The Department of Science and Technology–MIMAROPA (DOST-MIMAROPA) is set to hold the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) on May 28– 30, 2025, at Occidental Mindoro State College (OMSC) in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. With the theme “Siyensya, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan,” this year’s celebration carries the tagline “Changing Lives through Science,” and centers on the sub-theme “Building Smart and Sustainable Communities.”
RSTW 2025 aims to highlight the role of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in driving inclusive and sustainable development. It will gather stakeholders from local government units, academic institutions, industry, and communities for a dynamic three-day showcase of technologies, programs, and success stories in STI.
Key highlights of the celebration include: 1). Smarter MSMEs Summit, which will feature discussions on DOST enterprise programs such as SETUP and IFWDPh, the launch of the Developing SME Innovation Champions initiative, and forums on advanced manufacturing and circular economy; 2) Building Smart and Sustainable Communities Forum, which will present practical technologies in agriculture, health, mobility, and disaster risk reduction, including SARAI, SMILHIS, and Project MOSES—designed to foster resilience and sustainability; 3) MIMAROPA STI Awards, which will honor outstanding technopreneurs, communities, and innovations contributing to regional development.
The event will also mark the launch of DOST Innovation Hubs (iHUBs), spaces designed to support early-stage startups, researchers, students, OFWs, MSMEs, and innovators by providing collaborative work areas, mentorship, and access to resources.
Other activities include a technology pitching session where four technology generators will present innovations to potential adopters, as well as a bazaar and exhibit showcasing local products, S&T services, and technologies from across the region. A press conference will highlight key regional initiatives, while site visits to DOST-assisted SETUP and CEST projects will demonstrate real-life applications of STI. These include MSMEs that have adopted innovative production processes, a solar-powered mobile kitchen for disaster response, and a weaving community integrating modern handloom technology to preserve indigenous practices.
As host province, Occidental Mindoro takes the spotlight in showcasing how STI can uplift lives and empower communities. The three-day event will run from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with free admission for all attendees.—Press release from DOST-STII/MF
