DOST promotes sustainability in Caraga with AI and circular economy focus
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Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. recently revealed the department’s research and development focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Circular Economy during the opening of the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) in Butuan City. Hosted by DOST-Caraga, the event highlighted initiatives aimed at generating jobs and livelihood opportunities in the Caraga region.
In his speech on 30 July 2025, Solidum emphasized that these focus areas were key to empowering local industries and promoting sustainable development. He also outlined DOST’s commitment to formulating enabling policies and securing sustainable funding for these initiatives, which aim to introduce circular economy practices and integrate AI tools into various 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,” Solidum said.
Solidum added that RSTW events like these serve as platforms to uplift communities, empower individuals, and contribute to shaping a sustainable future. He noted that in Caraga, the seeds of transformation are already beginning to take root, with the region’s focus this year on Circular Economy, AI, and Smart and Sustainable Communities.
To build a truly sustainable society, Solidum stressed the importance of moving away from the traditional "take, make, dispose" model. Instead, he advocated for the adoption of the Circular Economy, which emphasizes resource efficiency and the elimination of waste.
He pointed to several initiatives already being implemented in Caraga, such as the valorization of mine tailings (reprocessing to extract metals and minerals, tailings for construction material, energy recovery, and carbon dioxide sequestration), and projects like 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,” Solidum emphasized. “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.”
Solidum also spoke on the critical role of AI in the region’s development, highlighting that AI is no longer just a vision for the future, but a present-day reality. In 2023, AI contributed nearly USD 240 million to Southeast Asian economies, with the Philippines emerging as one of the fastest adopters in the region.
Under DOST’s AI for Development Program, Solidum shared plans to democratize AI tools and build regional capacities by supporting AI R&D centers and collaborating with educational institutions such as SUCs, TESDA, and DICT.
“Our vision is to develop a Filipino brand of AI—one that is ethical, inclusive, and grounded in our values,” Solidum said.
In his address, Solidum also outlined the DOST’s ongoing efforts to enhance science and technology in Caraga. Over 1,000 Caraganons have received DOST scholarships since 2022, contributing significantly to the region’s human capital in science and technology.
Additionally, the establishment of nine Innovation and Makerspaces has provided hands-on training in technologies such as robotics, AI, the Internet of Things, and Industry 4.0. Solidum also highlighted the success of the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), which helped Caraga-based micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) generate approximately ₱400 million in gross sales in 2024.
In terms of regional innovation, Solidum shared the creation of 30 innovation centers, including Food Innovation Centers and Technology Business Incubators. One standout innovation is MapX, a web-based tool that allows local government units (LGUs) to digitize land parcels, overlay satellite imagery, and automate tax mapping, generating millions in revenue.
DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho A. Mabborang noted that science, technology, and innovation are critical to shaping a smart, sustainable, and inclusive future for the Caraga region. Regional Director Noel M. Ajoc also emphasized DOST Caraga’s efforts in fostering innovation ecosystems and advancing regional competitiveness.
Throughout the three-day celebration, which ran from July 30 to August 1, 2025, several key events were held, including the launch of iHub Agusan del Sur and iHub Surigao del Norte, the DOST-ASSCAT Agri-Based Business Incubation Program, and the ELEV8PH Circular Innovation Challenge Pitching Competition.
The RSTW is part of DOST's broader vision of providing science-based, inclusive solutions to foster human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability.
