DOST says merging science, business key to boosting PH innovation

DAGUPAN CITY—The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is intensifying efforts to commercialize research, saying closer collaboration between scientists and entrepreneurs will help strengthen the country’s innovation market.

During a press conference at the 2026 Regional Science and Technology Week on Monday, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said innovation must go beyond laboratories and translate into products, services, and enterprises that benefit the public.

The statement followed in response to the country’s recent climb to 50th place at the 2025 Global Innovation Index, which officials view as an encouraging sign but one that must be matched by stronger industry adoption of locally developed technologies.

“The Global Innovation Index is not purely science. It is merging science and business,” Solidum said.

“The strategy is to bring the two together—science and business working hand in hand. That is why we are pushing for commercialization and entrepreneurship,” he added.

Solidum reiterated that the agency is advancing its “Three Horizons” strategy, noting that the country is now in the “harvest stage” of the first horizon, which focuses on boosting productivity among micro, small, and medium enterprises through technology adoption and process improvements.

He added that human resource development—through scholarships, research training, and upskilling—remains central to building a sustainable innovation ecosystem.

The DOST is also continuing to fund research through its Grants-in-Aid program, which supports projects in priority sectors such as artificial intelligence, agriculture, health, climate resilience, and national security.

Officials said stronger research and development efforts are needed to raise the market value of Filipino innovations, alongside initiatives such as the Innoventa program, which connects inventors with potential investors and industry partners.

“Strong R&D is not the opposite of commercialization; it is its foundation,” said DOST Undersecretary for Special Concerns Teodoro Gatchalian.

“Our challenge to scientists is to think about the broader world that will use their discoveries,” he added.—MCG, GMA Integrated News