Cordillera S&T Gazette 1st Qtr. 2018

January - March 2018

Vol. 10. No. 1

Official Publication of the Department of Science and Technology Cordillera Administrative Region

RD VBM retires from office, ARD NAB steps up

DOST-CAR ups Research, Development and Innovation Efforts

After three years serving as Regional Director for the Department of Science and Technology Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR), Dr. Victor B. Mariano retired from office on March 5, 2018, Dr. Mariano and turned-over the ceremonial key to Dr. Nancy A. Bantog, ARD for Technical Services during an emotional farewell and thanksgiving program conducted in the DOST-CAR grounds, BSU Compound, Km. 6, La Trinidad, Benguet.

Sir Vic, as everyone fondly calls him, assumed the helm of leadership from Dr. Julius Ceasar V. Sicat on November 10, 2015. During his farewell speech, Sir Vic admitted that his experience in CAR was the most challenging in all his 40 years of work experience. Despite this, he is thankful for the genuine acceptance and hard work of all DOST-CAR staff.

Dr. Mariano retired from government service effective March 6, 2018 coinciding his 65th birthday.

Meanwhile Dr. Bantog was designated by DOST Secretary, Hon. Fortunato T. Dela Peña as Officer-in-Charge for DOSTCAR until President Rodrigo R. Duterte appoints a new Regional Director. //dglc

The Department of Science and Technology Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR) ups its efforts to accelerate Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) in the region through the creation of the Regional Research, Development, and Innovation Committee (RRDIC) as a support-committee on research for the Regional Development Council (RDC) CAR. Along with this is the continuous activities held by the three Regional Research and Development (R&D) consortia namely; the Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development (CorCAARRD), the Cordillera Regional Health Research and Development Consortium (CRHRDC), and the Cordillera Industry and Energy Research and Development Consortium (CIERDEC).

The RRDIC, approved during the Cordillera RDC-RPOC First Quarter Meeting held in Baguio City last February 23, 2018, aims to bridge the gap and challenges of development thrusts to ensure quality researches and projects for an accelerated regional socio-economic development and shall act as a governing body on research services and related Science and Technology activities in the region. Consequently, the committee conducted its First Organizational Meeting cum Strategic Planning held at the Venus Park View Hotel, Kisad Rd., Baguio City last April 4-6, 2018, to set the committee’s direction for the next five years.

On the other hand, CIERDEC is continually monitoring projects being implemented under the regional consortium, namely: “Development of Freeze Dried Local Alternative Flavors of Ice Cream” and “Development of a Shelf Stable Fermented Heirloom Rice Binudbudan”. While last March 7-9, 2018, the consortium also held their Strategic Planning and Workshop wherein they have developed a strategic plan for the 2018-2022 which includes the activities set for the next four (4) years, updated R&D Agenda as well as an updated manual of operations. This was followed by the CIERDEC First Quarter Regional Research and Development Coordinating Council (RRDCC) Meeting wherein all documents developed during the strategic planning including the inclusion of the International School of Asia and the Pacific–Kalinga (ISAP-Kalinga) as one of the members of the consortium were approved.

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setup updates 1st Quarter SETUP Updates The Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program Core is the DOST’s banner program designed to improve the productivity and production process of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the provision of appropriate technologies and technical assistance. The sectors covered by the SETUP Core include Food, Gifts, Decors and Handicrafts (GDH), Agriculture/Aquatic/Marine, Metals and Engineering, and Furniture.

This is the list of CY 2018 1st Quarter SETUP Core projects approved for implementation with a total funding support of Php 3,147,090.07:

Project Title

Amount of Project (PHP)

Name of Enterprise/Address

IFUGAO 1

Upgrading of Biogan Computer Services

Biogan Computer Services Sta. Maria, Alfonso Lista, Ifugao

749,692.72

2

Upgrading of Production Facilities and Product Quality Improvement of Dream Catchers Delight

Dream Catchers Delight Ms. Maribel V. Afalla Poblacion West, Lamut, Ifugao

398,218.9

3

Equipment Upgrading of Friendship Arts Woodcarving

Friendship Arts Woodcarving Ms. Irene Uchu-E Hucab, Kianagn, Ifugao

4

Upgrading Of Production Facilities And Product Quality Of Johan’s Bakeshoppe & Snackhauz

Johan’s Bakeshoppe & Snackhauz Eden B. Recel Dullagan, Poblacion West, Lagawe, Ifugao

316,982.45

220,300.00

KALINGA 1

S&T Upgrading Of Abquilen Furniture Shop

Abquilen Furniture Shop Makini B. Abquilen Cawagayan, Pinukpuk, Kalinga

131,546.00

2

Science and Technology Upgrading of B.D.W. CHB Production Facility

B.D.W. Hallowblocks and Aggregates Brenson D. Wayet Magsaysay, Tabuk City, Kalinga

