Cordillera S&T Gazette 2nd Qrt

DOST holds S4CP Summit in North Luzon, Potato Farmers among the beneficiaries of the program

The Department of Science and Technology holds Science for Change Program (S4CP) Summit on May 13, 2022, at the Newtown Plaza Hotel, Baguio City with DOST-CAR as the host region.

The event highlighted the accomplishments of the S4CP in Luzon from its subcomponent programs, namely: 1) Niche Center in the Region for R&D Program (NICER), 2) Collaborative R&D to Leverage the Philippine Economy Program (CRADLE), 3) Business Innovation through S&T for Industry Program (BIST), and 4) R&D Leadership Program (RDLead).

DOST Undersecretary Rowena Cristina L. Guevara expressed her appreciation to DOST- North Luzon cluster by saying, “we appreciate your extensive efforts in addressing the needs of your regions and making Science,

Technology, and Innovation transform North Luzon through cooperation and sustainable development”. She also encouraged everyone to continue doing R&D because of its crucial role in making positive changes happen.

“Indeed the S4CP has changed the country in many ways. Through S4CP, science is utilized to build and have a healthy society, modernized agriculture

industries, strengthen nationwide resiliency, improve governance and to eventually attain and sustain economic development” added Dr. Nancy Bantog, DOST-CAR Regional Director.

continued on page 5

DOST-CAR’s 2nd Semester

2

pg 4

pg 6

pg 10

pg 11

pg 12

DOST-CAR provides S&T

DOST Conducts Orientation and

pg 14

pg 15

pg 16

pg 18

DOST-Science for Change Program Summit for North Luzon Cluster commence with a ceremonial torch lighting with Undersecretary for Research and Development Rowena Cristina Guevara, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho Mabborang, DOST-NRCP Executive Director Marieta Sumagaysay, DOST-CAR Regional Director Nancy Bantog, DOST - 1 Regional Director Armando Ganal, DOST- 2 Regional Director Virginia Bilgera, and DOST-3 Regional Director Julius Ceasar Sicat.

USec SAM, USec Guev Visit DOST-assistted projects in CAR DOST-CAR products among the

USec SAM, USec Guev Visit DOST-assisted projects in CAR

The DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang and his team visited JLM Farm in Balili, Mankayan and Hightitude Farm in Madaymen, Kibungan in the province of Benguet on May 11, 2022. These farms are assisted by the DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) through provision of Automated Drip Irrigation Technology and Hydroponics, respectively.

During the visit, USec. SAM suggested to come up with a possible project on how to support and upgrade the vegetable industry of Benguet which is the major economic population of the province. He also suggested the possibility of coming-up with a program or a center on how DOST could provide technical assistance on-site and have ontime solutions/recommendations that cater to the need of the farmers.

Meanwhile, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Dr. Rowena Cristina Guevara and her team visited the NICER projects in the Cordillera, namely: R&D Program Boondock: A Mountain Engineering Center Towards Sustainable Infrastructure and Upland Water Technology in the University of Cordilleras and the Potato R&D Center in Benguet State University that has 3 major projects, namely : (1) Development of Insect Pests and Disease Management of Quality Seed Production, (2) Enhancing the Micropropagation System of Potato Application of Improved Cultivation System, and (3) Storage Technique for Seed Potato Production on May 13-14, 2022.

For the project Boondock, USec. Guevara encouraged the University of Cordilleras to recruit S&T talents from the DOST’s Balik Scientist and RD Lead program to complement the project. She also suggested to consider the landslide

issue at Kennon Road, Tuba, Benguet and establishment of Forensic Innovation Hub in the Cordillera.

Moreover, Usec. Guevara acknowledged the Potato R&D Center’s potential to become Niche Center for Science and Technology (NICEST) and encouraged the Benguet State University to disseminate these matured researches and engage more farmers to

Rest assured that the DOST-CAR will work hand in hand with its stakeholders to ensure that these suggestions will be executed.

