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09/09/2025

2025 NSTW Media Kickoff: DOST Region 1 to Host Milestone Celebration in November

The Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST Region 1), in partnership with the DOST–Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST–STII), officially held the 2025 National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) Media Kickoff on September 8, 2025, at Harolds Hotel, Quezon City.
The event was graced by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., alongside Undersecretaries Maridon O. Sahagun, Leah J. Buendia, and Sancho A. Mabborang; Assistant Secretaries Maria Theresa De Guzman and Napoleon K. Juanillo Jr.; and DOST Region 1 Regional Director Teresita A. Tabaog.
This year’s NSTW is set on November 18–21, 2025, in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, marking the first time that DOST Region 1 will host this national milestone celebration.
In his message, Secretary Solidum emphasized the department’s thrust of “Agham na Ramdam”—ensuring that the benefits of science, technology, and innovation (STI) are genuinely experienced by local communities. “We want science to be felt at the local level by our kababayans. This is what we call Agham na Ramdam. We are not only showcasing locally developed technologies and outputs; we are also opening doors for their transfer, adoption, and integration into everyday life,” he said.
With the theme “Building Smart and Sustainable Communities,” NSTW 2025 seeks to raise public awareness and appreciation of STI, highlight its role in driving socio-economic growth, and recognize the valuable contributions of Filipino scientists, researchers, and innovators.
The kickoff was attended by the DOST OneSTIGlat family led by Dir. Teresita A. Tabaog, together with DOST–Ilocos Sur Provincial Director Jordan L. Abad, DOST–Ilocos Norte Provincial Director Brian U. Rasco, Regional S&T Promotion Program Center Head Carla Joyce B. Cajala, and Mr. Lemuel Castigo. Special numbers were also presented by Mr. Edrussell Castillo, Ms. Monette Vicente, and Mr. Nikko Ofo-ob.
DOST Region 1 reaffirms its commitment to harnessing STI to build resilient, environmentally responsible, digitally connected, and economically vibrant communities.

07/09/2025

Science, Technology and Innovation for a Progressive Cagayan

On September 5, 2025, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. led the agency’s delegation to the Strategic Partnership Forum with the Provincial Government of Cagayan, where they were warmly welcomed by Governor Edgar B. Aglipay.
Sec. Solidum presented DOST’s major programs and identified strong opportunities for collaboration and intervention in the province. He was joined by Usec. Sancho Mabborang, who introduced the Smart and Sustainable Communities Program, and Dr. Virginia Bilgera, who highlighted the accomplishments and initiatives of DOST Region II. Also present was Asec. Maria Teresa de Guzman, lending support through her role in advancing countryside development.
In his Opening Remarks, Governor Aglipay affirmed that DOST’s aspirations—promoting human well-being, fostering wealth creation, reinforcing wealth protection, and institutionalizing sustainability—are also the aspirations of Cagayan.
To further inspire innovation to the officials and representatives of the Province, DOST also invited Balik Scientists and inventors specializing in robotics, traffic management, and waste management. They shared forward-looking solutions for possible interventions in the province.
This strong alignment between DOST and the Provincial Government of Cagayan reflects a shared vision for growth and sustainability anchored on science, technology, and innovation to build a future-ready Cagayan.( Karen Vivien Conducto, Office of DOST Secretary)

07/09/2025

Cayetano: ‘Di tatagal ang pagbabago kung nakadepende ang disiplina sa nakaupong pinuno

Matutuldukan lang ang korapsyon sa Pilipinas kung bawat Pilipino ay matututong gumawa ng tama kahit walang nakabantay o pumipilit na gawin ito.

Ito ang mensahe ni Senator Alan Peter Cayetano sa kanyang CIA 365 livestream nitong September 6, 2025.

Aniya, dapat mag-ugat ang reporma sa “self-governance” o kusang paninindigan para sa tama. Ikinumpara niya ito sa disiplina na madalas ay nakadepende aniya sa “external forces” gaya ng pagkakaroon ng istriktong pinuno.