157,950.00

MOUNTAIN PROVINCE 1

Upgrading The Process and Production Capacity of Lala Anita’s Bakeshop

Lala Anita’s Bakeshop Micahela G. Fallorin Sinto, Bauko, Mt. Province

535,400.00

2

Upgrading The Production Equipment to Improve the Product Quality of Subayngan Weaving & Tailoring Shop

Subayngan Weaving & Tailoring Shop Maureen J. Embang Kayan East, Tadian, Mountain Province

162,000.00

3

Product Quality Improvement of Bontoc Aqua Pi Refilling Station

Bontoc Aqua Pi Refilling Station Orland F. Faed Poblacion, Bontoc, Mt. Province

475,000.00

TOTAL

January - March 2018

3,147,090.07

With the approved SETUP Core projects for 2018, the total projects approved is now nine (9) new projects that are representative of SETUP priority sectors. These projects are broken down as follows: Ifugao-4, Kalinga-2 and Mt. Province-3.

Meanwhile, the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program Local Grants-in-Aid (LGIA) is the DOST’s banner program designed to provide Community Based Projects (CBPs) to qualified associations/organizations, LGUs and other stakeholders to address technological problems in improving their productivity and competitiveness through S&T interventions.

These include technology upgrading, packaging and labelling, technology trainings, and laboratory analysis among others. The sectors covered by the program are similar to that of the SETUP Core and include Food, Gifts, Decors and Handicrafts (GDH), Agriculture/Aquatic/Marine, Metals and Engineering, Furniture as well as other priority sectors.

The technology interventions provided under the SETUP LGIA are provided through the DOST-CAR’s Regional Grants-in-Aid funding mechanism and is provided to the beneficiaries as grant.

Here are the approved SETUP LGIA proposals for the 1st Quarter of CY 2018 with a total funding of Php 3,752,321.00: Project Title

Amount of Project (PHP)

Name of Enterprise/Address

ABRA 1

Enhancement of Production Quality and Competitiveness of Lacub Softbrooms for the Rang-ay Lacub Women Farmer’s Ass., Inc.

2

Enhancement of Sugarcane Processing Facility of BI-LEG Gaddong Katutubo, Inc.

86,200.00

Sap-al, Lacub, Abra Sap-al, Lacub, Abra

239,500.00

BENGUET (including Baguio City) 1

Technology Intervention for the Production of Brown Rice in Bedbed, Mankayan

Bedbed, Mankayan, Benguet

525,875.00

IFUGAO 1

Technology Intervention on the Establishment of Brown Rice Milling and Packaging Center

Mayoyao Proper, Mayoyao, Ifugao

459,380.00

2

S&T Intervention in the Commercialization of Rice-Based Processed Products and Upgrading System of Tinawon Rice-Coffee

Poblacion, Banaue, Ifugao

907,548.00

KALINGA 1

S&T Upgrading of the Bakery Livelihood Project of HOPE Development and Empowerment

Agbannawag, Tabuk City, Kalinga

330,000.00

MOUNTAIN PROVINCE 1

Establishment of Roasted Chicken Production

114,500.00

2

Upgrading of Soya Milk Tofu Production Center and Provision of Laboratory Analysis, Packaging and Labeling

Otucan Sur, Bauko, Mt. Province

162,608.00

3

Enhancing Solid Waste Management in Bontoc, Mt. Province through S&T Intervention

Am-ancho, Bontoc, Mt. Province

584,500.00

4

Enhancement of Muscovado Processiong for Guesang Farmers

Banga-an, Sagada, Mt. Province

342,310.00

Mabaay, Bauko, Mt. Province

TOTAL

3,752,421

Mr. Alfonso K. Berto, PSTD-Mountain Province, presenting SETUP proposals from MP during the 1st SETUP Proposal En Banc Evaluation with nine (9) proposals coming from Ifugao (4), Kalinga (2), and Mountaing Province (3).

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DOST and LGU-Mankayan Teams up for the Improvement of Gong Fabrication in Mankayan, Benguet

The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), DOST- Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC), DOST- Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and the Local Government Unit of Mankayan teams up for the improvement of the gong fabrication process at Bedbed, Mankayan,Benguet through science and technology interventions.

DOST-PCIEERD aims to improve the production process of local musical instruments in the country and this includes the long-time gong instruments in the Cordilleras.

The locality of Bedbed, Mankayan was identified as one of the sources of gong instruments. The gong makers of the said locality manually fabricate the bronze-based musical instruments which really takes time and so much effort.