MLFerrer

DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development

Dr. Rowena Cristina Guevara and her team together with DOST-CAR headed by Regional Director Nancy Bantog visit the Program Boondock in University of the Cordilleras and Potato R&D Center in Benguet State University.

DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang and his team together with DOST-CAR headed by Regional Director Nancy Bantog during their visit to Hightitude Farm in Madaymen, Kibungan and JLM Farm in Balili, Mankayan.

DOST-CAR products among the finalists on FIC North Luzon Cluster

The DOST PSTC-Apayao and Jannah’s Food of the DOST ITDI vacuum frying technology, represented DOST-CAR and among the

North Luzon Cluster A: Transforming Concepts to Market Launch” on May 11-12, 2022 at the Hotel Supreme, Baguio City.

The activity was conducted to equip the Food Innovation Center (FIC) stakeholders across the country with actual experience on how to be entrepreneurial-minded and market conscious from the conception of products to market launch.

In his message, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang acknowledged the FIC Marketing Academy’s effort in capacitating FICs in marketing their products. “I am happy that we are moving towards presenting our products to domestic and international markets”, he said while he expressed his gratitude.

Twenty-two (22) new product-prototypes from various FIC stakeholders in the North Luzon Cluster composed of Regions 1,2,3, and CAR were presented during the product pitching.

Three (3) of which are from the PSTC-Apayao and Jannah’s Food Store, namely: Vacuum-fried Mixed Fruits, Vacuum-fried Mushroom, and Vacuum-fried Dinengdeng and two (2) out of

Meanwhile, Chicha Matis of Cagayan State University (CSU) bagged the coveted 1st place on product-prototypes presentation followed by Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) with their product ToMango Juice as 2nd Place, Hayahay Lamb Tomato Sauce from an MSME in Bulacan placing 3rd, and Squashious Pesto of Pangasinan State University (PSU) as 4th place. Joining DOST-CAR products on 6th to 10th place in no particular order include: Mango Choco Powder Mix, Mango-Kamangeg Sinigang Mix, and Tomato Mango Ketchup of MMSU; and Tomato Salsa of PSU.

The top 10 prototype products will also receive cash prizes and will proceed to the market launch this June 2022.

A benchmarking activity held at the FIC-CAR in Benguet State University and DOST 1-FIC in Pangasinan State University on May 12-13, 2022 concluded the event. MLFerrer

DOST PSTC-Apayao headed by PSTD Debbie Manangkil (2nd row, 3rd from left) and Jannah’s Food Store (2nd row ,2nd from left) together with (1st row , from right to left) DOST-CAR Regional Director Nancy Bantog, DOST- 2 Regional Director Virginia Bilgera, and DOST-3 Regional Director Julius Ceasar Sicat, Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang pose for a Launch” on May 11, 2022.

DOST-CAR reaches out Food MSMEs, students thru SFTP Caravan

Anchored on its mandate to bring science-driven development to the countryside, the Department of Science and Technology – Cordillera Administrative Region (DOSTCAR) conducted the Science for the People (SFTP) caravan in Benguet and Mountain Province on May 31, 2022.

Technology Training on Food Safety

To assist the Local Government Units (LGUs) in the implementation of the Food Safety Act of 2013, the DOST-CAR thru the Provincial S&T Center-Benguet conducted training on Food Safety and current Good Manufacturing Practices during their SFTP caravan in BaguioBenguet at the DPWH Conference Hall, 2nd District-Benguet, Natubleng, Buguias, Benguet with Ms. Jamie Beth B. Galian, Science Research Specialist II and Microbiological Laboratory Technical Manager of DOST-CAR, as the resource speaker.

The activity was initially planned to cater to restaurant owners along Halsema Area in Benguet to enhance their housekeeping and customer service to meet customers’ needs and expectations. It was then expanded to cater to all interested food establishments/ processors in the area, through the coordination of the Licensing

Sixty-six (66) food MSMEs from Atok, Buguias, Bakun, Kibungan, and Kapangan, Benguet and Bauko, Mountain Province were equipped with essential learnings that will help them comply with the standards for the production of safe food for their consumers.