“Y’ung self-governance, ibig sabihin, y’ung ‘di na kailangan y’ung iba pa magsabi sa'yo… ikaw na mismo ang gagawa n’ung pagbabagong iyon,” paliwanag ni Cayetano.

Halimbawa na lang ay ang ghost flood control projects ng Department of Public Works and Highways, na bunga aniya ng kawalan ng self-governance hindi lang ng isa kundi ng marami sa mga naroon.

“Napakaraming tao ang kailangang involved para magawa y’an (ghost projects). So it's a failure of self-governance ng bawat isa,” aniya.

Giit niya, hindi tamang nakaasa lang tayo sa isang lider para baguhin ang buong sistema.

“Hindi pwedeng ngayon na si Sec. Vince [ang nasa DPWH] ay no corruption, pero kapag iba na ulit ang secretary, ayan na naman,” ani Cayetano.

“Bago natin tingnan y’ung pag-asa sa sistema o sa galing ng leader, dapat magsimula sa sarili natin,” dagdag niya.

Hinikayat ng senador ang lahat ng Pilipino na pagmuni-munihan ang kanilang “core values,” at hinimok ang lahat na gawing bahagi ng kanilang “identity” ang integridad at pagiging tapat.

Aniya, kailangang magtulong-tulong ang bawat henerasyon ng Pilipino na magkaroon ng “transformation” para maging pangmatagalan ang pagbabago, at mangyari ang “tunay na development” na inaasam ng lahat.

“Guys, we need generational change… Any nation na meron pong self-governance, sila po ay may tunay na pagbabago at tunay na development,” aniya.

Nagtapos si Cayetano sa panalangin at hinikayat ang publiko na ituloy ang panawagang mapanagot ang mga taong tunay na may kinalaman sa nasabing ghost projects.

“‘Wag tayong mawawalan ng pag-asa. Tutok, tutok, tutok. At ‘pag sinabi nating ‘wag nating pakawalan, ‘wag nating pakawalan,” aniya.

Ilang oras matapos ito, nakipagpulong si Cayetano kay national budget expert at dating Jagna Mayor JR Rañola ng Bohol para busisiin ang panukalang 2026 budget ng DPWH.

“May mga nakita na kami – from flood control to maintenance [projects], to ano ang mga dapat may pondo at mga dapat na tanggalan… Makakatulong po ito sa DBM at kay Sec. Vince (Dizon) kasi they're redoing the budget,” ani Cayetano.

“So hopefully, y’ung mga gumawa nito (ghost projects) ay isa-isa mawala [sa pwesto] para hindi nga ma-manipulate ito,” dagdag pa niya. # # #

07/09/2025

Sandiganbayan Justice Gomez-Estoesta Appointed as New Court Administrator

The Supreme Court En Banc has appointed Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Ma. Theresa Dolores C. Gomez-Estoesta as the new Court Administrator, effective September 1, 2025. She replaces former Court Administrator Raul B. Villanueva, who is now an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court.
Justice Gomez-Estoesta has served the government for 34 years. She began her career as a Solicitor at the Office of the Solicitor General from 1991 to 2002.
She joined the Judiciary in 2002 as Presiding Judge of Branch 6, Metropolitan Trial Court, Manila. In 2006, she was promoted as Presiding Judge of Branch 7 of the Manila Regional Trial Court. She held this position until 2014, when she was appointed to the anti-graft court.
At the Sandiganbayan, she served as Chairperson of the Seventh Division.
Court Administrator Gomez-Estoesta was a multi-awarded judge, winning the prestigious Judicial Excellence Awards multiple times. In 2005, she received the Most Outstanding Judge for First-Level Courts and Best Decision in Criminal Cases Awards. In 2012, she was honored with the Chief Justice Cayetano Arellano Award as Most Outstanding Judge for Second-Level Courts.
She is also active in legal education. Since 2015, she has been teaching at the Ateneo de Manila School of Law and is a Professorial Lecturer at the Philippine Judicial Academy. She also served as Bar Examiner for Remedial Law and Legal Ethics in the 2024 Bar Examinations.
She earned her law degree from the Ateneo and passed the Bar in 1991. She also holds a Political Science degree from the De La Salle University, where she graduated cm laude and received the Gold Medal for Excellence in Political Science.
The Office of the Court Administrator (OCA) was created under Presidential Decree No. (PD) 828, as amended by PD 842, to help the Supreme Court manage and supervise all courts nationwide.
As part of the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 (SPJI), the OCA is currently undergoing modernization to make it more responsive, service-focused, and better supported across regions.
A Central OCA Leadership Team, headed by the Court Administrator, will take the lead in setting overall strategy, policy direction, and innovation initiatives for the trial courts. At the same time, court administrative functions are being decentralized to the newly established Office of the Regional Court Manager (ORCM) across all judicial regions. Six interim ORCMs were launched in 2024 as part of this ongoing reform. (Press release courtesy of the Supreme Court Office of the Spokesperson)

