Central Luzon Enters New Phase of Innovation with Launch of DOST Hubs

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) formally launched three major facilities that are expected to strengthen research, innovation, and industry support in Central Luzon. The inauguration of the DOST III Innovation Hub (iHUB), the Smarter Approaches to Reinvigorate Agriculture as an Industry in the Philippines Centralized National Hub for Regional Operations (SARAI CeNTRo), and the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen) took place on November 13, 2025 at the DOST Region III Office located at the Diosdado Macapagal Government Center, Maimpis, City of San Fernando, Pampanga. The event served as one of the key highlights of the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) hosted by DOST-Central Luzon.

The inauguration was led by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., together with Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang and DOST Region III Director Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat. Officials from local government units, partner institutions, and representatives from the academic, public, and private sectors also attended the launch.

The newly opened AMCen provides access to advanced prototyping and product development equipment aimed at supporting startups, MSMEs, and local manufacturers in improving innovation capacity and competitiveness. SARAI CeNTRo enhances the region’s efforts in climate-smart and data-driven agriculture by offering research-based tools and decision-support systems that assist farmers and local governments in addressing climate and production challenges. The DOST-Central Luzon Innovation Hub, or iHUB, offers a modern co-working and collaboration space designed to support researchers, innovators, students, and enterprises in developing ideas and moving technologies closer to commercialization.

In a separate activity held in Cloverleaf, Sta. Cruz, Bulacan, DOST also opened iLAB Guiguinto, a dedicated tissue culture laboratory aimed at boosting the ornamental plants industry in the province. The facility is expected to help expand the availability of high-quality planting materials and support local agri-based businesses.

The establishment of these facilities reflects DOST’s continuing efforts to build a stronger science and technology ecosystem in Central Luzon. Through these initiatives, the agency aims to broaden access to research services, accelerate innovation, and promote inclusive development across various communities and industries in the region.(Nelson Santos)