After the preliminary site visit, assessment and meetings with the stakeholders in 2017, the DOST- PCIEERD approved a total amount of Php4,965,840.00 to fund the said project.

Dost trains budding...

There were twenty female members of the said associations who attended the said training.

Dr. Linda Goygoyan of BSU-BC lectured and demonstrated baking of plain and flavored pandesal and home-made biscuits.

“We’ll teach you the basic techniques of baking our recipes today, however, you are not limited to these recipes, you should be in innovating your own baked products” said Dr. Goygoyan during her lecture.

On the second day of the training, Mrs. Pacita Buyagao of BSU-BC also demonstrated the baking process of chiffon cake, jelly roll, pastries, camote pie, carrot cup cake, and cheese cup cake. “ This training provided us the basic knowledge and information on what to consider on our dream project as an association.

The baking skills that we had learned would be considered as we target to have a vegetable-based processing” said Ms. Rosita Langgoy, president of SANAA RIC on the last day of the training. She further added that their vegetable products could be processed to serve as an additional income for their families.

Meanwhile, Ms. Romelita Tomas, president of BLOCKSTAND, also said that they are thankful to have been provided with the training for them to improve their baked products and be able to diversify our product lines that would meet our customer’s demand and preference. //cgd,mfbJr

The DOST- PCIEERD, DOST-MIRDC, DOST-CAR and LGU-Mankayan finally convened to sign the Memorandum of Agreement for the said project on February 8, 2018.

For this specific project, science and technology interventions needed by the beneficiaries shall be provided as follows: a common gong fabrication facility to encourage new learning and production; provision of equipment, jigs and fixtures to address the laborious steps in gong making; training on sheet metal processing; design and development of support equipment, and fixture for gong making; and technology dissemination.

DOST-CAR and LGU-Mankayan will facilitate the renovation of the gong fabrication building while DOST-MIRDC will handle the fabrication of equipment for gong making. //cgd,dglc

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The members of SANAA-RIC and BLOCKSTAND during the training on Baking at BSUBuguias Campus,Loo,Buguias,Benguet on February 16-17,2018.

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DOST conducts seminar on Food Safety for Food Exhibitors During the La Trinidad Strawberry Festival

Abquilen Furniture Shop, first SETUP adoptor from Pinukpuk, Kalinga

Mr. Abquilen (2nd from R) during the MOA signing on March 13, 2018 at the DOST-CAR Conference Room, BSU Compound, Km.6, La Trinidad, Benguet

For years since the implementation of the DOST-Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) in 2002, it is a first for PSTC-Kalinga to receive an inquiry from the municipality of Pinukpuk regarding possible DOST business interventions.

Abquilen Furniture Shop, located in Cawagayan, Pinukpuk, Kalinga, is owned and managed by Mr. Makini B. Abquilen. Prior to the establishment of the firm in 2005, Mr. Abquilen managed a furniture shop in Tuguegarao, Cagayan for three (3) years where he acquired his knowledge and skills on furniture craftsmanship. At present, the firm offers various furniture and other wood-made products such as sala sets, dining sets, beds in various sizes, cabinets with various sizes and designs, doors with jambs and wood balusters. Most of the products of the firm is made-up of G-melina tree, mahogany tree, giant ipil, drift wood and other fruiting and non-fruiting trees.

Due to the lack of appropriate production facilities, the firm can only manufacture on a per order basis and delivery of products takes a long period. In order to address the problem, the firm requested to avail of the SETUP of DOST-CAR. The project will be providing innovation support system for acquiring several appropriate equipment such as electric planer, circular saw with electric motor, electric grinder, and others.

The expected output of the SETUP project is to improve productivity, competitiveness and cost efficiency of the firm.

Further, the provision of production equipment for the firm is expected to increase the production by 25%, from 144 assorted sets/pieces of wood furniture to 180 sets/pieces of assorted furniture annually; increase annual gross income by 25%, and generate at least two (2) employment from the community. //lqi

To ensure food safety as exhibitors sell and serve food during the celebration of the 36th Strawberry Festival in the municipality of La Trinidad, the Department of Science and Technology through the Provincial Science and Technology Center-Benguet (PSTC-Benguet) in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of the said municipality conducted a seminar on Food safety on March 2,2018 at the Strawberry Valley Hotel and Restaurant, La Trinidad, Benguet.

The seminar is a preliminary requirement for entrepreneurs who intend to rent booths at the Strawberry Lane Section near the municipal hall for selling of ready-to-eat food and other food items as part of the trade fair activity of the strawberry festival.

Ms. Rebecca Rosimo, LGU-La Trinidad Sanitation Inspector II, discussed on Proper Food Handling, while Mr. Pepito Toring, SRS-I of PSTC- Benguet conducted a lecture on Food Safety/ Good Manufacturing Practices.

