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13/01/2025

PH-China Understanding, Inc. inducts new officers, members

The Association for Philippines-China Understanding Inc. (APCU) has inducted its new officers and members/associates recently.
The induction rites took place during the association’s Christmas Party on December 19, 2024 at the One Burgundy Plaza in Quezon City.

APCU Board Chairman Raul Lambino served as the inducting officer and speaker. Former Philippine President and APCU Honorary Chairman Emeritus Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo attended the event.
In his welcome remarks, APCU President Sixto Benedicto reviewed the progress made by the association in building stronger and deeper Philippine-China relations and thanked everyone for their continued support and dedication.

Looking forward to 2025 and ahead, Benedicto said he believes that everyone will work together to continue to strengthen the friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and China.
During the event, special awards were presented to members who have made outstanding contributions to the association. The awards were presented by Honorary Chairman Emeritus Glória Macapagal-Arroyo, Chairman Raul Lambino, and President Sixto Benedicto.

After the awards presentation, Lambino and Benedicto turned over the APCU Funds to the Tacloban Project Beneficiary headed by Aaron Caminong.

APCU held its 50th founding anniversary on February 26, 2024. The association is dedicated to promoting deeper understanding and friendship between the peoples of China and the Philippines. It has made positive contributions to the care, promotion, and deepening of Philippines-China relations, and has served as an important bridge for friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.

The December event formally opened with an invocation led by APCU Treasurer General Fernando Pace, and was followed by the singing of the Philippine national anthem. Vice Chairman Felix Guanzon delivered the closing remarks.

Director Mafee Cai and General Fernando Pace served as the masters of ceremonies. Dinner was served after the ceremonies, followed by entertainment performances and raffle draw.

09/01/2025

VOL. 26 NO. 15 JANUARY 8-14, 2025

09/01/2025

VOL. 26 NO. 14 JANUARY 1-7, 2025

01/01/2025

Researchers eye more partners to test hand-writing tool research
By Claire Bernadette A. Mondares, DOST-STII

Local researchers have developed a handwriting assessment tool, are looking to get more partners to conduct more tests across the country.

The Intelligent Stroke Utilization, Learning, Assessment, and Testing (iSULAT) is an intelligent pen that provides a practical solution for assessing children’s handwriting to provide objective evaluation based on the most common handwriting tools, such as tests of Visual-motor skills, Minnesota handwriting assessment, and an evaluation tool for children’s handwriting.

The iSULAT has a microcontroller within the pen, which transmits data to a mobile application. The raw signal undergoes filtering, feature scaling, engineering data, and analyses before it is forwarded to the occupational therapist for diagnosis.

Through the pen, the occupational therapist can efficiently assess one’s handwriting based on the alignment of letters, spacing, and consistency.

A separate report mentioned that the number of handwriting problems in developing children reached an approximate 5 to 25 percent range. Handwriting is still the most immediate form of graphic communication and failure to attain proficiency during the school-age year may result in far-reaching negative effects on both the academic success and self-esteem of a child.

This project was funded by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD), with a budget of PHP3.2 million for its initial phase.

“Yung mga ganitong invention, kailangan niyan ng testing. Hindi lang isa. Dapat tine-test siya ng mas marami para mas ma-check kung accurate or kung maganda na yung pine-perform ng prototype,” said Engr. Jomel Herras, Project Manager of iSULAT.

Engr. Herras added that his team is looking for more enthusiasts and partners who will help them promote iSULAT to gain more users from various locations.

The iSULAT is one of the technologies featured in the recently concluded 2024 National Science and Technology Week, held in Cagayan de Oro City from 26 November to 01 December 2024.

According to DOST-PCHRD, standardized assessments of children with developmental delays are quite expensive and must be done with the aid of an occupational therapist or handwriting experts. The therapy usually runs from 20 minutes up to one hour.

“Basically ina-address na problem ni iSULAT is yung kakulangan natin ng occupational therapists at mahal na cost ng therapy," said Engr. Herras. "Siguro yung pinaka rootproblem ay yung problema ng mga bata sa kanilang handwriting. They do it in their everyday lives. Nagsusulat sila even in Math, Arts, and English subjects. Yung ibang mga bata, hindi sila enthusiastic kaya akala natin tamad lang sila magsulat.”

With the help of iSULAT, children with handwriting problems can undergo simultaneous testing in batches or groups.

