DOST - Regional Operations

𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐒𝐓𝐈 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲

The Department of Science and Technology (Department of Science and Technology) strengthened its role as the country’s lead enabler of science, technology, and innovation (STI)-driven local development as it hosted the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Catbalogan City for a high-level benchmarking and innovation exchange at the DOST Main Building in Bicutan, Taguig City.

The engagement underscored DOST’s strategic direction of moving beyond technology provision toward deeper co-development with LGUs, where science-based tools, digital systems, and research outputs are actively translated into local governance solutions. Anchored on the Smart and Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP), the activity highlighted how DOST continues to build long-term innovation partnerships that strengthen resilience, efficiency, and inclusivity in local governments.

Catbalogan City, led by City Administrator Atty. Dennis Cosmod, was formally received by Assistant Secretary Engr. Maria Teresa B. De Guzman, Assistant Secretary for Countryside Development of DOST. In her welcome message, she emphasized that DOST’s role extends beyond assistance, positioning the Department as a strategic partner in enabling LGUs to design, adopt, and scale science-based systems that directly improve public service delivery and community outcomes.

The engagement placed strong emphasis on Catbalogan City’s sustained progress under the SSCP, with DOST recognizing the LGU as a model for local digital transformation in Eastern Visayas. The city’s innovation journey reflects a growing alignment with DOST’s vision of building smart communities powered by data, technology, and institutional collaboration.

A key focus of the discussion was Project TANAW, developed by the LGU in partnership with Samar State University. DOST highlighted the initiative as a strong example of how locally developed innovations can be elevated through science and engineering support. By integrating GIS, 3D modeling, and augmented reality, the system transforms complex spatial and hazard data into actionable visual tools that improve urban planning, infrastructure management, and disaster risk reduction at the community level.

The engagement also reaffirmed the importance of sustained exposure to DOST’s research and development ecosystem. The LGU explored potential collaborations across priority sectors, including climate-smart agriculture through DOST-SARAI, nutrition and public health interventions through the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, and education and human capital development through the Science Education Institute. These discussions highlighted DOST’s role in ensuring that innovation is not siloed but integrated across development sectors.

DOST further facilitated access to its research institutes, including the Philippine Textile Research Institute, reinforcing the Department’s mandate to accelerate technology transfer and ensure that publicly funded innovations are deployed where they matter most—within communities and local government systems.

Assistant Secretary De Guzman also highlighted Catbalogan City’s growing potential as a benchmark LGU under the SSCP, noting its strong portfolio of homegrown digital systems and its consistent participation in national innovation platforms such as iSCENE and the Philippine Smart and Sustainable Communities Awards. She emphasized DOST’s intention to scale successful LGU innovations by linking them with other local governments nationwide, enabling peer learning and replication.

The visit concluded with continued technical benchmarking activities at DOST research institutes, signaling a sustained partnership model where DOST and LGUs jointly shape, test, and scale science-based solutions for local governance and community development.

The engagement reflects DOST’s evolving approach: positioning science and technology not only as support tools, but as foundational drivers of how communities are planned, governed, and transformed.

Warm greetings and best wishes to 𝐃𝐫. 𝐍𝐚𝐨𝐦𝐢 𝐂𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞 𝐑. 𝐋𝐮𝐢𝐬 as you take on your new role as Regional Director of the 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 – 𝐍𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐬 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 (𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓-𝐍𝐈𝐑).

Your appointment reflects your years of dedicated service, exemplary leadership, and significant contributions to science, technology, and innovation. With your extensive experience and commitment to innovation-driven development, we are confident that DOST-NIR will continue to thrive under your guidance.

As you begin this new chapter of leadership, may you continue to inspire excellence, strengthen collaborations, and champion programs that create meaningful impact for communities and the region.

Wishing you good luck, continued success, and many fruitful accomplishments in your new role.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐫. 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐋𝐞𝐦𝐮𝐞𝐥 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐚!

Warmest congratulations on your appointment as Regional Director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Northern Mindanao.

Your appointment reflects strong confidence in your leadership, vision, and commitment to public service. In this new role, may you continue to advance science, technology, and innovation initiatives that drive regional growth, strengthen collaboration, and support inclusive and sustainable development.

We are confident that under your leadership, DOST Northern Mindanao will achieve greater milestones in research, innovation, and service delivery for the benefit of the communities it serves.
Wishing you success, strength, and fulfillment as you take on this important responsibility.

Congratulations and best wishes on this well-deserved appointment!

𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐰𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊𝐒 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

The Department of Science and Technology underscored its continued commitment to strengthening science education and digital inclusion through a Nationwide STARBOOKS Program Review held today, April 28, 2026. The activity brought together officials, representatives, and focal persons from the DOST Regional Offices and the Science and Technology Information Institute to assess implementation performance and strengthen coordination in the delivery of the program across the country.

