DOST-7 drives tech commercialization as HEIs tackle Intellectual Property gaps

 
CEBU CITY — A survey of higher education institutions (HEIs) in Central Visayas revealed a significant gap in institutional frameworks for innovation-- out of 13 colleges and universities surveyed, only five have an established Intellectual Property (IP) Policy, just two possess a Technology Transfer Protocol, and none have a Spinoff Policy.

To bridge these gaps and bolster the region’s research-to-market pipeline, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office VII gathered nine academic institutions for a three-day Intellectual Property Policy Training-Workshop, running from July 29 to 31, 2026, at the DOST Central Visayas Regional Office in Cebu City.

Organized under DOST-7’s TECHGROW Project (Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship Collaboration and Harmonization of Growing Regional Opportunities on Wealth Creation), the workshop equips participating universities and colleges with the tools to formulate clear rules on IP ownership, protection, management, technology transfer, commercialization, researcher incentives, and revenue sharing.

Subject matter experts from the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) were tapped to guide the participants through the policy-drafting process. The resource speakers included Adrian H. Sablan, Chief of the IP Management and Technology Transfer Division and Engr. Aldrex L. Aviso, Intellectual Property Rights Specialist.

Throughout the three-day activity, sessions address critical topics such as the Philippines’ ranking in the Global Innovation Index, institutional IP ownership models, disclosure procedures, portfolio valuation, legal frameworks for revenue distribution, and the core responsibilities of an IP Management Office.

Participants are actively drafting and refining their respective institutional IP policies, receiving hands-on feedback and direct consultation from IPOPHL specialists to ensure their draft policies align with their institutional mandates, research domains, and organizational structures.

Nine academic institutions participating in the capacity-building program represent both state-run and private higher education centers across the region including the University of the Philippines Cebu, Cebu Technological University, Bohol Island State University, Mandaue City College, Cebu Institute of Technology–University, University of San Carlos, University of Cebu, Cebu Doctors’ University and University of San Jose–Recoletos.

By establishing robust IP policies and tech transfer protocols, DOST Central Visayas and its academic partners aim to protect local research outputs, guarantee fair incentives for academic researchers, and accelerate the commercialization of campus-developed technologies for regional economic growth. (Photos: DOST-7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DOST-7 launches Regional AI Roadmap to boost Central Visayas LGUs, MSMEs

CEBU CITY-- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has announced a targeted strategy to establish regional Artificial Intelligence (AI) roadmaps aimed at empowering local government units (LGUs) and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Unveiled at the 2026 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel on July 13, the initiative, led by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr. and DOST-7 Regional Director Dr. Tristan Abando.

The strategy focuses on transitioning the Philippines toward a value-added, knowledge-based economy through localized tech adoption. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, DOST's regional and provincial offices will collaborate directly with local governments and businesses to design customized AI roadmaps.

Abando noted that while local computing power is still developing, provinces can launch their plans immediately and scale up using national digital infrastructure over time to tailor AI strategies for local needs.

                                       4 Pillars Supporting Regional AI Integration

Abando bared that localized projects can bypass hardware limits by tapping into the centralized computing power of the National AI Center for Research and Innovation for high-performance computing access.  DOST will deploy expert teams to offer one-on-one assessments for MSMEs, helping them integrate AI, robotics, and automation into daily operations.

DOST’s newly launched Geospatial Analytics Technology Solutions (GeoSTATS) program combines GIS and AI to help businesses and LGUs optimize logistics, identify raw materials, and map out target markets for data infrastructure.

Throughout the RSTW 2026, matchmaking events connect grassroots innovators with venture capitalists, corporate partners, and commercialization pathways for funding and networking.

"This is our opportunity to make science real, tangible, and impactful to the daily lives of ordinary Filipinos," Secretary Solidum shared. The regional push aligns with DOST's "Pre-Horizon Strategy," focusing on practical science to prepare Central Visayas for a highly resilient, digital future.

