KALIBO, Aklan — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) called for sustained research, technology adoption, and collaboration as the 2026 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) in Western Visayas concluded in Aklan.
The three-day event, which ran from Oct. 1 to 3, brought together researchers, businesses, local government officials, technology adopters, and community groups to showcase research and development projects and discuss their potential applications in the region.
Speaking at the closing ceremony at the ABL Sports Complex on Oct. 3, DOST assistant secretary for countryside development Maria Teresa Bien De Guzman said science and research initiatives should continue beyond conferences and exhibitions.
“Agham nga nagapadayon. Science that continues, innovation that does not stop after the event, and research that does not stop at publication. Technologies that do not remain prototypes and partnerships that continue long enough to make a real difference. Because three days of science that people can experience is inspiring. But science that continues for years is what changes communities,” De Guzman said.
Among the major activities was the “Regional RDI Consortia Conference: Consortia for Regional Excellence (CORE)”, held on Oct. 2 in Kalibo under the theme “Turning Knowledge into Action: Linking R&D Outputs with Regional Users and Partners.”
The conference showcased completed and emerging R&D projects in three areas: health; industry, energy, and emerging technology; and agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources.
DOST said the conference sought to connect researchers with potential users of technologies, including businesses, local governments, and communities, particularly in areas involving regional development, food security, and industrial competitiveness.
RSTW also featured a forum involving beneficiaries of DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) and Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program.
Filbake Food Corporation (FFC) discussed how it used technology assistance under SETUP to improve its baking operations, product development, information management, food safety, and internal systems.
Maria Mikhaella I. Dela Cruz, R&D consultant of FFC, said the company’s innovation efforts began with improving its baking processes and later expanded into other areas of the business.
Representatives of Barangay Baraclayan in Miagao, Iloilo, meanwhile, presented their experience under the CEST program.
Miagao Sangguniang Bayan member Marlou R. Niones said the program helped establish livelihood opportunities intended to provide longer-term benefits to the community.