The review served as a strategic mechanism to evaluate the overall implementation of the STARBOOKS Program, with emphasis on operational performance across regions, field-level implementation gaps, and opportunities to further align the program with the Department’s priorities on inclusive innovation, strengthened STEM education, and expanded technology transfer at the grassroots level.

STARBOOKS, developed by Science and Technology Information Institute, is the country’s first standalone digital science library designed to function without internet connectivity. It provides free offline access to a wide range of curated science, technology, engineering, mathematics, innovation, and livelihood resources, enabling learners and communities in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas to benefit from quality educational content and scientific information.

A key focus of the discussion was the pivotal role of the DOST Regional Offices, which were recognized as the primary implementers and operational backbone of the STARBOOKS Program nationwide. The review underscored how the sustained expansion and success of the program are driven by the Regions’ consistent efforts in identifying and validating beneficiary institutions, deploying and installing STARBOOKS units, and conducting training for focal persons and end-users. These are further supported by continuous technical assistance, post-deployment monitoring, and close coordination with local government units, schools, libraries, and partner institutions to ensure effective implementation and long-term sustainability at the local level.

The program review also provided a venue for harmonizing implementation approaches and strengthening systems across all regions. Discussions focused on improving deployment and monitoring processes, expanding coverage to additional beneficiary institutions, enhancing content updates and system improvements, strengthening capacity-building initiatives, and improving data management and impact assessment mechanisms to better capture program outcomes and effectiveness.

Regional representatives shared implementation experiences and field insights that highlighted the program’s impact on classroom instruction, literacy and reading initiatives, science education activities, community learning programs, and local innovation efforts. These accounts underscored STARBOOKS as a practical and accessible learning platform that helps bridge educational gaps in underserved communities.

As part of its mandate to advance inclusive development through science, technology, and innovation, the DOST remains committed to ensuring that STARBOOKS continues to bridge the digital divide, empower learners, and foster a stronger culture of scientific literacy across the country.

𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐲𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬’ 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) convened its 2026 First Quarter Regional Directors’ Meeting on 31 March 2026 via Zoom, bringing together all Regional Directors nationwide to strengthen coordination, align priorities, and accelerate the delivery of science, technology, and innovation (STI) programs across regions.

Chaired by Undersecretary Sancho A. Mabborang, the meeting served as a strategic platform to ensure that DOST’s flagship programs and emerging initiatives directly contribute to inclusive growth, community resilience, and national competitiveness.

A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation of a Filipino developed rice mill innovation by inventors Jefferson Chong and Engr. Ronald Pagsanghan. The technology showcased the potential of locally designed solutions to enhance agricultural productivity, improve milling efficiency, and reduce post harvest losses, contributing to stronger food security and rural economic development.

All Regional Directors were tasked to carefully assess the applicability and effectiveness of the innovation within their respective regions, ensuring that its potential adoption is responsive to local needs, conditions, and agricultural priorities.

The strengthening of partnerships with the Philippine Foundation for Science and Technology (PFST) was also emphasized as a key strategy to expand STI awareness and deepen STEM education among the youth. This collaboration directly supports DOST’s long term goal of building a robust pipeline of future scientists, engineers, and innovators who will sustain the country’s development.

In line with its mandate on disaster risk reduction, DOST highlighted the Handa Pilipinas Program, presented by Ms. Rachelle Anne L. Miranda. The initiative integrates innovations into climate and disaster resilience efforts, enabling communities to better anticipate, prepare for, and respond to natural hazards. This program strengthens DOST’s contribution to safeguarding lives, infrastructure, and economic activities in vulnerable areas.

The meeting also featured updates from the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP), which plays a vital role in advancing research and fostering collaboration among scientists and researchers. These efforts contribute to evidence based policymaking and the development of innovative solutions to national challenges.

Another key initiative discussed was the Device as a Service DaaS program, presented as part of DOST’s digital transformation agenda. By improving access to technological tools and infrastructure, DaaS enhances the operational efficiency of regional offices and enables faster, data driven decision making, strengthening overall service delivery.

Critical program integration efforts were likewise tackled, including the alignment of the Smart and Sustainable Communities Program with SETUP and START UP initiatives. This integration ensures that technology transfer, enterprise development, and innovation support are delivered in a more cohesive and impactful manner, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Updates on BAYANai implementation, PSTD performance criteria, and preparations for the 2026 National Science and Technology Week further reinforced DOST’s commitment to standardizing excellence, promoting innovation culture, and showcasing Filipino scientific achievements on a national scale.

