DOST allots P73M for pili, pineapple research in Bicol

By Keren Anne Bernadas

To help accelerate the development of Bicol, the Science for Change Program (S4CP) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has allotted P73 million for the development of the region’s queen pineapple and pili industries.

S4CP head Ma. Anya Yasmin Roslin said the fund would finance the establishment of Queen Pineapple Research and Development (RnD) Center in Camarines Norte State College and Pili RnD Center in Bicol University, Legazpi City.

Of the P73 million, the Pili RnD Center will get the bigger slice in the amount of P47 million.

“We expect these colleges and universities will become excellent institutions to take the lead in capacitating all other HEIs (higher educational institutions) in research and development as they respond to the needs of the farmers and help better their farming strategies,” Roslin said.

The main goal of this investment in science and technology innovation is to increase productivity and income among farmers and attain overall development for Bicol using the outputs of RND, she said.

Roslin asked the lawmakers in the region to back the S4CP so it can be put to law.

“The battle cry of DOST still stands – the science and research development should aim for wealth creation. Science for Change Program is science for the people. The products of this RND outcome will not only serve researchers and engineers, even scientists working in laboratories but each and every Filipino. This pursues inclusive development for all, no one shall be left behind,” the program head said.

According to Roslin, the DOST- S4CP has four sub-components:

1. Niche Centers in the Regions for R&D or NICER aims to establish RnD centers in the regions by stimulating a collaborative STI ecosystem among HEIs to promote regional development;

2. Collaborative RnD to Leverage the Philippine Economy, also called as CRADLE creates a synergistic relationship between the academe and the industry with the goal of invigorating the country's RnD;

3. RnD Leadership Program engages experts with strong leadership, management, and innovative policy-making proficiencies to lead in strengthening the research capabilities of HEIs and RDIs; and

4. Business Innovation through S&T for industry facilitates the acquisition of strategic and relevant technologies by Filipino companies for immediate incorporation in their RnD activities. (PIA5)