As part of the Caravan, DOST-CAR programs, projects and activities (PPAs) designed to bring STI closer to the community and various sectors in the region were also promoted by the DOSTCAR personnel.

Promoting science education through technology

In line with the efforts in promoting science education through technology, the DOST-CAR, headed by Regional Director Dr. Nancy A. Bantog and Provincial S&T Center- Mountain Province organized “SFTP Caravan and Project STAR (Smiles and Treats for All beyond Reach) for Mountain Province: A CSR Project” at the Monamon Sur, Bauko Mountain Province.

Fifty-three (53) Grade 10 students and fourteen (14) teachers from the Tipunan National High School participated in the caravan.

The promotion of DOST-CAR Scholarship Programs, demonstration and introduction to Robotics, and Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Station (STARBOOKS) User’s Orientation were delivered by the DOST-CAR personnel.

The activity was also a part of DOST-CAR’s Corporate Social Responsibility where one unit of STARBOOKS, reading materials, and school supplies were turned over to Tipunan National High School. The STARBOOKS is a standalone S&T information portal containing digitized science and technology resources in various formats (text and video/audio) placed in specially designed “pods” set in a user-friendly interface that does not require an internet connection.

Aiming to accelerate the adoption of technology for a resilient countryside, DOST-CAR will continue to ensure that science works for the people of Cordillera. MLFerrer

DOST holds S4CP Summit in North Luzon .....

from page 1

To date, there are two (2) NICER and two (2) RD Lead programs in the Cordillera region. This includes the Potato R&D Center which was funded with a total budget of P31,355,154.56. This NICER program has major initiatives on the following: Development of Insect Pests and Disease Management of Quality Seed Production, Enhancing the Micropropagation System of Potato Application of Improved Cultivation System, and Storage Technique for Seed Potato Production.

The Benguet State University (BSU) is the implementing partner institution for this program. Through this collaborative partnership, the center envisioned sustainable agriculture in the area of potato production.

Mr. Nelio Compelio, a Benguet potato farmer

shared that his yield and income have doubled because of the improved potato planting materials produced by the center.

“Natitiyak ko na sa mga teknolohiyang ito

disease-free seed tubers na magagamit naming mga potato farmers.” he said.

Moreover, Usec. Guevara also visited the center on May 14, 2022 wherein she acknowledged the center’s potential to become Niche Center for Science and Technology (NICEST). She also encouraged the university to disseminate these matured researches and engage more MLFerrer

Mr. Compelio shares that his yield and income doubled after they were provided with clean planting materials.

DOST-CAR conducts Food Safety Training for Benguet Cold Chain Stakeholders

The Department of Science and Technology-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR) conducted a “Training on Food Safety towards Quality Assurance and Safe Operationalization of Benguet Cold Chain (BCC) Facility” as part of its commitment to support the DOST Smart Food Value Chain Program for the New Normal on April 21-22, 2022 at the Benguet Cold Chain (BCC) facility, Wangal, La Trinidad, Benguet.

The said program is a collaborative project led by the Packaging Technology Division of DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) in coordination with DOSTCAR and in partnership with PLGU-Benguet which aims to infuse packaging technology and logistics to upgrade the BCC.

The training was provided to BCC stakeholders which include BCC farmers

Agriculturist and Provincial Engineering of quality products and to maintain the safe and effective operationalization of the facility.

The BCC facility will serve as an operational packaging line for fresh and semiprocessed agricultural products such as

bell pepper, carrots, and strawberry. Since processing is involved, food safety is of utmost importance to protect consumers from food-borne illnesses, food poisoning, and other health hazards.

The topics on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Post-Harvest Management were discussed by Mr. Melchor B. Tumbaga, Agriculturist I of the Department of Agriculture-CAR to help stakeholders obtain quality and safe produce from the farm level up to the storage of products. Moreover, to further enhance their capability from the processing level, topics on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Hazard Analysis Critical and Control Point (HACCP) were delivered by Ms. Jamie Beth B. Galian, Science Research Specialist II of DOST-CAR.