Topics on Food Hazards, Cross Contamination, Personal Hygiene and Good Manufacturing Lay-out as applied to the given space allocated for each exhibitor were presented.

About 30 participants from the different barangays of La Trinidad attended the said activity.

Aside from the seminar and a minimal booth fee of about Php300/day, health certificate and sanitation permit were required before the approval of application as food exhibitors.

During the celebration, at least 17 entrepreneurs were able to participate in the trade fair from March 9 to April 1 mainly showcasing strawberry-based products such as wine, cakes and pastries, and drinks. //cgd

DOST trains budding bakers in Buguias, Benguet

The Department of Science and Technology through the Provincial Science and Technology Center-Benguet in coordination with the Benguet State University-Buguias Campus (BSU-BC) conducted a two-day baking skills training on February 16-17, 2018 at the said campus.

The training aimed to enhance the baking skills and knowledge of the members of Sagasag Nadekkan Annadong Rural Improvement Club of Barangay Sebang (SANAA RIC) and the Balintag, Lammagan, Owasan, Cayapas, Kilong, Sabyatan, Teging, Allang, Namatoc, Deccan Association (BLOCKSTAND) of Barangay Baculungan Sur. It hopes to introduce to members new baking recipes and processes so couldstart producing and/or diversifying their own baked products.

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CIERDEC 2018 Planning Workdshop at the Monte del Rosario Resort, Rosario, La Union on March 7-9, 2018. and analyze data in over 5,000 publishers found in Scopus.

According to Pio Salvador Ramon Omana of Elsevier Philippines, they started a partnership, signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) five years ago with the corporate goal to drive the R&D in the Philippines. In 2017, they tapped DOST as a leader of S&T research, development and innovation (RDI) in the country. Elsevier took a year getting to know the department with talks on the implementation of the project and it was only this year that they signed a MOA with DOST-PCIEERD.

In addition, Mark Anthony C. Bathan and John Ernie S. Evalle, PCIEERD representatives, emphasized that high utilization of the databases will justify funding for further subscription next year and encourage all beneficiaries to continuously use the accounts given as long as they have them. However beneficiaries must be cautious of the fact that only one user can access the account in their specific area to avoid Elsevier from cancelling their subscription. Monitoring of utilization will also fall into the hands of DOST Regional Offices, particularly the Planning or I.T. sections, in coordination with DOST-PCIEERD. Database subscription will expire on January 2019.

Meanwhile, CorCAARRD in coordination with the DOSTCAR conducted a Semi-annual Review, Monitoring and Evaluation of Science and Technology Action Frontline for Emergencies and Hazards in the Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Sector (SAFE) Program on Disaster Risk Reduction of Climate Change Impacts on Agriculture Farms in CAR projects at the BSUChrysanthemum Hall, La Trinidad, Benguet on March 21-22, 2018.

Evaluators composed of Dr. Nancy A. Bantog, OIC-ORD, DOSTCAR; Dr. Carlito P. Laurean, Consortium Director, CorCAARRD; Prof. Jocelyn C. Perez, Deputy Consortium Director, CorCAARRD; Dr. Terersita K. Mangili, Regional TTC Coordinator, CorCAARRD; and Mr. Jose Tomas M. Cabagay, PCAARRD-TTPD, looked into the project fund utilization, gave comments and suggestions regarding

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the implementation methodologies presented by project leaders from the six (6) state universities and colleges (SUCs) wherein the six project components of the program are being carried out.

For health research and development, DOST-CAR in partnership with the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) conducted a Meeting cum Proposal Writeshop on Tuklas Lunas Development Center (TLDC) at the College of Science-Science Research Center Conference Room, University of the Philippines, Baguio City last March 19, 2018.

PCHRD representatives, Ms. Melissa C. Bulao, SRS II and Ms. Paula Jane de Leon, SRS II, presented the Harmonized National Research and Development Agenda (HNDRA) and discussed the TLDC Program and Guidelines in Proposal Evaluation for the participants, namely; Benguet State University, Saint Louis University, and the University of the Philippines-Baguio, to come up with a collaborative proposal for the creation of a TLDC in CAR.

Discussion during the Meeting cum Proposal Writeshop on Tuklas Lunads Development Center (TLDC) at the College of Sciemce-Science Research Center Conference Room, University of the Philippines, Baguio City.

