MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is seizing the opportunity to become the global hub for climate technology innovation, leveraging the partnership among the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), De La Salle University (DLSU), and DEVCON Philippines (DEVCON).
The tripartite collaboration harnesses the technological expertise of DEVCON, the scientific leadership of DOST, and DLSU’s advanced research infrastructure to create cutting-edge climate resilience technologies.
Together, they will develop the Climate Resilience Technology (CResT) platform, which will focus on creating climate resilience solutions like life-saving early warning systems, expanding access to renewable energy, enhancing disaster resilience, and pioneering reforestation through robotics.
These innovative technologies will be tested, scaled, and implemented across the Philippines, with the potential for adoption in other climate-vulnerable nations.
Long vulnerable to natural disasters, the Philippines is now one of the world’s most climate-affected nations, making the need for resilient solutions critical. In fact, the World Risk Index has placed the Philippines in the number one spot for the most disaster-prone country among 183 countries across the globe.
Recognizing this vulnerability, the partners seek to transform the Philippines from a climate-risk area into a leader in climate solutions.
“The Philippines is ready to lead in global climate action with tech-driven solutions. Through CResT, we will turn challenges into opportunities, positioning our nation as a global hub for climate tech innovation, where we develop and scale transformative solutions to meet urgent and future needs,” DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said.
DEVCON will take the lead on technology innovation and ensure that climate solutions are developed and scaled rapidly. Meanwhile the DLSU Animo Labs, the university’s research and development arm, will provide cutting-edge research infrastructure and resources.
“The climate crisis is a race against time, and technology is our fastest vehicle to win. Through CResT, we are not only protecting our communities but also establishing the Philippines as a leader in climate tech,” DEVCON Founder Winston Damarillo said.
For his part, DLSU President Br. Bernard Oca FSC said the university is committed to accelerate the development of climate tech solutions by providing cutting-edge research infrastructure and resources to its partners.
“DLSU through Animo Labs will provide expertise in research commercialization, venture creation, and other support services to ensure that the climate solutions that we create can help prevent losses of income, time, and productivity, while preserving life, spirit, and the unquantifiable,” Br. Bernie said.
Local impact with global reach
In addition to developing technology, CResT will invest heavily in capacity building, equipping the next generation of Filipino innovators with advanced skills in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, 3D design, and robotics to sustain and expand climate tech solutions.
The initiative will also engage climate tech startups, environmental organizations, and investors to create a robust climate-resilient ecosystem.
“As we collaborate to establish the Philippines as a global hub for climate tech, our vision extends beyond our borders. Through the CResT platform, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable future with solutions that have local impact and global reach,” Damarillo said.
Damarillo will present the CResT platform at the San Francisco Tech Week 2024 on October 8 at the Kapwa Gardens, San Francisco, California. United States of America (USA).