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Strengthening Women Through Innovation: DOST-PCIEERD Highlights WHWise Program for Women-Led Social Enterprises on Tekno PreSyensya

As part of its continuing efforts to promote women empowerment in innovation and entrepreneurship, the latest episode of Tekno PreSyensya—the official broadcast program of DOST Ilocos Region—featured the Women-Helping-Women: Innovating Social Enterprises (WHWise) Program.
During the discussion titled “Fueling Women-Led Social Innovation: WHWise Program Overview and Proposal Guide,” Ms. Dolf Mirelle J. Montecillo, Project Technical Assistant VI and Assistant Program Manager of the WHWise Program, shared valuable insights about the initiative, including practical guidance on developing a strong WHWise proposal following the extension of the application deadline until June 5, 2026.
Launched in 2021 by the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), the WHWise Program supports women-led social enterprises through technology, research and development (R&D), technical assistance, and mentoring. The program aims to strengthen the capacity of women social entrepreneurs to create greater impact in their communities and among marginalized sectors through innovative and sustainable solutions.
According to Ms. Montecillo, the WHWise Program plays a vital role in helping women-led social enterprises expand their services and social impact. Through the program, women entrepreneurs are empowered to maximize science, technology, and innovation in improving their operations and reaching more communities. She also emphasized the program’s “multiplier effect,” where the success of one women-led enterprise inspires more women to pursue their own community-driven initiatives.
During the interview, Ms. Montecillo encouraged aspiring women entrepreneurs to pursue innovation despite the challenges of balancing various responsibilities. She highlighted the availability of support systems such as Technology Business Incubators (TBIs), innovation hubs, DOST programs, and other capacity-building initiatives that can guide women throughout their entrepreneurial journey. She also assured the public that DOST offices and the WHWise Program remain open to assisting applicants in proposal development and innovation planning.
Ms. Montecillo further clarified that proposals that are not immediately approved may still be improved and resubmitted in future application cycles, depending on the reason for disapproval. She explained that the program aims not only to provide funding opportunities but also to help social enterprises strengthen their capabilities and connect them with the most suitable support mechanisms.
Through Tekno PreSyensya, DOST Ilocos Region continues to bring science, technology, and innovation programs closer to the public, particularly to women aspiring to become catalysts for positive change in their communities. The agency encourages women-led social enterprises and aspiring social entrepreneurs in Region 1 to take advantage of this opportunity and submit their concept proposals before the extended deadline.

DOST-PCIEERD, USTP open built environment laboratory in Northern Mindanao

Officials from the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) and the University of Science and Technology of the Southern Philippines (USTP) inaugurate the Built Environment Laboratory (BEL) at the USTP Cagayan de Oro campus on May 28. The facility will support research on energy-efficient building designs and construction materials suited to tropical climates. (Photo courtesy of the USTP Strategic Communication Office)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) and the University of Science and Technology of the Southern Philippines (USTP) inaugurated the Built Environment Laboratory (BEL) on May 28 at the USTP Cagayan de Oro campus.
The facility will serve as a research center for studying, developing, and testing building designs and construction materials suited to tropical climates. The laboratory aims to support efforts to reduce carbon emissions and lower energy consumption in academic and urban structures.
Project leader Engr. Richard Jayson Valera said the laboratory seeks to address increasing energy demands for cooling amid rising temperatures.
“Ang atuang main goal dinhi, e-relate natu sa current nga sitwasyon sa kalibutan, is para e-minimize gyud natu ang consumption sa air conditioners. If ma-minimize natu ang consumption sa air conditioners, magamay ang consumption sa university,” he said.
(Our main goal here, relating it to the current situation of the world, is to really minimize the consumption of air conditioners. If we can minimize the consumption of air conditioners, the consumption of the university will decrease.)

Equipment at the Built Environment Laboratory (BEL) includes diagnostic and modeling tools, including fluid flow and thermal simulation software used in building performance research. (Photo courtesy of the USTP Strategic Communication Office)
Valera said the laboratory will use engineering tools and localized weather data to study passive cooling strategies, climate-responsive building systems, and technologies that help regulate indoor temperatures while reducing energy use.
He added that the research outputs from the facility will support the university’s operations and provide data that local government units and private developers can use to plan and design energy-efficient buildings in Mindanao.
The project is part of the collaboration between DOST-PCIEERD and USTP to advance research on energy-efficient and climate-responsive infrastructure in Northern Mindanao. It supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s push for climate resilience, energy efficiency, and science-driven innovation as part of the country’s sustainable development agenda. (IJBD/PIA-10) Irene Joy B. Dayo)

DOST strengthens Mindanao textile industry with launch of first Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center

