The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) plays a critical role in advancing Agarwood production techniques in the Philippines through cutting-edge research, innovation, and technology transfer. By supporting the scientific development of artificial resin inducement, propagation methods, and extraction technologies, DOST helps improve the sustainability, efficiency, and commercial viability of the Agarwood industry.
Key Roles of DOST in the Agarwood Industry:
1️⃣ Research & Development (R&D) for Advanced Agarwood Production
✅ Artificial Resin Inducement Techniques
- Developing scientific methods to stimulate resin formation in Aquilaria trees without excessive damage.
- Conducting biochemical and genetic studies to understand the best resin induction strategies for high-quality oud oil production.
✅ Tissue Culture & Organogenesis Protocols
- Supporting Crown Organogenesis Protocols Inc. (COPI) and academic institutions in micropropagation research for large-scale Agarwood seedling production.
- Ensuring genetic conservation and high-yield varieties through biotechnology applications.
✅ Extraction & Processing Innovations
- Investing in advanced extraction methods such as:
- Supercritical CO₂ extraction for high-purity oud oil.
- Hydro and solvent-free microwave extraction for eco-friendly processing.
- Developing quality control standards for grading and certifying Agarwood oil.
2️⃣ Technology Transfer & Commercialization
✅ Translating Scientific Research into Practical Applications
- Assisting farmers, cooperatives, and agribusinesses in adopting DOST-developed resin induction methods for increased profitability.
- Establishing pilot farms and training centers for hands-on demonstrations of best Agarwood cultivation practices.
✅ DOST Grants & Innovation Funding
- Providing funding opportunities through programs like:
- Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) – Assisting MSMEs in adopting Agarwood processing technologies.
- Grants-in-Aid (GIA) Program – Supporting R&D initiatives for sustainable Agarwood production.
✅ Collaborations with Universities & Private Sector
- Partnering with Cavite State University (CvSU), UP Los Baños, and other research institutions for Agarwood biotech research.
- Facilitating public-private partnerships for the development of patentable technologies and commercial-scale production.
3️⃣ Capacity Building & Sustainable Development
✅ Farmer Training & Technical Assistance
- Organizing workshops, seminars, and training modules on:
- Agarwood artificial inoculation techniques.
- Post-harvest processing and oil extraction methods.
- Sustainable plantation management.
✅ Sustainability & Environmental Compliance
- Promoting eco-friendly Agarwood production by integrating:
- Agroforestry systems for sustainable land use.
- Carbon sequestration programs to mitigate environmental impact.
- Supporting DENR initiatives on regulated harvesting and conservation.
✅ Technology-Based Business Incubation
- Establishing startup incubation programs for Agarwood biotech enterprises.
- Connecting agripreneurs with venture capitalists and government funding for scaling up operations.
In a Nutshell:
The DOST’s support for Agarwood research, innovation, and technology transfer is essential for establishing the Philippines as a leader in sustainable Agarwood production. Through R&D investments, technology commercialization, and capacity building programs, DOST ensures that scientific advancements benefit local farmers, entrepreneurs, and the economy.
To maximize these opportunities, Agarwood growers, cooperatives, and research institutions should collaborate with DOST in developing, testing, and adopting innovative production techniques.