With numerous successful projects partnered by the Department of Science and Technology and Pangasinan State University, the academic institution showed strong support to the national agency to its endeavors.
The 1st National IMPACT Conference held on November 6 in Bacolod City showcased DOST–PCIEERD’s efforts to strengthen the country’s innovation ecosystem through the IMPACT Program, which has supported 34 institutions with ₱109 million, institutionalized IP policies, and increased technology commercialization from 4% to 18%.
The program has generated over 3,089 IP filings, 2,122 grants, and 1,029 technology licensing agreements, contributing to the Philippines’ improved standing in the Global Innovation Index.
PSU President, Dr. Elbert M. Galas, personally joined the event along with other SUC and agency leaders to show support and commitment to the DOST’s innovation initiatives.
“In fulfilling the call to provide quality education, the exceptional support of DOST has been integral in materializing initiatives through funding, capacity building and research engagements. This demonstrates the impact of unified efforts in improving the community and the education sector,” President Galas said.
Along with the Dr. Galas, REI Officials led by its Vice President, Dr. Razeale G. Resultay, personally attended the said event.
DOST–PCIEERD Executive Director Dr. Enrico C. Paringit emphasized the mission of turning Filipino ingenuity into innovations that uplift society, while DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., in his opening message, stressed that research must go beyond academic output and deliver real public value.
With the theme “From IMPACT to NXT Horizons,” the conference gathered researchers, industry leaders, technology transfer officers and policymakers to advance collaboration, accelerate commercialization and strengthen the national innovation ecosystem — reinforcing the shared commitment that science must serve society.
The 9th National TBI Summit highlighted the Avenue of Visionaries, where university presidents, DOST officials, and dignitaries marched together to symbolize unified leadership and collaboration in building the country’s Innovation Archipelago.
DOST-PCIEERD Executive Director Dr. Enrico C. Paringit underscored the regional impact of science, technology, and innovation through flagship programs: HEIRIT, which has supported 1,691 startups and generated ₱1.89B in investments; ReSEED, which expanded startup activity to 59 provinces; the Startup Grant Fund, supporting 66 startups with strong job creation and revenue gains; and WHWise, empowering women-led enterprises across 704 communities.
He also introduced a nationwide census to better understand the needs of startups and enablers.
Chief Technology Transfer Officer Ms. Russell M. Pili emphasized that innovation is not only about producing startups but strengthening ecosystems. She highlighted the role of TBIs in connecting universities, industry, government, and communities, while calling for renewed purpose, inclusive growth, and stronger regional capacity-building.
The Summit culminated in the Renewal of Commitment of HEIRIT TBIs, where 59 institutions affirmed their enduring dedication to collaboration and innovation—symbolizing a collective pledge to advance a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable innovation ecosystem.