05/09/2025

DOST VIII Showcases “Agham na Ramdam” on Day 2 of RSTW in Eastern Visayas

The Department of Science and Technology Region VIII (DOST VIII) continued its celebration of the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) with a series of engaging activities on its second day, highlighting the theme of “Agham na Ramdam”, science that is felt through youth engagement, local enterprise support, and strengthened innovation spaces across Leyte.

One of the key highlights was STEM Connect: Students Meet the Secretary, held at the Philippine Science High School – Eastern Visayas Campus (PSHS-EVC). Students from different schools across Leyte had the rare opportunity to meet DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., a geologist, former PHIVOLCS Director, and now the country’s “fault-finder.” Hosted by PSHS-EVC Campus Director Ms. Yvonne M. Esperas, the event featured interactive STEM-focused activities such as the DOST-Science Education Institute’s NuLab: STEM in Motion and the Indie Siyensya Film Festival. In his message, Secretary Solidum encouraged young learners to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to help build a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future. The Department of Education Regional Office VIII (DepEd VIII), represented by Dr. Gertrudes C. Mabutin, expressed its commitment to work with DOST VIII in further strengthening STEM education and nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

Secretary Solidum also led a project visit to the Ice Cream Making Facility at the Palo Livelihood Center, a DOST-assisted initiative that uses science-based food processing technologies to help local producers improve product quality, expand operations, and create sustainable livelihoods. Palo Mayor Hon. Remedios Matin Petilla thanked DOST for its continued support and expressed interest in acquiring additional technologies for the municipality. Commending Palo’s proactive approach, Secretary Solidum emphasized, “The Local Government Units that are interested and willing to partner with DOST can truly benefit from our assistance. We want leaders who want science and technology.”

Capping the day’s events, the Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) Leyte inaugurated its newly renovated office building and Innovation Hub (iHub) at the DOST Compound, Government Center, Brgy. Candahug, Palo, Leyte. The iHub is a dedicated collaborative space where students, researchers, startups, industries, and communities can access science, technology, and innovation resources to develop creative solutions and drive local development. With the facility in place, PSTO Leyte is expected to further empower MSMEs, strengthen community-based initiatives, and advance the delivery of STI services across Leyte and the Eastern Visayas region.

The second day of RSTW was graced by DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST VIII Regional Director Dr. John Glenn D. Ocaña, and other officials, reflecting the department’s unified drive of “One DOST 4 U: Solutions and Opportunities for All.” (Nelson Santos)

04/09/2025

Eastern Visayas RSTW 2025 Spurs Partnerships for Smarter Communities

Tacloban City, Leyte – Eastern Visayas formally opened the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) on September 3 at Summit Hotel, with simultaneous exhibits and activities at Robinsons Mall, Marasbaras. Organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VIII, the event brings together government, academe, industry, and communities to showcase how science, technology, and innovation (STI) can shape smarter and more sustainable communities across the region.

The celebration commenced alongside the GeoRisk PH Summit, highlighted by the signing of a memorandum of agreement for the regional rollout of the GeoRisk Philippines Integrated Platform. This digital system serves as a one-stop hub for hazard assessments, mapping tools, and real-time analytics—supporting disaster risk reduction, evidence-based planning, and policy development for local governments and stakeholders.

