The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in collaboration with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), successfully completed the Virtual Orientation Series on the Knowledge, Innovation, Science and Technology (KIST) Ecozone Program. Held every Tuesday from May 13 to June 17, 2025, the series aimed to guide higher education institutions (HEIs) in preparing their applications to become registered KIST Ecozone Developers.
The KIST Ecozone Program is a strategic initiative by DOST and PEZA that seeks to establish special economic zones within HEIs. Formally recognized through PEZA registration and Presidential Proclamation under Republic Act 7916 (Special Economic Zone Act), these university-based ecozones will foster interdisciplinary collaboration, promote technopreneurship, and accelerate commercialization of research and development outputs. By linking academe, industry, and government, these ecozones are envisioned to drive innovation, create quality jobs, support high-value industries, and contribute to advancing the goals of the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028.
The virtual orientation series was part of the joint effort of DOST and PEZA to operationalize the DOST-PEZA Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2023-001 and DOST Memorandum Circular No. 001 s. 2024, which provides the policy and procedural framework for the establishment of KIST Parks/Ecozones across the country.
The series opened with strong support from national leaders. DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga, and DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho A. Mabborang underscored the transformative potential of KIST Ecozones in turning HEIs into innovation hubs, strengthening university-industry linkages, and driving inclusive, regional economic growth.
Each weekly session offered comprehensive guidance on the KIST Park/Ecozone application process, including the requirements and evaluation procedures. The sessions also featured an open forum where participants from HEIs engaged with resource persons from both DOST and PEZA.
Representing DOST were Ms. Emelita P. Bagsit (Regional Director, DOST CALABARZON) and Engr. Melvin P. Jusi (Project Development Officer IV, DOST Office of the Undersecretary for Regional Operations). From PEZA’s Ecozone Development Department, participating officials included Mr. Ludwig O. Daza (Department Manager), Ms. Liza S. De Vera (Division Chief III), and Ms. Nancy F. Vargas (Project Evaluation Officer IV). Together, they addressed technical, procedural, and policy-related concerns, and offered practical guidance to support HEIs in navigating the KIST Ecozone application and development process.
Throughout the six-week program, a total of 33 HEIs/SUCs were successfully oriented nationwide, with participation from 17 DOST Regional Offices and select local government units across various regions. The orientation series marks a critical step in accelerating the implementation of the KIST Ecozone Program and building a more innovation-driven economy.
With sustained collaboration and growing interest among academic institutions, DOST and PEZA remain hopeful that by 2028, at least seven KIST Parks will be proclaimed and/or established across the country—anchoring a future where science, technology, and innovation serve as the foundation for inclusive, sustainable, and globally competitive regional development. (By Jeric H. Rosales)