Local scholars and creators in search of financing and safeguarding for their intellectual assets can receive support from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), an official mentioned.
Caezar Angelito E. Arceo, principal science research specialist at the DOST-Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI), informed BusinessWorld that the organization has multiple initiatives to assist Filipino innovators and researchers along their path from research and development to commercialization.
“Even if they do not yet plan to market or commercialize, as long as they possess a functional prototype or a concept that is unique and patentable, we will back them,” Mr. Arceo stated in a blend of English and Tagalog during a field site visit in Albay on Thursday.
For inventors and researchers looking to enhance their ideas, DOST offers various research councils that can assist them, Mr. Arceo noted. Among these is the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD).
They can also access innovation hubs (i-hubs) spread throughout the nation, which function as specialized environments for innovation and startups. Within the Bicol Region, i-hubs are present in all six provinces.
Regarding inquiries about funding and intellectual property safeguarding, Mr. Arceo stated that TAPII serves as a dedicated branch of the DOST for these matters. The institute also guarantees that researchers and innovators can translate their work into market opportunities.
“We offer financial support — we directly provide funds to the grantee. We also deliver technical assistance; if there are shortcomings, we address their issues and help connect them with the right individuals,” Mr. Arceo remarked.
Johnny B. Bañez, a 30-year-old inventor of the motorized multi-functional device for grating and shredding, has obtained assistance from DOST-TAPII through funding and by acquiring a utility model patent.
“Napaka-importante ng tulong ng DOST dahil may funds sila at may tao sila na handang tumulong sa mga ideas na pwedeng gawin [The assistance of DOST is extremely significant because they possess funds and individuals who are ready to help with ideas that can be developed],” Mr. Bañez stated to BusinessWorld.
Mr. Arceo emphasized that researchers and innovators should feel free to approach the DOST if they possess innovative discoveries, as the agency can assist in developing and protecting their creations and ultimately facilitate them for public benefit. – Edg Adrian A. Eva