BINALONAN, Pangasinan — Advancing efforts to harmonize regional science, technology, and innovation assets, the Department of Science and Technology Ilocos Region Innovation Hub (DOST Ilocos Region iHub) convened key ecosystem actors for the Regional Innovation Convergence under the sub-theme “Connecting Support, Enabling Collaboration” on October 16, 2026, at WCC Aeronautical and Technological College (WCC ATC) in Binalonan, Pangasinan. Serving as a core highlight on the third day of the 4th Joint Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Symposium, the convergence provided a strategic venue to align institutional capabilities, funding programs, research facilities, and support mechanisms across Ilocos Region.
In her opening remarks, DOST Ilocos Region Director Teresita A. Tabaog emphasized that innovation does not thrive in isolation but through strengthened collaboration and clearer pathways for support. The program featured four innovation talks highlighting the complementary roles of key ecosystem pillars: DOST Pangasinan Provincial Director Engr. Arnold C. Santos mapped the Region 1 innovation and startup landscape; DOST NCR Regional Innovation Hub Focal Person Engr. Reynaldo Badua Jr. presented the strategic role of iHubs as pre-incubation launching pads; DOST PSU Aligwas TBI Project Leader Dr. Roseanne Jane C. Agustin-Cera highlighted the specialized incubation services of technology business incubators; and DOST Ilocos Region Assistant Regional Director for Field Operations and ICIEERD Director Mr. Decth-1180 P. Libunao illustrated how R&D consortia link innovators to vital technical expertise, research infrastructure, and institutional resources.
The activity culminated in a fireside chat moderated by Mr. Nestor Feland B. Panopio, which explored practical ways to address gaps and strengthen connections within the regional innovation ecosystem. The resource persons examined the transition from prototype development to startup incubation, clarifying how iHubs and TBIs can work alongside consortia and other partners without duplicating services. The discussion concluded with a call for concrete actions and stronger stakeholder participation toward building a more connected, accessible, and responsive Ilocos Region innovation ecosystem in the coming years.
Through the Regional Innovation Convergence, DOST Ilocos Region reinforces its commitment to foster collaboration among government agencies, academic institutions, iHubs, TBIs, R&D consortia, and other innovation partners. By connecting existing capabilities and strengthening support pathways, the region aims to help innovators transform promising ideas into impactful technologies, sustainable enterprises, and solutions to community and industry needs.
