03/12/2025
DOST-CALABARZON showcases regional innovations at the 2025 NSTW in Ilocos Norte.
By Harley G. Margallo
The Department of Science and Technology–CALABARZON (DOST-CALABARZON), together with other DOST Regional Offices and attached agencies, participated in the 2025 National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) held from November 18–21, 2025 in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.
Carrying the theme “Building Smart and Sustainable Communities,” this year’s NSTW highlighted DOST’s commitment to delivering “Agham na Ramdam”, science that is felt and experienced by every Filipino.
The four-day celebration featured interactive exhibits, technology demonstrations, forums, and innovations from across the country. DOST-CALABARZON showcased Smart and Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP)–aligned projects and initiatives and featured two key technologies under the NSTW Centerpiece Wealth Creation Cluster, the Deployable Mushroom Growing House, an automated, portable facility to boost mushroom growers’ livelihoods, and the Japanese Musk Melon of Bukid Amara Agri Farm, an automated greenhouse system that enhances the production of high-value melon varieties.
In addition to its exhibit contributions, DOST-CALABARZON successfully led the 2025 Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Forum, which brought together local government units, community leaders, and partner institutions to highlight how science, technology, and innovation (STI) empower communities and provide a platform for sharing practical solutions to build smart and sustainable communities.
The regional office also participated in the Grassroots Innovation and Advancing the Circular Economy (GICE) Expo, an event that emphasized community-led innovations and circular economy practices geared toward sustainability and environmental resilience.
Through its active participation in 2025 NSTW, DOST-CALABARZON continues to bring the concept of “Agham na Ramdam” to life, ensuring that science and technology directly impact the daily lives of Filipinos and contribute to building resilient, smart, and sustainable communities across the region.