In his keynote message, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. stressed the importance of harnessing STI to build resilience and foster inclusive development. He emphasized that through strong partnerships among government, the private sector, and local communities, it is possible to envision a future where disasters are less destructive, renewable energy is widely adopted, agriculture adapts to climate change, and growth opportunities extend even to rural areas.

With the national theme “Siyensiya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Kinabukasan” and the regional banner “Building Smart and Sustainable Communities,” this year’s RSTW highlights how emerging technologies, local innovations, and community-driven solutions can address pressing challenges and drive regional progress. Participants are expected to engage in forums, explore interactive exhibits, and experience technology demonstrations from DOST and its partners.

A major highlight of the week is the 2025 STI Awards, which recognized outstanding beneficiaries of DOST programs such as the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST), and Grants-in-Aid (GIA). From entrepreneurs developing unique products to farmer groups adopting modern technologies, this year’s awardees exemplify how science and innovation directly uplift lives and strengthen local industries. As Secretary Solidum noted, the honorees prove that science is not confined to textbooks or laboratories—it is about lives improved, livelihoods uplifted, and futures secured.

Another key feature was the signing of a partnership among the DOST-Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI), DOST Region VIII, and the Local Government Unit of Bobon, Northern Samar. The collaboration seeks to enhance fiber extraction technologies from abaca and pineapple, transforming agricultural by-products into sustainable raw materials for the textile sector while creating new livelihood opportunities in local communities.

Running until September 5, the 2025 RSTW in Eastern Visayas stands as a regional showcase of innovation and collaboration—affirming that science and technology are vital in building resilient, future-ready, and inclusive communities. (Nelson Santos)

03/09/2025

Catarman communities empowered wit new DOST Projects

On August 19, 2025, the Department of Science and Technology – Northern Mindanao, led by Regional Director Engr. Romela N. Ratilla, officially turned over five (5) Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST) projects worth ₱3,062,174.00 to the Municipality of Catarman, Camiguin.
These projects go beyond tools and equipment—they are investments in resilience, productivity, and progress for the people of Catarman.
Mayor Kiterio Antonio U. Palarca II received the Certificate of Property Acknowledgment Receipt on behalf of the LGU, marking a milestone partnership that brings science, technology, and innovation closer to every Catarmanon.
Here are the projects turned over:
Project title: Support to Response and Alert System: A DOST CEST DRRM Project in Catarman, Camiguin
S&T Intervention: Water Level Monitoring System (WLMS) & Automated Rain Gauge (ARG)
Project title: Upgrading of Organic Fertilizer Production Utilizing Vermiculture Technology in Catarman, Camiguin
S&T Intervention: Vermiculture technology with agricultural shredder
Project title: Productivity Improvement of Tablea Production through Provision of Various Equipment and Other Related S&T Interventions of Catarman Cacao Growers Association in Catarman, Camiguin
S&T Intervention: GMP & Food Safety training, roasting machine, colloid mill, dehuller, stainless tables
Project title: Upgrading of Bamboo Processing Facility of Sto. Niño Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Catarman, Camiguin
S&T Intervention: bamboo pole cutter, strip layering & splitting machine
Project title: Increase Income by Development of Processed Meat Products of PACOWA Meat Processors in Catarman, Camiguin
S&T Intervention: vacuum sealer, grinder, freezer, stainless tables
Through these projects, Catarman is not only better prepared to face challenges but also ready to unlock greater opportunities and a brighter future for its people.
The Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program is DOST’s flagship initiative that brings S&T interventions to communities in the areas of livelihood, health, education, disaster risk reduction, and environment. It is designed to empower grassroots communities by providing practical solutions that improve quality of life and promote sustainable development.

