To recognize the outstanding achievements of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Region 1, the Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST Region 1) conducted an on-site evaluation for the Calendar Year 2025 Search for the SETUP 4.0 Awards for MSMEs and the SETUP Praise Awards from July 7 to 10, 2025.
The regional evaluation mission, covering all four provinces of Region 1, was spearheaded by the Regional Program Management Office (RPMO) of DOST Region 1, led by Assistant Regional Director for Technical Operations Ms. Racquel M. Espiritu and Ms. Adelisa Florendo, SETUP Regional Coordinator for DOST Region 1, along with RPMO support staff.
The following SETUP-assisted firms were visited and evaluated during the on-site assessment: Bakers PH from Ilocos Norte; Malakas Farm Livelihood Development Enterprises, Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corporation from Pangasinan and Jaypee’s Bakeshop from La Union – nominated for the SETUP Praise Award; Costales Ricemill from Ilocos Sur nominated for the I-Ready Award (Most Industry 4.0 Ready);NIKS Printing Shop from Ilocos Sur, which was nominated for the ICON Award (Industry 4.0 Champion of Innovation). These enterprises showcased their technological upgrades and innovations made possible through the assistance of DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).
The evaluation process included site inspections, interviews with business owners and staff, and a thorough review of the enterprise’s innovation practices, technology adoption, productivity gains, and alignment with Industry 4.0 standards.
To ensure transparency and objectivity in the evaluation process, a panel of external evaluators was convened to join the on-site assessments. The panel was composed of Mr. Francis Gerald Amansec, Senior Economic Development Specialist; Dr. Arnelie G. Laquidan, Associate Professor V; Dr. Ismael Gurtiza, member of the Regional Technical Evaluation Committee (RTEC); Atty. Romina Boado-Cabrillos, Board Secretary VI; and Ms. Annalie L. Rosales, also a member of the RTEC. Their collective expertise contributed to a fair and comprehensive evaluation of the nominated SETUP-assisted firms.
The SETUP 4.0 Awards aim to highlight MSMEs that have demonstrated significant technological and operational improvements through DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). The SETUP Praise Awards, on the other hand, recognize firms that have shown exceptional commitment and performance in implementing their innovative strategies.
The awardees are carefully screened and selected by the panel of evaluators, and the official representatives of Region 1 will be recognized during the upcoming CEST and SETUP Summit in August 2025. This event will highlight the achievements of outstanding MSMEs and celebrate their contributions to innovation and regional development through science and technology. (Ms. Alyzza Jane N. Gapuz)
