INNOVATE. COLLABORATE. ELEVATE – DOST XII-PSTO SOCOT HIGHLIGHTS STARTUP AND IHUB INITIATIVES AT SOUTH COTABATO BUSINESS CONFERENCE 2026
The Department of Science and Technology – SOCCSKSARGEN Region (DOST XII), through its Provincial Science and Technology Office – South Cotabato headed by Provincial Director Giselle Eve O. Siladan, proudly served as one of the resource speakers during the 2026 South Cotabato Federation of Local Chambers of Commerce Conference held in line with the celebration of the South Cotabato Business Week.
The conference gathered business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and development partners across the province to discuss opportunities, collaborations, and strategies that will further strengthen South Cotabato’s growing economy and thriving business ecosystem.
A highlight of the event was the participation of Hon. Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. during the Governor’s Hour, where he shared significant developments on the province’s improving economy and the continued growth of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), emphasizing the province’s commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Meanwhile, Provincial Director Giselle Eve O. Siladan presented the various Programs, Projects, and Activities (PPAs) of DOST, particularly initiatives that support innovation- driven entrepreneurship and startup development. Among the key initiatives highlighted were the establishment of Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) for startups and the proposed Innovation Hub (iHub) facility in the province, which aims to become a collaborative space for innovators, researchers, students, MSMEs, and aspiring entrepreneurs to transform ideas into impactful solutions and sustainable enterprises.
The event was spearheaded by the South Cotabato Economic and Investments Promotion Center (SCEIPC) headed by Mr. Tyronn Jann Villanueva, RN, MPA, in partnership with various stakeholders dedicated to advancing economic development and innovation in the province.
Through initiatives like this and with the support of RD Malawan, DOST XII – PSTO SoCot continues to strengthen its commitment to fostering a vibrant culture of innovation, empowering local entrepreneurs, and creating more opportunities for science, technology, and innovation to drive inclusive and sustainable development in South Cotabato and the entire SOCCSKSARGEN Region.
