NAGA CITY -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office V is all set for their upcoming 3-day Regional Science and Technology Week scheduled to kick off from October 23 to 25 at the Sorsogon Provincial Gymnasium.

The 3-day event will showcase diverse innovations and will feature pioneering technologies, all under the guidance of DOST Regional Director Rommel R. Serrano.

Under the theme “Agham at Ekonomiya: Kabalikat sa Maunlad at Matatag na Kinabukasan,” the event aims to ignite inspiration and impart valuable insights to the attendees, primarily aspiring young scientists, students, and other stakeholders who share a common vision with the organizers.

The event’s sub-theme, “TECH-UP Bicol, Harnessing the Power of STI for Regional Development,” endeavors to improve the quality of life of every Filipino, specifically those in the regional outskirts. Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) enables local communities to keep up with technological innovations.

One of the highlights of the confab on its first day, Oct. 23, is the Stakeholders’ commitment signing featuring two of DOST’s leading programs; the Smart and Sustainable Communities program and the DOST-CRADLE- Natural-dye-based textile plants for hand-painting of abaca-based products.

DOST will ink a commitment with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) -V, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) -V, local government units, State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) for the establishment of Smart and Sustainable Communities utilizing the STI.  

The DOST’s cradle program commitment signing will be spearheaded by DOST- Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) Director Dr. Julius L. Leaño, Jr. and Shelmed Cottage Treasurer Mary Mediatrix V. Villanueva.   The CRADLE program ensures that local companies, in partnership with the academe, reach technological advancements while safeguarding the ecosystem.

Sorsogon Governor Jose Edwin B. Hamor is set to welcome the participants.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solium Jr. will serve as the keynote speaker.  

The 3-day conference will also showcase various information sessions on Accelerated Advancements through R&D Translation, Technology landscape from research to commercialization, and iWOMEN BizTalk which will focus on women's economic empowerment through Innovations and data analytics among others.

Before the conference wraps up on October 25, more interesting topics will be introduced.

These will encompass parallel sessions covering DOST-PTRI RO5 innovation dialogue, a forum dedicated to Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Climate Change Adaptation (DRRM/CCA) led by DOST Camarines Sur Provincial Head Patrocinio Felizmenio, and a showcase of exhibits highlighting PAG ASA's weather forecasting facilities and instruments. Juban, Sorsogon Synoptic Station Chief Meteorological Officer Engr. Ryan R. Orogo will be the lead discussant.

PHIVOLCS Resident Volcanologist Dr. Paul Karson B. Alanis will also give updates and future plans for monitoring the Bulusan Volcano.  The pinnacle of the event will be the recognition ceremony honoring participants, stakeholders, and partners who have demonstrated outstanding efforts in championing DOST's programs and initiatives. (PIA 5) 

Cover photo credits : BCelevante/DOST CamSur)