PANABO CITY – The Davao del Norte leg of the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW), spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), commenced on September 17 at the Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) Gymnasium, bringing together educators, innovators, students, and community leaders in a vibrant celebration of progress and ingenuity.
Anchored on the theme “Siyensya, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan”, the three-day event underscored how science and technology in fostering resilient and inclusive communities. Keynote speaker, Dr. Ferguz Bogdan R. Alastra, highlighted the everyday relevance of innovation, citing tools like Zoom, Google Meet, and solar panels as examples of technologies that contribute to a more stable and comfortable society.
“Technologies such as Zoom, Google Meet, and solar panels are helping build a matatag, maginhawa, at panatag na komunidad… Ating gamitin ang siyensya at teknolohiya. Tayo po ay mag-imbento, mag-innovate, pero isaalang-alang po natin na meron tayong pananagutan sa ating lipunan at hindi lamang sa pansariling kapakanan,” he encouraged the attendees.
Representing Panabo City Mayor Jose E. Relampagos, Executive Secretary Jo-Anne Relampagos delivered a welcome message, “Science, technology, and innovation are not only essential for addressing today’s challenges but also for laying the foundation of a more progressive and sustainable future.”
DNSC President Joy M. Sorrosa echoed this sentiment, aligning the event with the college’s mission to uplift local communities. “This year’s theme is not just a concept. It is an urgent call to action,” she declared. She also commended DOST XI’s leadership and reaffirmed DNSC’s commitment to collaborative innovation. “DNSC pledges its continued support and collaboration in strategic programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life of all Davao Region residents.”
The opening day also featured the Science and Innovation Expo, the “DavNoVators” exhibit of homegrown innovations, and an FDA LTO/CPR Application Awareness Seminar. On September 18, the schedule included the Starbooks WhizBee Elimination Round Watch Party, the CEST Project RESILE 2.0 Tripartite Signing, a demonstration of bamboo textile and abaca fiber extraction technologies titled “Natural Weave”, a Halal Entrepreneurship Workshop, and a Gender and Development Awareness Seminar for Persons with Disabilities.
The final day, September 19, will host the “Quest for the Best” Science Quiz Challenge, a seminar on Communicating Science, Technology, and Innovation and Understanding AI for Government Communication Officers, followed by the Closing Program.
