DOST Expands Global Technology Partnerships with Google, Hewlett Packard, and Industry Leaders at CES 2025

By Jacqueline De Vera

Las Vegas, USA – January 10, 2025: The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Philippines has made a significant impact on the global stage at CES 2025 with a remarkable display of homegrown innovations. This participation underscores DOST’s strategic efforts to promote Philippine science-based technology solutions, attract investments, forge international partnerships, and position the country as a competitive science and technology hub in Southeast Asia.

Speaking at the Opening of the Philippine Science and Technology Pavilion, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. highlighted the transformative power of collaboration: "We are here to forge powerful partnerships. In today’s interconnected world, innovation knows no borders. By connecting Filipino scientists and engineers with global researchers, scientists, and tech leaders, we are building bridges that will elevate Philippine innovation to new heights." 

This vision reflects DOST's unwavering commitment to fostering global collaboration, facilitating knowledge exchange, advancing technological innovation, and delivering tailored solutions to address both local and global challenges. Through these initiatives, DOST solidifies the Philippines' position as a leader in science and technology-driven development.   

DOST engaged in high-level discussions with industry leaders and representatives from tech giants such as Google, Hewlett Packard, Delta Airlines, and other members of the Consumer Technology Association. These conversations, led by Secretary Solidum, laid the foundation for positioning the Philippines as a global innovation powerhouse. The potential for growth and impact through these partnerships signals a bright future driven by Filipino ingenuity and creativity.

In a milestone meeting with Google, Secretary Solidum, along with Undersecretary Sancho A. Mabborang, Regional Directors Rowen Gelonga and Julius Caesar V. Sicat, Director Marion Ivy D. Decena (DOST-TAPI), and Atty. Israel Jacob Zaragoza (DOST-TAPI), met with Karan Bhatia, Google’s Global Head and Vice President of Government Affairs & Public Policy. The discussion centered on leveraging DOST’s expertise and Google’s technological innovations to develop transformative solutions for pressing challenges.

Google introduced groundbreaking initiatives, including the Google Certificate Program, aimed at equipping Filipinos with industry-recognized credentials to meet the evolving demands of the global workforce. This initiative aligns with DOST’s mission to empower individuals and communities through science and technology, driving inclusive economic growth and maximizing societal benefits.

Additionally, Google showcased pioneering tools such as Hazard Finder and Disaster Recovery (DR) Planning, both employing AI-driven insights to enhance disaster preparedness and recovery. Hazard Finder identifies potential risks and mitigates impacts, while Google Cloud’s DR planning provides businesses with strategies to recover from disruptions caused by natural disasters, cyber-attacks, or system failures.

Google also expressed interest in capacity-building initiatives in AI for Filipinos, aligning with DOST’s vision of fostering future-ready solutions. Notably, discussions included Google’s pothole detection technology, which complements DOST’s ongoing infrastructure-focused projects, highlighting opportunities for joint ventures to address real-world challenges.

Secretary Solidum emphasized DOST’s robust partnerships with local government units (LGUs) to advance innovative city development. By leveraging its repository of disaster risk technologies, DOST catalyzes grassroots innovation, adding value to local initiatives and fostering sustainable progress.

At CES 2025, DOST also explored potential collaborations with 23 key representatives from various sectors, including real estate, technology, and government. These discussions opened opportunities in AI-powered geomapping, PCB film printing, and investments from firms based in the U.S., South Korea, and Germany. Notable engagements with leaders in innovation, city development, and capital investment further demonstrated a strong interest in joint projects and technological advancements.

The attendance of over 300 visitors at the Philippine booth has resulted in valuable interest in its technologies such as artificial intelligence, IoT/sensors, vehicle technology advanced mobility, robotics, and startups.

DOST’s participation in CES 2025 marks a pivotal step toward global recognition of Philippine innovation. By forging strategic partnerships and showcasing Filipino ingenuity on an international stage, DOST continues to drive innovation, inspire collaboration, and unlock boundless possibilities for the Philippines and the world.