The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is preparing for the Fourth Industrial Revolution by strengthening its research and development initiatives in creating innovation ecosystems that will fuel inclusive growth.
A forum called “Harnessing STI Towards Industry 4.0” was held during the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW), on 17 to 21 July 2018, to address the need to maximise the use of science, technology and innovation (STI) particularly in the field of agriculture and industry.
According to the announcement made by the DOST, the forum aims to inform and educate the participants on the significance of STI and highlights the important role of various sectors in society in creating and sustaining innovation ecosystems.
Emphasis was given on different areas such as the significance of research and development and technology commercialisation. They also highlighted on the enormous potential gains and impacts on industry, and the adoption of locally-developed technologies.
Relevance of sector partnerships and the numerous challenges that the country faces towards the realisation of inclusive innovation and dynamic industrial revolution were also included.
Several speakers discussed relevant topics in line with the theme. Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program or SETUP 2.0, a flagship program of DOST, was created for entrepreneurs to encourage them to become more productive and competitive.
DOST Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña began his discussion on the unique features of SETUP 2.0 with an audio-visual presentation of the program. The objective of SETUP 2.0 was to promote smarter MSMEs especially in the regional areas.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Dr Rafaelita M. Aldaba tackled on Industry 4.0 and how the Philippines will adapt to the accompanied changes in policies, industry roadmaps, and gaps.
Topics pertaining to the different DOST programs like technology business incubation, the Science for Change Program, and other R&D programs were explained by DOST Undersecretary for R&D Dr Rowena Cristina L. Guevara.
Other speakers who shared their expertise were Dr Raul Destura of Manila HealthTek Inc.; Dr Isagani Padolina of Pascual Pharma Corporation; Dr Jonathan Nayga of the Isabela State University; Dr Arnulfo Malinis of Bicol University; Dr Gavino Trono of the University of the Philippines Diliman; Dr Corazon Macachor of Cebu Technological University; Dr Roberto Malaluan of Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology; and Mr George T. Barcelon of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry.