By Wyslly S. Ala
As the Department of Science and Technology - Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI) embarks on a mission of broadening the horizon for Filipino innovation and inventions, DOST-TAPI also aims to extend the market reach of locally-developed technologies beyond the Philippines. Banking on a strategic vision, the institute is lining up the best of Philippine inventions and innovations to a global stage to tap into new markets and gain more opportunities.
Serving as one of the brightest milestones of DOST-TAPI is its membership in the International Federation of Inventors Association (IFIA). Founded in 1968 in London under the supervision of the United Nations, IFIA facilitates international work in the field of invention. By becoming a member of IFIA, DOST-TAPI gained access to networks of inventors, competitions, awards, and marketers, amplifying its reach and impact on the global scene.
Last May 13, 2022, DOST-TAPI unveiled its institutional 10-Year Roadmap which outlines the strategic plan of the institute especially in expanding the market reach of locally-developed technologies outside the Philippines.
This year marks a pivotal moment for the institute as it aims to institutionalize the march-in of technologies and forge international partnerships to establish a prominent presence on the global stage. Building on this momentum, TAPI will intensify its efforts in 2025 to commercialize DOST-developed technologies at an international level. By 2026, a sustained enhancement of Filipino technologies will be prioritized, paving the way for increased foreign partnerships expected to materialize by 2027.
From 2028 to 2032, these initiatives will be consistently reinforced, positioning the Philippines at the forefront of global expansion activities. This strategic approach aims to secure continuous international recognition and establish DOST-TAPI as a self-sustaining institute. By offering specialized services to support local research and development, nurturing emerging ventures, and fostering both local and international opportunities, DOST-TAPI will contribute significantly to revenue generation while championing innovation and excellence on a global scale.
(DOST-TAPI Director Atty. Marion Ivy Decena during the Strategic Planning Workshop)
Turning the attention to the present year, a cornerstone of DOST-TAPI's strategic approach lies in its proactive engagement with international invention exhibitions and expositions. In line with this commitment, the institute facilitated the participation of a new cohort of Filipino inventors and innovators at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva held on April 17-21, 2024. All nine (9) entries from the Philippines bagged Silver, Bronze, and Special Awards during the awarding ceremony. This initiative underscores the institute's objective to broaden market reach and spotlight Filipino ingenuity on the global stage, shining a spotlight on the remarkable capabilities of Filipino inventors and innovators. Moreover, it serves as a gateway to a plethora of opportunities, further amplifying the potential for collaboration and recognition on an international scale.
(Photo taken during the awarding ceremony of 49th IEIG)
The active participation of DOST-TAPI in this kind of event widens the country’s chance of pitching and leveraging homegrown technologies while fostering networking with stakeholders for its commercialization. Stronger international ties, new collaborations, and a more positive image of Philippine innovations and inventions will surely lead the country to new markets and attract foreign investments.
(Photo taken during the 2023 SIIF)
As DOST-TAPI sets its eyes on global market expansion for Filipino innovations and inventions, its commitment to showcase the best of Philippine technologies remains unwavering. With strategic initiatives and international partnerships, the DOST-TAPI continues to pave the way for a brighter future powered by Filipino innovation on the global stage.