DOST-CAR Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Pepita Picpican encouraged the participants to review and apply the operational standards in the facility. “We should comply with the standards for the production of ready-to-eat and safe food for our consumers” she added. MLFerrer

(Left photo) Agriculturist Melchor Tumbaga during his discussion on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Post-Harvest Management and (right photo) Science Research Specialist Jamie Beth B. Galian discusses Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP).

DOST-CAR inks MOA with SLU, Bauko, TBFA in Support to Agri Transport System in Bauko, MP

The Department of Science and TechnologyCordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR), Saint Louis University (SLU), Local Government Unit (LGU)-Bauko and Towadan-Bito Farmers’ Association (TBFA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the establishment of Cableways for Agricultural Resource Transport System (CARTS) in Monamon Sur, Bauko, Mountain Province on June 23, 2022.

Funded by the DOST through its Niche Centers for the Region (NICER) Program with a counterpart funding of 1.1M from LGUBauko, this project is seen to address the lack of adequate infrastructure to transport agricultural produce through cable-supported infrastructure that are locally adapted to the terrain of CAR.

Farmers need to hire local porters to carry agricultural produce to the nearest farm to market road. The cable-supported infrastructure will provide an alternative system for transporting goods that will consequently improve agricultural activities and outputs in the province.

The DOST-CAR Regional Director Dr. Nancy A. Bantog in her message delivered by Engr. Angel L. Maguen, conveyed that this partnership is designed to help highland of transporting their agricultural produce and increase farm yield through improved and innovative technologies. She also highlighted

that DOST-CAR, in its advocacy of effecting change and development through Science, Technology and Innovation, will sustain its support to invaluable partners and stakeholders in the region.

Meanwhile, Mayor Abraham B. Akilit kind in their municipality and commended the DOST-CAR for having been their reliable partner in delivering technology-driven development in the municipality. He further mentioned that as he steps down as Mayor, he appealed for DOST to continually bring relevant STI programs in the municipality.

Mr. Joseph P. Banias, the president of Towadan-Bito Farmers’ Association, expressed his gratitude to SLU, LGU Bauko and DOSTthe project.

The said project is under the Program Boondock: A Mountain Engineering Center Towards Sustainable Infrastructure and Upland Water Security which aims to aid in the preservation of the region’s mountains amidst natural disasters and urbanization through innovative engineering solutions. DLQuinio

Official Publication of the Department of Science and TechnologyCordillera Administrative Region April to June 2022

(From left to right) Mayor Abraham B. Akilit, Vice Mayor Bartolome B. Badecao, Engr. Angel L. Maguen, Engr. Janice Kaye L. Aquino, and Mr. Joseph P. Banias pose for a photo after the MOA signing.

S&T exhibit showcases products of DOST assisted firms in CAR

Various products from 25 DOST

Administrative Region (CAR) was highlighted during the DOST’s Nationwide S&T Promotion and Exhibits (NSTPE) at SM City Baguio which was launched on May 21-25, 2022

The exhibit was organized by the DOST- Technology Applications and Promotions Institute (DOSTTAPI) in collaboration with the SM City Baguio and DOST-CAR as the host region.

“This collaborative effort between the DOST and SM Supermalls

and social responsibility to bring science, technology, and innovation closer to the people. SM Supermalls has agreed to provide a venue where the DOST can feature its latest technologies, cultivating awareness among the general public about the DOST programs, projects and services including breakthroughs”, DOSTCAR Regional Director Nancy A. Bantog said in her message during the opening ceremony.

Meanwhile, DOST-TAPI Dir. Marion Ivy Decena said that this activity is the last leg of the NSTPE for this year which aims to encourage adoption,

commercialization, partnerships, and thorough understanding of locally-developed technologies, innovation, and services.

As the host region, the DOSTCAR has taken advantage of this opportunity to promote products of assisted MSMEs from the six (6) provinces of CAR including Baguio City to a wider and diverse market.

