The Department of Science and Technology on Wednesday (June 28) hailed four (4) outstanding research institutions for their exemplary implementation of research projects in 2022. 

In line with the 13th Founding Anniversary of the DOST – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), the research institutions received the Excellence in Project Implementation and Completion (EPIC) Awards for successfully finishing their projects with 100-percent budget utilization, on-time with no extensions, and meeting its targets, completely. 

DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. congratulated the awardees and expressed hope that others will follow suit in ensuring that government funds are fully utilized. 

“As we accord accolades to our project implementers for doing the job well, we now face the challenge of translating these research outputs to technologies that will help the country in wealth creation. We hope our researchers will take on an entrepreneurial mindset and bring these research outputs from their academic drawers to supermarket shelves,” he said. 

DOST Undersecretary for R&D Dr. Leah J. Buendia also thanked DOST-PCIEERD for recognizing the efforts of project leaders in ensuring that researches are done efficiently and effectively. 

“We look forward to more EPIC awardees in the future as we work hand-in-hand with our project leaders in ensuring an efficient and effective implementation,” she said. “DOST’s support to industry-academe partnerships in the country through the CRADLE program and PCIEERD-funded projects has been very evident in the EPIC awards. There was a clear need for innovation and DOST programs answered the needs of Filipino companies.”

DOST PCIEERD Executive Director Dr. Enrico C. Paringit regard the 2022 EPIC awardees to be exemplars to other project implementers in the country. 

“May the EPIC awardees inspire other researchers and research projects supported and funded by the Council to deliver excellent science. These projects to be recognized demonstrate that given the right resources, publicly funded initiatives could be carried on target, and on time. They are truly bright beacons for the science, technology and innovation community.” he said. 

The Caraga State University will be receiving two EPIC awards with both projects coming from the public institution. The two projects were also funded by the DOST- Collaborative R&D to Leverage the Economy (CRADLE) Program.

The CYANanobot: Miniaturized Boat-assisted Data Acquisition for Automated Cyanide Monitoring in Wastewater using Optical Nano-sensor, which is a DOST-CRADLE funded project, is used for the continuous and real-time monitoring of the cyanide concentration in the mining tailings pond. It is an automated system using a nanotechnology-enabled module called CYANanobot Sensor for a remotely controlled automated detection and monitoring of cyanide. The project was led by Dr. Alexander T. Demitillo of Caraga State University – Main (CSU) in partnership with Apex Mining Co. Inc. 

Also, another awardee from the CSU and a CRADLE project as well, is the Systematized Mining Operations using Automation and Real-Time Telematics Platform towards a Paradigm Shift in Surface Mines of Caraga Region or SMART Mines. The project team developed automation and telematics platforms that monitor and analyze the surface mines' operations. SMART Mines addresses the issues encountered by mining industries in data acquisition and inventory management which dictates how a mine would perform in terms of its profitability and efficiency operations’ flow. The project was also led by Dr. Alexander T. Demetillo in collaboration with Cagdianao Mining Corp.

Meanwhile, Haynayan AR: An Augmented Reality-Based Lesson for the Improvement of Learning Achievement in Cell Biology for the STEM Curriculum was developed to teach complex lessons for Grade 9 and 10 students in the field of science by using AR. The team was able to have a prototype testing of Haynayan AR application and assessed its effectiveness in terms of academic achievement of the students. Haynayan AR was implemented by DOST-Philippine Science High School (PSHS) led by Mr. Joel T. Bautista. 

Lastly, a project that transpired from the CRADLE Challenge 2020: Community-level Functionalization of Handwoven Cordillera and Mindoro Textiles for Creative Protective Clothing led by Mrs. Zailla Flores Payag of DOST – Philippine Textile Research Institute has successfully developed a community-based functionalized Philippine handwoven textile solutions for non-medical face masks. This project was in partnership with Custom Made Crafts Center Inc.

Through the CRADLE Program, Filipino companies, including small-to-medium enterprises, find value through innovation by partnering with universities or research and development institutes to solve their problems. The industry partner defines the problem to be solved and the academic institutions or R&D Institute undertakes the research. Funding amounts to P5 million, over a period of one to three years, is given to the academic institution or R&D institute. The industry partner contributes 20% to then project, in cash or in kind; and promises to adopt the research output.

All four projects were funded by the DOST Grants-in-Aid program.

The 2023 Women-Helping-Women: Innovative Social Enterprises (WHWise) National Innovation Challenge - The Search for Innovative Entrepreneurs in the Regions of the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), showcased the exceptional talent and innovation of women-led social enterprises from across the Philippines. The program aimed to recognize and support women entrepreneurs who are driving economic growth and sustainable development in their communities, June 23-27, Bellevue Hotel, Alabang.  

A total of 45 social entrepreneurs presented their stories and entrepreneurial journeys during the pitching sessions on June 23-24. These enterprises were carefully screened and nominated by the DOST Regional Offices from Regions I, Cordillera Administrative Region, National Capital Region, MIMAROPA, VIII, IX, X, XI, and CARAGA.  

