DOST Cagayan Valley Reaffirms STI Support for Cooperatives

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Cagayan Valley reaffirmed its commitment to empowering cooperatives through science, technology, and innovation (STI) as it joined the City Government of Tuguegarao in celebrating the 1st Tuguegarao City Cooperative Development Summit held recently in the city.

The event, spearheaded by the Cooperative and Livelihood Development Office (CLDO), gathered cooperative leaders, partner regional line agencies, and local government officials.

It aimed to strengthen partnerships, promote innovation, and advance inclusive and sustainable growth among cooperatives.

DOST Region 02 Director Dr. Virginia G. Bilgera presented the Department’s key programs that directly support cooperatives and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

She highlighted flagship initiatives such as SETUP 4.0, OneLab, OneExpert, the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program, and Innovation for Filipinos Working Distantly from the Philippines (iFWD PH).

These programs aim to enhance productivity, provide access to modern technologies, and offer technical expertise and funding support to local enterprises.

Dr. Bilgera also emphasized DOST’s continued collaboration with the City Government and the newly established Tuguegarao City Cooperative Development Council.

Members of the council took their oath during the summit, pledging to promote innovation, collaboration, and good governance within the cooperative movement.

“We believe that progress is best achieved when science serves the people. Cooperatives embrace technology in every aspect of their operations because science and walking laboratories or industries—they belong. Concerned cooperatives grow through technology, our entire region moves forward.”

As the summit concluded, Dr. Bilgera reaffirmed DOST’s mission to make ‘Agham na Ramdam’ a reality across Cagayan Valley.

The event also reflected Tuguegarao City’s strong commitment to cooperative empowerment and development. With DOST as a steadfast partner, the city continues to champion innovation, productivity, and shared prosperity for all.