BATANGAS CITY (PIA) – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization officially launched the Program PROPEL in National Capital Region (NCR) and South Luzon during the Zonal Conference in Batangas State University.
This initiative aims to enhance the innovation ecosystem and strengthen the capabilities of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and academic institutions in research and development, technology adoption, and entrepreneurial leadership.
DOST Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization Dr. Napoleon Juanillo highlighted that the program PROPEL is open to everyone — students, researchers, startups, MSMEs, and industry leaders who are looking to turn ideas into innovations and bring research to market.
“For the first time, we are practically inviting everyone to join. On the previous programs, most of our stakeholders came from universities and state colleges this time we’re saying let’s all be in this together whether you are from the university or not from the university, let’s do something, a science-based technology solutions that we can introduce to the world and hopefully market to the world,” Juanillo stated.
He added: “We’ve come up to some pathways in making this, but in the interest of engagement, discussion and soliciting ideas we want to open up the pathways for your ideas and so I introduce Propel to you, I would like to solicit ideas to you as to what others pathways can we think about.”
Program PROPEL is anchored on the Philippine Development Plan, 2023-2028, wherein it unifies DOST’s services, resources, and facilities into a seamless support platform that empowers researchers, technopreneurs, and MSMEs to accelerate product and business development.
More so, the launch in NCR and South Luzon is expected to boost economic activity by supporting industries such as manufacturing, agribusiness, and information technology. South Luzon, known for its strong industrial sector, stands to benefit from improved access to advanced technologies and research expertise.
The program will be implemented in partnership with local government units, state universities, and private sector stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and inclusive approach. Interested MSMEs and researchers are encouraged to apply for funding and training opportunities through the DOST regional offices.
Batangas State University President Dr. Tirso Ronquillo expressed his strong support for the initiative, emphasizing the university’s commitment to nurturing innovation, research, and industry partnerships.
“At Batangas State University, we recognize the critical role that higher education, research and innovation play in realizing this role. We are committed to working in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology and other stakeholders to drive forward the technologies at solutions needed to address the Philippines’ development priorities”, Dr Ronquillo said.
He added, “We believe that by working together with higher education institutions, especially state universities, the government and the private sector, we can align research with the needs of the market, ensuring that the technologies developed are not only innovative but also relevant to the industries that can use them.”
With PROPEL now in motion, DOST envisions a more resilient and competitive innovation landscape that will contribute significantly to the Philippines’ long-term economic development. (AM/PIA 4A)
