DOST bares priorities

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Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., the new science secretary, is refocusing some of the major programs of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to align research and development  (R&D) on agriculture and food security, transportation, health, renewable energy and job creation with the economic agenda of the Marcos administration.

Solidum also said  the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) will be given priority in the light of the typhoons, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes that beset the country.

“…science, technology, and innovation… cut across all sectors. The DOST has service R&D institutions that could provide innovative and timely solutions to the challenges faced by the various sectors and areas in the country. It is a given that we need to continue improving the capabilities of our forecasters, geologists, and volcanologists and add equipment and facilities,” Solidum said.

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He said the DOST will also focus on changing its approach to delivering messaging once a natural calamity is about to hit in certain areas.

“Aside from relaying what the weather will be, we should follow what the weather, an earthquake, or a volcanic eruption will do to us,” he explained.

Amid the challenges of the pandemic, more support will be provided for health R&D.

The DOST has been pushing for the creation of the Virology Institute of the Philippines (VIP), a vital part in fighting COVID-19 and other viruses.

The creation of the VIP will be one of the President’s priority legislative agenda as he said during the State of the Nation Address. The DOST has been preparing R&D initiatives and staff capabilities for the operation of the VIP, Solidum said.

In agriculture and nutrition, more focus will be made on post-harvest, value-chain and food processing.

The DOST will continue to offer its resources and expertise in nuclear research as well and provide opportunities for science scholarships up to the Ph.D. levels to enable the country to increase its pool of dedicated and competent scientists and engineers.

In livelihood and employment, the DOST will enhance its banner program, the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program or SETUP designed for small and medium enterprises.

“SETUP has been there for the local businesses in the regions, providing funding assistance to acquire equipment and technologies that would improve production and operation and technical knowledge to ensure the quality and safety of products,” said Solidum.

SETUP is a nationwide strategy to encourage and assist small and medium enterprises to adopt technological innovations to improve their operations and boost productivity and competitiveness.

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