The National Science Technology and Innovation Week (NSTW) of the
Department of Science and Technology (DOST) was held in Iloilo City from
Nov. 22-26.
The DOST aims to bring several of the latest innovative products and
services closer to local government units and industries, assisting their
respective operations and product development.
Richard Burgos, DOST director of the Science and Technology Information
Institute (STII) was the event’s host. “The Science, Technology and
Innovation (STI) have been the strong forces behind our progress as a
society,” he said, adding that it was embarking on a journey to the
celebration of remarkable contributions and accomplishments to nation
building.
DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum, said that the holding of the celebration
in the region “is a clear manifestation of our commitment to bring science
closer to the people as one DOST for you.” From now on, NSTW will be held
in different cities every year “so that science will be closer to the people and
to the community,” he added.
In the event, interactive exhibits were presented, technical sessions, lectures
and workshops on diverse science and technology topics were conducted.
On the other hand, Sen. Loren Legarda, who was the keynote speaker and
whose message was read by Dr. Leah Buendia, undersecretary for research
and development. “In the fast changing role, it is crucial that we recognize
the important role of science, technology and innovation in steering our path
toward a sustainable and equitable future,” the senator said.
It’s through STI, she said that solutions can be found. “It is through this
framework (STI) that cities can be better planned, our farmers and fisherfolk
to be more adequately supported and our people can live a healthier, safer
environment,” Legarda stressed in line with NSTW theme “Creating and
protecting wealth for a sustainable blue economy.”
The Blue Economy refers to a sustainable use of ocean resources for
economic growth, improved livelihoods and jobs, while preserving the health
of marine and coastal ecosystem. It encompasses many activities that
impact all of us.
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas said that for the first time “Iloilo serves as a
venue for NSTW. This year’s celebration is a timely celebration for Iloilo as
we strive to be a premier innovation hub in the country.”
“We will showcase different research and technology outputs and inform
stakeholders and viewers about this week’s event and the available
technologies. These can be adapted by various sectors of society, from
MSMEs and local government units to private individuals,” said Regional
Director, Rowen Gelonga of DOST VI. (Nelson Santos-PAPI)
