by Melareyna Bacho, DNSC-PIO CFW
PANABO CITY – Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) hosted the initial coordination meeting for the development of the Provincial Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Plan on June 4, 2025, at its main campus in Panabo City.
The meeting brought together key members of the Provincial STI Committee, including representatives from the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) and the Department of Science and Technology Region XI (DOST XI). The STI Plan is envisioned as a strategic blueprint to guide the province’s science, technology, and innovation initiatives.
Dr. Mark Ronald S. Manseguiao, Director of DNSC’s Research and Development Division, welcomed the participants and expressed gratitude for their dedication to the province’s development goals. Key presentations followed, beginning with Acting Assistant Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Princess Lyn N. Vistal, who emphasized how the STI Plan aligns with the Davao del Norte Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan (PDPFP) 2023–2028. She underscored its role in harmonizing land use and resource allocation for sustainable growth.
DNSC faculty member and former DOST personnel, Ms. Iris G. Salmoring, discussed the STI planning process and the critical role of stakeholder engagement. Ms. Christine Esther Flor Catoera, Science Research Specialist II of DOST XI, presented the proposed content of the plan and outlined upcoming activities.
In her closing message, Engr. Judy Donna dA Nueva Ecija, Provincial Science and Technology Director of Davao del Norte, encouraged active and sustained participation throughout the planning process, “Hinaut pa unta na if unsa ka taas atong zeal for this magpadayon until makahimo jud tag STI plan with the end in mind nga kanang ini’g kahuman og himo matinuod pud, not just for compliance na mutaas atong rankings (I hope our enthusiasm remains strong until we craft an STI Plan that is genuinely implemented, not just for compliance or rankings).”
The meeting concluded with a consensus to hold a series of workshops in the coming weeks, engaging stakeholders from government, academia, industry, and local communities. This initiative reinforces the province’s commitment to a science-driven, innovation-led, and inclusive future.
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