PEZA pushes innovation-led growth at national R&D conference

A senior economic planning official emphasized the importance of innovation zones and policy synergy in transforming research into real-world impact during the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) 8th National Research and Development Conference (NRDC) held on July 24, 2025, at the Manila Hotel.

Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Deputy Director General for Policy and Planning Anidelle Joy M. Alguso was among the speakers at the two-day event, which focused on translating R&D into market-ready solutions aligned with national priorities.

In her presentation titled “Translate Research to Impact: From Lab to Market – Unlocking Innovation and Maximizing Benefits through Strategic Investments,” Alguso underscored the role of economic zones—particularly Knowledge, Innovation, Science, and Technology (KIST) Parks—in creating environments conducive to innovation.

She said PEZA offers a comprehensive ecosystem that supports startups and established firms through tax incentives, incubation spaces, access to laboratories, industry-academe collaboration, and streamlined business processes.

Alguso also highlighted PEZA’s alignment with the CREATE MORE Act and other national innovation policies, stressing the agency’s close coordination with the DOST, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

“This conference has made it clear: the path from research to real-world impact requires more than innovation—it demands strategic investment, policy synergy, and a shared vision for national progress. PEZA stands ready to be a catalyst for this transformation, supporting industries and startups in turning bold ideas into inclusive, market-driven solutions,” she said.

The conference, organized by DOST, highlighted results from initiatives under the Harmonized National Research and Development Agenda and focused on the agency’s four strategic thrusts: transdisciplinary R&D for wealth creation, wealth protection, human well-being, and sustainability.

Other officials who joined the plenary session included DOST Undersecretaries Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang and Maridon O. Sahagun; Department of Budget and Management Undersecretary Rolando U. Toledo; Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Michael L. Ubac; Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines Director General Atty. Brigitte M. da Costa-Villaluz; Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Maria Teresa T. Almojuela; and DOST Assistant Secretary Napoleon K. Juanillo Jr.