DOST opens innovation hub in Baguio

BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) opened its newest innovation hub in Baguio City on Friday.

The DOST iHub aims to become a technology-driven facility that encourages students, entrepreneurs, and people from all walks of life to pursue innovation, research, creativity, and collaboration.

The newest iHub, located just across SM Baguio and right beside the University of the Cordilleras, is one of the two iHubs established in Benguet.

DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., during the launching of the hub, stated that the hub was the ''missing link” that bridged gaps in the DOST’s ecosystem between science and business.

“So this is really for everyone, this is really an innovation hub that will start from below and we hope that this will be maximized by the people of Baguio City, Cordillera, because this is being established for you, not for DOST,” said Solidum.

He encouraged the public to pitch innovative ideas that could be eligible for funding under DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program, which can provide funding of up to P5 million.

There are 48 iHubs launched so far nationwide, and DOST aims to have one for every province by 2028.

AMCen

Also on Friday, the DOST launched the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen) in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) with the goal of using technology to bring innovations closer to key local industries.

“Based on the most recent data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, the region's manufacturing sector grew by only 1.7% and employed fewer than 6,000 workers—far behind other regions, but that's not because Cordillera lacks ideas or talent. It's because the right tools have not always been within reach. And that changes today,” Solidum said. 

“Even individuals can prototype, test, and build smarter… This center brings those tools closer to the people who need them most—our students, artisans, farmers, startups, and entrepreneurs. You no longer have to leave the region to learn, create, or scale a good idea,” he continued.

Solidum expressed the hope that the AMCen-CAR would become “a space for smart manufacturing, learning, collaboration, and sustainable design.”

He added that the AMCen-CAR will offer skills training for teachers to instruct students of senior high school, undergraduate, and graduate students in 3D printing.

“These efforts will strengthen the ability of teachers to deliver AM content effectively, ensuring that both faculty and students benefit from the programs,” he said.

“Manufacturing shouldn't mean waste. This center will promote cleaner production processes, smarter use of materials, and designs that respect and reflect cultural identity. This is about growing opportunities for farmers, engineers, entrepreneurs, and students alike. This center is built for Cordillera, shaped by its needs, and powered by its people,” he added.

AMCen also offers production of tools using metals, technical ceramics, specialty resins, high-performance polymers, composites, and concrete. —LDF/VBL, GMA Integrated News