DOST Davao Innovation Awards recognition underscores the region’s growing role in science and technology after two locally developed projects earned honors at the 8th Benita & Catalino Yap Foundation (BCYF) Innovation Awards.

DAVAO CITY– The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Davao Region received two national recognition at the 8th Benita & Catalino Yap Foundation (BCYF) Innovation Awards for the Vertical Helophyte Filter System (VHFS) and “Bukolyte,” developed under the Food Processing Innovation Center (FPIC) Davao.

VHSF  earned recognition as Finalist, while “Bukolyte” was recognized as Semi-Finalist.

The VHFS is a nature-based wastewater treatment technology that utilizes vertical-flow constructed wetlands planted with helophytes. Through natural processes such as sedimentation, filtration, microbial degradation, and plant nutrient absorption, the system reduces pollutants in wastewater while meeting regulatory liquid-waste standards. Its low-maintenance, energy-efficient, and decentralized design makes it suitable for institutions and communities with limited resources, promoting climate-resilient and ecosystem-based sanitation approaches.

Equally remarkable was the “Bukolyte”,  one of the food innovation products of FPIC-Davao, a collaborative project of the DOST Davao Region, Philippine Women’s College Davao (PWC), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) XI, and Food Processors Association of Davao (FPAD), Inc. Bukolyte is an instant young coconut powdered drink made purely from young coconut water and meat, with no added sugar, no artificial flavors and no preservatives. 

Through spray-drying technology, it transforms fresh coconut into a light and shelf-stable hydration powder that can be conveniently reconstituted by simply adding water.

This national recognition further reinforces DOST Davao Region’s dedication to community- focused, evidence-based programs that harness science and technology to foster inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, and improved quality of life. Through continued technical support, research, and capacity-building initiatives, the region remains at the forefront of advancing innovation-driven, resilient communities.

The BCYF Innovation Awards honor outstanding innovations that demonstrate tangible results, measurable impact, and strong potential for sustainable implementation across sectors and is part of the Foundation’s Comprehensive Social Development Program, which promotes research, education, events, and social enterprise initiatives to uplift communities through innovation and collaboration.

By Mindland Grace Trumpeta