The meeting also explored forward looking initiatives, including the alignment of priority courses under the DOST SEI Undergraduate Scholarship Program to match evolving industry demands. In addition, a proposed collaboration with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) for the UN World Tsunami Awareness Day highlights DOST’s proactive role in promoting public awareness and preparedness for natural hazards.

Through this quarterly convergence, DOST reaffirmed its commitment to translating programs and policies into tangible outcomes, empowering communities, supporting industries, and strengthening the country’s resilience. The discussions and initiatives presented during the meeting collectively demonstrate how DOST continues to drive innovation led development and deliver meaningful impact to the Filipino people.

Warmest congratulations to 𝐃𝐫. 𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐨 “𝐀𝐢𝐝𝐨” 𝐍. 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐝𝐚 on your appointment as the 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 – 𝐌𝐈𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐀 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧.

Your appointment to this significant leadership role reflects your dedication, expertise, and steadfast commitment to advancing science, technology, and innovation for inclusive regional development. With your extensive experience and strong track record in public service, you are well-positioned to lead DOST MIMAROPA in strengthening partnerships, enhancing program delivery, and bringing science-based solutions closer to communities across the region.

We are confident that under your leadership, DOST MIMAROPA will continue to champion innovation, support local industries, empower communities, and contribute to sustainable and resilient growth in the provinces of Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan. Your vision and guidance will surely inspire collaboration and drive meaningful initiatives that will benefit the region and the nation as a whole.

May this new role bring you continued success as you steer the region toward greater achievements in science, technology, and innovation. We look forward to your leadership and to working together in advancing DOST’s mission.

Once again, congratulations on your well-deserved appointment, and we wish you all the best in this new chapter of service.

𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐇𝐮𝐛, 𝐒𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐈 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐮𝐛, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Cagayan, officially launched the Cagayan Innovation Hub, the SARAI Provincial Hub, and the SciTech Philippines Awards today, March 16, 2026. Anchored on Project SARAI, this initiative reflects DOST’s commitment to advancing innovation, data-driven governance, and climate-resilient agriculture, positioning Cagayan as a model for smart, sustainable development.

The Philippines faces rapid technological transformation, rising economic competition, and increasing climate risks. Each year, around twenty tropical cyclones strike the country, with over sixty percent of disaster-related economic losses occurring in agriculture. In Cagayan, where agriculture remains a key economic driver, these challenges directly impact farmers’ livelihoods, rural development, and food security. Recognizing these risks, DOST is supporting the province by leveraging science and technology to strengthen agricultural productivity, resilience, and market access—critical components of both regional and national development.

The Cagayan Innovation Hub complex integrates three interlinked components designed to address these pressing challenges. The Cagayan Innovation Hub provides a platform for enterprise incubation, micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) modernization, and collaborative innovation. By connecting industry, academe, and government, DOST facilitates mentoring, technical support, and digital transformation opportunities for entrepreneurs. These efforts empower rural industries, foster innovation-driven enterprises, and create new pathways for value generation across the province.

Complementing this, the Cagayan Decision Intelligence Center equips provincial decision-makers with real-time analytics and integrated data systems. This enables faster, evidence-based decision-making, efficient resource allocation, and responsive governance. Through this facility, DOST strengthens local institutions’ capacity to translate data into actionable insights, ensuring that policies are guided by science rather than assumptions.

The SARAI Regional Hub bridges the gap between science and the fields. Utilizing satellite data, climate modeling, crop forecasting, and suitability analysis, the hub provides localized advisories to farmers, helping them make informed decisions on crop selection, planting schedules, and risk management. By delivering timely, science-based guidance, DOST directly enhances agricultural productivity and climate resilience, protecting livelihoods and securing food systems.

Together, these three components operationalize the vision of ONE Cagayan D.R.I.V.E.S. — Development of Rural Industries through Value Chain Enhancement and Sustainability. The initiative exemplifies a replicable Smart Province model, demonstrating how integrated science, technology, and innovation can drive local development. DOST’s leadership ensures that farmers, MSMEs, and local institutions receive structured support, enabling coordinated planning, innovation-led growth, and sustainable solutions that benefit the broader community.

The launch represents a future where decisions are guided by data, innovation empowers communities, and science directly improves lives. Through the Cagayan Innovation Hub and SARAI Provincial Hub, DOST continues to transform regional development by providing the tools, expertise, and knowledge necessary for Cagayan to become a Smart, Sustainable, and Innovation-Driven Province, a national benchmark for harnessing science and technology to drive inclusive growth.