Mga Komunidad ng Catarman, Pinalakas sa Bagong Proyekto ng DOST
Catarman, Camiguin – Noong Agosto 19, 2025, pormal na itinurn-over ng Department of Science and Technology – Northern Mindanao (DOST-10) sa Bayan ng Catarman ang limang (5) Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST) projects na nagkakahalaga ng ₱3,062,174.00. Pinangunahan ito ni Regional Director Engr. Romela N. Ratilla.
Tinanggap ni Mayor Kiterio Antonio U. Palarca II ang Certificate of Property Acknowledgment Receipt para sa lokal na pamahalaan, na nagsisilbing simbolo ng pakikipagtulungan upang mailapit ang agham, teknolohiya, at inobasyon sa bawat Catarmanon.
Mga Proyektong Itinurn-over:
• Support to Response and Alert System – Water Level Monitoring System at Automated Rain Gauge
• Upgrading of Organic Fertilizer Production – Vermiculture technology at agricultural shredder
• Improvement of Tablea Production – Makinarya at pagsasanay sa GMP at Food Safety
• Upgrading of Bamboo Processing Facility – Bamboo pole cutter at splitting machine
• Processed Meat Product Development – Vacuum sealer, grinder, freezer, stainless tables
Ayon sa DOST, ang mga proyektong ito ay hindi lamang kagamitan kundi puhunan sa katatagan, kabuhayan, at kaunlaran ng Catarman.
Ang CEST Program ang pangunahing inisyatiba ng DOST na nagbibigay ng interbensyon sa kabuhayan, kalusugan, edukasyon, disaster risk reduction, at kapaligiran upang matulungan ang mga komunidad sa mas ligtas at mas maunlad na kinabukasan.

03/09/2025

DOST – Pangasinan opens opportunities for PDLs in Dagupan City Jail, provides training on Calamansi Juice Processing

In its continuing effort to bring science, technology, and innovation closer to all, the Department of Science and Technology - Pangasinan (DOST-Pangasinan) conducted a Technology Training on Calamansi Juice Processing for 30 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) on August 20, 2025, at the Dagupan City Jail – Male Dormitory (DCJ-MD).
The partnership between DOST-Pangasinan and DCJ-MD forms part of its Skills and Enhancement Training Program for both PDLs and jail officers. The training opens opportunities for microenterprise development inside and outside the facility, giving PDLs a better chance at opening opportunities that support rehabilitation and successful reintegration into their communities
One of the participants, identified as “Mario” (not his real name), shared, “𝘈𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘢 𝘪𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘺 𝘯𝘢𝘨𝘣𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘺 𝘴𝘢 𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘯 𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘢𝘨-𝘢𝘴𝘢 𝘯𝘢 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘨𝘴𝘪𝘮𝘶𝘭𝘢 𝘯𝘨 𝘬𝘢𝘣𝘶𝘩𝘢𝘺𝘢𝘯 𝘬𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘨 𝘯𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘣𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘬 𝘯𝘢 𝘬𝘢𝘮𝘪 𝘴𝘢 𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘨𝘢 𝘵𝘢𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘯. 𝘛𝘢𝘰𝘴-𝘱𝘶𝘴𝘰 𝘬𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘢𝘨𝘱𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘢 𝘬𝘢𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘨𝘬𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘵𝘢𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘨𝘶𝘨𝘰𝘭 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘩𝘰𝘯 𝘥𝘪𝘵𝘰” (This training has given us hope to start a livelihood once we return to our homes. We are sincerely grateful for the knowledge and for the opportunity to learn while spending our time here).
Mr. Alvin S. Aguilan, Instructor I from Pangasinan State University – Bayambang Campus, and Ms. Monica May B. Varilla, a Professional Food Technologist from the DOST Region 1 – PSU Food Innovation Center served as the resource persons of the training. The activity featured Calamansi Juice Processing as one of the technology offerings of the PSU–DOST Region 1 FIC under its extension and skills training program, which aims to promote food innovation and enterprise development. The participants also learned about current Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Basic Food Safety, essential foundations for producing safe and market-ready food products.
SJO4 William L. Atiwag Jr., DCJ-MD Unit Executive Senior Jail Officer, emphasized the importance of the activity, noting that the support of DOST-Pangasinan and PSU-DOST 1 FIC greatly contributes to empowering PDLs by providing them with technology-based skills training that prepares them for livelihood and reintegration. ( 𝘉𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘯 𝘑𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯 𝘗. 𝘎𝘶𝘦𝘷𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢)

03/09/2025

Cayetano sa Ombudsman: Magsagawa ng lifestyle check sa mga opisyal ng gobyerno

Hinimok ni Senador Alan Peter Cayetano ang Office of the Ombudsman na magsagawa ng maagap na lifestyle checks sa mga opisyal ng gobyerno bilang panangga laban sa korapsyon.

