Green Technologies Delight Visitors as DOST-NCR Regional Science Fair Opens at Amoranto Arena
Anchored on the theme “Bridging Science, Technology, and Green Economy Solutions in the Metro,” the Department of Science and Technology-National Capital Region (DOST-NCR) officially opened its 2024 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) at the Amoranto Arena in Quezon City. The event saw the attendance of top officials from DOST and the Quezon City government, emphasizing the synergy between science, technology, and sustainable development.
In his keynote address, DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. discussed a compelling vision of the future, urging a departure from the status quo to avoid systems collapse. He underscored the critical role of comprehensive technology in shaping a sustainable future, balancing economic development and industrial growth with environmental preservation. “The future is not predicted but created,” Dr. Solidum stressed, inspiring attendees to adopt a green lifestyle and prioritize sustainability in all endeavors.
Quezon City Mayor Maria Josefina “Joy” G. Belmonte showcased her administration’s science, technology, and innovation (STI)-based initiatives aimed at transforming Quezon City into a leading green and sustainable city in Metro Manila. Supporting this vision, Engr. Romelen T. Tresvalles affirmed DOST-NCR’s commitment to assisting Quezon City through its Smart and Sustainable Communities Program.
Meanwhile, DOST Undersecretary Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang called on participants to embrace green technologies and foster eco-friendly practices. He challenged them to “green our spaces, green our companies, green our communities, and live eco-conscious lifestyles.”
The opening day was marked by several significant milestones, including the launch of the DOST-NCR iHub, designed to foster collaboration and development in science and technology. It provides access to modern tools, capacity-building programs, and collaborative spaces, supporting startups, researchers, and entrepreneurs in developing innovative solutions. Another milestone is the turnover of the STI Plans of Quezon and Muntinlupa Cities, aimed to drive regional development by leveraging science and technology and mainstreaming these in the respective cities’ Comprehensive Development Plans.
DOST-NCR forges strategic Partnerships by signing three MOUs with TESDA RTC-NCR, Philippinw Information Agency- National Capital Region (PIA-NCR), Association of Information Officers in Metro Manila (AIMM), and The Filipinos World to enhance science, technology, and innovation (STI) in the region. The collaboration with PIA-NCR and AIMM focuses on strengthening science communication and disaster risk reduction management by capacitating information officers. The partnership with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Regional Training Center- National Capital Region (TESDA RTC-NCR ) aims to support OFWs transitioning to local entrepreneurship through research and technology-driven skills training. Meanwhile, the agreement with The Filipinos World seeks to expand the reach of Innovation for Filipinos Working Distantly from the Philippines (iFWD PH,) Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), and Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) programs, leveraging their media platform to inspire growth and community development.
The RSTW, which ran until October 31, 2024, offered visitors a dynamic lineup of activities, including exhibits of locally developed technologies, engaging contests, and the TekTienda Bazaar, where participants could purchase innovative products and unique pasalubong. This vibrant marketplace featured an impressive array of eco-friendly inventions, sustainable products, and locally produced goods, offering visitors a unique opportunity to support homegrown innovators while experiencing how science and technology seamlessly integrate into everyday life. Over the course of the event, exhibitors achieved remarkable success, generating total sales of 170,366.00 Php, with a total of 2,201 attendees witnessing this meaningful event.
By: Noel G. Calcetas, SCCU