𝐊𝐂𝐏𝐅𝐈, 𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐔𝐆𝐔𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝟐𝟏𝐒𝐓 𝐂𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐘 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐄𝐍𝐕𝐈𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐀𝐓 𝐉𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐄 𝐂𝐄𝐂𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐀 𝐌𝐔𝐍̃𝐎𝐙 𝐏𝐀𝐋𝐌𝐀 𝐒𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐎𝐑 𝐇𝐈𝐆𝐇 𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐎𝐋

Quezon City, 09 March 2026 — The Knights of Columbus Philippines Foundation, Inc. (KCPFI) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) formally launched the 21st Century Learning Environment Model (21st CLEM) classroom at Justice Cecilia Muñoz Palma Senior High School in Payatas, Quezon City, marking a milestone in advancing science and technology education in public schools. This initiative highlights the ongoing collaboration between KCPFI and DOST to create innovative learning spaces that enhance the country’s K to 12 education program.

The inauguration was led by KCPFI President Bro. Joven P. Dy, KCPFI Vice Chairman Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr., DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, and DOST-NCR Regional Director Engr. Romelen T. Tresvalles. School Principal Mr. Edwin M. Abengoza also welcomed the event, alongside DOST-SEI Director Dr. Jayeel S. Cornelio and DepEd-NCR Director Jocelyn Dr. Andaya, who expressed their support for the project.

The 21st CLEM initiative, implemented in partnership with KCPFI, DOST-NCR, and DOST-SEI, transforms traditional classrooms into dynamic, technology-enabled learning environments. Each classroom is equipped with cutting-edge tools, including 3D printers, robotics kits, virtual reality devices, and interactive learning boards. These technologies foster experiential and collaborative learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), enabling teachers to deliver engaging lessons while providing students with hands-on exposure to emerging technologies.

As a DOST-certified Science and Technology Foundation, KCPFI has consistently championed programs that empower marginalized communities through education, charitable initiatives, and community development. By supporting the 21st CLEM project, KCPFI aims to bridge the digital and educational divide, ensuring students have access to modern learning technologies that prepare them for the future.

The establishment of the 21st CLEM classroom in Payatas represents a significant step toward expanding innovative education opportunities for public school learners. Through sustained partnerships with DOST, DepEd, and other stakeholders, KCPFI continues to equip Filipino students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to thrive in the 21st century.

𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞 𝐋𝐚 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝟒.𝟎 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and De La Salle University (DLSU) formally institutionalized their strategic collaboration to accelerate the Philippines’ science, technology, and innovation through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Industry 4.0 Training and Certification Program.

The initiative establishes a sustained capacity-building framework for DOST Regional Offices and Provincial Science and Technology Offices (PSTOs), reinforcing the country’s transition toward a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.

The MOU was signed by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and DLSU President Br. Bernard S. Oca, FSC, with key academic and government officials joining as signatories and witnesses to the landmark collaboration. Representing DOST was Sancho A. Mabborang, Undersecretary for Regional Operations, while DLSU’s academic leadership was represented by Rodiel C. Ferrer, Dean of the School of Lifelong Learning; Ethel Chua Joy Ong, Dean of the College of Computer Studies; and Kathleen C. Aviso, Dean of the Gokongwei College of Engineering. Their collective participation underscores the depth of institutional commitment behind the program.

The agreement operationalizes a coordinated national strategy to strengthen technical competencies in areas central to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, including artificial intelligence, data analytics, cyber-physical systems, automation, smart manufacturing, digital governance, and innovation management.

More than a training engagement, the program serves as a systems-level intervention designed to embed Industry 4.0 capability within government structures across all regions.

At the regional level, the initiative enhances the ability of DOST offices to guide industries in digital transformation, develop technology-driven roadmaps aligned with local development priorities, and modernize priority sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, energy, health technologies, and disaster risk reduction. By equipping regional personnel with advanced expertise, the program strengthens local innovation ecosystems and positions regions to improve productivity, resilience, and competitiveness in global value chains.

For provinces, the impact is direct and community-centered. PSTOs, as frontline implementers of science and technology programs, gain deeper technical proficiency in evaluating emerging technologies, supporting productivity enhancement among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and accelerating technology transfer and commercialization initiatives. The integration of Industry 4.0 principles into provincial operations improves service efficiency, supports data-informed decision-making, and expands economic opportunities at the grassroots level.

Implementation is being conducted in progressive batches to ensure broad national participation. The first batch was held from February 2 to 7, 2026, followed by the second batch from February 23 to 28, 2026. A third batch is scheduled for March 2026, further expanding the network of Industry 4.0-certified personnel across regions and provinces.

Through this institutionalized partnership, DOST and DLSU affirm a shared commitment to building a technologically empowered public sector capable of driving inclusive growth and long-term national competitiveness. By strengthening Industry 4.0 capability at the regional and provincial levels, the collaboration reinforces the Philippines’ innovation backbone and advances a resilient, future-ready nation anchored in science, technology, and strategic human capital development.