The products showcased in the exhibit include Leila’s Loomweaving, Gonzales Sugarcane Products, Namarabar Indigo Natural Dye Producers, Jacson’s Homemade Products, and Lexan’s Delicacies from Abra; the Apayao Complementary Food Products, MR’s Food Products, and Jannah’s Food Store from Apayao; Gift Of Grace Food Manufacturing Corporation, SHALCOGA & Itogon Growers Association, Hotbee Food Products, Mom Ace Food Products, Northland Foods Incorporated from BaguioBenguet; Saint John Organic Farm Families, Episcopal Church Women, and Rice Terraces Farmers Cooperative from Ifugao; Alvendo Food Products, Arboleda’s Food Products, Food Products, Jac Farms, Nessaj’s Kalinga Weaving and Pasalubong Center, QRS Farms,

Our Tribe Food Products from Kalinga; and Makhuway’s Peanut Butter, LGU-Bauko, and Sagada Weaving and Souvenir Shop from Mountain Province.

DOST developed technologies were also showcased such as the bamboo charcoal hand soap, bamboo-framed face shield, STARBOOKS, Hybrid Electric Train, Honey Authentication and Fingerprinting Technology, Natural Textile Fibers, Philippine Textile Fiber, I-salt Iodization Machine, Alternative Sugar from Nipa Sap, and among others.

“It is our fervent hope that this week-long activity will be successful in showcasing the DOST’s latest technologies, researches, inventions, innovations, and services as well as promote the merits of science, technology and innovation”, Dir. Bantog added. MLFerrer

From left to right. DOST-TAPI Director Marion Ivy Decena, DOST-CAR Regional Director Nancy A. Bantog represented by Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Pepita Picpican, and SM City Baguio Mall Manager Rona Correa led the untying of ribbon to open the exhibit to the public.

DOST-CAR provides S&T interventions for the Soybean Processing in Ifugao

The DOST-CAR through PSTC-Ifugao turned over equipment for the soybean processing & bakery livelihood project of Highland Soya Bean Processing Association (HSBPA) at Lamut, Ifugao on June 21, 2022.

A two-day training on soybean processing entitled “Utilization of Soymilk & Okara into Baked Products” was also conducted for the nine (9) members of HSBPA held at Umilag, Lamut, Ifugao on June 2324, 2022.

Ms. Annabelle Navarro, a soybean-based processor, demonstrated the production of soy pandesal, buns, empanada, cookies and cakes, and soy embotido.

These interventions are component of the LGIA project entitled “S&T Intervention in the Production of Soybean Milk and Baked Products” which aims to expand product lines of the soybean processing of HSBPA utilizing the soybean pulp “okara” into baked products.

Likewise, a soybean processing equipment were also turned over to the Napanoh Farmers Association in Pinto, Alfonso Lista, Ifugao on June 20, 2022.

This is through the LGIA project entitled “Establishment of a Soybean Processing Facility for Value-Adding to Increase Farm Income of Napanoh Farmer’s Association”. Other S&T interventions on Packaging & Labeling, Technology Training and other equipment will also be provided as part of the project.

DOST-CAR deploys 232 units of CWF in Natonin, MP

The DOST-CAR through PSTC-Mountain Province together with LGU-Bauko delivered and distributed 232 units of Ceramic Water

barangays of Natonin namely Alunogan, Banao, Banawel, Butac, Maducayan and Tonglayan and DepEd-Natonin District at the Open Gymnasium in Barangay Poblacion on June 17, 2022.

PSTC-Mountain Province PSTD Alfonso B. Berto discussed the importance of the water

CWF is a technology developed by DOSTITDI to address the need for potable water emergency water system during disasters.

Meanwhile, Mr. Jake Oyang-o of LGU-Bauko demonstrated the proper assembly and appropriate care of the ceramic greenwares.

This activity is part of the “Community Empowerment thru Science & Technology (CEST) for Natonin, Mountain Province” under the health and nutrition entry point.

Official Publication of the Department of Science and TechnologyCordillera Administrative Region April to June 2022

DOST Approves Projects on Developing Woodcarving Industry and Diary processing in Baguio City

The Department of Science and Technology-Cordillera Administrative Region approves grant for the improvement of the woodcarving “pa-ot” industry in Asin and Dairy Processing in Dontongan, Baguio City which are set for implementation this year.

