(Photo courtesy of PIA)
LUCENA CITY – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is strengthening its support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by promoting advanced technologies to increase production, improve product quality, and enhance competitiveness in the ASEAN market.
During the Regional Science and Technology Week in Calabarzon, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. emphasized the importance of adopting automation, mechanization, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI) to help local businesses expand their operations.
Solidum said the agency aims to introduce science-based solutions that will enable MSMEs to improve efficiency, increase productivity, and meet the demands of a growing regional market.
“The role of DOST here in the Philippines is to scale up the production of the MSME product, and to improve the quality of the product using science technology,” Solidum said.
He also stressed the need to strengthen partnerships among small businesses, medium-sized enterprises, and technology providers to maximize economic opportunities.
According to the ASEAN Secretariat, Southeast Asia has approximately 70 million MSMEs, representing 97.2 to 99.9 percent of business establishments across member states.
These enterprises account for around 85 percent of regional employment, contribute 44.8 percent of gross domestic product, and generate 18 percent of exports.
Under the ASEAN Strategic Action Plan on MSME Development 2026–2030, innovation, digital transformation, and stronger participation in regional and global supply chains are among the priorities for improving business competitiveness.
With the Philippines serving as ASEAN chair in 2026, the government is pushing for greater integration of science and technology into MSME development programs.
Solidum noted that while individual businesses can operate profitably, connecting enterprises across production and supply chains could generate greater economic benefits.
He emphasized that DOST’s initiatives aim not only to modernize individual enterprises but also to build stronger business networks that support sustainable growth and regional economic integration.
