SCIENCE and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said that his department is committed to supporting works of Filipino innovators.
In his message during the 2026 Presidential Filipinnovation Awards National Competition, Solidum urged the finalists to develop technologies beneficial to Filipinos.
"You turned your experiences and challenges into a path toward the solution," Solidum said.
"DOST stands ready to provide support in areas such as intellectual property protection, technical validation through the Philippine Technology Evaluation and Standards for Testing or Phitest, and commercialization through initiatives such as the Synchronized Innovation and Business Oriented Launchpads or Sibol," he added.
Solidum underscored the Department of Science and Technology's principle of "Agham na Ramdam," or science that is felt in everyday life, like computer applications that help improve agricultural productivity, food security, access to healthcare, and children's learning capabilities.
He said the Presidential Filipinnovation Awards serves as a platform to connect innovators with investors, industry partners, and government agencies that can help promote their creations.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that recognition must be matched with opportunities, sustained support, and market access.
"To every innovator across the country, I know that you have come a long way to reach this point. I also know that there is still much to do to turn your ideas into solutions that can improve the lives of our people, our communities, and our nation," Marcos said.
Solidum said winning Filipino works from similar competitions have gained global recognition, including in Geneva, London, and Seoul.
"That is proof that when Filipino ingenuity is given a fair stage and steady support, it does not merely compete — it prevails," Solidum said.
He urged universities, research institutions, industries, investors, and government agencies to work together in areas where the Philippines can establish a competitive advantage.
"Do not ask only what we can invent. Ask where the Philippines can become indispensable," he said.