Another activity conducted through the efforts of the regional office in coordination with the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) and PCIEERD, to assist in creating a full blown proposal for the creation of a Textile Research and Development Center (TRDC) in the region was the “Writeshop for the Establishment of TRDC in CAR� under the NICER Program last February 26-27, 2018 at the Abra State Institute for Science and Technology (ASIST) Main Campus, Lagangilang, Abra. The creation of a TRDC aims to capacitate Cordillera researchers to conduct component R&D work in the field of textile and natural dye; profile assessment of the Textile Industry in CAR; conduct research and development of Natural Dye and natural fiber in the region; and design development of textile products in CAR. //dglc

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DOST turn-over WFP-donated STARBOOKS in Benguet

The office then conducted training on the operation of the digital library headed by Ms. Sheila Marie Claver, STARBOOKS, focal person. Along with the ceremony, Dr. Arnold Inumpa presented the DOST programs, project and activities. Also Noveme-an A-ayo, DOST staff promoted the DOST scholarship program. //MPP, Intern

oneSTore Hub to be Established in CAR

The Department of Science and Technology Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR) in partnership with Science and Technology Information Institute (STII) successfully handed 14 STARBOOKS units donated by the UN World Food Programme (WFP) to the province of Benguet on February 27, 2018 having selected schools and LGUs of Kabayan, Bokod, Kapangan and Sablan as beneficiaries.

STARBOOKS digital library was developed to allow access to thousands of science and technology material that do not require internet connection making it accessible to students thus develop a science culture and helping the country attain competitive economic development.

According to Gerald Salda, Principal of Sablan National High School- Balluay Annex, the digital library is helpful to the students and teachers. It serves as an education aid for teachers particularly in the STEM track. The livelihood videos installed were also helpful in the field of Technical-Vocational track.

Furthermore, Stephen Glunning, WFP Country Director, Philippines echoed in his speech that they found STARBOOKS as the best practice of the government in promoting scientific information to the local level especially on disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation through the interactive materials found on in the system.

The organization worked on the scaling up of the digital library because they believe that the education and participation of the locals will help lessen the impact of natural and man-made disasters which are among the main drivers of hunger and malnutrition, reiterated Glunning.

During the turnover ceremony Ms. Arlene Centeno, Chief Finance, Administrative Division DOST STII presented the overview of the program. Governor Cresensio Pacalso and Betina Aquino, Assistant Regional Director (ARD), Ded-Ed-CAR acknowledged the aid of the UN WFP as it would be a helpful to the beneficiaries. Dr. Nancy Bantog ARD of DOST-CAR, Dr. Arnold Inumpa Provincial S&T director were also present during the ceremony held at provincial Governor’s office conference room, La Trinidad Benguet.

LA TRINIDAD, BENGUET – A MOA signing for the designation of oneSTore hub management to Unified Pharmacy and Diagnostics Clinic was carried out last February 26, 2018 in DOSTCAR. After prior on-site assessment of the firm by DOST-CAR, Ms. Marlene C. Davis, co-owner of Unified Pharmacy and Diagnostics Clinic (UPDC) was assigned to oversee the very first oneSTore hub to be instituted in the Cordilleran region. The oneSTore hub is a platform with an e-commerce feature initiated by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to expand the market reach of local MSMEs. Ms. Davis together with her husband, Mr. Aaron Davis, signed a memorandum of agreement with DOST-CAR officials namely, Dr. Victor B. Mariano, then DOST-CAR Director, Mr. Norberto T. Cobaldez, Mr. Arnold M. Inumpa, Benguet PSTD, and Ms. Pepita S. Picpican, oneSTore Focal Person, to fully authorize their oneSTore hub operations.

Consequently, a oneSTore orientation was conducted with DOST-assisted Benguet MSMEs a week after the MOA signing. This was done to endorse to Benguet MSMEs the opportunity of marketing their products via oneSTore. Furthermore, the activity also enabled Ms. Davis, oneSTore-CAR manager, to acquaint herself with probable suppliers for oneSTore.

Prior to all these developments, Ms. Marlene C. Davis and DOST-CAR staff benchmarked oneSTore operations at DOST Region 2 in Tuguegarao City. Here DOST-CAR staff and Ms. Davis were able to visit two (2) oneSTore hubs, both being managed by the Lighthouse Cooperative, to observe real-time operations of the stores. They were also oriented on oneSTore management system by DOST 02 personnel.

A demonstration of the oneSTore.ph online system control was presented to them as well. The benchmarking activity was done, as per suggestion of Ms. Davis, to prepare and capacitate her for the future supervision of the oneSTore hub in CAR. //jlmm

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2017 JLSS Orientation and Scholarship Agreement signing programs namely; R.A. 2067, R.A. 7687 and R.A. 10612 followed by a rundown of the provisions of the scholarship agreement.

DOST-SEI JLSS Scholars signing their scholarship agreement together with their parents, or guardian, during the 2017 JLSS Scholarship Orientation and Signing of Scholarship Agreement at the Hotel Veniz, Baguio City on February 9, 2018.