Iminungkahi ito ni Cayetano sa kanyang pagtatanong sa mga kandidato na nagnanais maging susunod na Ombudsman, na isinagawa ng Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) mula August 28 hanggang September 2, 2025.

Si Cayetano ang Senate representative sa JBC sa kanyang kapasidad bilang Chair ng Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights.

“I’d really like for you to consider lifestyle checks. Kasi kung wala, there’s no deterrent,” sabi ni Cayetano sa isang kandidato para sa pagka-Ombudsman.

Ipinaliwanag ng senador ang kahalagahan ng lifestyle checks sa pagkumpirma kung naaayon ba ang pamumuhay ng isang opisyal ng gobyerno kumpara sa idineklarang kayamanan base sa kanyang opisyal na Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN).

“Ngayon sa social media, kapag nakita sa SALN mo na meron kang P5 million, but because all of that were acquired in the 1970s to 80s, and you have a car or watch, they automatically think you’re corrupt. On the other hand, if you say no to lifestyle checks, many will be flaunting their wealth,” wika ng senador.

Binigyang diin rin ni Cayetano ang kahalagahan na mamuhay ng payak at umiwas sa marangyang buhay ang mga opisyal ng gobyerno. Sinabi niya ito sa gitna ng mga maiinit na alegasyon ngayon ng korapsyon sa flood control at ghost projects.

Iginiit rin niya na dapat mapili ang isang matuwid at proactive na Ombudsman sa gitna ng mga pagsisikap ng pamahalaan na tugunan ang katiwalian.

“Napakahalaga na tama ang mapili nating Ombudsman. Given y’ung nangyayari ngayon sa Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), given y’ung perennial na nangyayari sa iba’t ibang departamento, having a very proactive but balanced Ombudsman will really change so much,” aniya.

Dagdag pa niya, malaking bagay ang pagpili sa susunod na Ombudsman dahil magiging kritikal ito sa pagbabalik ng tiwala ng publiko sa gobyerno.

“I think who the next Ombudsman is will determine whether people will totally lose confidence in any government official,” wika ng senador.

“If we have a good Ombudsman, I really believe na pwedeng bumalik ang tiwala ng tao sa public officials,” dagdag pa niya. # # #

01/09/2025

DOT launches Philippine Golf Experience to boost PH tourism promotion

Clark, Pampanga—Positioning the Philippines as a premier golfing destination, the Department of Tourism (DOT) officially launched the first-ever Philippine Golf Experience (GolfEx) on Friday (August 29) at Clark, Pampanga, one of the country’s emerging golf and leisure hubs—marking a major step in integrating golf into the country's tourism agenda.

GolfEx is a pioneering‬‭ initiative‬‭ of the Department designed‬‭ to‬‭ showcase‬‭ the‬‭ country as‬‭ a‬‭ premier‬‭ golf‬ destination.‬‭ It is modeled after the‬‭ DOT's flagship Philippine‬‭ Experience‬‭ Program‬‭: Heritage, Culture, and Arts Caravans (PEP) launched nationwide.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the ceremonial tee-off at the scenic Mimosa Plus Golf Course, where she was joined by Senator Lito Lapid, members of the Diplomatic Corps, including Ambassador Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino of the Embassy of Malaysia, Ambassador Thai Binh Lai of the Embassy of Vietnam, Ambassador Marielle Geraedts of the Embassy of Netherlands, Clark Development Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Atty. Agnes Devanadera, Filinvest Hospitality Corporation Senior Vice President Francis Gotianun, and other golf stakeholders from the tourism and business sectors.

