DOST 7 Commits to Supporting Cebu's New Technology Startup Council
The Department of Science and Technology Region 7 (DOST 7) has officially pledged its support for the newly established Technology Startup Council of the Province of Cebu. This commitment aims to provide a robust foundation for fostering innovation and accelerating startup development across the province.
Comprehensive Support for Startup Growth
In a recent statement, DOST 7 outlined its plan to extend a range of resources to assist local startups. This includes:
- Mentoring programs to guide entrepreneurs through the complexities of business development.
- Capability-building training to enhance skills in technology and management.
- Prototyping support through its Innovation Hub, helping startups transition from early-stage ideas to market-ready technologies.
The department emphasized its role as co-chair of the Regional Research, Development and Innovation Committee, which oversees the region's research and innovation agenda. This ensures that the council's initiatives are aligned with regional priorities, evidence-based policymaking, and sustainable innovation pathways.
Establishment of the Technology Startup Council
The commitment from DOST 7 follows the creation of the Technology Startup Council of the Province of Cebu, which was formally signed into existence by Governor Pamela Baricuatro on January 15, 2026. This council is designed to coordinate policies, programs, and partnerships that support the local startup ecosystem.
The directive establishes the council as the province's primary coordinating and advisory body for startups, highlighting the sector's critical role in:
- Economic transformation through technological advancement.
- Job creation to boost local employment opportunities.
- Inclusive growth that benefits diverse communities in Cebu.
This initiative is anchored on key legal frameworks, including the 1987 Constitution, the Philippine Innovation Act, and the Innovative Startup Act. It also references national funding mechanisms and the Local Government Code of 1991, ensuring a solid regulatory foundation.
Cebu's Thriving Tech Startup Ecosystem
Cebu has firmly established itself as the second-strongest tech startup ecosystem in the Philippines, trailing only Metro Manila. As of 2025, it ranks 469th globally among the top 700 cities and holds the 10th position in Southeast Asia.
The local startup landscape is characterized by a vibrant, young, and collaborative community with a strong focus on key sectors such as:
- Fintech for financial technology innovations.
- Edtech to enhance educational tools and platforms.
- E-commerce driving online business growth.
- Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) for scalable tech solutions.
With DOST 7's support, the new council is poised to further elevate Cebu's status as a hub for technological innovation and entrepreneurial success in the Philippines.
