From PHL and Beyond: DOST Program PROPEL accelerates local innovation to global stage
By Engr. Kim Janzel ObdinWhile Filipino innovations and startups are beginning to flourish, many still face significant hurdles in transitioning from research to viable enterprises. To address this gap, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) launched Program PROPEL, a game-changer for technology transfer and commercialization acceleration in the country.
The program was conducted on December 4, 2024, at the Maynila Ballroom of The Manila Hotel, Manila City, drawing key stakeholders from government, industry, academe, and the science and technology community.
Spearheaded by the DOST Office of the Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization, Program PROPEL consolidates the department’s resources, services, and facilities into a strategic platform to empower Filipino innovators. The program seeks to bridge the divide between groundbreaking research and market-ready solutions, positioning Philippine innovations to compete effectively globally.
DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. emphasized the importance of this initiative during his keynote address, “PROPEL is envisioned as a gateway for successful technology transfer and commercialization, propelling Filipino innovations forward to both local and global markets.”
The program will operate as a full support vehicle that encompasses the Filipino innovator from startup to the scaling-up phase, focusing on mentorship, funding, regulatory assistance, and global commercialization pathways. It fosters a sustainable ecosystem for entrepreneurship and economic growth, linking local innovations to international markets.
In his message, Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization Napoleon K. Juanillo, Jr. summarized the vision behind the initiative, saying that science is the brand and the leverage as well.
“Through Program PROPEL, we aim to transform research into impact, driving Filipino innovations to create real-world solutions and economic opportunities,” explains Juanillo.
The event concluded with a ceremonial toast, symbolizing the collective commitment to advancing Filipino innovations and establishing the Philippines as a regional hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
This landmark program is a pivotal step that aims to address innovation barriers and will foster economic growth and position the Philippines as a key player in the global technology landscape. (PR)
Photo captionsPhoto 1: DOST undersecretary Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., assistant secretary Napoleon K. Juanillo, Jr., and undersecretary Leah J. Buendia during the ceremonial ribbon-cutting to launch Program PROPEL, a new initiative aimed at advancing Filipino innovations on the global stage. (Photo by Xyrus Ivan de Gracia) Photo 2: DOST officials, representatives from national government agencies, leaders from the academe, diplomats, and other non-government organizations topped the launch of Program PROPEL with a group photo. (Photo by Xyrus Ivan de Gracia)
