DOST Caraga Celebrates 2025 National Innovation Day with Launch of New Hubs and R&D Support for Sustainable Growth

Caraga took strides toward innovation and sustainable development with a series of significant events held on April 25, 2025, at the DOST Caraga Regional Office in Butuan City.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga officially launched two new innovation hubs — the Caraga Innovation Hub and the Caraga Food Testing and Innovation Hub. These hubs are designed to drive technological advancements, support local enterprises, and provide accredited food testing services to strengthen Caraga’s innovation system.

The launch event was attended by distinguished guests, including DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST-PTRI Director IV Dr. Julius L. Leaño, PSHS-CRC Director Engr. Ramil Sanchez, President of the Butuan Chamber of Commerce Ms. Cristina Arcillas, and Butuan City Mayor Engr. Ronnie Vicente Lagnada, where each of them conveyed their support for the creation of these innovation hubs.

On the same day, DOST Caraga awarded funding to five Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to boost local research and development efforts. Among the recipients was the Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT) for its Agri-Based Technology Business Incubator (ABRI TBI) project.

College President Joy C. Capistrano, along with the College of Agriculture Research and Creative Works Chairperson, Mr. Dennis M. Gilbero, and the Innovation and Technology Support Office Director, Engr. Jack O. Bertulfo, personally accepted the funding on behalf of the institution, reaffirming ASSCAT’s commitment to advancing agripreneurship and innovation in Caraga.

Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—specifically SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)—these efforts contribute to fostering technological progress, supporting local entrepreneurship, and creating a more advanced local innovation and sustainable future across the region.

Photo credits: DOST Caraga