During the event, Dr. Enrico C. Paringit, the Executive Director of DOST-PCIEERD, emphasized the importance of empowering women for both social justice and economic growth. He stated, "At DOST-PCIEERD, we believe that empowering women is not just an imperative for social justice, but also a driver of economic growth and sustainable development. Through our S&T interventions, including the WHWise Program, we strive to foster wealth creation, protect our natural resources, ensure human well-being, and promote sustainability." 

Ms. Russell Pili, Program Manager of the Women-Helping-Women: Innovating Social Enterprises Program of the DOST-PCIEERD, emphasized during the event that the regional search is the effort of the council in widening the reach of the WHWise Program to find women in the countryside worth supporting through the program. She stated that “That the first 15 women entrepreneurs supported by the WHWise was still short of the targets that we envisioned for the program which aims to support at least 10 women-led social enterprises yearly. The Regional Search is our way of expanding our search to more regions in the Philippines to look for women entrepreneurs that really need the help”. 

The national innovation challenge resulted in the selection of the top 20 women-led social enterprises that impressed the judges with their innovative ideas and impactful initiatives. These enterprises will be invited to submit proposals for the 2024 call, providing them with an opportunity to receive further support and funding for their ventures. 

The list of winners includes: 

• Leah F. Yu of Liana's Food Products Manufacturing from Region IX, focusing on expanding chocolate production and branding in Zamboanga del Sur. 
• Paula Nikole Q. Prado of Iconik Travel Services from MIMAROPA, aiming to showcase the world's best island through visual and culinary experiences. 
• Sharon Q. Abdon of Cnellej Souvenir Shop from MIMAROPA, transforming a native plant into functional products with intricate designs. 
• Teodula Forones of Mother Crucifix Caputo Academy Inc. from Region VIII, specializing in sustainable and responsible food production. 
• Romae Chanice B. Marquez of Hibla Textile Fabrics Wholesaling from the National Capital Region, promoting the cultural heritage of Philippine weaves and fabrics through immersive technology. 
• Vilma E. Solilap of Mavil's House of Mushrooms from Region XI, focusing on waste utilization and mushroom strain stability research. 
• Leah Hiangan of Todoc's Special Native Delicacies from Region VIII, showcasing the diverse culinary heritage and traditions of Abuyog, Leyte. 
• Donna Marie Lecaroz of Island Harvest Agriventures from MIMAROPA, empowering farmer families through an integrated model of agriculture, technology, and tourism. 
• Iloisa R. Diga of Northern Roots Session Groceries Inc. from the Cordillera Administrative Region, providing a platform for farmers to market their produce and ensure a sustainable food supply. 
• Nenita M. Tan of Bestfriend Goodies from Region X, manufacturing Pasalubong Treats, Ready-to-Eat Food Products, and Enhanced Nutrients. 
• Anita Ogrimen of the Basey Association for Native Industry Growth (BANIG) from Region VIII, empowering weavers through training, fair compensation, and market linkages. 
• Angela E. Duldulao-Regis of Dream Wide Awake Company from the National Capital Region, promoting transparency and honor in the beverage industry. 
• Liezel Salera-Manabat of Buoyancies Business Accelerated Inc. from Region XI, supporting the growth and resilience of enterprises. 
• Camille Rose D. Albarracin of Everything Green Trading and Consulting from the National Capital Region, empowering communities through sustainable agri-waste transformation. 
• Gay S. Pia of PHD Spicy Food Corporation from Caraga, producing spicy-healthy food products while supporting local farmers. 
• Marivic B. Aguirre of Aguimangan Agro-Eco Tourism Farm from the Cordillera Administrative Region, promoting Yapayao culture through fabrics and handicrafts. 
• Melda Tumaneng of Vintar Mango Stakeholders Association Inc. from Region I, sustaining mango production and improving the socio-economic well-being of farmers. 
• Anna Paula S. Chiong of Mama Nene's Homemade Delights from Region X, championing Lumad communities through pineapple food products. 
• Jane M. Vitorillo of Kusina University Online Tutorial Services from Region XI, providing food business owners with essential skills and management training. 
• Ana Maria R. Lao of J5 Lao Organic Fertilizer Producer from Region IX, sharing vermicast-making technology with farmer organizations and students. 

The success of the 2023 WHWise National Innovation Challenge, in partnership with Villgro Philippines, Bayan Innovation Group, and the Philippine Commission on Women, reflects the immense potential and creativity of women entrepreneurs in the Philippines. The selected winners have not only demonstrated their exceptional capabilities but have also presented innovative solutions that address societal challenges while promoting sustainability. As the top 20 winners move forward in their entrepreneurial journeys, they serve as an inspiration and catalyst for aspiring women entrepreneurs throughout the nation. 

(Cabuyao, Laguna)- With the aim of strengthening the research capacity of the Laguna Province, the Department of Science and Technology's Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) and the University of Cabuyao (UC) officially inaugurated the Data Analytics-Network Grid and Automation Laboratory (DANGAL) on May 26, 2023. 

