(2) Promote the development of local capability in science and technology to achieve technological self- reliance in selected areas that are vital to national and regional development; (3) Support and encourage public and private sector partnership aimed at accelerating self- reliance in selected areas; (4) Encourage and support private sector initiatives in science and technology and provide the necessary incentives and assistance to enable the private sector to take increasing responsibility and a greater role in the country‟s and region‟s research and development efforts; and (5) Accelerate the application and transfer of the benefits of modern science and technology, particularly to the rural areas, so that the great majority of our people, through higher productivity and increased earning power, improve the quality of their lives. SEC. 2. Mandate. - The Department shall provide central direction, leadership and coordination of all scientific and technological efforts and ensure that the results therefrom are utilized in areas of maximum economic and social benefits for the people in the region. As such, it shall formulate and implement policies, plans, programs and projects for the development of science and technology and for the promotion of scientific and technological activities for both the public and private sectors, and ensure that the results of such scientific and technological activities are properly applied and utilized to accelerate economic and social development. It shall also continuously review the state and needs of science and technology in the context of the country and region‟s development goals. SEC. 3. Powers and Functions. - The Department of Science and Technology shall: (1) Formulate and adopt a comprehensive Regional Science and Technology Plan, including specific goals, policies, plans, programs and projects, and monitor and coordinate its funding and implementation; (2) Promote, assist, and where appropriate, undertake scientific and technological research and development vital to the regional and national development; (3) Promote the development of indigenous technology and the adaptation and innovation of suitable imported technology, and in this regard, undertake technology development up to commercial stage; (4) Undertake design and engineering works to complement its research and development functions; (5) Promote, assist, and where appropriate, undertake the transfer of the results of scientific and technological research and development to the end-users; (6) Promote, assist, and where appropriate, undertake technological services needed by agriculture, industry, transport and the general public; 142