Makati City, Philippines – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) have joined forces to usher in a new era of innovation and enterprise in the Philippines, through the DOST-PCCI Conference, “Islands of Venture: Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) as Levers for Enterprise Development.”. A historic conference and planning workshop held at Makati Diamond Residences on September 6 and 13 brought together industry leaders, scientists, and government and private officials to chart a course for sustainable economic growth driven by science, technology, and innovation.
Led by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and PCCI President Consul Enunina Mangio, the event aimed to create a strategic framework for collaboration that would deliver tangible STI-based solutions to support small to medium enterprises and industries. Secretary Solidum emphasized the importance of this technology business alliance, stating, “Our goal is to drive our stakeholders toward higher efficiency, productivity, and economic success through the confluence of knowledge and experience.”
Consul Mangio echoed this sentiment, highlighting the critical role of private-public partnerships in bridging the gaps in STI development and adoption. She emphasized the need for the business sector to remain competitive in the ever-evolving global landscape.
The first session, held 06 September, focused on developing a comprehensive roadmap that integrates STI principles with the objectives of MSMEs and larger corporations. The DOST and PCCI aim to harness the potential of STI to fuel sustainable development across various sectors of the economy. By aligning STI initiatives with the needs of businesses, the partnership seeks to create a future where innovation is the cornerstone of Philippine economic and industrial progress.
DOST Assistant Secretary Napoleon Juanillo Jr. underscored the urgency of this mission, emphasizing the need to move beyond discussions and take concrete steps to revitalize enterprise development. He called for a focus on innovation, education, and infrastructure to build an economy of innovators, creators, and producers.
The second session, held 13 September, explored the formation of the Philippine Technology and Business Alliance between the DOST and PCCI, highlighting the creation of its strategic framework for 2024-2028.
The DOST and PCCI acknowledged the support of USAID’s U.S.-Philippines Partnership for Skills, Innovation, and Lifelong Learning (UPSKILL) Program in this endeavor.
As the conference concluded, participants left with a renewed commitment to collaboration, innovation, and sustainable economic growth. The alliance between the DOST and PCCI marks a significant step towards realizing the Philippines’ full potential in the global marketplace.
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