During phase I, the project team conducted pilot testing for children ages 6-10 in three sites across Luzon namely Villa Maria Elementary School in Porac, Pampanga; Juan Sumulong Elementary School in Metro Manila; and Bulacan Montesorri School Inc. in Bulacan.

Herras said that phase I of the project started in 2022 and ended last 31 October 2024.

“Hopefully by 2026 ay mayroon nang phase II na kung saan ay maiaapply na natin ito hindi lang para sa mga bata," Herras explained. He added that the project targets those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD and autism.

This year, the project team has secured a partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) Division of Metro Manila for future testing.

Visitors of the 2024 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) try the iSULAT pen technology developed by researchers from the University of Sto. Tomas. This project was funded by the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development. (Photos courtesy of DOST-PCHRD)

01/01/2025

Lipa students learn science storytelling basics

“Effective storytelling is key to science writing,” this was how Ingrid Espinosa, a science communication practitioner sums up her lecture to student journalists from Lipa City Colleges (LCC) in Lipa City, Batangas.

Espinosa shared that whether browsing science alerts, doing investigative projects in school, or observing local communities, storytelling is always easy to understand, entertaining, memorable, and relevant.

Additionally, she also highlighted that human interest, recency, locality, surprise, the power elite, follow-ups, shareability/relatability, controversy, novelty, and bad/good news are what shape news stories.

The lecture was part of the Science Journo Ako (SJA) science communication caravan held in Lipa City, Batangas held last November. The SJA is a science communication advocacy of the Department of Science and Technology through its Science and Technology Information Institute. The program aims to expand science communication at the grassroots to capacitate young communicators to dive deeper into science and technology by creating awareness and communicating its benefits to the public.

She offered additional tips, such as focusing on positive notes and offering solutions, emphasizing the balance of compelling factors with accuracy, and the use of case studies to support data.

“The structure of a news story should be an inverted pyramid. Make sure to include quotations, further explanation, and the context of the topic,” Espinosa said.

Additionally, Espinosa provided tips for student interviews: “It’s important to do your research and plan. Don’t be afraid to ask simple questions. Summarize to confirm, recheck quotes, and keep questions short and easy to understand.”

As part of the participants' immersion, Espinosa prepared a mini press conference for the students, allowing them to ask questions about Buddybetes, an application that helps manage blood sugar.

She commended the students for their active participation and ability to apply the interviewing techniques.

One participant asked whether quotations should be direct or paraphrased. Espinosa responded that direct quotations should be used when the statement is noteworthy and “magandang pakinggan” (pleasant to hear) in one sentence. Paraphrase when the quote is used for an explanation.

Another participant inquired about the ideal length of a news article. Espinosa explained that news articles are typically 300 to 500 words long, while feature articles range from 500 to 800. "Anything beyond that is considered a long-form article," Espinosa emphisized.

When asked if there is a pattern in feature writing, Espinosa clarified that features do not follow the inverted pyramid structure of news articles and are usually free-flowing. “You can tease a bit more and be playful,” she said.

Lastly, Espinosa reminded the students to consider various factors when writing articles, including diversity, background, power, interest, sensitivity, SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression), and stigma, as these aspects may affect readers’ reactions.

She also reminded the participants to answer the questions, “Who is my audience?” and “What do I want them to do/feel?”

Espinosa was one of the three resource speakers that included Rosemarie Señora, Science Research Specialist I who discussed mobile photography and photojournalism, and Allan Mauro Marfal, Information Officer III both of the DOST-STII who lectured on the topic social media content creation.

The second day of the event included a site visit, where participants gathered data and interviewed the beneficiaries of DOST Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program in Lipa, learning about the technologies, products, and services offered by these firms, which they could use to write science articles and produce photos and reels for the workshop.

Look. Student journalists from Lipa City Colleges convened as the two-day Science Journo Ako went to Lipa City to enhance their skills in creating science content across multimedia platforms on 21-22 November 2024. (Photos by Andrea Mei B. Resane, DOST-STII)

01/01/2025

𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐄𝐧𝐝 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐂 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐜𝐮𝐦 𝐒 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐄𝐧𝐝 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐂 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐜𝐮𝐦 𝐒𝐄𝐓𝐔𝐏 𝐢𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐲 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

December 27, 2024 — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 02 concluded 2024 on a high note with the Review and Technical Evaluation Committee (RTEC) Meeting cm SETUP iFund Awarding Ceremony. The event celebrated the year’s achievements while laying the groundwork for an impactful 2025.

𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁'𝘀 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 ₱𝟱.𝟳 𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗘𝗧𝗨𝗣 𝗶𝗙𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗿𝗼, 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘂𝗺 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗽𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀 (𝗠𝗦𝗠𝗘𝘀)—𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗖𝗮𝗴𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗜𝘀𝗮𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗮 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲.

Additionally, the event recognized the contributions of RTEC members from various sectors for their invaluable efforts in the program’s success. The iFund support and awards were presented by Regional Director Dr. Virginia G. Bilgera and Assistant Regional Director Dr. Laila A. Taguinod, who commended both the awardees and beneficiaries for their unwavering dedication to fostering innovation and excellence. The event also served as an opportunity to engage with RTEC members, discussing observations and recommendations to enhance SETUP implementation for even greater impact.

Dr. Laila A. Taguinod, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Operations Services, opened the event with her welcome remarks, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in driving technological innovation. She highlighted how the evaluation of proposals plays a vital role in aligning SETUP interventions with the specific needs of MSMEs for sustainable growth. She further emphasized that the activity promotes meaningful collaboration with RTEC members, fostering the identification of challenges and the development of effective strategies to enhance program implementation and ensure its ongoing relevance and impact. She also acknowledged the awarded SETUP iFund beneficiaries, showcasing the importance of DOST SETUP in supporting MSMEs to achieve innovation and business growth.

In her keynote message, Regional Director Dr. Virginia G. Bilgera underscored the power of collaboration and sustained efforts in fostering economic development. “We are proud of how far we’ve come this year, but our journey doesn’t end here. Together, we can achieve even greater milestones in advancing regional growth,” she stated.

Dr. Bilgera also extended heartfelt gratitude to the RTEC members for their dedication and invaluable contributions. “Your expertise and commitment have been instrumental in the success of our programs,” she added.

Ms. Mary Ann D. Carpiso, Supervising Science Research Specialist and SETUP Center Manager, presented the accomplishments of the RTEC in 2024 and outlined the new SETUP Guidelines for RTEC endorsement and approval.

In her closing remarks, Ms. Carpiso thanked all stakeholders and participants for their vital contributions to the program’s success.
“SETUP is a collaborative effort, and every success we celebrate today is the result of teamwork, dedication, and a shared vision. Let’s continue this momentum and transform lives through science and technology,” she said.

As the ceremony concluded, attendees reflected on the achievements of 2024 and shared their aspirations for the future. Through this year-end gathering, DOST Region 02 reaffirmed its commitment to fostering innovation, supporting MSMEs, and driving economic growth in Cagayan Valley. By emphasizing the importance of thorough evaluation and collaboration, the region looks forward to an even brighter future for its enterprises and communities.

01/01/2025

2024 SETUP PRAISE Awards Recognize Excellence in MSMEs Across Region 1

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office 1 recognized the 2024 SETUP PRAISE Awardees during Regional SETUP & CEST Summit at the DMMMSU-International Convention Center in Bacnotan, La Union, on December 9, 2024.

The PRAISE Awards for MSMEs celebrate outstanding micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that have excelled and flourished through the support of the SETUP program.

Leading this year’s winners is Costales Rice Mill from Magsingal, Ilocos Sur, hailed as the 2024 Regional SETUP PRAISE Awardee. The firm earned this prestigious recognition for its outstanding technological innovations, unwavering resilience, and commitment to sustainable practices. Costales Rice Mill's efforts in modernization and its significant contributions to the community made them the trend-setter of rice mill facility in the region.
The following winners were recognized in various categories:

Provincial Winners
Ilocos Norte: Bakers Ph
Ilocos Sur: Costales Rice Mill
La Union: Jaypee’s Bakeshop
Pangasinan: Net Atlas Printers Plus

Most Productive
Ilocos Norte: Laring's Meat and Processed Food Products Retailing
Ilocos Sur: Niks Printing Shop
La Union: Mae Wood Crafts Manufacturing
Pangasinan: Elisha Bay Dagupan Bangus and Seafoods

Most Resilient
Ilocos Norte: Citipoint Metalcraft
Ilocos Sur: Manang Cora Sugarcane Products Manufacturing
La Union: JC Laroco Rice Mill
Pangasinan: Dizon’s Welding Shop

Most Agile
Ilocos Norte: Lucky Theo Food Products
Ilocos Sur: Royal Maharlika Wellness and Livelihood Training Center, Inc.
La Union: Jaypee’s Bakeshop
Pangasinan: Toning Digital Printing