“For many years, it has been a long-held desire to bring golf and tourism together in a way that truly unlocks their potential. We have always known that the Philippines—with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality—together with more than a hundred world-class quality golf courses across our islands, has all the makings of a world-class golf destination. What was needed was a deliberate effort to place golf within our broader national strategy, not only as a sport, but as an experience that brings together play, culture, as well as community," Secretary Frasco emphasized in her speech.

The tourism chief said that under the Marcos Administration, the DOT pivoted to an innovative approach that not only counts the country’s tourist arrivals but also puts a premium on measuring the value of tourist offerings.

“Tourism, after all, is not only about how many people have arrived, but rather about how many livelihoods it sustains, how many enterprises it strengthens, and how deep the pride of place it nurtures across our communities. Golf captures this most beautifully—for when done sustainably, golf is a high-value, low-impact form of tourism that draws travelers to stay longer, spend more, and engage more deeply with our destinations, not to mention come back again and again,” she noted.

With the presence of partners from the public and private sectors, as well as members of the Diplomatic Corps, she said that the event strengthens partnerships among all stakeholders by likewise campaigning for the Philippines as a destination for tourist source and opportunity markets.

Furthermore, the Secretary described that the launch of GolfEx in Clark “is no coincidence” as the emerging leisure golf and leisure hub now has a world-class international airport and facilities.

Clark ready to host major golf tournaments and other sporting events

For her part, Atty. Devanadera expressed confidence in Clark's readiness to host major golf tournaments and other sporting events.

“Clark is ready for the golf tournaments and all kinds of sports tournaments, and we would like to inform you, and to show you, that the secret here is synergy—synergy among the locators, synergy with the government agencies, synergy with our foreign friends, and above all, the leadership of the Department of Tourism, under, of course, the guidance of our President,” she said.

Also present at the kickoff event are Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA) Founder and Chairman Michelle Taylan, Tourism Congress of the Philippines President (TCP) James Montenegro, and DOT Undersecretaries Shahlimar Hofer Tamano and Ferdinand Jumapao, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) Chief Operating Officer Mark Lapid, Assistant Secretaries Judilyn Quiachon and Ronald Conopio, Director for Golf Tourism Lyle Uy, DOT-3 Regional Director Richard Daenos, and other officials of the DOT Central and Regional Offices.

The event highlighted basic golf lessons facilitated by the Professional Golfers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PGAP) through the Mimosa Plus Golf Academy. While the members of the Diplomatic Corps, professional golfers and enthusiasts, engaged in an 18-hole friendly golf tournament,‬‭ allowing‬‭ them‬‭ to‬‭ experience‬‭ the‬ country’s world-class golf facilities and scenic courses.‬

On its second day (Aug. 30), delegates were introduced to key landmarks such as the Parade Grounds, Fort Stotsenberg, Centennial Barn Houses, and the historic White House through a rolling tour. Participants were also oriented with Clark’s modern attractions, including Aqua Planet, Clark Safari, Sun Valley Golf and Country Club, and the world-class Clark International Speedway, along with major developments such as the Clark Multi-Specialty Hospital Site and the newly opened Clark International Airport Terminal.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco leads the ceremonial tee-off at the launch of the Philippine Golf Experience in Clark, Pampanga

From left to right: DOT Director for Golf Tourism Lyle Uy, TIEZA COO Mark Lapid, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Senator Lito Lapid, DOT Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, and DOT Central Luzon Director Richard Daenos

Toursim Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Clark Development Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Atty. Agnes Devanadera, Filinvest Hospitality Corporation Senior Vice President Francis Gotianun, together with delegates from the Diplomatic Corps, including Ambassador Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino of the Embassy of Malaysia, Ambassador Thai Binh Lai of the Embassy of Vietnam, Ambassador Marielle Geraedts of the Embassy of Netherlands, and other golf delegates from the tourism and business sectors

The Philippine Golf Experience highlighted basic golf lessons facilitated by the Professional Golfers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PGAP) through the Mimosa Plus Golf Academy

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