The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board–Region I (RTWPB-I) joined the Department of Science and Technology–Regional Office I (DOST-RO I) in the deliberation of the 2026 Regional SETUP 4.0 Awards, recognizing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Ilocos Region for their productivity, innovation, resilience, and sustainability practices.

Held at the DOST-RO I deliberation room, the activity brought together experts and representatives from various fields to evaluate outstanding MSMEs from Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan. The deliberation capped a series of site visits, performance assessments, and technical evaluations conducted among the nominees from 21 to 30 July 2026.

RTWPB-I participated in the assessment of enterprises under the different award categories of the SETUP 4.0 Framework, including the SETUP PRAISE Award, i-READY Award, ICON Award, and Circle Award.

The Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) is a national recognition program implemented by the DOST that honors micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) for successfully adopting science, technology, and innovation.

The participation of RTWPB-I reflects its continuing commitment to promoting productivity improvement, innovation, and competitiveness among enterprises in the region. Through its involvement, the Board contributes its expertise in productivity enhancement and helps reinforce initiatives that encourage MSMEs to adopt better systems, technologies, and practices. (Fredilyn M. Alag)