Most Innovative:
Ilocos Norte: Niña Leather Ph
Ilocos Sur: Wynn’s Food Products
La Union: Calica’s Fruit Products
Pangasinan: Net Atlas Printers Plus

Most Sustainable
Ilocos Norte: Adams Inuwayan Food Products
Ilocos Sur: Malakas Farm Livelihood Development Center
La Union: Dr. Ronald Alwit Farm
Pangasinan: Mama Cili Enterprises

(Alyzza Jane N. Gapuz and Ryan Christian A. Manzano)

23/12/2024

Vol. 26 No. 11 DECEMBER 18 - 24, 2024

23/12/2024

Vol. 26 No. 10 DECEMBER 11 - 17, 2024

11/12/2024

Science City of Muñoz Welcomes DOST's Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week

Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region III successfully launched the 2024 Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) in Central Luzon on December 9, 2024, at the Multi-Purpose Gym of Central Luzon State University (CLSU). Anchored on the theme “Siyensya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Kinabukasan” with the sub-theme “Providing Solutions and Opening Opportunities in Green Economy,” the event gathered innovators, scientists, leaders, and stakeholders from across the region to celebrate the transformative power of science, technology, and innovation (STI).

Hon. Baby Armi L. Alvarez, Mayor of the Science City of Muñoz, warmly welcomed the participants and the DOST family to the city, highlighting its status as a hub for scientific and technological advancements. Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat, CESO III, Regional Director of DOST Region III, extended his greetings to the participants and emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing STI in the region. Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, SUC President IV of CLSU, also delivered a message expressing the university’s commitment to supporting initiatives that drive innovation and sustainability. Hon. Jason J. Abalos, Board Member of Nueva Ecija’s 2nd District, expressed his full support for the event and lauded DOST’s initiatives and projects that have greatly benefited local communities.

Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, presented the Smart & Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP), a flagship initiative of DOST aimed at transforming communities and cities into smart, sustainable, and inclusive areas through people-centric and digitally driven solutions. Usec. Mabborang also highlighted various programs and activities that demonstrate DOST’s commitment to addressing community challenges through scientific interventions and innovations.
DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. underscored the vital role of STI in national development, emphasizing, “Save lives, empower communities, and build a prosperous nation. This is the result of our leaders and stakeholders believing in the potential of science, technology, and innovation to catalyze growth and transformation.” Secretary Solidum also showcased initiatives and programs focused on protecting the environment while driving progress toward a greener economy.

One of the key highlights of the opening ceremonies was the awarding of the Metals Engineering Innovations Center and the ceremonial turnover of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Plans. Additionally, the “Kaagapay ng Agham” awards were presented to co-hosts and partners of DOST Region III in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the advancement of STI in the region.

The 2024 RSTW serves as a platform for showcasing innovative solutions, fostering collaborations, and opening new opportunities for sustainable development. The event runs until December 12, 2024, featuring exhibitions, seminars, and activities that aim to inspire and empower participants to harness STI for a better future.

(Nelson Santos)

10/12/2024

Nina Campos bagged the First Place at the Euro Pop Singing Contest

Nina Campos the sole representative from the Philippines is the first-place winner at the Euro Pop Singing Contest 2024. EPC or Euro Pop Contest is an international singing competition for young singers between 10 to 24 years old held annually in Berlin, Germany by the non-profit organization Music Accuracy and Veranstaltulgen eV since 2003. Nina Campos competed under the category of 18 to 24 years old among 18 countries. With her soulful rendition of the popular song "Home" thus, bringing home the bacon for the Philippine pride.

Nina Campos mentors include Jex De Castro a grand prix winner in London last 2023, as well as Mamaclay was top 5XFactor Malta. Nina Campos was brought to the competition of EPC or Euro Pop Contest by Vega Entertainment Productions and Euro talent Festival spearheaded by International Charie Vega.

The competition aims to promote talents of young performers. Youths with singing prowess to come on the first stage to a big world of pop music. It was held between November 21, 2024 to November 25, 2024.

10/12/2024

Gusi Peace Prize 2024: Honoring Global Changemakers Across Diverse Fields

The Gusi Peace Prize, often regarded as the "Asian Nobel Peace Prize," celebrated its 37th year with a grand awards ceremony held on November 27, 2024, at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila, Philippines. This year, 17 distinguished laureates from 14 countries were recognized for their exceptional contributions to peace, human rights, science, business, and the arts. The event further solidified its legacy as a global platform celebrating excellence and inspiring change.

