VALENZUELA CITY — The Department of Science and Technology–National Capital Region (DOST-NCR), in partnership with the City Government of Valenzuela, officially opened the 2026 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) in the National Capital Region on August 6, 2026, highlighting the role of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in creating safer, more resilient, sustainable, and people-centered communities.
Carrying the theme, “Siyensya, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan,” the three-day celebration showcases technologies, programs, and innovations aimed at addressing the needs of communities, local governments, businesses, academe, and other sectors. In his keynote message, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. emphasized anticipatory governance, stressing that the impact of STI should ultimately be measured by the lives made safer, better, and more secure through science-based solutions.
Among the key initiatives highlighted during the opening was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between DOST-NCR and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development–National Capital Region (DHSUD-NCR) for the Smart and Sustainable Communities Program, which seeks to support local governments in adopting science- and technology-based approaches to sustainable urban development. The City Government of Valenzuela also formally adopted GeoRiskPH through a partnership with DOST-NCR and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS-DOST), strengthening the use of hazard and risk information in planning, decision-making, and disaster preparedness.
The celebration likewise highlighted efforts to expand access to advanced manufacturing technologies through the establishment of Advanced Manufacturing Center Satellite Laboratories with DOST-MIRDC and partner academic institutions. Meanwhile, DOST’s support to local enterprises through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) was showcased through the experience of G-Start Builders Corporation, demonstrating how technology upgrading, technical assistance, and productivity interventions can improve business operations and competitiveness.
Also launched was the VSPARK Valenzuela Startup Development Program and iHub Valenzuela, providing students, young innovators, and aspiring startup founders with opportunities for mentorship, skills development, ideation, and product development. These initiatives reflect DOST-NCR’s continuing efforts to make STI more accessible and responsive to the needs of Filipinos.
Through the 2026 RSTW in the NCR, DOST-NCR reinforces the spirit of #AghamNaRamdam—bringing science, technology, and innovation closer to the people and translating them into practical solutions for stronger communities, better public services, and a more resilient and secure future.(Nelson Santos)
