Filipino innovators

DOST innovations showcased at virtual National Science and Technology Week

Gelo Gonzales

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DOST innovations showcased at virtual National Science and Technology Week

NSTW 2020. The virtual exhibits are divided into 4 themed sections

Screenshot from NSTW 2020 website

From natural plant growth stimulants to buses that broadcast science lessons in disadvantaged communities, here are the innovations at National Science and Technology Week 2020

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) annually showcases the projects it and its sub-agencies have been working at the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW).

Usually, it’s a physical event. But with 2020 being the year of the pandemic, the department – like everyone else – has been forced to move it to the virtual stage.

The NSTW 2020 website went live this week featuring a design that mimics the physical event, with areas such as an online plenary hall and exhibit hall.

The public can register on the NSTW website for free to visit the online exhibits.

At the exhibit hall lie the stars of the event: the inventions and innovations. The so-called hall is divided into 4 themed sections: Kabuhayan, Kinabukasan, Kalusugan, and Kaayusan.

HormoGroe, LISA robot

Showcased in Kabuhayan are livelihood-focused innovations. The OneStore is a one-stop e-commerce platform designed to bring MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises) online, with integrated tools for logistics and payments solutions.

OneLab is a network of laboratories accessible through a digital platform designed to help innovators get the laboratory testing that they need. OneExpert, on the other hand, connects users to a network of science and technology experts for consultancy.

Other inventions in the section include a nano plant growth regulator called HormoGroe, a natural plant growth stimulant that can “speed up seed germination, induce rooting, and enhance shoot growth and flowering.

Also shown are new breeds of native chickens, one of which is the Caraga Black native chicken that the DOST says have “higher pigmentation that may be associated with nutrients that have antioxidant property.”

At Kalusugan, on showcase are food products such as mongo-coconut drink, iodine-rich drinking water, and iron-fortified rice.

Many of the other items being showcased came out of COVID-19 necessity such as a face mask that’s reusable up to 50 times, fitted with an outer layer that prevents liquid droplets from passing through; bamboo-framed face shields; the LISA (Logistic Indoor Service Assistance) robot designed for telemedicine; and various studies on COVID-19 testing and possible alternative therapies.

Georisk initiative, RadyoEskwela

The Kaayusan section features are transport system technologies such as OLAP (Optimal Locations and Allocation of Personnel) and TITAN, an automated traffic information system that can track, classify, and count vehicles, speed, and pollution levels.

Disaster management-related technologies include the Automated Real-time Monitoring System for Dams and Reservoirs (ARMS); emergency foods; and the 2019 project Georisk Philippines Initiative, whose main project is HazardHunterPH for earthquake, volcanic, and typhoon hazard assessments.

Kinabukasan features the Advanced Manufacturing Center, which DOST envisions as a central hub for the development of new additive materials such as polymers and metals, and for the production of obsolete parts and components that can be used for existing equipment; and the hybrid double outrigger boat, and hybrid road train.

Other innovations include the Starbooks science and technology library; and the roving RadyoEskwela bus that will broadcast science and technology materials in disadvantaged areas where radio remains prevalent as the mode of information dissemination.

Talks and other online activities are also accessible and will run until November 29. Check the schedule here. – Rappler.com

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Gelo Gonzales

Gelo Gonzales is Rappler’s technology editor. He covers consumer electronics, social media, emerging tech, and video games.