Laureates of the 2024 Gusi Peace Prize:

1. Prof. Ilham Rahimov (Azerbaijan)
2. Prof. Toshko Krastev (Bulgaria)
3. Mr. Yannick Amar (Gabon)
4. Hon. Karm Quban (Honduras)
5. Mr. Phillip King (China)
6. Hon. Vikram Viswanath (India)
7. Hon. Fukushiro Nukaga (Japan)
8. Dr. Florentino Martinez Contreras (Mexico)
9. Senator Douye Diri (Nigeria)
10. Mr. Ajmal Zaheer Ahmad (Pakistan)
11. Sheikh Khalid Bin Mohammed Al Saud (Saudi Arabia)
12. Sheikh Abdullah Al-Othaim (Saudi Arabia)
13. Mr. Peter Elijah Wong (Singapore)
14. Dr. Margarita Cabañas (Spain)
15. Mr. Alberto Coto (Spain)
16. Dr. Hampson Srivatanakul (Thailand)
17. Dr. Richard Kaszynski (United States of America)
18. Cong. Samuel S. Verzosa Jr. (Philippines)
19. Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa (Philippines)

Leadership and Ceremony

The ceremony was presided over by Ambassador Barry Gusi, the esteemed Chairman of the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation. Under his leadership, the foundation continues its mission to champion global peace, human rights, and goodwill. Chairman Gusi’s vision has made the Gusi Peace Prize one of the most prestigious platforms for recognizing changemakers worldwide.

Adding to the event's significance, Gen. Mohammed Al-Juhani, the President of the Gusi Peace Prize, adorned the laureates with commemorative sashes, symbolizing their achievements and dedication to transformative change. His role highlighted the foundation's emphasis on unity, peace, and respect
Distinguished Guests

The ceremony was graced by notable guests, including Sheikh Ahmed Nasser AlObaikan, whose presence underscored the importance of collaboration among global leaders to further the foundation’s mission of fostering peace and progress.

Celebrating Visionary Leaders

Among the honorees were Sheikh Khalid Bin Mohammed Al Saud and Sheikh Abdullah Al-Othaim, two influential Saudi Arabian businessmen and philanthropists. Sheikh Khalid's innovative real estate and infrastructure projects in Makkah have transformed urban development while preserving cultural heritage. Meanwhile, Sheikh Abdullah, the founder of Abdullah Al-Othaim Markets, was celebrated for revolutionizing Saudi Arabia’s retail sector and leading impactful philanthropic initiatives that improved countless lives.

Special Recognition of Ms. Anna Donita S. Tapay

A highlight of the event was the recognition of Ms. Anna Donita S. Tapay, the National Ambassador for the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP). As a young businesswoman and philanthropist, Ms. Tapay’s unwavering dedication to uplifting underprivileged communities aligns with the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation’s mission. Her initiatives have left an indelible mark, not only in the Philippines but globally, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in achieving peace and progress.

The Gusi Peace Prize Foundation, under the leadership of Chairman Ambassador Barry Gusi, continues to inspire hope and mobilize efforts for a better world. By celebrating extraordinary individuals and fostering collaboration among nations, the foundation reaffirms its role as a beacon of peace and a catalyst for transformative change worldwide.

10/12/2024

DOST PROPEL Program Sets the Stage for Global Filipino Innovations

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) officially launched the Program PROPEL (Propelling Innovations from the Philippines), a transformative initiative designed to bridge science, technology, and innovation to empower Filipino innovators and entrepreneurs. The event, held today, marked a significant milestone in advancing the Philippines as a global hub for innovation.

DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. led the launch with pride and optimism, emphasizing the program's mission of elevating Filipino ingenuity to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving world. “PROPEL embodies a strategic shift, focusing not just on the development of science-based technology solutions but on ensuring that these solutions reach their end users, discover and transform markets, and create tangible impacts both locally and globally,” he stated. “In a world defined by technological disruptions and economic complexities, nations that harness science, technology, and innovation not only survive—they thrive. This is the path we envision for the Philippines through PROPEL: a future where Filipino ingenuity and scientific rigor drive competitiveness, productivity, and growth in the global knowledge economy.”

Echoing this vision, DOST Assistant Secretary Dr. Napoleon K. Juanillo Jr. highlighted the program’s bold commitment to developing transformative and scalable science-based technology solutions. “PROPEL aims to address local challenges while propelling these innovations onto the global stage,” he said. “This initiative also has the potential to harness the scientific talents and entrepreneurial drive of the Filipino diaspora, bringing a global perspective to local solutions.”

