EMPOWERING OFWS, FUELING INNOVATION: DOST REGION 1 INKS FIRST IFWD PH PROJECT IN LA UNION
CITY SAN FERNANDO, La Union – In a significant milestone for migrant worker reintegration in Region 1, the Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST Region 1), through the Department of Science and Technology-La Union (DOST-La Union), has formalized a partnership with Medmed Prints, marking the first innovation support project under the Innovations for Filipinos Working Distantly from the Philippines (iFWD PH) Program in La Union. The collaboration, sealed through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), is designed to empower Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) by equipping them with technology-based solutions to build or enhance sustainable enterprises as they return to the country for good.
Medmed Prints, a customized digital printing business located in Bagulin, La Union, is owned by Ms. Gemma P. Saldo—a former OFW who dedicated eight years to the hospitality sector in the Middle East. Inspired by her experience abroad and the increasing demand for affordable, high-quality printing services in her hometown, Ms. Saldo established Medmed Prints to offer a wide range of personalized items including mugs, T-shirts, vinyl stickers, and invitation cards. Her application to the iFWD PH Program in 2024 marked a turning point; after completing Phase 1, which focused on core business development capacity building, she proceeded to Phase 2, requesting DOST’s innovation support to upgrade her enterprise and improve production facilities.
The MOA signing was held with DOST-La Union Provincial Director Jonathan M. Viernes following an orientation on the project’s terms and implementation process. He underscored the shared commitment between the DOST and the project cooperator to uphold accountability, innovation, and community impact. The formal agreement not only initiates technical and funding support for Medmed Prints but also sets a precedent for future partnerships that promote science-driven entrepreneurship among OFWs in the province.
Through the iFWD PH Program, DOST Region 1 continues to embody its mantra of “Providing Solutions, Opening Opportunities,” by turning the dreams of returning OFWs into tangible ventures. This initiative underscores DOST Region 1’s dedication to inclusive innovation—bridging science and technology with the entrepreneurial aspirations of modern-day heroes. By fostering resilience, productivity, and local economic growth, DOST Region 1 paves the way for OFWs like Ms. Saldo to thrive as innovators and changemakers in their communities.: katrina F. Ronqquillo, Senior SRS