The Department of Science and Technology Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR) conducted the 2017 Junior Level Science Scholarship (JLSS) Orientation and Signing of Scholarship Agreement cum Formation Program for Department of Science and Technology Science Education Institute (DOSTSEI) Scholars at the Hotel Veniz Function Hall, Baguio City on February 9, 2018.

Eighty-one qualifiers, together with their parents or guardians, of the JLSS Program of the DOST-SEI received orientation on the policies and guidelines of the program. It was noted during the welcome remarks given by Dr. Nancy A. Bantog, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services of DOSTCAR and Scholarship Coordinator, that out of the 82 students who qualified for the scholarship, 67 are from CAR. She further reiterated that the Science and Technology scholarship of DOST is competitive and serves as the Philippine government’s solution to filling the gap in terms of Research and Development (R&D) human resource in the country. She then cited the DOST 2013 R&D Survey wherein there are only 270 R&D personnel per one million population in the country as compared with the 380 R&D personnel per million population standard set by UNESCO. She then challenged and encouraged the qualifiers, “You internalize our need of each of you to close the 110 R&D personnel per million population gap. Think of the bigger picture…of who you are in the development of the Philippines”.

During the program proper, Ms. Noveme-an M. A-ayo, Project Assistant II of the Scholarship Unit, discussed the policies and guidelines of the DOST-SEI JLSS Program, highlighting the objectives of the program and differences of the three scholarship

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This was followed by a discussion led by Dr. Asterio Madalla of DepEd-CAR on the Hiring guidelines of R.A. 10612.

The “Fast Tracked S&T Scholarship Act of 2013”, or R.A. 10612, including a provision for a teaching incentive contract in which scholars are required to teach full-time high school subjects in Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics; or Information Technology, Agriculture, Aquaculture or Fisheries Technology, both in the university and technical-vocational tracks in the secondary education curriculum for a minimum of two years. Scholarship under R.A. 10612, which has been implemented since 2014, is for S&T non-BSED courses only. At present, there are 20 qualifiers of the 2017 JLSS program who are under R.A. 10612.

The orientation and signing of the contract was followed by a Formation Program aimed to prime the scholars’ hearts and minds in committing themselves to love, serve, and make sacrifices for the Philippines and to take the lead in nation building and securing the country by using their knowledge, skills and capabilities in science and technology.

The program was commenced by Ms. Maritess A. Banaña, Project Assistant III of the Scholarship Unit, with an activity designed to “humanize” the scholars by exploring their strengths, values, attitudes and motivations in life to help them understand the concept of patriotism. This was followed by a presentation of Dr. Bantog entitled “I am a Filipino Patriot Scholar”, followed by “Talk: The Filipino Patriot Scholar” a testimony from Dr. Jerico B. Bacani, UP Baguio Graduate and former DOST-SEI Scholar. The session was concluded with a short discussion on the dreams of the scholars for themselves, for the nation and what they can do for the country through their future professions. //dglc

DOST-SEI JLSS Scholars in a group discussion during the “Humanizing the Scholars” activity.

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Cordillera RDC approves RRDIC

DOST-CAR ups RDI Efforts...

However prior to the RRDCC meeting, the DOST-CAR thru the DOST Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) in partnership with Elsevier Philippines distributed of free one-year Elsevier Science Direct and Scopus Databases subscriptions to 27 agencies, organizations, state universities and colleges (SUCs) and higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Cordilleras and conducted the Elsevier’s Science Direct and Scopus Databases Orientation and Author Writeshop at the University of Baguio-Centennial Hall on March 26, 2018 in order to familiarize beneficiaries on how to use the databases.

In line with the need to beef up research and development in CAR, the proposed Regional Research, Development and Innovation Committee (RRDIC) of DOST-CAR has been approved by the Cordillera Regional Development Council (RDC) on February 23, 2018 through the joint resolution no. 3 series of 2018.

The establishment of RRDIC is consistent with the article 14, section 10 of the 1987 constitution which obligates the State to give priority to research development in recognition to the role and contribution of research in building and maintaining regional competitiveness in the national economy, addressing global changes and realizing sustainable development. The committee is designed to operate as a support committee under the RDC-CAR to ensure prioritization of major research related activities in the region that are not aligned with the priority sectors of the three (3) DOST R&D Consortia. It aims to bridge the gap and challenges of development thrust to ensure quality researches and projects for an accelerated regional socio-economic development.

