Department of Science and Technology (DOST) secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. shared his research and development focus in the areas of Artificial Intelligence and the Circular Economy aimed at generating more jobs and livelihood opportunities in the Caraga Region.
This was revealed during the opening of the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) celebration in Robinson’s Place in Butuan City on July 30, 2025, hosted by the DOST-Caraga Regional Office. Solidum emphasized DOST’s commitment to crafting enabling policies and ensuring sustainable funding support in these green initiatives.
These efforts aim to promote the adoption of circular economy practices as powerful alternatives for development, and to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) tools and software into various local industries.
“These are not mere trends—they are essential lifelines for resilient and adaptive development in the face of climate change, digital acceleration, and a globally competitive landscape,” said expounded Solidum.
Solidum emphasized that events like RSTW are designed to serve as platforms to uplift communities, empower individuals, and shape a sustainable national future.
He said that in the Caraga region, these seeds of transformation are beginning to take root, as this year’s focus highlights three strategic areas: Circular Economy, Artificial Intelligence, and Smart and Sustainable Communities.
Embracing the Circular Economy
To build a truly sustainable society, Solidum said that there is a need to move away from the traditional “take, make, dispose” model and adopt the Circular Economy, which promotes resource efficiency by eliminating waste and maximizing the use of materials.
He mentioned that in Caraga, several promising initiatives are already being implemented, such as the valorization of mine tailings (the reprocessing to extract metals and minerals, tailings as backfill material, tailings as construction material, energy recovery and carbon dioxide sequestration), the deployment of ScrapCycle Technology and Project GreenWAVE in Siargao Island.
“We must scale these innovations, expand policy support, and create green jobs that foster environmental and economic resilience. The United Nations estimates that transitioning to a global circular economy can generate $4.5 trillion in economic benefits
by 2030. The Philippines—and particularly Caraga—must claim its share of that opportunity,” emphasized Solidum.
Harnessing AI for Inclusive Development in Caraga
According to Solidum, Artificial Intelligence is no longer a vision of the future—it is a present-day reality. In 2023 alone, AI contributed nearly USD 240 million to Southeast Asian economies, with the Philippines standing out as one of the region’s fastest adopters.
Solidum shared that under the DOST’s AI for Development Program, the agency is committed to democratizing access to AI tools, building regional capacities, supporting AI R&D centers, launching upskilling programs, and collaborating with SUCs, TESDA, and DICT to ensure AI serves as a tool for empowerment rather than exclusion.
“Our vision is to develop a Filipino brand of AI—one that is ethical, inclusive, and grounded in our values,” said Sec. Solidum.
Promoting Human Well-Being and Fostering Wealth Creation
Solidum also proudly shared the DOST’s continued efforts to strengthen science and technology in Caraga. Since 2022, over 1,000 Caraganons have been granted DOST scholarships, significantly boosting the region’s S&T human capital.
He also noted the establishment of nine Innovation and Makerspaces that provide thousands of learners, educators, and professionals with hands-on training in robotics, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
Sec. Solidum also reported the success of the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), which helped Caraga-based micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) generate around ₱400 million in gross sales in 2024.
To further enhance regional innovation, DOST has supported the creation of 30 innovation centers, including Food Innovation Centers, Technology Business Incubators, and Niche R&D Hubs as shared by the country’s science chief.
“One standout solution is MapX—a homegrown, web-based tool that allows LGUs to digitize land parcels, overlay satellite imagery, and automate tax mapping. This innovation has already generated millions in revenue and has the potential to scale nationwide,” said Sec. Solidum.
Meanwhile, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho A. Mabborang said that science, technology, and innovation are key to shaping a smart, sustainable, and inclusive future for the Caraga region.
On the other hand, for Regional Director Noel M. Ajoc highlighted DOST Caraga’s efforts in building smart and sustainable communities, expanding innovation ecosystems, showcasing local technologies, and pioneering advanced manufacturing to boost regional competitiveness.
He emphasized that the RSTW is not just an exhibit, but a testament to how DOST is creating opportunities, empowering communities, and driving inclusive growth in Caraga.
During the three-day celebration from July 30 to August 1, 2025, several notable events and program launches highlighted the region’s push for innovation and sustainable development.
These included the inauguration of iHub Agusan del Sur and iHub Surigao del Norte, the DOST-ASSCAT Agri-Based Business Incubation (ABRI) program, the Forum on Empowering LGUs through AI, the Food Innovation Forum on Circular Food Systems, the ELEV8PH Circular Innovation Challenge Pitching Competition, the TechKnow Forum, and the launch of the Metals and Engineering Innovation Center (MEIC) Caraga.
The RSTW is among the DOST programs aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions, Opportunities for All. For more information, visit www.dost.gov.ph. (By Allan Mauro V. Marfal, DOST-STII With information from DOST Caraga Regional Office)
The DOST-Caraga Regional Office hosted the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) celebration in Butuan City to showcase its programs and projects to local residents, helping them appreciate how science and technology can contribute to inclusive development in the region. (Photo from DOST Caraga Regional Office)