ILOCOS REGION — To empower local innovators and accelerate the translation of health research into real-world solutions, the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD), alongside the Region 1 Health Research and Development Consortium (R1HRDC), spearheaded a capacity-building workshop on Intellectual Property (IP) and HeaRTNovation on July 21, 2026.

The event gathered over 60 researchers, health professionals, and innovators across the region to sharpen their expertise in IP protection, technology development, and commercialization strategies.

During the workshop, DOST-PCHRD’s Intellectual Property and Technology Management (IPTM) Unit highlighted the Health Research and Technology Innovation (HeaRTNovation) Hubs Program—a platform designed to link researchers, institutions, and industry experts to maximize the real-world impact of health research.

“Every promising health research output deserves the opportunity to reach the people who can benefit from it. Through the HeaRTNovation Hubs, researchers are better equipped to protect their IP, prepare invention disclosures, assess technology readiness, and access government support for technology development and commercialization,” said DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr.

Throughout the sessions, participants tackled key challenges in managing research outputs, explored collaborative opportunities, and learned how to integrate IP planning early into their research workflows. Experts emphasized that early-stage IP planning dramatically improves a project’s chances of successful commercial application.

Secretary Solidum underscored the vital role of technology transfer in nation-building:

“Commercialization is an essential stage of the research process—it enables scientific discoveries to evolve into products, services, and technologies that drive economic growth. Programs like H-Hubs make that translation possible.”

In partnership with Regional Health Research and Development Consortia (RHRDCs) nationwide, DOST-PCHRD remains committed to expanding access to mentorship, IP protection, and funding opportunities. By bridging the gap between research and market readiness, the DOST aims to deliver lifesaving, locally developed health innovations directly to the people. Bringing innovations closer to the communities and ultimately contributing to a healthier and better quality of life for every Filipino.