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From left: Engr. Robert Dizon, Dr. Gabriel Avelino Sampedro, and Dr. Leah Buendia join discussions on linking research, industry needs, and local innovation programs
Many young Filipinos who dream of becoming scientists grow up hearing the same advice. Study hard, gain experience, and look for opportunities abroad.
Dr. Gabriel Sampedro took that path. After building his career in South Korea, he returned to the Philippines through the Department of Science and Technology’s Balik Scientist Program to share what he learned with local researchers, universities, and businesses.
At his exit report presentation at the DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center in Bicutan, Sampedro spoke less about advanced technology and more about something he believes the Philippines needs first. Better collaboration.
“Ang daming gustong gawin, pero isa lang naman yung goal. Need lang talaga mag-usap,” he told Manila Standard Life.
Sampedro said many government agencies and institutions already share the same objective of strengthening innovation, but their efforts often remain disconnected. He added that better coordination would allow existing programs and funding to reach more people.
Dr. Gabriel Avelino Sampedro calls for closer coordination among schools, businesses, and public agencies to help technology programs reach more communities
The Balik Scientist Program brings Filipino scientists, engineers, and experts based abroad back to the country through short-, medium-, and long-term engagements.
Established in 1975 and institutionalized through Republic Act No. 11035, the program allows them to work with universities, government agencies, research institutions, and industries while sharing global knowledge with local partners.
For six months, Sampedro worked with DOST-MIRDC’s CUATRO Program, which helps manufacturers and micro, small, and medium enterprises adopt technologies linked to Industry 4.0.
His work soon made one point clear. Digital transformation is not only about artificial intelligence, automation, or robotics.
“A lot of the entities that we talk to, they just need an investment of their own,” he said.
Some businesses still need better equipment or technical guidance before they can think about more advanced technologies.
Sampedro explained helping them move forward requires listening first instead of offering one solution for everyone.
AI, automation, and digital tools can support manufacturers when paired with proper guidance and industry input
His experience in South Korea also shaped the way he looks at innovation.
“Very coordinated, very collaborative din sila. Dito po, universities pa lang, hindi connected sa industry,” he shared.
The gap gives students a bigger role than many realize. Through CUATRO, universities can work more closely with industries by helping assess business needs, developing research-based solutions, and giving students opportunities to solve real problems beyond the classroom.
DOST officials said the agency also supports aspiring researchers through research grants, programs for young innovators, and assistance for qualified student projects. Some services at DOST-MIRDC are also offered to students at discounted rates.
The discussion also turned to artificial intelligence, a topic many students are now navigating in school and will eventually encounter in the workplace.
“Our goal is to show people the potential of technology, not to show people that technology can replace us. How do we work together to realize its full potential?” he said.
Although his Balik Scientist engagement has ended, Sampedro plans to continue working with Philippine institutions through research partnerships, university collaborations, and regional initiatives on artificial intelligence in education.
For young Filipinos considering careers in science, engineering, or technology, his message goes beyond coming home after working overseas.
It starts with building stronger connections now, because good ideas create a bigger impact when schools, industries, and government work toward the same goal. — Angelica Villanueva
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Credit belongs to: www.manilastandard.net
