DAGUPAN CITY—The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) mentioned its “Three-Horizon Approach” aims to implement applications that reply to the “real needs” of the Filipino neighborhood.
During the opening day of the 2026 Regional Science and Technology Week for Region 1 on Monday, Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. mentioned the method will not be new, however is now within the “harvest stage.”
“The Three Horizons strategy is not really a new program where we start from scratch. These programs are already funded, and some need to be implemented in partnership with other organizations,” he mentioned.
The Three Horizons Approach is DOST’s approach of planning science and know-how applications in levels—serving to companies develop now, constructing stronger techniques for the long run, and aiming for a long-term economic system that’s inclusive, revolutionary, and sustainable.
Solidum famous that DOST is now concentrating on the primary horizon, which focuses on boosting micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) productiveness by serving to companies undertake superior applied sciences and enhance operational processes.
“We benchmarked with Thailand to see how they achieved more than 25–30% productivity increase through smart factories,” he said.
“We want to engage enterprises with upscaling programs, using artificial intelligence and robotics automation in their operations,” Solidum added.
He mentioned that whereas Manila and different main cities have comparable startup numbers, the problem lies in scaling up.
“What we need to do is further support our enterprises and leverage the presence of universities, higher education institutions, and state universities and colleges,” he mentioned.
DOST’s Innoventa applications proceed to push for commercialization of Filipino-made improvements, urging researchers to develop market-ready merchandise.
The company additionally continues to call for more investments in Filipino inventions to promote “innovation economics” and empower the Philippine economic system by way of human capital.
Solidum mentioned the second horizon focuses on rising productiveness by way of investments in resilient techniques and manpower, whereas the third horizon envisions a long-term aim of an inclusive, round, and innovation-driven economic system.
“Technology allows us to use resources more efficiently and respond faster to disruptions. Business model innovation moves us toward a circular economy—where waste becomes value,” he said.
“Partnerships among industry, government, and communities make innovation scalable and impactful,” Solidum added.
Solidum mentioned industries are already turning waste into worth whereas digital instruments make companies extra environment friendly and sustainable.
“Across industries, circular economy practices are already transforming waste into new inputs and revenue streams. Digitalization makes businesses leaner, faster, and greener—optimizing supply chains, reducing losses, and improving traceability and safety,” he added.
DOST can be set to launch the National Artificial Intelligence Center for Research and Innovation (NAICRI) on February 26, showcasing present efforts in AI infrastructure, platforms, and instruments.—MCG, GMA Integrated News