KABACAN, Cotabato – The Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), in partnership with the University of Southern Mindanao (USM), officially launched the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) in Kabacan, Cotabato on June 5, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the development of Mindanao’s textile industry.
As the first facility of its kind in Mindanao and the fourth in the country, RYPIC is expected to improve access to locally produced yarn, strengthen regional textile production, and create new economic opportunities for farmers, weavers, and rural communities across the island.
DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. described the facility as a major step toward decentralizing innovation and bringing technology-driven development closer to communities. He noted that the establishment of RYPIC demonstrates the commitment of DOST-PTRI under the FRONTIER Program to strengthen local industries through regional innovation hubs, enabling communities to benefit directly from science and technology interventions.
The center addresses a growing demand for yarn in SOCCSKSARGEN, which DOST-PTRI data identifies as one of the country's leading regions in handloom weaving communities and practicing weavers. Strategically located in Cotabato, the facility is positioned to serve weaving communities across SOCCSKSARGEN, Northern Mindanao, the Davao Region, and the Zamboanga Peninsula.
According to DOST-PTRI Director Dr. Julius L. Leaño Jr., the launch of RYPIC is not only about establishing infrastructure but also about developing a textile innovation ecosystem that connects fiber producers, yarn manufacturers, weavers, researchers, local governments, and industry stakeholders. He emphasized that the initiative combines technological innovation with the region’s rich textile traditions, creating a foundation for sustainable growth while preserving cultural heritage and supporting local livelihoods.
The facility is expected to become a critical link in the region’s growing textile value chain. Fiber sources include pineapple leaves from plantations in Polomolok, South Cotabato; abaca from Lake Sebu; and cotton from farms in Sarangani Province, all processed through the Natural Textile Fiber Innovation Hub in Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat.
By transforming agricultural by-products into valuable textile materials, the initiative promotes circular economy practices while opening additional income streams for farming communities. Farmers can now derive value not only from their primary agricultural products but also from materials that were previously considered waste.
DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Maborrang highlighted the broader socioeconomic impact of the facility, noting that its annual production capacity of approximately 13 tons of natural textile fiber blended yarns can help generate sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural communities throughout SOCCSKSARGEN and the rest of Mindanao. He underscored that the initiative demonstrates the growing competitiveness of Philippine natural textile fibers and their potential to meet both local and international market demands.
The project is expected to directly benefit farming groups such as the POLO Multi-Purpose Cooperative and Sta. Cruz Multi-Purpose Cooperative, while supporting approximately 1,982 handloom weavers across Mindanao through improved access to locally produced yarn.
Further strengthening the region’s textile industry, DOST-PTRI is also advancing the development of a bamboo textile fiber facility in Maramag, Bukidnon. The upcoming facility will process underutilized bamboo species into textile fibers, complementing the operations of RYPIC and expanding the range of sustainable raw materials available for yarn production.
Once fully operational, the center is projected to produce between 50 and 75 kilograms of yarn daily, equivalent to approximately 270 meters of handloom-woven fabric measuring one meter in width. With yarn valued at around ₱1,800 per kilogram, the facility is expected to generate between ₱25 million and ₱72 million in annual revenue while reducing dependence on imported yarn and stimulating greater weaving activity throughout Mindanao.
Through investments in regional innovation infrastructure, sustainable fiber development, and community-based production systems, RYPIC represents a significant step toward building a resilient Philippine textile industry that creates opportunities from farm to fabric while empowering communities across Mindanao.(Nelson Santos)

DOST-PAGASA Explains Connection Between Habagat, El Niño, and Heat Index Amid Changing Weather

As many areas continue to experience intense morning heat and sudden afternoon rains, the Department of Science and Technology Ilocos Region (DOST Ilocos Region) continues to step up its efforts to provide timely updates about the country's weather and climate. In response to many questions from the public after Episode 8 of Tekno PreSyensya, the agency hosted a follow-up discussion through Episode 10, titled “Bantay Ulat Panahon: Habagat-El Niño Outlook and Heat Index Monitoring.” The program featured Engr. Mark Louie A. Vergara, Weather Specialist II from DOST-PAGASA Northern Luzon, who cleared up confusion about current weather conditions and what to expect in the coming months.

Engr. Vergara explained that while the country's weather is currently normal, there is a 79% chance that a strong El Niño will develop between June and August, which could last until the early part of 2027. He corrected a common misunderstanding that the extreme heat we are feeling right now is already caused by El Niño. In fact, the start of El Niño is expected to bring more rain and stronger storms to the western part of the country first. This is because it pulls and strengthens the southwest monsoon (habagat), long before the actual dry weather and water shortage happen toward the end of the year.

The discussion also focused on Tropical Cyclone Jiangmi (locally named Domeng). While the storm is not expected to hit land, it is helping trigger the official start of the rainy season by pulling the habagat winds toward the country. This transition is the reason behind the sudden, heavy afternoon rains currently experienced in parts of the region, which are caused by localized thunderstorms that form after hours of intense morning and midday heat.