DOST-CAR Regional Director Nancy A. Bantog, LGU-Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, the representatives of the Woodcarvers from Asin Road and Mr. Jose Ernesto Panlaqui, Manager of the Mountain High Dairy Cooperative (MHDC) signed the Memoranda of Agreement for the said projects on May 24, 2022 at the Baguio City Multipurpose Hall.

The project on the Woodcarving “Pa-ot” Industry of Baguio City aims to enhance the existing woodcarving products and develop sustainable livelihood program on carving.

This project was initiated by Mayor Magalong in coordination with the DOST Provincial Science and Technology Center of Benguet, hence, the series of meetings conducted with the Barangay Local Government Unit of Asin

and woodcarvers’ representatives including partners such as the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP) and DTI-Benguet.

DOST will fund the project amounting to PhP1,262,034.00 intended for the conduct of capability building trainings and product development for Phase I implementation this year.

The Phase II, will be the establishment of Common Service Facility on wood treatment or drying facility through the DOST-FPRDI technology- kiln dryer.

The DCP, an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), will be tapped for the capacity building on woodcarving industry trends and product development. Likewise, the DTI-Benguet will collaborate to provide assistance and penetrate online and physical marketing platforms.

Meanwhile, DOST-CAR will provide funds amounting to PhP 375,700.00 to improve the production process of the Mountain High Dairy Cooperative in Dontongan, Baguio City. The project covers the provision

of processing and packaging technology, conduct of training, product laboratory tests, and improvement of packaging label.

During her message, DOST-CAR Regional Director Nancy Bantog

practice the culture of productivity, sustainability, innovation, and creativity for the project to succeed.

Meanwhile, Mayor Magalong extended his gratitude to DOST and all other stakeholders for the partnership and projects that will help boost the livelihood activities in the city.

Present also during the signing of the Memoranda of Agreement were DOST- PSTC Benguet Director Dr. Sheila Marie B. Singa-Claver, DTI-Benguet Director Atty. Samuel Gallardo, Baguio City Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda, DOST-CAR Asst. Regional Director- Field Operations Services Engr. Angel Maguen, and BLGU-Asin Barangay Captain Jaime Candido.CGDionisio

Official Publication of the Department of Science and TechnologyCordillera Administrative Region April to

2022

(From left to right) DOST- PSTC Benguet Director Sheila Marie Singa-Claver, DTI-Benguet Director Samuel Gallardo, DOST-CAR Regional Director Nancy Bantog, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Baguio City Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda, DOST-CAR Asst. Regional Director- Field Operations Services Angel Maguen, and BLGU-Asin Barangay Captain Jaime Candido pose for a photo after signing the Memoranda of Agreement on May 24, 2022 at the Baguio City Multipurpose Hall.

DOST hosts orientation and need assessment for BSP and S&T Fellows Program to upscale R&D capacity in CAR

The DOST-CAR in partnership with Balik Scientist Program and DOST S&T Fellows Program Project

Balik Scientist Program and S&T Fellows Program Orientation and Needs Assessment Among RDI Networks in Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) on 24 June 2022 at Venus Parkview Hotel, Baguio City.

The BSP and S&T Fellows are to engage the services of highly engineers (RSEs) in various DOST RDI and Councils to increase and strengthen the human resource complement of the Department’s Research and Development (R&D) group.

The DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Dr. Rowena Cristina Guevera emphasized the importance of the programs by stating, “through the BSP and S&T Fellow Programs, we would be able to encourage more S&T experts to contribute in shaping the country’s R&D landscapes and help cultivate our leaders and various key industry players to invest more in R&D.”

Through the activity, the BSP and S&T Fellows were introduced

and promoted among RDIs in CAR. With the hope that these programs will be maximized in the region, research gaps and opportunities among institutions that could be addressed through the BSP and S&T Fellows were

Workshop with the DOST Councils namely: the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARD); Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD); and Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD).

