CamNorte features ‘Queen Pineapple’ at science, technology, innovation event

By Rosalita Manlangit

DAET, Camarines Norte --- The Queen Pineapple of Camarines Norte took center stage during the August 19–21 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW), which featured activities centered around “Piñavation.”

“This year, we celebrate RSTW alongside Piñavation, a partnership that highlights how local resources and strengths can serve as foundations for innovation,” said Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. during the opening ceremony on August 19.

The Queen Pineapple of Camarines Norte is more than just an agricultural product; it symbolizes the dedication, knowledge, and perseverance of the farmers and communities that have nurtured this industry over the years, Solidum added.

He noted that through science, technology, and innovation, the industry can be further strengthened by improving production, creating value-added products, boosting competitiveness, and expanding opportunities for the community.

Solidum emphasized that local research in Camarines Norte is already shaping the future of the Queen Pineapple industry.

Under the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Niche Centers in the Region for Research and Development (NICER) Program, support has been extended to the province’s Queen Pineapple Research and Development Center (QPRDC) in partnership with the University of Camarines Norte (UCN).

The collaboration aims to provide science-based solutions for local production challenges.

Solidum said that the QPRDC-UCN partnership is already equipping local farmers with practical tools.

They include the Queen Pineapple Intelligent Pest Detector and Crop Protection Management System, an AI-powered smartphone app for early disease detection, organic treatments for mealybug infestations, post-harvest cold storage facilities, and demonstration farms designed to maintain crop quality and boost yields.

Solidum also highlighted the support provided to the Labo Progressive Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LPMPC), one of the province’s largest cooperatives.

LPMPC received support from DOST’s SETUP for handmade paper and pineapple jam production, funding from TAPI for its “Queench” pineapple juice, and assistance from the DOST-Lazada Program to enhance its e-commerce platform.

Undersecretary Sancho Mabborang emphasized DOST’s outreach, stating that “every community faces unique challenges but can innovate with the right tools.”

He highlighted the agency’s commitment to bringing technology to communities.

DOST Regional Director Rommel Serrano thanked partners, entrepreneurs, and local government units for their support.

During a press conference, QPRDI Director Arlene Alegre said that findings are relayed to local farmers through training sessions and that the institute collaborates with local governments to improve harvesting practices, extending the shelf life and minimizing post-harvest losses.

The RSTW showcased initiatives such as “Piñavation” that included a competition for college students focused on the Queen Pineapple industry, Sustainable Development Goals forums, advanced manufacturing, health research, and MSME innovation.

The event featured the SARAI Bicol Congress, the TECHGROW Forum, food safety and resilient housing training for Indigenous Peoples, a tree-planting drive, and a three-day exhibit of provincial products.

The closing ceremony included the signing of a STARBOOKS MOU with local clubs and the presentation of key awards, culminating in Masbate accepting the role as host province for next year’s RSTW. (PIA Bicol/Camarines Norte)

Department of Science and Technology officials lead the opening ceremony of the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week, August 19, 2026. Featured in the photo is the exhibit showcasing product innovations from various provinces across the Bicol region. (PIA Bicol/Camarines Norte)