CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro (PIA) — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) nurtures local ingenuity in MIMAROPA region through the Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND) initiative.
The GRIND program transforms local communities by enhancing their traditional tools and practices through the advancements of science and technology.
During the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas, DOST MIMAROPA Regional Director Ma. Josefina P. Abilay said that one of the key aspects of the program is the Salik-Lakbay solution mapping and immersion, which identifies innovative practices of grassroots communities with potential for further enhancement through Science, Technology and Innovation (STI).
”So ‘yun po, meron silang mga ini-imbento para masagot ang kanilang mga pangangailangan [at] hinahanap natin ‘yun para ma-enhance pa through STI,” she said.
The initiative has been conducted in five communities across Mindoro, Palawan and Marinduque, where notable grassroot innovations are identified.
In Occidental Mindoro, there is a “Ramit” weaving by Hanunuo Mangyan and an improvised blower for metal forging.
In Oriental Mindoro, there is a Cotton Fiber Spinner (Burungan) and a Binding and Twining Machine developed by Rural Improvement Club Samahan ng Masisipag na Maybahay ng mga Magsasaka (RIC S4M).
In Marinduque, a notable innovation is the Arrowroot pancake or (Saludsud).
In Palawan, their remarkable grassroot innovations include the production of cashew wine and vinegar, mango-cider vinegar and fish sauce (patis) from their local fish– “Tigi.”
Abilay added that the GRIND program will focus on providing support to these communities through local innovations to ensure the sustainability of their livelihood practices.
”These local innovations will eventually be assisted by the DOST-MIMAROPA either through intellectual property protection, appropriate packaging, capability building or technology funding and adoption of technology by potential end-users,” she said.
The DOST has collaborated with 180 grassroots innovators and pentahelix stakeholders to further enhance the implementation of this program.
Abilay said this initiative highlights how GRIND strengthens grassroots solutions by fostering sustainable development and cultural preservation through science and technology. (AN-OJT/PIA MIMAROPA-Oriental Mindoro)