Operationalization and mandate

The RRDIC shall act as a governing body on research and related Science and Technology activities in the region. Consequently, it shall set regional R&D policy and direction to guide all research consortia and agencies toward the Regional Development Plan (RDP) for 2017-2022; harmonize and prioritize major regional R&D activities in the context of increasing public funds; prepare and update the regional research and development agenda; serve as channel for R&D proposal review and endorsement for researches requiring the endorsement of RDC; and advocate interagency collaborative partnership in R&D and S&T development and promote technology transfer and commercialization of R&D results.

Committee structure

The RRDIC shall be chaired by the DOST-CAR regional director and a vice chairperson that will come from the private sector while secretariat shall be composed of DOST-CAR, which will act as administrative and technical secretariat, and NEDA-CAR as liaison and technical secretariat of the committee. Members are composed of PSA, DILG, NCIP, DENR, CHED, DA, DOH, DTI, WWRRC, NEDA, PASUC, PRIVATE SECTOR, and chairperson of the three R&D consortia of DOST. //Melba P. Patnaan, DOST-CAR Intern

This one-year 16 million pesos worth of subscription will be distributed to State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) that are actively conducting research and development activities in partnership with DOST and those which cannot avail of a similar subscription in 16 regions nationwide.

In the Cordillera, DOST-CAR identified twenty-seven (27) agencies, SUCs and HEIs to be given these accounts namely, DOST-CAR, PSTC-Abra, PSTC-Apayao, PSTC-Benguet, PSTC-Ifugao, PSTCKalinga, PSTC-Mt. Province, Cordillera Industry and Energy Research and Development Consortium (CIERDEC); Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development Consortium (CorCAARRD); Cordillera Regional Health Research and Development Consortium (CRHRDC); Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology (ASIST); Apayao State College (ASC); Bengut State University (BSU); Ifugao State University (IFSU); Kalinga State University (KSU); Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC); University of the Philippines-Baguio (UPB); Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC); International School of Asia and the Pacific-Kalinga (ISAP-Kalinga); Pines City Colleges (PCC); Saint Louis University (SLU); University of Baguio (UB); University of the Cordilleras (UC); Department of Agriculture -CAR (DA-CAR); Filipino Inventors Society-CAR (FISCAR); DOST-Philippine Science High School CAR Campus (PSHS-CARC); and Cordillera Regional Science High School (CRSHS).

During her welcome remarks, Dr. Nancy A. Bantog, OIC-ORD, DOST-CAR, reiterated that investments in Research and Development (R&D) are crucial in the increase of the socioeconomic growth of our country. She added that while government allotment for R&D has been continuously rising with Php 7.9 billion in 2011 to Php 11 billion in 2015, the Cordilleras ranks 16th out of the 17 regions in terms of R&D expenditure based on the 2015 DOST Compendium for Science and Technology (S&T) Statistics. This is hoped to be solved thru the Harmonized National R&D Agenda (2017-2022) which has initiatives to accelerate R&D efforts in the country.

The provision of free subscriptions to the Science Direct and Scopus Databases is another step in attaining this goal since publication of R&D results help form part of a strong S&T economy. Wherein these databases will aide R&D personnel to find

3

editorial board

Editor/Writer SHEILA MARIE SINGA-CLAVER Science Research Specialist II Layout and Design DIVINA GRACIA L. CASTILLO Project Assistant I Contributors CECIL G. DIONISIO Science Research Analyst PSTC-Benguet MELECIO F. BALANGEN, JR. SRS II PSTC-Benguet JANA LOURIA M. MALINANG Science Aide DOST-CAR FIC LEIZEL Q. ISAGUIRRE Project Assistant I PSTC-Kalinga MELBA P. PATNAAN DOST-CAR Intern

Editorial Adviser/Consultant NANCY A. BANTOG Officer-In-Charge Office of the Regional Director Editorial Consultants MARIA ROWENA C. MADARANG ARD for Finance and Administrative Services

what’s inside

News Stories: DOST-CAR ups RDI 1-4 Abquilen Furniture Shop 5 Seminar on Food Safety

5 DOST Trains Bakers 5-8 DOST Turn-over STARBOOKS units 9 oneSTore Hub to be established 9 JLSS Orientation and Agreement signing 10 SETUP Updates 6-7 Photo Releases 11

2 January - March 2018

editorial

It is not a secret that research and development, and innovation, are critical components to improve the country’s productivity and competitiveness and in the long run, the people’s well-being. Reports state that in the 1990s, the R&D in the country was dismal since less than 2% of the Gross National Product (GNP) is spend on R&D. In contrast, industrialized countries such as Japan and South Korea have been spending more than 5% of their GNP on R&D since the 1940s to 1960s. This scenario is disheartening even as the 1987 Philippine Constitution already provides the necessary measures to support R&D activities for economic development.

Specific for CAR, the 2015 DOST Compendium of S&T Statistics shows that the region ranks 16th of the 17 regions in the country in terms of R&D Expenditures amounting to PhP34.319M.

