Innovation Committee Supports S&T Plans, Innovation Centers, Techs in Metro Manila

The DOST-National Capital Region, together with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Regional Line Agencies, Local Government Units, and Metro Manila Consortia Representatives, conducted the 2022 Regional Research Development and Innovation Committee (RRDIC) General Assembly Meeting on 04 November 2022 at the MMDA Office in Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City.

As a special committee under the Regional Development Council, the RRDIC is tasked to ensure that science, technology, and innovation (STI)-based initiatives are aligned with the Regional Development Plan (RDP-NCR) and other socio-economic plans for the NCR. Thereafter, the RRDIC shall endorse support to initiatives that will address the gaps and needs in the Region.

The meeting proper was called to order by DOST-NCR Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Regional Director and RRDIC Chairperson, Engr. Romelen T. Tresvalles, who also provided background information about the DOST Directions for 2023-2028.

Topics presented, evaluated, and endorsed for support include the "PAGTANAW 2050" or Foresight 2050, SCALE-Technology Business Incubator Consortium in NCR, and Innovation Centers or Niche Centers in the Regions for R&D (NICERs) in the NCR under the Science for Change Program (S4CP).

Meanwhile, a TeknoLokal Session on DOST-funded technologies on e-governance, health, food security, environment management, and disaster risk reduction and management were also conducted as part of the RRDIC to encourage potential use of the Local Government Units. Respective proponents and researchers served as speakers during the TeknoLokal.

Technologies featured during the TeknoLokal Session were the eBarangayPH, CHARM: Charging in Minutes, Bioreactor and dual drum composter, Diagnostic Kits (Biotek-M and GenAmplify COVID-19 Test Kits), Universal Structural Health Evaluation and Recording (USHER) System, Vigormin, DATOS: Artificial Intelligence in Remote Sensing, Flood Early Warning System (FEWS), Contactless Apprehension for Traffic Violators on 24-Hour Basis and All-Vehicle Detection System (CATCH ALL), Upgraded Emergency Water Disinfection System (UPEDS), Hydroponics, and Simple Nutrient Addition Program (SNAP) Hydroponics, and Enriched Potting Preparation (EPP) Technology.

The RRDIC members expressed their support for the STI-based efforts and initiatives that will contribute to the attainment of a sustainable and robust Metro Manila Region.