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian extended his congratulations to DOST for launching PROPEL, recognizing its potential to create impactful change in the Philippine innovation landscape. Likewise, British Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Laure Nicole Beaufils lauded the program, emphasizing the importance of science and technology in driving economic development and growth.

The event also featured messages of support from various organizations, including TESDA, IPOPHL, PASUC, PCCI, USAID-UPSKILL, ADB, and CISTEM, as well as key institutions such as the University of the Philippines and the Office of the Ambassador of Israel to the Philippines. DOST Undersecretaries Dr. Leah J. Buendia and Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang joined the event, underscoring the program’s collaborative and multi-sectoral approach.

Through PROPEL, DOST sets its sights on a brighter future, where Filipino science, technology, and innovation serve as engines for transformative growth, both in the Philippines and on the global stage.

(Nelson Santos)

10/12/2024

𝐀 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐆𝐢𝐟𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓: 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐫-𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐤𝐢 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝

Silaki Island, a heart-shaped 10-hectare islet located at Brgy. Binabalian, Bolinao, Pangasinan is renowned as a marine conservation haven, home to a thriving 16-hectare population of giant clams. The beauty of the ocean surrounds Silaki Island, but beneath its natural beauty and marine biodiversity lies a pressing challenge: a scarcity of freshwater. To access potable water, island residents like Mr. Brando Padilla, a member of the Bolinao Task Force Bantay Dagat, often travel on a 15-20 minute boat journey to Santiago Island. The arduous task, combined with additional fuel costs and weather risks, emphasizes the pressing need for a sustainable water solution.

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: The Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST-1) has taken a significant step in providing a sustainable and renewable source of freshwater for the island's community through the launch of the solar-powered water desalination facility on October 22, 2024, under the DOST’s Community Empowerment thru Science & Technology (CEST) Program.

Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog, Regional Director of DOST 1, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in making the desalination project a success. The project was made possible with the support of various partners, the DOST 1 CEST Program funded the Solar-Powered Water Desalination System: the LGU of Bolinao, which provided the 100-square-meter lot area and construction of the building, and the Rotary Club of Bolinao, which donated water gallons to the residents. Dr. Tabaog emphasized the crucial role of community involvement, stating, "𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙟𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙥𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙠𝙞 𝙄𝙨𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨." She expressed gratitude to the community for their cooperation and support.

Engr. Arnold C. Santos, Provincial Director of the Provincial Science and Technology Office in Pangasinan, explained that the desalination facility is a direct response to the community's urgent need for clean water, as identified in a needs assessment conducted in March 2023. The project aims to provide a reliable water source, eliminating the need for residents to travel long distances and spend significant amounts on water.

"𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙜𝙞𝙛𝙩 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏 1," remarked Hon. Alfonso F. Celeste, Mayor of Bolinao, Pangasinan. He emphasized the significance of this first-of-its-kind solar-powered desalination facility in the region, particularly for Silaki Island. The mayor urged the community to cherish this vital resource and ensure its long-term sustainability.

To ensure the safety and quality of the water processed in the desalination facility, the water has undergone rigorous testing by Hydrolab Company, a reputable water testing laboratory accredited by the Department of Health and recognized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Dignitaries were the first to drink the desalinated water, setting an example for the community and demonstrating its safety and purity.

Hon. Rufo T. Caasi Sr., Brgy. Captain of Binabalian, and Engr. Olan Roy Celzo, Waterworks System Superintendent I of LGU Bolinao, pledged the local government's commitment to maintaining and operating the desalination facility. They expressed hope for future innovations and projects that would further improve the lives of their beloved community.

𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬: Dr. Tabaog envisions a future where the desalination process can yield additional benefits. She highlighted the potential for salt production using the brine byproduct. Mayor Celeste echoed Dr. Tabaog's sentiments, expressing surprise at the nation's heavy reliance on imported salt. This shortage has resulted in a heavy reliance on salt imports, with over 93% of the country's annual salt consumption coming from countries like Australia and China.

Through a strong partnership between DOST 1, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, LGU Bolinao, and the Rotary Club of Bolinao, Pangasinan will truly live up to its name, "panag-asin-an," as a place where salt is made. Dr. Teresita Tabaog emphasized the crucial role of collaboration, stating, "𝙒𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙨. 𝘾𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙚 𝙠𝙚𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨.”

( 𝘉𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘯 𝘑𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯 𝘗. 𝘎𝘶𝘦𝘷𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢 )

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