Roxas City, Capiz —The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office 6 formally opened this year’s Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) 2025 at Robinsons Place Roxas.
The event’s theme, “Siyensya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Kinabukasan”, with the sub-theme “Building Smart and Sustainable Communities,” aims to showcase the transformative power of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in advancing regional development.
CAPSU president Dr. Efren L. Linan, together with other university key officials, joined local and national government officials, as well as guests and participants from other government agencies, state universities and colleges, and private and non-government organizations, for this highly anticipated event.
This year’s RSTW brings together leaders, innovators, educators, and local stakeholders under the banner of science-driven development.
In partnership with Capiz State University (CAPSU), the Roxas City Government, the Provincial Government of Capiz, and Robinsons Roxas, the 2025 RSTW is expected to engage thousands of participants, particularly those from MSMEs, students, LGUs, national agencies, private sectors, and other stakeholders from across the region.
The program began at 9:00 A.M. with the entrance of colors, followed by the Philippine National Anthem, Capiz Hymn, and the DOST Hymn. This was immediately followed by the welcome message delivered by Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, Regional Director of DOST VI.
In his message, Engr. Gelonga emphasized the role of science and technology in empowering local communities, highlighting how innovations can be translated into inclusive development.
No other than DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. graced the occasion. In his keynote message, he underscored the importance of regional innovation ecosystems and how localized S&T programs align with national development goals. Dr. Solidum stressed that the full potential of science and technology is realized when communities actively participate in adopting innovations that improve quality of life and strengthen resilience against emerging challenges.
One of the highlights was the BEST CEST Community Award, which recognized outstanding community-based science and technology initiatives. This was followed by the awarding of the Regional SETUP 4.0 for MSMEs, in support to micro, small, and medium enterprises in modernizing their operations.
Further recognitions included the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology Innovation (CEST ICON) Award and the Collaborative Research and Development to Leverage Philippine Economy (CRADLE) Award.
Another milestone was the launch of Philippine Green Economic Development (PhilGEED), the Science for Change (S4CP) Projects, and the SAFE (Science for Agriculture and Fisheries Enterprises) Launching. These initiatives aim to harness research-driven solutions to improve agriculture, industry, and community resilience.
The ceremonies concluded with the official opening of the 2025 RSTW Exhibits at Robinsons Roxas. The exhibits feature cutting-edge technologies, innovative products from local MSMEs, research breakthroughs from higher education institutions, and community-based S&T solutions.
RSTW 2025 in Western Visayas serves not only as a celebration of scientific achievement but also as a venue to strengthen partnerships between government, academe, industry, and communities. With its focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, the event reinforces DOST’s vision of advancing science for the people and ensuring that no community is left behind in progress.
| Text by Christian George F. Acevedo, CAPSU Public Relations Director; Photos by Marco Jeslie B. Tuazon and Frederick D. Almeida, CAPSU-PIO