DOST focuses on innovations for industry in the 2026 Call Conference series

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) conducted the South Luzon and National Capital Region (NCR) Call Conference on February 11, 2026, at The Manila Hotel, bringing together researchers, scientists, academic institutions, industry partners, and other stakeholders from the cluster to submit their research and development (R&D) proposals for potential funding.

The conference is part of DOST’s nationwide series of call conferences in support of the DOST Grants-in-Aid (GIA) Program, which provides funding support to research and development projects that are aligned with the National Science and Technology Roadmap and national priority areas.

These conferences serve as a venue to educate researchers, scientists, and stakeholders on the guidelines, mechanics, and priority areas for funding.

In his keynote message, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. highlighted that the GIA Program plays an important role in translating science and innovation into solutions that directly benefit the Filipino people.

“What I have shared today reflects the journey of our National Science and Technology Roadmap—from building strong foundations to ultimately shaping the future industries of our country,” Secretary Solidum said.

“Across all three horizons, the message is clear: science, technology, and innovation must directly serve the Filipino people by protecting lives, strengthening industries, and creating quality jobs.”

Secretary Solidum highlighted that through the DOST-GIA Program, the government supports research initiatives in key sectors such as artificial intelligence, agriculture, health, climate resilience, and defense, ensuring that Filipino talent and innovation are placed on top of national development.

With this, Secretary Solidum encouraged everyone to actively participate in the 2026 Call for Proposals.

The science secretary shared that DOST is geared to modernize micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The target is to strengthen the productivity of 10,000 MSMEs, boosting their productivity by 25 to 30 percent, creating and upgrading high-quality jobs, and generating added regional value.

In her closing message, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Leah Buendia thanked everyone who participated, and for being the key partners in bringing the economic and social benefits of science, technology, and innovation closer to Filipino communities.

The South Luzon and NCR Call Conference follows the earlier legs of the call for proposal, including the North Luzon Call Conference held on January 15, 2026, in Isabela, and the Visayas Call Conference conducted on January 29, 2026, in Bacolod City.

The fourth and last leg will be the Mindanao Call Conference, which was scheduled on February 24, 2026, at Butuan City.

Other dates to note:
• Submission of Concept Proposals (DPMIS V2):                 March 1–15, 2026
• Evaluation of Concept Proposals:                                    March 16–April 15, 2026
• Release of Shortlisted Concept Proposals:                       April 15, 2026
• Preparation of Full-blown Proposals:                               April 16–30, 2026
• Submission of Full-blown Proposals (via DPMIS):             May 1–31, 2026
• Evaluation of Full-blown Proposals:                                 June 1–August 6, 2026
• Notification of Results to Proponents:                              June 1–August 6, 2026

Through the DOST-GIA Program, the department continues to strengthen research partnerships and support innovative projects that address national challenges and contribute to inclusive and sustainable development in the country.