DOST's SETUP generates PHP1.86B in sales, creates 964 jobs in Caraga and Ilocos

Technology interventions by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in both Caraga Region and Ilocos Region generated PHP682 million and PHP1.18 billion in sales respectively from 2022 to 2024, creating a total of 964 jobs for local MSMEs.

Regional Director Noel Ajoc attributed the achievements in Caraga to DOST's Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), which has modernized operations for over 9,000 MSMEs in the region.

In Ilocos Region, SETUP yielded PHP1.18 billion gross sales and generated 264 jobs in 2024 alone, with a total of 42 projects funded worth PHP35 million last year.

SETUP provides funding for equipment upgrades, technical training, and business consultancy services to boost productivity and market competitiveness among MSMEs across the country.

In addition to business support, DOST-Caraga has assisted 760 scholars through its scholarship programs and distributed 83 electronic libraries and star books to schools and local government units.