The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) 7 aims to scale up business activity in Central Visayas by bringing digital innovations closer to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) during this year’s Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Week. The event will run from July 13 to 15, 2026, at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
Event Focus on STI Solutions
DOST 7 Director Tristan Abando announced the initiative during the event’s media launch on Thursday, July 2, at the agency’s regional office in Lahug, Cebu City. The week-long gathering will bring together schools, MSMEs, science experts and local government units (LGUs) to discuss how science, technology and innovation (STI) can help industries become more efficient.
“We are focusing on the current problems of our communities today and the solutions that STI can provide,” Abando said. He emphasized the need for MSMEs to adapt to technological advancements, noting they remain important drivers of economic growth.
Smart MSMEs Conference Highlights AI
One of the event’s major highlights, the Smart MSMEs Conference, will discuss how startups and enterprises can use artificial intelligence (AI) to automate operations and improve productivity. The conference will also introduce technologies developed by DOST that MSMEs can readily adopt.
This initiative complements the agency’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program, which has provided technological assistance to more than 626 MSMEs in Central Visayas since its launch in 2002, according to DOST.
Ethical AI Use and Human Creativity
Abando stressed that while emerging technologies can streamline business operations, companies must ensure that human-centered production remains a priority. Asked about using AI for generating posters and other marketing materials, he said the technology should complement—not replace—human creativity.
“We also advocate for supporting our creative industries. AI is just a tool, and we should not be heavily dependent on it. There must be coexistence between our creative industries and these emerging platforms,” Abando said.
Additional Topics and Participation
This year’s Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Week will also feature discussions on food security, sustainable energy and national resilience. The event is organized by DOST 7 in collaboration with various stakeholders, including LGUs and academic institutions.
