Photos from DOST CALABARZON via Facebook
August 14, 2025 – Antipolo City, Rizal
The future of local governance just got smarter! In a bold step toward data-driven and innovation-led development, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – CALABARZON officially turned over Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Plans to Lipa City, Batangas and Taytay, Rizal during the high-energy opening of the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) held at the Ynares Event Center in Antipolo City.
This landmark handover signals the full implementation of the Innovation, Science, and Technology for Accelerating Regional Technology-based Development (iSTART) Program in these two progressive LGUs—marking a new chapter in their journey toward becoming smart, sustainable, and tech-empowered communities.
What is iSTART and Why It Matters
At the heart of this initiative is iSTART, DOST-CALABARZON’s flagship program that helps local governments leap from traditional governance into smart cityhood through science, technology, and innovation.
Think of iSTART as the LGUs’ development compass—each STI Plan is carefully designed to:
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Analyze baseline data about the locality (demographics, industries, environment, and more)
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Craft a visionary yet actionable Smart City Roadmap
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Recommend high-impact programs, projects, and activities (PPAs)
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Empower LGUs to make data-driven decisions and attract potential investments and partnerships
With the STI Plan in hand, LGUs can now implement solutions that enhance public services, boost disaster resilience, improve mobility, foster innovation ecosystems, and more.
Photos from DOST CALABARZON via Facebook
Lipa and Taytay: Ready to Lead the Way
During the ceremonial turnover, Ms. Daisy R. Babaan, City Planning and Development Officer, accepted the STI Plan on behalf of Lipa City. She shared how the plan will significantly enhance their city’s planning tools:
“This STI Plan gives us a strong foundation for smart, inclusive, and sustainable development. We’re excited to turn data into action!”
Meanwhile, Hon. Allan Martine S. De Leon, Mayor of Taytay, proudly received their municipality’s plan, calling it a roadmap for the future:
“Taytay is ready to embrace digital transformation. This partnership with DOST strengthens our capacity to serve, innovate, and grow.”
DOST-CALABARZON: Driving Innovation from the Ground Up
DOST-CALABARZON, led by Regional Director Dr. Alexander R. Madrigal, assured continued support even after the plan handover.
“We are not just delivering plans—we’re building long-term partnerships. DOST-CALABARZON will continue to assist LGUs in implementing these initiatives and connecting them with experts, researchers, and funding partners.”
This means Lipa and Taytay won’t be on their smart city journey alone. DOST will help:
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Monitor and evaluate progress
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Facilitate tech-based collaborations
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Provide technical assistance and R&D support
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Guide LGUs in transforming ideas into impact
Smarter Cities, Better Futures
In today’s rapidly changing world, local innovation isn’t optional—it’s essential. Programs like iSTART are game-changers, enabling LGUs to:
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Optimize local resources
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Use science and tech to solve real-world problems
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Align with the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028
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Contribute to national and global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
By equipping LGUs with the tools and knowledge to innovate from within, DOST is fostering a culture of resilience, competitiveness, and forward-thinking leadership across CALABARZON.
About RSTW 2025: Celebrating Innovation, Empowering Regions
The Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) is a flagship celebration of innovation across the region. With this year’s theme, “Solutions and Opportunities for All,” RSTW 2025 showcases the power of STI to transform lives, industries, and communities.
From interactive exhibits and live demos to high-impact partnerships and policy launches, the event is a vibrant hub of ideas and inspiration.
What’s Next?
With the STI Plans in place, the work is just beginning. Expect to see smart city programs roll out in Lipa and Taytay in the coming months—from digital infrastructure upgrades and sustainable mobility plans to smart agriculture and climate resilience projects.
Follow DOST-CALABARZON for real-time updates, success stories, and opportunities to collaborate!
SolutionsOpportunitiesForAll
#RSTWinCALABARZON2025
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By: Meme Borja
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