Baguio city: Department of Science and Technology (DOST) officials in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) are calling for increased public and industrial adoption of local research and development products to boost regional productivity.
According to Philippines News Agency, DOST-CAR Director Dr. Nancy Bantog launched the '2026 Cordinnovation' during a press conference to promote the utilization of up-to-date technologies developed by regional scientists. She noted that while the Cordillera is rich in innovation from universities and government institutions, the primary challenge remains bringing these advancements to the communities that need them most.
Dr. Bantog emphasized the need for a seamless connection between ideas and industries, and between research and real-world application. She urged researchers to move their technologies beyond the laboratory and encouraged industry partners to explore homegrown solutions to drive growth and competitiveness.
Featured innovations include "Bamboost," a food product derived from bamboo shoots, and "Buko Fresh," which uses advanced filtration for natural preservation. Other regional technologies range from agri-waste coffee-cascara syrup and fish waste composting solutions to "EchoAnalytics," a website designed for automated feedback interpretation.
Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)-CAR Director Jimmicio Daoaten emphasized that there is no choice but to adapt to technology to reap its benefits. He highlighted an "online price monitoring" application developed with the Baguio City government, allowing for immediate action against market abuses.
Daoaten also cited a QR code system developed for tricycle drivers in Bangued, Abra, which automates fare subsidy monitoring. This technology allows the local government to track passenger usage and settle payments without requiring drivers to queue at the treasurer's office.
Regional officials are currently guided by the regional innovation plan approved by the Regional Development Council, which will serve as the main reference for launching initiatives that address the specific technological and innovative needs of the Cordillera.
