THE BATANGAS State University inaugurated its Science, Technology, Engineering, and Environment Research Hub as it continues to pursue innovations on science and technology.

The university said that the STEER Hub complements its Knowledge, Innovation, and Science Technology Park, the country’s first university-based Information Technology Park.

It said that the KIST Park was registered by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority.

Commission on Higher Education Commissioner and Chairperson of the BatStateU Governing Board Dr. Lilian De Las Llasgas led the ribbon cutting ceremonies together with University President Dr. Tirso Ronquillo.

The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the 3D model of the KIST Park that showcases a technology hub, design innovation building, technology centrum, data center, convention center, and KIST Hotel.

Ronquillo said that the university’s efforts and commitments serve as the anchor of CALABARZON Regional Inclusive Innovation Center on steering innovation and knowledge creation in science and technology.

“It maps key innovations and initiatives in the region and facilitates the engagement of innovation constituents in government, academe and industry,” Ronquillo said.

De Las Llgas pointed out that the university is “trailblazing a landscape” and its initiatives serve as a blueprint for other state universities and colleges in expanding their techno-preneurship and inclusive incubation programs.

“As BatStateU continues to build on intellectual capital in the new normal, it is imperative that the university continues to help build a better normal for the community and the greater society, and should be a driving force in the production of innovative solutions to real world problems,” De Las Llagas said.

President Rodrigo Duterte signed Proclamation 947 on May 22, 2020, designating the BatStateU KIST Park as a special economic zone. This allowed the park to offer income tax holidays and other fiscal incentives to locator companies and start-ups.