In her message, DOST-CAR Regional Director Dr. Nancy A. Bantog cited that, “CAR are among the regions with the least number of Balik Scientists engaged since BSP was established. Other regions with had improved their competencies on research, development and innovations including their R&D infrastructure”.

With this, she encouraged RDIs to take part in the programs to develop quality interventions in addressing research gaps and opportunities in the region. “May this serve as a

challenge to our CAR-RDI Ecosystem especially the HEIs to engage with the programs in pushing more R&D initiatives in the region. May we continue to learn, inspire and serve through research, development and innovation for a better Cordillera and a better country,” Dr. Bantog asserted.

Further, Ms. Anichie Itoh, Program Manager of S&T Fellows and Ms. Idohna Jomao-as, Program Manager of BSP projected that these programs provide S&T experts with to encourage them to contribute in R&D capacity that will address development gaps in the country.

In his testimony, Dr. Christian Crisostomo, a S&T Fellow, pointed out as working with best and brightest in the country, free travel, and doing a meaningful work while enjoying a competitive compensation.

For interested BSP and S&T Fellows applicants and prospect host institutions, you may send email at the followingbsp@dost.gov.ph and dostfellows@gmail.com. To learn more about the programs, you may visit DOST website at https://www. dost.gov.ph/. EJFelix

The representative from Research and Development Institutions, National Government Unit, DOST Provincial Science and Technology Center, RRDIC-CAR, and other private organizations in the region pose for a photo during the Balik Scientist Program and S&T Fellows Orientation and Needs Assessment on June 24, 2022 held at Venus Park Hotel, Baguio City.

147 DOST Scholars Receive S&T Scholarships In CAR

The Department of Science and Technology- Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR) welcomed its new sets of scholars under the DOST-Science Education Institute’s (SEI) 2022 Undergraduate Scholarship Program.

Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) is one

the industry. According to the updated Philippine Development Plan (2017-2022), the challenges to STI include slow commercialization of outputs on STI activities and its underutilization; inadequate research and development (R&D) infrastructure, especially in the regions, and slow implementation of STI projects; underinvestment in R&D and low level of awareness on the results of R&D activities and the government’s support mechanisms; and information dissemination campaigns, particularly on available technologies, remain inadequate and fragmented. It is for these reasons that the DOST continues to beef up its promotion and advocacy programs to create a science culture in the country.

The scholarship program of the DOST-SEI will provide the needed leverage in increasing the S&T manpower of the Philippines as it engages the youth in science-related activities and opportunities to improve their competencies in STI. It shall also address the dearth in the number of scientists and engineers in the country, whose contribution in improving the STI ecosystem cannot be overemphasized.With the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic, DOST-SEI was not able to conduct the national qualifying examination for two (2) consecutive years. For the academic year 2022-2023, 10,487 students all over the country are about to join the ranks of the DOST scholars with

Program and 4,920 under the Merit Scholarship Program.

In the region, out of 1, 209 applicants, a total of 147 scholars from the different provinces and Baguio

7687 program—a scholarship for talented and deserving students with a high aptitude for science coming from socio-economically disadvantaged

Scholarship Program—students with high aptitude in science and mathematics who are willing to pursue a career related to science and technology.

On June 30, 2022, DOST-CAR, thru its Scholarship Unit, conducted a virtual orientation and signing of Scholarship Agreement with the 2022 S&T

virtually attended by the students and PSTC staff from the different provinces such as Abra, Apayao, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province.

oriented thru face-to-face on July 4, 2022 in Baguio City.

Dr. Nancy A. Bantog, DOST-CAR Regional Director, in her opening remarks, warmly welcomed the young scholars for being part of the DOST elite scholarship program. She stressed that she is eager to watch the scholars grow and be developed as a DOST scholar for the nation.

the S&T community; soon you will be part of the can help the country towards national progress,” she said.

The orientation aimed to provide adequate and accurate information regarding the various aspects of DOST-SEI Undergraduate Scholarship Programs. All concerns and issues about the scholarship’s policies and procedures were made aware of their roles, terms, and conditions prior to the signing of the Scholarship Agreement and the pronouncement of the Scholar’s Oath.