The episode also broke down the concept of the heat index, or the "apparent temperature"—which is how hot the weather actually feels to the human body based on the air temperature and relative humidity (the amount of moisture in the air). When humidity is high, the body struggles to sweat and cool itself down, making the air feel heavy and sticky. The agency warned that these conditions can cause severe stress to crop and farm animals and pose serious health risks like heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially for outdoor workers like farmers, street sweepers, traffic enforcers, and construction workers.

To stay safe at home, Engr. Vergara shared practical tips, advising residents to open windows on opposite sides of the house to create a natural breeze. He warned that running an electric fan inside a closed, unventilated room is unsafe because it only circulates the trapped hot air. The public was strongly urged to check DOST-PAGASA’s official heat index forecasts regularly, and to immediately treat any signs of heat stress with proper rest, continuous hydration, and staying out of direct sunlight.

“Mainit man o maulan sa gitna ng pabago-bagong panahon, ang pinakamahalaga ay ang pagkakaroon ng tamang impormasyon mula sa mga opisyal na mapagkukunan. Iwasan natin ang fake news at ugaliing maging handa sa lahat ng hamon ng panahon—iyan ang isa sa pinakamabisang proteksyon para sa ating mga kababayan,” paggigiit ng ahensya.
Through Tekno PreSyensya, DOST Ilocos Region remains committed to delivering accurate, easy-to-understand weather updates to fight misinformation on digital platforms and keep communities safe through verified reports straight from DOST-PAGASA. (A***n Joy M. Soliman)

𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗮𝗱𝗼 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝘂𝗸𝗶𝗱𝗻𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘂𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀

Sugarcane farmers of the Bukidnon Farmers CARP Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BUKIFCARB MPC) in Don Carlos, Bukidnon continue to produce quality muscovado sugar as a source of livelihood and community pride, yet operational challenges and production bottlenecks can limit their efficiency and growth potential. To better understand these needs and identify appropriate interventions, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Bukidnon conducted a Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) on May 28, 2026, as part of its continuing efforts to support farmer-led enterprises through science, technology, and innovation.
On the same day, DOST Bukidnon also met with the Central Mindanao University–Mechanical Engineering Department to explore possible technical solutions and areas for collaboration that may help address the cooperative’s operational concerns. Through this initiative, potential opportunities for process improvement, enhanced productivity, and better product quality were discussed, laying the groundwork for future science and engineering-based interventions. By fostering collaboration among farmers, academic institutions, and government agencies, the activity supports the development of practical solutions that can help strengthen local enterprises, improve competitiveness, and create greater economic opportunities for sugarcane farming communities while addressing operational constraints that may affect long-term growth and sustainability.

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.

📰 CFO teams up with iPBA to provide free legal aid for Non-Resident Filipinos

𝗧𝗢𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗦 𝗔 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗣𝗘𝗧𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘 & 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗖𝗔𝗖𝗔𝗢 𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗬: 𝗗𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗫𝗜𝗜 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗔-𝗔𝗧𝗜 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗽 𝗔𝗴𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗼!

Under the visionary leadership of Regional Director Engr. Sammy P. Malawan, PhD, the Department of Science and Technology Region XII (DOST XII) Food Safety Team, in active collaboration with the Department of Agriculture through the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI-RTC XII), successfully conducted the "Training of Trainers on Cacao Post-Harvest Management, Processing, and Marketing" on May 19, 2026, at Belo Hall, ATI-RTC XII, San Felipe, Tantangan, South Cotabato.

The intensive training gathered key agricultural frontline workers and stakeholders from MAFAR BARMM, LGU-Midsayap, LGU-Kidapawan, LGU-Carmen, LGU-Kapalawan SGA BARMM, LGU-Makilala, LGU-Lake Sebu, LGU-Banisilan, LGU-Matalam, LGU-General Santos City, and LGU-Maasim, alongside local cacao farmers.

A major highlight of the activity was the comprehensive technical session led by Ms. Maritzu P. Salipada-Sinolinding, RCh, MFSM, the Food Safety Team Leader of DOST XII. Ms. Sinolinding mastered a critical deep-dive into the "Introduction to Food Safety and Sanitation" and "Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP)" tailored directly for cacao processing. Her discussion highlighted the science behind proper food handling, rigorous sanitation, and strict quality assurance parameters required to transition local cacao into safe, premium-grade, and export-ready commodities.

Through this collaborative "Training of Trainers" model championed by Dir. Malawan, DOST XII intends to create a powerful multiplier effect. By arming Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) with rigid scientific methodologies, they are fully empowered to cascade these modern, compliant processing practices directly to grassroots farming communities across the region.

This science-driven approach ensures that our local chocolate and cacao products don’t just capture markets locally but confidently meet world-class food safety regulations.