The same DOST compendium shows that in terms of the R&D Intensity Ratio, that is, the ratio of RDE to RGDP, CAR again ranks 2nd to the last at 0.02. It is important to note that the UNESCO standard for developing countries should be at 1% of the GDP.

According to the National Competitiveness Council of the Philippines, in terms of the country’s global competitiveness as compared to our ASEAN neighbors, the Philippines is ranked 7 of the 10 membercountries in terms of innovation. Indicators under Innovation include (1) capacity for innovation; (2) quality of scientific research institutions; (3) company spending on R&D; (4) University-Industry collaboration in R&D; (5) Government procurement of advanced tech products; and (6) availability of scientists and engineers.

These scenarios then show that there is a lot to be done in terms of research and development and innovation, if we want to be at par with our ASEAN neighbors and the world. Policies should be strengthened to increase government expenditure in terms of R&D such that the necessary financial requirement are provided to capacitate researchers to come up with innovative R&D that are responsive to the needs of the country.

It is for this reason that the DOST is beefing up its initiatives on research and development. Specific for the DOST-CAR, the recent establishment of the Regional Research and Development and Innovation Committee (RRDIC) under the Cordillera Regional Development Council will ensure that efforts on research, development and innovation are responsive and sustainable. With DOST-CAR at the helm, collaborative R&D programs that address the uniqueness of the Cordillera region will hopefully be translated to economic development through science, technology and innovation. smsc//

photo releases

Special Thematic Area Meeting for Prevention and Mitigation Committee of the Cordillera Regional DRRM Council at the Office of Civil Defense CAR last February 28, 2018.

DOST-CAR Regional Director, Dr. Victor B. Mariano and other committee members discussing resolutions during the 1st Quarter Regional Development Council Sectoral Committee (RDC SECOM) Meeting on February 13, 2018 at the DA-CAR, Conference Hall..

Ms. Juni Mae Gonzaga, SRS I, PCIEERD discussing Guidelines on Proposal Evaluation and Comments on the Textile R&D Center Proposal during the Writeshop for Textile R&D Project Proposal last February 26-27, 2018 at the Abra State Institute of Science and Technology, Bangued, Abra.

DOST-CAR Staff during the Dr. Victor B. Mariano’s Farewell/Thanksgiving Party on March 5, 2018 at the DOST-CAR grounds.

DOST-CAR Staff during the La Trinidad Strawberry Festival Civic Parade on March 16, 2018.

Trainor Mrs. Juliet P. Baliaga (1st from right) explaining the procedures of dried fruit processing during the Training on Dried Fruit Processing on February 15, 2018 in Rizal, Kalinga.

11

s & t trivia

10 Search Results that Prove Humour

has a Sense of

1. Bored at work today? Need to boost your trivia knowledge now that all the kids are back in school? Try Googling “fun facts” or “I’m feeling curious”.

2. Tip Calculator. Type “tip calculator,” and a tip calculator will appear and do your bidding.

3. You can find what you need nearby. Just write “[what you want] near me” and Google will fill you up with suggestions.

Example: Ice cream near me.

4. The exact time of sunrise in your city. Type “Sunrise [your city]” 5. Google.com/Mars offers visible imagery view, infrared and elevation views of planet Mars.

6. If you type any number in Google search, it can convert the number in English. For example, to get 79032932 in English, type “79032932=english” in search.

7. You can play Atari game in Google. Just go to Google Images and search for “atari breakout“, you will get the option of playing the game.

8. Initially, YouTube was planned as a video dating site.

9. It can give you the weather forecast. Just write temperature on ‘Search’ and voilá.

10. You can set a timer. Oh yes. Just write “set timer for [as long as you want]” and Google starts a countdown that’ll beep when it reaches zero. Example: Set timer for 5 minutes.

Sources: - The Guardian.https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/sep/03/google-launches-fun-fact-trick-trivia-knowl-edge-feature; - UselessDaily.https://www.uselessdaily.com/tech/google-hacks-trivia-heres-20-things-you-didnt-google-can-do/#.WtWfsTL7KUl; - UselessDaily.https://www.uselessdaily.com/tech/google-trivia-65-interesting-facts-about-the-company/#.WtWfMDL7KUl; - TechWiki.https://techwelkin.com/google-facts-amazing-trivia-about-google

“What matters is not the enclosure of the work within a harmonious figure, but the centrifugal force produced by it -- a plurality of language as a guarantee of a truth that is not merely partial.”

Italo Calvino, Six Memos For The Next Millennium

Department of Science & Technology Cordillera Administrative Region Km. 6, La Trinidad, Benguet

12 January - March 2018

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