Dr. Rowena Cristina Guevara (from right) of the DOST talks about the activities for the Regional Science and Technology Week celebration, with fellow DOST official Brenda Nazareth-Manzano, Melanie Ng of CCCI and Cebu Business Month 2017 overall chairman Charles Kenneth Co.
CDN PHOTO/JUNJIE MENDOZA
Carrying the theme “Science for the People,” the Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) kicked off yesterday at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
The three-day event will highlight the services and products of the country’s scientists, engineers and researchers, said DOST-7 Regional Director Edilberto Paradela in a press conference yesterday at the abovementioned venue.
Paradela said the RSTW aims to emphasize the importance of science and technology in bringing science to the people and in achieving sustainable and inclusive development.
The event, which is done in partnership with the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), will also showcase products from local and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The event will feature the Technology Transfer Day; Technology and Innovation Conference; Health Research and Innovation Conference; Regional Invention Contests and Exhibits and Exhibit on DOST-7 Programs, Projects, Services; and DOST-7 Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (Setup).
DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Rowena Guevara stressed that the DOST is offering technology assistance to MSMEs.
The rent-to-own program gives MSMEs the chance to purchase the needed equipment for their businesses, said Undersecretary for Regional Operations Brenda Nazareth-Manzano .
The Setup will showcase the use of science and technology in empowering MSMEs.
Melanie Ng, president of CCCI, emphasized that technology is an essential tool in bringing the businesses to the next level which is part of the chamber’s vision.
Joining the DOST and CCCI officials in the press briefing were Cebu Business Month 2017 overall chairman Charles Kenneth Co; Engr. Edgar Garcia, director of DOST’s Technology and Application and Promotion Institute; and Richard Burgos, director of DOST’s Science and Technology Information Institute.