TACLOBAN CITY — In a powerful display of public-private synergy, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Tacloban-Leyte Inc. recently gathered at Gerry’s Grill in Tacloban City for a high-level "Sip and Dine with the Chamber" networking event. Designed to pave the way for the upcoming HANDA Pilipinas Visayas Leg, the strategic meetup and LeyteBiz collaboration served as a dynamic platform to align cutting-edge science and technology with the evolving demands of local businesses and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Charting a Three-Horizon Roadmap for Business Resilience
Headlining the discussions, DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. outlined a visionary three-horizon framework aimed at future-proofing regional enterprises through innovation. The strategic roadmap focuses on:
Strengthening Core Industries: Upgrading traditional businesses and MSMEs through flagship initiatives such as the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).
Accelerating Emerging Sectors: Bridging the gap for high-growth enterprises by helping homegrown innovations transition into market-ready and investment-ready commercial technologies.
Future-Proofing the Economy: Anticipating disruptive technologies, global trends, and regional challenges to ensure local businesses remain globally competitive and adaptable.
Bridging Innovation and Enterprise in Eastern Visayas
The partnership underscores the critical role of robust government-industry collaboration in equipping local entrepreneurs with the technological tools, expert guidance, and institutional support needed to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. As regional leaders look toward the launch of the HANDA Pilipinas Visayas Leg, local business advocates expressed optimism that the alliance will catalyze sustainable growth, economic modernization, and heightened disaster resilience across Leyte and neighboring provinces.
