. Aguilar, discussed the rationale behind the RSTW celebration. He spotlighted the hard work of the agency and its scientists in advancing STI, emphasizing the significant contributions of science to local development.
Provincial Governor Hon. Jerry U. Dalipog expressed gratitude for the partnership with DOST and urged the people of Ifugao to embrace innovation with DOST’s support. He called on local leaders to collaborate with DOST in implementing new technologies suitable for the province and region. Hon. Solomon R. Chungalao, represented by Mr. Ram Cabbigat, conveyed his full support for DOST’s PPAs, especially during budget hearings in Congress. He assured that all PPAs benefiting the people of Ifugao would receive backing in Congress.
DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, refocused the agency’s PPAs to align with equitable operations at national, regional, and provincial levels. He presented how DOST-CAR has effectively implemented its PPAs in the province and affirmed DOST’s commitment to fostering a sustainable future for all.
In his keynote address, DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. emphasized DOST’s collaboration with local government units (LGUs) to provide solutions and open opportunities, stressing the importance of developing fit-for-purpose solutions for LGUs. Dr. Solidum outlined DOST’s four pillars that support the socio-economic agenda of the administration and the ultimate goal of achieving smart and sustainable cities and communities across all local governments. He also introduced the 8th Big R&D project focusing on biologics in pharmacology, aiming to develop preventive and curative medicinal applications to ensure readiness for future epidemics or pandemics and enhance resilience across various sectors beyond disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM). Moreover, Sec. Solidum mentioned that the agency is currently working with partners and academes to support the country’s green economy program, aiming to recycle 20,000 tons of plastic waste by 2028, create green jobs, and support waste reduction strategies.
The event also featured a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing and the ceremonial turnover of the TaRaKi DRR-CCAM Knowledge Management Kiosk, aimed at mobilizing DRR-CCAM knowledge transfer to all partners in Cordillera and also the MOU signing for Natural Dye Hubs in Abra. The 2024 SETUP Praise and Best CEST Community awards recognized outstanding SETUP cooperators and CEST beneficiaries. A press conference followed, discussing various DOST programs and initiatives for the region.
Throughout the celebration, different fora and activities were held, addressing agendas under DOST’s four pillars. These discussions aimed to provide solutions and open opportunities for the Cordillera Administrative Region through science, technology, and innovation. (Nelson S. Santos)
