By Emma Joyce F. Guillermo
LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte — Ilocos Norte is set to take center stage in science and innovation as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region I hosts the 2025 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) celebration from November 18 to 21 at the Centennial Arena in Laoag City.
The four-day event will spotlight Filipino ingenuity through exhibits, forums, and technology showcases that promote innovation and sustainability.
With the theme “Agham, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan” (Science, Technology, and Innovation: Partner in Building a Stable, Comfortable, and Secure Future), this year’s NSTW underscores the crucial role of science and technology in driving inclusive growth and resilience.
“The celebration aims to promote science, technology, and innovation through our four pillars: human well-being, sustainability, wealth creation, and wealth protection,” said Kent Ramil, senior science specialist at DOST Ilocos Norte, during the Danggay ti Panagdur-as radio program.
NSTW highlights
This year’s NSTW will feature a wide range of activities—from forums and technology exhibits to workshops and live demonstrations designed to engage students and encourage practical applications of science and technology.
The opening ceremony and exhibit launch are scheduled for Nov. 18.
Among the major highlights is the launch of the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) in Vintar town, a pioneering facility that will produce locally made yarns from bamboo and cotton.
The project positions Ilocos Norte as a leader in sustainable textile innovation and resource-based industries.
Vintar Mayor Richard Degala said the establishment of the RYPIC “marks a major milestone not only in Vintar but also in the province.”
He emphasized that the project will help boost local industries and open new livelihood opportunities for residents.
“We are excited that our town is the first to be able to build a facility for the production of local threads in the country,” Degala said.
“We will be using bamboo fibers and cotton to produce thread.”
He added that the initiative is encouraging local farmers to plant more bamboo and cotton to enhance their livelihoods.
“This move will ensure the raw materials used in the RYPIC will come directly from the town, eliminating the need for importation and strengthening the livelihood of local farmers,” he said.
Science meets style, technology
Another major attraction of the 2025 NSTW is the Fashion Innovation Show, where designers from across the country will present collections made with natural and locally produced fabrics from the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI).
The event will merge tradition and technology, highlighting how Filipino creativity can drive sustainable fashion.
To further promote local innovation, DOST will also stage hand-looming festivals, robotics competitions, and e-Games in various malls around Ilocos Norte.
These activities aim to bring science closer to the public and inspire the youth to pursue careers in science and technology.
Uniting partners for science, innovation
Ramil emphasized that the NSTW celebration is a collaborative effort involving the DOST Ilocos Region, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, several local government units (LGUs), and academic institutions such as the Mariano Marcos State University, Northwestern University, and Northern Christian College, along with other state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the region.
“Almost all agencies and state universities in Region 1 are involved because we want our stakeholders and LGUs to adopt science-based solutions that address local challenges,” Ramil said.
“We would like to show not only to our fellow Ilocanos here in Ilocos Norte the readily available technology, but we would also want our stakeholders to adapt the technologies available from DOST,” he added.
Ramil encouraged the public to participate in the upcoming celebration and to stay updated through the DOST Ilocos Norte Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DOSTIlocosNorte.
He also urged attendees to download the NSTW mobile application for event schedules and registration.
Ilocos Norte as hub for innovation
As preparations continue, the 2025 NSTW promises to be a dynamic platform for showcasing Filipino scientific talent and promoting sustainable innovations that contribute to a progressive and resilient future.
With Ilocos Norte leading this year’s national celebration, the DOST and local officials said the province reaffirms its commitment to championing science, technology, and innovation—paving the way for a stronger, smarter, and more sustainable nation. (AMB/EJFG, PIA Ilocos Norte)