Under the visionary leadership of Regional Director Engr. Sammy P. Malawan, PhD, the Department of Science and Technology Region XII (DOST XII) Food Safety Team, in active collaboration with the Department of Agriculture through the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI-RTC XII), successfully conducted the "Training of Trainers on Cacao Post-Harvest Management, Processing, and Marketing" on May 19, 2026, at Belo Hall, ATI-RTC XII, San Felipe, Tantangan, South Cotabato.

The intensive training gathered key agricultural frontline workers and stakeholders from MAFAR BARMM, LGU-Midsayap, LGU-Kidapawan, LGU-Carmen, LGU-Kapalawan SGA BARMM, LGU-Makilala, LGU-Lake Sebu, LGU-Banisilan, LGU-Matalam, LGU-General Santos City, and LGU-Maasim, alongside local cacao farmers.

A major highlight of the activity was the
comprehensive technical session led by Ms. Maritzu P. Salipada-Sinolinding, RCh, MFSM, the Food Safety Team Leader of DOST XII. Ms. Sinolinding mastered a critical deep-dive into the "Introduction to Food Safety and Sanitation" and "Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP)" tailored directly for cacao processing. Her discussion highlighted the science behind proper food handling, rigorous sanitation, and strict quality assurance parameters required to transition local cacao into safe, premium-grade, and export-ready commodities.

Through this collaborative "Training of Trainers" model championed by Dir. Malawan, DOST XII intends to create a powerful multiplier effect. By arming Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) with rigid scientific methodologies, they are fully empowered to cascade these modern, compliant processing practices directly to grassroots farming communities across the region.

This science-driven approach ensures that our local chocolate and cacao products don’t just capture markets locally but confidently meet world-class food safety regulations.

DOST Ilocos Region Empowers TESDA RO1 Information Officers through Expert-Led Training on Photography, Photojournalism, Reels Making

The Department of Science and Technology Ilocos Region (DOST Ilocos Region), under the leadership of Regional Director Teresita A. Tabaog, served as resource speakers during the "Capturing Stories through the Lens: Basic Photography and Photojournalism Training” organized by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Regional Office No. 1 (TESDA RO1), headed by Regional Director Ramon Evan T. Ruiz, held on May 19–20, 2026 at the TESDA Regional Office I.
More than simply teaching participants how to take photos, the training emphasized the power of photography and storytelling in documenting realities, preserving moments, and communicating stories that matter.

As part of the second day of the workshop, Mr. Lemuel G. Castigo, Science Research Specialist I, and Karl Anthony M. Bugar, Project Technical Assistant II, shared their expertise in photography, visual storytelling, photojournalism, and mobile content creation through engaging discussions and hands-on activities.

The activity equipped participants with practical knowledge on camera handling, composition techniques, lighting principles, visual storytelling, ethical documentation, and mobile reels creation — essential skills in today’s fast-paced digital communication landscape.

Mr. Bugar first discussed the technical foundations of photography, including camera basics and functions, proper handling of camera settings, composition techniques, and lighting principles. He also highlighted the importance of understanding the Exposure Triangle — aperture, shutter speed, and ISO — as the heart of every well-crafted image.
“Ang Exposure Triangle ang pinaka-basic foundation ng photography. Mas mahalagang maintindihan ito dahil dito nagsisimula ang tamang pagkuha at pag-control ng bawat shot. At kung walang light, walang photo — ganoon lang kasimple ang photography,” Mr. Bugar explained.

Participants were introduced to the science behind capturing images and how proper control of light, timing, and composition can transform ordinary shots into compelling photographs.
Following the photography session, Mr. Castigo discussed the fundamentals of photojournalism and visual storytelling, emphasizing that powerful photographs are not only technically good — they should also tell meaningful stories.

“Anyone can take a photo. But not everyone can tell a story in one frame. Kaya mula ngayon, huwag lang tayong basta magpicture. Mag-document. Magkuwento at mag-capture ng mga moments na may meaning,” he shared.

He further discussed the importance of ethical storytelling, identifying impactful shots, caption writing using the Five Ws, proper documentation, and creating engaging reels using mobile phones to effectively communicate stories to the public.
The workshop became more dynamic as participants applied the concepts through practical shooting exercises, output presentations, and interactive critiquing sessions where creativity, technical skills, and storytelling were put into action behind every frame.

More than a technical training, the activity served as a reminder that photography is a powerful tool for communication and public service — one that can capture reality, amplify stories, and preserve moments that inspire communities.

Through initiatives like this, DOST Ilocos Region continues to strengthen partnerships with regional agencies by sharing knowledge and technical expertise in communication, media, and digital content development anchored on science, technology, and innovation. (Karl Antrhony M. Bugar and Lemuel G. Castigo)

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