The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has vowed to support Filipino inventors and innovators in the country.
DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña believes that there are many local inventors and innovators waiting to be discovered and rediscovered.
“We will continue to give importance to the role of our researchers and inventors by supporting their capabilities in producing intellectual properties, and commercializing their inventions to improve the lives of many Filipinos,” de la Peña said.
“A number of outstanding researchers and inventors have been produced by this country, and have been a beacon of hope in becoming game changers,” he added.
The DOST chief made the statement Tuesday, Aug. 11, during the launch of the Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits (RICE) in Region 4-B, a nationwide activity conducted in different regions to recognize Filipino inventors.
The RICE is one of the initiatives of the DOST’s Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI), in collaboration with its regional offices to showcase the ingenuity of Filipino inventors in developing high impact technologies.
According to de la Peña, technological innovations contribute to business development and market competitiveness in the local and global settings, as well as contribute to economic growth, and ease the lives of the people.
“This event signifies the importance of inventions and innovations in accelerating and sustaining our countries economic and social development,” he said.
“The department is one with all of you throughout your journey in promoting a science-based community that pushes the boundaries in attaining a self-sufficient and self-sustaining Philippines,” he added.