Moreover, resource speakers from the Bangko

Sentral ng Pilipinas, discussed the relevance of receiving monetary privileges and other incentives. Mr. Gomer Gomez Sr. Science Research Specialist, lectured about Savings and Common Fraud and Scams, while Ms. Rodora Teresa Openiano, Bank in their future endeavors.

7687, who is about to take Bachelor of Science in would keep her focused and grounded. This would challenge her to think outside the box and perform well in an academic setting.

would be a constant reminder of how I can give back and use my education as a catalyst for change and innovation. Along with this, the program has a

added. She also reiterated that as the world is at the forefront of change, so will the need for science and technology rise.

Dr. Pepita S. Picpican, Assistant Regional Director (ARD) of the Technical Services Division, of their scholarship obligations as they are expected to render service after graduation.

“The challenge now is for each of you to continue investing your time and effort to be active in science

and technology while in college, we look and be included in Science and Technology human resources in the future,” she added.

Meanwhile, DOST-SEI is now accepting applications for the 2022 Junior Level Science Scholarship (JLSS) thru the E-scholarship Application System. For more information

Facebook page and website. The application ends on July 31 while the qualifying exam will be on August 27-28, 2022. The DOST-CAR is encouraging students who are willing to take STEM-related courses to be one of their scholars. RLCarantes

The 2022 S&T Undergraduate of Scholarship Agreement, and the pronouncement of the Scholar’s Oath, together with DOST-CAR Regional Director Nancy Bantog and Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Division Pepita S. Picpican, the Scholarship Unit staff, resource speakers from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and the scholars from different provinces of CAR.

DOST-CAR Places 3rd in GAD Mainstreaming Award in Regional Office Category

The Department of Science and Technology- Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR) bagged third place in the Gender and Development (GAD) Mainstreaming Award for Regional Category during the DOST’s 64th Anniversary:

Plaza on June 13, 2022.

The award recognizes the department’s efforts in pursuing gender responsiveness through the implementation of Science and Technology (S&T) programs, projects, and activities in promoting gender equality, women empowerment, and eliminating any discrimination against gender within the Department’s systems, policies, and procedures.

The said recognition was awarded by DOST Secretary, Prof. Fortunato T. dela Peña, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST Assistant Secretary for Human Resources Management, Management Services, and Special Concerns, and DOSTWide GAD Focal Person Dr. Diana L. Ignacio, and received by DOST-CAR Regional Director, Dr. Nancy A. Bantog.

The DOST-CAR started its GAD Mainstreaming Program in 2018 and was awarded second place in the 2019 GAD Mainstreaming Award on December 1, 2020. Dr. Bantog expressed that she is very proud of the agency’s human

EDITORIAL BOARD

Writers

Mary Joy Ferrer

Cecil Dioniso

Daisy Lou Quinio

Rine Lee Carantes DevCom intern

Ezra James Felix , DevCom intern

Layout and Design

Mary Joy Ferrer

resource contingency that for the second awarding of GAD Mainstreaming, DOST-CAR is still in the top three.

“We do our functions as expected of us. The bottom line is DOST-CAR is conscientious in providing responsive and appropriate interventions for us to help solve the various challenges in the region. We always sustain the gains that we had in 2020 and even improve our activities or programs and revisit our policies for the Gender Mainstreaming in our operations.”

As stated by the Philippine Commission on Women (2022), GAD mainstreaming award is a fundamental global strategy that ensures the government’s continuous support and services in pursuing gender equality in all aspects of the development process. It envisions achieving a gender-responsive society where the development. It also promotes equal opportunities between men and women in the access to and control within a particular system.

RLCARANTES

Rine Lee Carantes, DevCom intern

Ezra James Felix, DevCom intern

Ronyll Masangcay, DevCom intern

Felamy Sangcha-an, DevCom intern

Editor Sheila Marie Singa-Claver

Editorial Consultants

Nancy Bantog

Pepita Picpican Maria Rowena Madarang