The biggest catch in science and technology for 2026 is coming to the Philippines’ Tuna Capital.
Bringing more science-based opportunities and solutions to Southern Mindanao, the City of General Santos is set to host this year’s National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) celebration from November 25 to 29.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) centered the NSTW and its outreach, exhibitions, and partnerships on the subtheme “Science, Technology, and Digital Innovation: Driving Food Security, Sustainable Energy, and National Resilience.”
Echoing this core, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. affirmed the role of science, technology, and innovation in addressing the current challenges the Philippines faces—such as the impacts of the looming El Niño, fuel crisis, and widespread flooding, among others.
“Science is not a mere sector but indeed the solution. It drives our national progress, especially as a significant pillar for agriculture, energy, and disaster resilience,” the secretary said, noting that it must be approached holistically rather than separately, as each underpins one another.
“A nation that cannot feed its people cannot be resilient. No sustainable energy can sustain a nation’s growth. And a nation that ignores science ultimately halts progress,” he added.
Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho A. Mabborang, on the other hand, emphasized that the NSTW celebration extends national initiatives to the local communities, improving inclusive economic growth, opportunities, and unity towards development.
“When we bring science directly to the grassroots communities, we empower local farmers, small entrepreneurs, and scholars with the innovation to help counter their own distinct challenges—be it agricultural resilience, clean water access, or digital literacy,” the undersecretary said.
Mabborang also believed that the NSTW provides opportunities for the national government to learn about science and innovation from the region, helping bridge the gap between policies and actual human needs.
“Local communities are the first responders to their own challenges. Their innovations are practical, context-specific, and tested by daily survival,” he elaborated.
Meanwhile, DOST XII Regional Director Sammy P. Malawan noted that hosting this year’s NSTW will indeed allow the region to showcase the ingenuity and scientific capabilities of Southern Mindanao through its homegrown innovations.
“Remarkable and meaningful science, research, and technology also belong to Mindanao—from sustainable agriculture, advanced aquaculture, and smart agriculture, sustainable energy, and preparedness,” the regional director said.
The five-day event will feature various immersive, innovative, and informative exhibits, alongside competitions such as robot-building and e-games development, led by the attached agencies of the DOST and other national and regional stakeholders, including industry partners, academic institutions, and local government units.
Moreover, various forums and awards will underpin smart and sustainable agricultural and aquacultural practices and innovations, green energy showcases, and other local innovations.
About NSTW
The National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) is an annual celebration organized by the DOST and its host region/agency that showcases local technologies, research and development (R&D) projects, and innovative initiatives that connect communities, local industries, and stakeholders with science-based solutions. These efforts promote inclusive, sustainable, and resilience developments. For more information, visit www.dost.gov.ph or the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) Facebook page.
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