By putting data, computing resources, and advisory support within the reach of local stakeholders, DOST-7 is driving a coordinated, inclusive digital shift to ensure Central Visayas is prepared for a smarter, more resilient future, Solidum said. (Photos: MBCNewman)

DOST-7 Pushes Smart Tech, MSME support & knowledge economy at Regional S&T Week

CEBU CITY — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Region 7 pushed for Smart Technology, MSME support and knowledge economy at the Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW), July 13-15 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel with DOST secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., reaffirming its commitment to use science and technology to transform lives and communities.

“DOST’s goal is to build collaborative relationships with local government units, the private sector, and communities to drive inclusive economic growth,” Solidum said at the RSTW opening day.

Anchored on the Pre-Horizon Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Economic Development, DOST-7 is focusing on shifting to a knowledge economy and modernizing industries. Key initiatives include the establishment of Advanced Manufacturing Centers or "Smart Factories" that offer 3D printing for plastics, ceramics, metal, and concrete.

Innovators can submit designs for prototyping, with DOST-Bicutan’s facility cited as one of the most modern in ASEAN, Solidum bared.

To help MSMEs scale, DOST is rolling out a one-on-one Smart Factory approach. Teams of consultants will assist businesses in adopting AI, robotics, automation, and mechanization to boost productivity.

DOST is also leveraging data through its GeoSTATS Program, which combines geospatial analytics and AI to help MSMEs locate raw materials, production sites, and markets more efficiently.

On product quality, Sec. Solidum highlighted the role of the Industrial Technology Development Institute and the OneLab Network in helping businesses with testing, packaging, shelf life, and certification.

He also urged Congress to pass the National Measurement Institute Law to standardize calibration and ensure fair trade and public safety.

DOST is further connecting innovators to funding, corporate partnerships, and strategic opportunities through networking and commercialization events. Regions are also encouraged to develop their own AI roadmaps, with access to the National AI Center for Research and Innovation for higher computing needs.

"Our goal is simple, add value, scale up, and make sure no Filipino innovator is left behind," Sec. Solidum said. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

CVCHRD calls for Health R&D proposals, secure up to P1M for the project

CEBU CITY -- The Central Visayas Consortium for Health Research and Development (CVCHRD) is now accepting Health R&D proposals for the Regional Research Fund (RRF) initiative with a funding up to P1,000,000.00 and deadline of submission of applications is on May 4, 2026.

Are you an early-career researcher ready to make a significant impact? The Regional Research Fund (RRF) is now officially open for proposals. This is your chance to lead a project that addresses the health needs of Central Visayas while securing the funding needed to elevate your research career.

Essentially, the health research proposal is funded up to ₱1,000,000 with a duration of six to 12 months and must support national/regional health priorities. Contribute to the health development of our region. 

Review the full guidelines and submit your proposal through the link below: https://onedo.st/Call4HRDProposals.  For interested applicants and inquiries, visit cvchrd7@gmail.com or call | (032) 254-8269 loc. 1026. Also download the DOST-GIA Forms through this link: DOST-GIA Forms.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REDAS training to strengthen Cebu’s LGUs in disaster risk assessment capabilities

 CEBU CITY – The Cebu Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)- Region VII conducted the 5-day training on the Rapid Earthquake Damage Assessment System (REDAS) for the second batch of Cebu’s local government units (LGUs) on March 23-27 in Cebu City following the successful first batch training on March 9-13 this year.

DOST-7 regional director, Tristan Abando told this writer that the REDAS training is part of DOST’s Smart and Sustainable Communities program that aims to further strengthen the capabilities of all LGUs in disaster risk assessment and planning through the use of science-based tools.

“It is important to equip the local government units with science-based tools.  To build disaster-resilient communities starts with informed decision-making and the effective use of technologies like REDAS. Through lectures, hands-on exercises, and field activities, participants gained practical knowledge in hazard simulation, exposure database development, and impact assessment,” Abando said.

