In a bid to strengthen regional research and development, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) established the Niche Centers in the Regions for R&D (NICER) Program, a crucial initiative under the Science for Change Program (S4CP). This initiative funds universities and research institutions across the Philippines to drive innovation and economic growth tailored to local needs.
To showcase recent developments of the NICER program, DOST, through DOSTv, one of the flagship programs of the Science and Technology Information Institute (STII), has officially launched its newest and much-awaited TV program, Science Pinas. It is being aired on GTV every Saturday at 9:00 AM. These centers are also the highlights of the Science Pinas TV Show, where each episode explores groundbreaking research and innovations happening across the country.
Come and get to know these centers more and share this piece of information with your family and friends.
GARLIC AND OTHER AGRI-FOOD CONDIMENTS R&D CENTER
Hosted by Mariano Marcos State University, this center focuses on enhancing garlic and other key agri-food condiments’ production through scientific research and development. By improving farming techniques, disease management, and post-harvest processing, this initiative aims to boost the local condiments industry and support Filipino farmers.
For more details, visit their official Facebook page or website.
BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Situated at Cebu Technological University, this center is focused on understanding and preserving the Philippines’ rich biodiversity. Researchers conduct assessments of flora and fauna, aiming to create conservation programs that protect endangered species and their habitats.
Find more about their initiatives on their website and social media platforms.
POTATO RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Benguet State University is leading the charge in developing improved potato production techniques. The center focuses on ensuring self-sufficiency in quality seed production, addressing the challenges faced by local farmers in accessing high-grade planting materials.
Follow their updates on social media or visit their website for more information.
PILI RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Focusing on pili nut cultivation and processing, this center from Bicol University enhances the production of high-quality pili products while supporting local farmers and businesses. The initiative seeks to expand the pili industry both locally and internationally.
Stay connected through their official website and social media pages.
CACAO RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Hosted by the University of Southern Mindanao, this center is at the forefront of developing sustainable cacao farming practices to improve productivity and quality. It supports local chocolate production and promotes the Philippines as a key player in the global cacao market.
For more updates, visit their official website or follow them on social media.
TAMARIND RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Specializing in the development of tamarind-based products, this center situated in Pampanga State Agricultural University explores innovative uses and improved processing techniques for tamarind cultivation. The research helps maximize its economic value and expand market opportunities.
Find out more by visiting their website or following their social media pages.
MOLLUSK RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Samar State University spearheads efforts to protect and enhance mollusk populations, particularly those that hold commercial and ecological importance. The center conducts studies on mollusk reproduction and population monitoring, ensuring sustainable harvesting and conservation.
For more insights, check out their website or social media pages.
CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATICS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
The University of the Philippines Cebu is pioneering the use of sensor systems and information technology to track environmental changes and predict future impacts. This research ensures that communities and decision-makers have access to real-time environmental data.
Get the latest updates from their website and social media pages.
QUEEN PINEAPPLE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER
The Camarines Norte State College is dedicated to enhancing the cultivation and processing of queen pineapples, a prized variety in the Philippines. The research focuses on improving fruit yield, disease resistance, and market expansion strategies.
Follow their updates on social media or visit their website for more details.
BAMBOO RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Promoting bamboo as a sustainable resource, this center in Central Mindanao University focuses on innovative uses of bamboo for construction, furniture, and textiles. Its research supports the bamboo industry’s growth while encouraging environmental sustainability.
Stay informed by checking out their website and Facebook page.
These 11 NICER centers demonstrate how targeted R&D initiatives can drive regional growth, address pressing local challenges, and contribute to national development. As part of DOSTv’s goal
of integrating science and tourism, Science Pinas features these centers in a series of episodes that take viewers on scientific expeditions across the country. Through travel and exploration, Filipinos will gain a deeper appreciation of how science shapes the future while discovering new vacation destinations rooted in research and innovation.
For more information about the NICER Program, visit DOST S4CP.
Catch Science Pinas every Saturday at 9 am on GTV, with a simulcast on DZBB and a livestream on their Facebook page.
You can also watch the replays of the Science Pinas episodes and teasers on DOSTv’s Facebook Page and YouTube channels as well as on their website.