CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)--In line with mobilizing the country’s innovation efforts, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-10 participated in the three-day innovation event and exhibition, April 20–22, at SM City Cagayan de Oro. 

With the theme "Strengthening the Innovation Ecosystem in Region 10," DOST intends to address three thematic areas that are propelling the innovation ecosystem towards development: innovation impact, interactive exhibits, and investment opportunities. 

"In this three-day event, the organizing committee has really invited people and organizations that can support the capital requirements of our MSMEs. So again, we don’t have any option at all but to innovate para mabuhay atong mga negosyo and para mabuhay atong economy (so that we can keep our businesses and economy alive)," said DOST-10 OIC Engr. Romela N. Ratilla. 

Republic Act 11293 or the Philippine Innovation Act, which was signed by former president Rodrigo C. Duterte on April 17, 2019, promotes programs and initiatives towards science and technology for the nation's sole progress and development. 

During the expo, DOST-10 provided interactive displays for guests and visitors, such as display booths from MSMEs and a mobile planetarium, which consisted of film showings, educational lectures on scientific discoveries, and telescoping sessions. 

DOST-10 also reiterated its assistance with technology-business incubation for MSMEs in the region in order for them to enhance the quality of their goods and services, compete in the global market, and satisfy the demands of consumers. 

Convened by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)-10, the event was conducted in collaboration with the DOST-10, Department of Trade and Industry-10, and the Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation (Oro Chamber), with the goal of stimulating innovation and finding solutions to social and economic concerns for long-term growth. (GKND/PIA-10)