By Niña Christelle Manuel Sumintac

In a move to promote innovative science and technology for the youth, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 1 held the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTIW) at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena, Laoag City on October 16-18, 2023.

Showcasing the latest innovations and breakthroughs, this year's RSTIW in the Ilocos Region is filled with techno-exhibits, S&T Fora, and techno demonstrations, all aimed at highlighting the products, services, and research studies that address the pressing concerns of different industries in the North. The conduct of the activity served as a platform to promote innovative outputs and strengthen development and sustainability efforts in the region.

In his message for the crowd consisting of students from MMSU and other various institutions in the region, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. underscored the importance of fostering a science-based culture in the country, saying, “These activities aim to promote and disseminate STI products and information that can help improve the quality of life of our people and communities and create livelihood opportunities for their growth”.

Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew J. Marcos Manotoc, in his video message during the opening ceremony, extended a warm welcome to attendees and guests from different local government units in the region, including students and DOST partner stakeholders.

Several notable figures graced the opening event, including DOST III Regional Director Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat, Ilocos Sur Governor Jeremias Crisologo Singson, Ilocos Norte Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos, Laoag City Mayor Michael Marcos Keon, MMSU President Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, and other high-ranking DOST, LGU and SUC Officials. 

Dr. Agrupis served as one of the science ambassadors of DOST.

One of the highlights of this three-day affair is the ceremony of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) and the university held in the Malacañang of the North last October 16. This partnership aimed to establish a framework for mutual cooperation and the exchange of knowledge in the textile and research and development sectors.

Through MMSU College of Teacher Education’s Technical-Vocational Livelihood Education Department, the MOA seeks DOST-PTRI's capacity to mentor, guide, and provide training opportunities to MMSU students in the Textile Research and Development On-the-Job Training (OJT) Program, which will expose them to real-world experiences and practical knowledge in the textile industry. 

The students are expected to complete 240 hours of training and adhere to the policies and rules set by the DOST-PTRI. They will also present their work output in the Textile Research Colloquium as part of the completion requirements.

Expressing delight over the new partnership, MMSU CTE dean, Dr. Aris Reynold Cajigal said, “This collaboration between MMSU and DOST-PTRI signifies a strong commitment to fostering academic-industry partnerships, providing students with practical experience, and advancing the textile industry in the Philippines. It's an encouraging step towards developing a workforce with the expertise and knowledge needed to thrive in the textile and fashion sectors”.

The MOA signing was attended by signatories Director Julius L. Leaño, Jr of DOST- PTRI, and Dr. Nathaniel Alibuyog, MMSU Vice President for Research, Development, and Innovation, duly representing MMSU President, Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis. It was witnessed by Dr. Aris Reynold Cajigal, Dr. Mark  Limon (TVLED Chair), Dr. Eva Jean Viernes (Chief, Internship Coordinating Office), Prof. Melchor Castro (Internship Coordinator), and the rest of the TVLEd faculty members.  

                          
The Opening Ceremony, the MOA signing, and other various events of 2023 RSTIW reflect the nation's commitment to harnessing the power of science and technology to build a brighter future as it aligns with DOST's four pillars under President Ferdinand Marcos’ administration - promotion of human well-being; wealth creation; wealth protection and sustainability

The event's theme, 'Siyensya, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan' (Science, Technology, and Innovation: Partners in a Strong, Prosperous, and Secure Future), underscores the pivotal role of science and technology in building a resilient and prosperous society.