REDAS, a software developed by DOST-PHIVOLCS, generates hazard maps and estimates the potential impacts of hazards such as earthquakes, floods, severe wind, tsunami, and landslides. It is crucial for the LGUs to know how to use this tool, Abando added.

Meanwhile, DOST-7, Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) and the municipality of Alcantara, Cebu also convened on March 24 to initiate the Smart and Sustainable Alcantara Roadmap. 

The partnership builds on the strong foundation already established through the Alcantara “Communities with Access to Relevant and Equitable Primary Healthcare Services” (CARES) initiative which has spent the past year building local capacity and developing robust community health data.

Abando said that by harmonizing these existing efforts with DOST’s “SMART and Sustainable Cities and Communities” framework, the town aims to transition toward data-driven, tech-enabled governance.  “Based on the groundwork already completed, the roadmap identifies two critical starting points for the municipality-- Water Quality Testing Facility and Food and Nutrition Interventions.”

Alcantara town wants to establish a localized facility to ensure consistent access to safe, potable water, and deploy scientific solutions and DOST-developed technologies to combat malnutrition and bolster local food security. 

"We are taking the groundwork from Alcantara CARES and supercharging it with scientific interventions, such as knowledge in hazard simulation, exposure database development, and impact assessment,” the partners stated. (Photos: DOST-7)

 

 

 

DOST-7 gears up for scholarship exam on February 21-22

CEBU CITY – The Department of Science and Technology Regional Office VII (DOST-7) gears up for the upcoming DOST Undergraduate Scholarship Examinations scheduled this weekend, February 21–22 by conducting an orientation briefing on February 19 at the Elena O. Diola Memorial Hall, Sudlon, Lahug, Cebu City for 2026 scholarship test personnel.

DOST-7 regional director Tristan Abando said the examinations are administered across 25 test centers in Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor, requiring coordinated efforts from examination supervisors, room watchers, and technical support teams, with the testing center located at DOST-7, the Lahug S&T Complex, Sudlon, Cebu City.

Abando underscored the importance of preparedness and professionalism among test personnel as the agency welcome thousands of aspiring scholars aiming to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees.

The DOST Undergraduate Scholarships Program remains one of the agency’s flagship initiatives to nurture future scientists and innovators who will help drive national development.  DOST reports said that the 2025 DOST Scholarship Exam had 84,518 examinees nationwide with 215 testing centers across the country and about 10,907 qualifiers or 12.90 percent passing rate.

Eligible to take the exams are Grade 12 students (STEM or top 5% of non-STEM), graduates of senior high school, or those who haven't enrolled in college, with good moral character, good health, and no prior post-secondary units.  Exam coverage includes logical reasoning, English, Science, Mathematics, and Mechanical-Technical.

Total examinees for Central Visayas and Negros Island Regions are 8,763 with Cebu has 4,937; Bohol with 2,493; NegOr with 1,330 and Siquijor with three examinees.  There are 102,436 examinees nationwide this year. (Photos: DOST-7)

Experts suggest integrated engineering, nature-based solutions for flood control in PH

CEBU -- Experts from the Philippines, India, Thailand, and Germany gathered in Cebu for the WaterSecurePH Forum on November 27-28 to find suitable flood control measures and suggest solutions to water insecurity in the Philippines.

"We are happy to take part in the Water SecurePH Forum and Urban Water Security Transfer Workshop as a testament to our shared commitment to addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time: ensuring reliable and resilient water systems in a rapidly changing climate,” DOST secretary Renato Solidum said in his keynote message at the forum.

Solidum said that water resources are under increasing stress, the signs everywhere, droughts that compromise supply, floods that devastate communities, saltwater intrusion into our aquifers, and the mounting pressure of growing cities whose demand often outpaces available supply. These challenges affect not only daily living but also national competitiveness, economic growth, and environmental stability.  Water is not merely a sectoral concern; it is a crosscutting national priority.

