PROPEL Program Launches to Empower Filipino Innovators and Drive Technology Commercialization
“We are taking a significant step in bridging the gap between research and commercialization. This initiative will empower Filipino innovators to transform their ideas into impactful technologies that contribute to national development,” said Dr. Napoleon K. Juanillo Jr., Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization, during the launch of the PROPEL program at the Zonal Conference in Batangas State University Main Campus on February 12, 2025.
Organized by the DOST Office of the Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization (OASEC-TTCC), the event highlighted the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) commitment to advancing innovation, fostering collaboration, and enabling the commercialization of Filipino innovations. A total of 144 attendees from various sectors participated in the event. These included representatives from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), regional National Government Agencies (NGAs), and the private sector.
The event served as a platform for a dynamic exchange of ideas, bringing together key players in the innovation ecosystem. It underscored the importance of collaboration in driving technological progress and commercial success.
Program PROPEL was designed to guide a broad range of participants through the entire innovation journey—from the idea stage to product development, technology transfer, and commercialization. It aims to support researchers, scientists, inventors, S&T entrepreneurs, startups, DOST RDI’s technology transfer and business development officers, Innovation Hubs (iHUBs) in regions and provinces, and provincial science and technology officers.
Key figures present at the event included Dr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations; Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog, Regional Director of DOST Region I; Ms. Emelita Bagsit, Regional Director of DOST-CALABARZON; Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, President of Batangas State University; and other DOST officials, partners, and stakeholders.
In the afternoon, a series of keynote presentations and a workshop titled Mapping the Global Value and Supply Chain for Semiconductors and Electric Vehicles: Challenges and Opportunities for Philippine Researchers, Scientists, and Innovations took place. The session featured industry and academic experts, including Mr. Glenn Quiro, Technology Advocate at Apl.de.Ap Foundation International (APLFI) and former General Manager at Intel Shenzhen and Shanghai; Mr. Louis P. Alarcon, Associate Professor at the University of the Philippines-Diliman; and Dr. John Anthony Jose, Associate Professor at De La Salle University.
With the successful launch of PROPEL, DOST reaffirmed its mission to empower Filipino innovators and shape a future built on cutting-edge advancements.
