The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is targeting faster economic growth this 2026 through a more aggressive use of technology, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

According to DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., the agency’s plans revolve around three major programs, referred to as “horizons.”

RH Leth Narciso reported, these initiatives aim to simultaneously address the country’s immediate needs and long-term development goals.

In the first horizon, the focus is on improving the productivity and efficiency of MSMEs. Solidum explained that the program intends to assist over 10,000 MSMEs by increasing production through AI, smart factory concepts, rebooting, and other smart technologies.

Key components include AI integration, automation, and industry-academe research collaboration. Support will also be provided by partner agencies such as TESDA, DICT, DTI, and CHED.

The second horizon emphasizes the growth of the Filipino economy by promoting ICT startups and other non-traditional sectors, including agricultural enterprises.

The agency aims to scale up around 500 MSMEs to become globally competitive through productivity improvement, material testing, human resource development, and science and technology scholarship programs.

Meanwhile, the third horizon centers on advanced technologies and sustainable development. Programs will focus on AI, analytics, quantum computing in Industry 4.0, smart agriculture, circular economy initiatives, and biologics and sapharma.

Moreover, efforts will be made to strengthen industrial capacities such as disaster resilience and the defense industry, reducing the country’s reliance on imported technologies.