Dr. Danilo Jaque, Managing Director of Hydronet Consultants Inc and a consultant to various local government in the country underscored the need for mayors, planners, engineers, and water providers to work together and adopt both structural and nature-based solutions to river and watershed management and flood control measures.

“There is a need for an Integrated River Water Management System that goes beyond just flood control to prevent floods. The focus should be on upstream sources of water, including the presence of trees and catchment areas to prevent overflow during heavy rainfall,” Jaque said in a media interview.

He noted that the inundation caused by Tino is attributed to a combination of factors, including rainfall amount, upstream prevention mechanisms, and river pathway deviations due to development.   A systemic and strategic plan is proposed for River Water Management, requiring the study of proposed strategies and approaches.

Jaque said that there is an urgent need to review past master plans due to potential changes in topography and features. Collaboration with experts and academic institutions is suggested to guide the development of a comprehensive approach, with the goal to prevent future incidents by implementing an Integrated River Water Management System for each major river system.

He highlighted the importance of having a water body, the idea of a single body to manage the river system is proposed, but careful study is needed to determine its effectiveness and management mechanisms.

“The need for a whole-of-systems approach to address river management challenges; a well-coordinated effort among different agencies is necessary for effective river management and hope for future coordination and the establishment of a unified body to manage river systems effectively,” Jaque told the media.

Jaque emphasized the importance of integrating engineering structures with nature-based solutions to preserve ecology and maintain hydrology including the relevance of lagoon retention basins and the balance between gray structures and green solutions, and the need for watershed management, reforestation, and proper farming practices to address flooding issues.

Need to revisit, review watershed management and flood mitigation plans

Jaque and the other speakers highlighted the necessity of updating rainfall intensity data for better flood control system design, including reforestation and proper farming practices; the importance of downstream protection easements and the role of engineers in calculating necessary river widths.

The importance of integrating non-structural measures like watershed management with structural solutions to prevent overloading of installed structures and the need for continuous monitoring and updating of flood control plans to consider new data and land use changes, Jaque mentioned as some the important assessment and training for the local government units for them to make proper recommendations.

 

“Cost and practicality of flood control measures is a staggering minimum figure of about P25M for structural measures alone, excluding the various aspects like reforestation and proper farming practices, thorough investigations of catchment areas and the rehabilitation of watersheds to minimize silt,” Jaque added.

Lastly, Jaque suggested at the importance of looking at data without bias to understand the true impact of developments on flood control. He mentioned the need for proper investigation of contributions from different developers within the catchment area and proper data analysis to make informed decisions about flood control measures.

He also discussed the need for feasibility studies to determine the viability of dam construction for water supply and flood control, considering the social aspects and new information about fault lines in any feasibility study and proper studies to ensure the safety and effectiveness of any proposed dam construction. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

Silliman Biology faculty is this year’s DOST- Balik Scientist Awardee

DUMAGUETE CITY – The Department of Science and Technology named Dr. Aye Mee F. Bartocillo, part-time Silliman University (SU) faculty member from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Biology Department, as this year’s Balik Scientist Awardee in a ceremony held at Hilton Manila on October 3, highlighting the Philippine Spotted Deer conservation efforts.

Bartocillo presented Silliman University’s Philippine Spotted Deer Genetic Diversity Project, emphasizing the impact of the BSP in strengthening research initiatives at the university. Her presentation underscored three key areas: Upgrading Research Facilities, Genetic Diversity and Conservation and Collaborative Conservation Efforts.

The cell and molecular laboratory of the Biology Department was renovated and equipped with world-class facilities through the support of DOST-PCAARRD’s Forestry and Environment Research Division (FERD) and Industry Development Division (IDD), with counterpart funding from Silliman University. The improved laboratory now serves as a hub for training and collaborative research.

Through the Philippine Spotted Deer Genetic Diversity Project, Bartocillo’s team aims to understand the genetic diversity of the endangered species. “Understanding genetic diversity enables us to breed wisely, guard against inbreeding, and strengthen individuals for reintroduction into the wild,” Bartocillo explained.