The UC (PNC) DANGAL seeks to promote community partnerships and industry collaborations with a focus on immediate translation to research and practice, leveraging and diversifying DOST PCIEERD-funded resources, integration across the computing and engineering disciplines, and creating a competitive advantage in research and development on a global scale.

The Php 7 million laboratory will also concentrate on warehouse automation, which includes automated storage and retrieval systems, autonomous mobile robots, automatic guided vehicles, pick-to-light and put-to-light systems, voice picking and tasking, automated sortation systems, and goods-to-person (GTP) systems.

Dr. Enrico C. Paringit, Executive Director of DOST-PCIEERD, emphasized that there should be recognition of cutting-edge research, which requires state-of-the-art facilities and well-equipped laboratories since this is a part of the Institution Development Program (IDP) of the council. "It is important that we ensure that our institutions have the necessary resources to pursue innovative research and development”, said Paringit.

The UC (PNC) Dangal Research Laboratory also represents the institution's dedication to fostering the advancement of technology development and seizing the opportunities brought by Industry 4.0, according to Dr. Paringit. This lab will operate as a catalyst for cooperation, information exchange, and research improvements both inside and outside the confines of this university and in the Laguna Province's manufacturing sectors.

He also reminded the University of Cabuyao’s faculty and students to regard the UC Dangal Research Laboratory as more than a physical space filled with equipment and advanced technologies. "May this be a symbol of the aspirations and ambitions of the students and researchers and a space where ideas will flourish, where innovation will be nurtured, and where solutions to real-world challenges will be born”, narrated by Paringit.

UC (PNC) DANGAL’s Project Leader Engr. Mary Grace Beaño also motivated the UC teachers and students during her talk on the importance of the lab in terms of capacity building and its dedication to national development through research and development. The lab also aspires to increase the skills of the College of Computing and Engineering by promoting practical training for both staff and students and by enhancing the data analytics, network, grid, and automation processes between Laguna industrial firms and the university, mentioned by Engr. Beaño.

UC (PNC) DANGAL is the city's first laboratory supported by PCIEERD’s Institution Development Program (IDP). IDP is an existing program that strengthens the capability of institutions to undertake research in industry, energy and emerging technology fields. This program covers provision of support for the establishment and upgrading of research laboratories and facilities of academic and research institutions in the country. 

The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) urged government to consider the Philippine’s first locally made air quality monitoring device, Robust Optical Aerosol Monitor or ROAM as a prerequisite for the issuance of Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).

In its policy brief, DOST-PCIEERD pushed for a standard use of air quality monitoring devices (AQMDs), specifically ROAM, for industries that release high amounts of particulate matter into the air.

“Standardize the use of AQMDs, especially ROAM, in industries that primarily contribute to high concentration of particulate matter by adding it as a pre-requisite before obtaining an ECC from the DENR. In addition, the DENR may issue regulatory policies on the proper use, manufacture, fabrication, sale, importation, and exportation of aerosol monitors. Strategies to prevent counterfeit aerosol monitors from penetrating the Philippine market should also be strengthened,” the brief read. 

DOST PCIEERD Executive Director Dr. Enrico Paringit said the use of technologies such as ROAM in shaping public policy innovates governance as it makes government operations more efficient and effective.  

“We hope that government agencies will heed our call to have data-driven, research-based policies and we at DOST PCIEERD will help in carving out these standards and procedures,” he said. 

ROAM is a technology developed by researchers from the University of the Philippines-Diliman and used to monitor air quality and concentration of particulate matter (PM) in the air. ROAM uses laser illumination and a camera to obtain images of size-selected particles up to PM2.5 to measure PM concentration in the air. In addition, the device is also capable of reading temperature and humidity with at least a five (5) minute interval. 

“It is high time that relevant government agencies put focus and take actions on mitigating the environmental effects of our industries to the health of our citizens. We are certain that that ROAM would make a significant impact on the communities, especially those near high-risk areas,” Paringit said., 

Currently, the ROAM project of DOST-PCIEERD was able to locally fabricate 10 units of ROAM around the country. The device has also been employed and tested in a challenging environment in the municipalities of Agoncillo and Alfonso, Batangas for its commercialization, following the eruption of Taal Volcano, on June 12, 2021.

“As a leader and partner in enabling innovations in the Philippines, we enjoin our local government units to collaborate with our researchers in finding solutions in making our air cleaner through technologies brought about by research and development,” Dr. Paringit stated. 

Compared to other foreign aerosol monitors, ROAM costs significantly less in terms of production and maintenance as it is developed locally. The cost discrepancy does not affect the quality and efficiency compared with other foreign aerosol monitors, as verified by DENR-EMB.

DOST-PCIEERD encourages LGUs to capacitate their local industries to produce necessary materials to produce ROAM, adopt legal mechanisms and incorporate the use of ROAM in coal mine industries, as well as promoting and commercializing the use of this air monitoring device. In addition, DENR-EMB may pursue developing local certification and evaluation of aerosol monitors to not be dependent on foreign certifications.

Check the policy brief here: bit.ly/roampolicybrief