In partnership with the Talarak Foundation, West Visayas State University and Silliman University’s Center for Tropical Studies (CENTROP), the project translates laboratory findings into real-world conservation actions—reshaping conservation policies and exploring initiatives such as animal exchanges among breeding sites. “This is bigger than science. It is stewardship,” Bartocillo said.

“Our heartfelt cry is simple: to bring genomics to the provinces and promote science-based policies for wildlife conservation,” she added.

According to DOST, the Balik Scientist Award honors outstanding Filipino scientists, technologists, and experts who return to the Philippines to share their knowledge and expertise in advancing research, innovation, and national development.

With the theme “Balik Scientists in Action: Real-world Impact, Powered by Filipino Minds,” this year’s convention showcased the significant contributions of returning scientists across the Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (AANR), Health, and Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology sectors.

Bartocillo represented the AANR sector, joining two other distinguished Balik Scientists in highlighting the program’s role in scientific advancement and capacity building in the country.  The convention also recognized the contributions of Balik Scientist Awardees and host institution representatives from DOST-PCAARRD, DOST-PCHRD, and DOST-PCIEERD for their efforts in strengthening the country’s research landscape and promoting innovation across disciplines.

Since its establishment in 1974, the Balik Scientist Program has honored 664 awardees nationwide.  Bartocillo stands out as the sole Balik Scientist Awardee from Negros Oriental in 2025, representing both Silliman University and the province in the country’s continuing pursuit of science-driven development. (Photos: SU -Office of Media and Public Affairs)

DOST-7 pursues programs supports via science/tech, innovation & gender responsiveness

CEBU CITY – The Department of Science and Technology Region VII (DOST-7) continues to strengthen its various projects and programs supports through science, technology, innovation and gender responsiveness as the department prepares action plans and budgetary requirements for the region.

DOST-7 OIC-Regional Director Dr. Tristan Abando said that the region has already made significant strides in mainstreaming gender and development (GAD) across its interventions; from MSME technology upgrading initiatives, to community empowerment projects and support for local government units (LGUs) in science and technology adoption, gender perspectives have been intentionally integrated to ensure inclusivity and impact in various industries in the region.

“This activity is not just compliance. It is part of our continuing journey of creating a more inclusive, equitable, and just society through science, technology, and innovation,” Abando said.

Abando shared that DOST-7 through the 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 (𝐏𝐒𝐓𝐎)- 𝐂𝐞𝐛𝐮, engaged in a forward-looking meeting with 𝐆𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 on September 22, to focus on the growth of the Blue Economy and Blue Industry.

 

He bared that the Blue economy industry need to develop an innovative ecosystem, tapping the vast potential of the marine and coastal resources, not only in Cebu but across the Central Visayas region.

“The sustainability of the Blue economy must be nurtured, from logistics to marine technologies; from sustainable fisheries to emerging blue tech startups.  DOST-7 and Gothong Southern partnership seeks to transform our oceans into hubs of innovation and inclusive growth for families and communities to thrive,” Abando said.

With Gothong Southern’s expertise and experience in logistics and maritime industries and DOST’s science-driven programs and services, Abando noted that this collaboration would position Central Visayas as the catalyst for Blue Technology development, to empower communities and generate more jobs.

Similar collaborative developments ensured between DOST-7 and the local government unit of Dalaguete town, Cebu on September 20, to strengthen the agricultural commodities into value-added products to uplift the local economy, improve food supply chains and sustainable livelihood for the residents.

“With agriculture as the vital economic driver of Dalaguete town, it is a MUST to introduce STI-based interventions into the ecosystem to open new doors for farmers, entrepreneurs and local producers,” Abando said.

Abando added that the collaboration highlights the establishment of the Vegetable Food Innovation Center, a facility envisioned as a high-end post-harvest processing to ensure that crops are not only preserved but also transformed into market-ready products with higher economic value. (Photos: DOST7/Dayien Lizada)