The Department of Science and Technology VI (DOST VI) joined the launching of another project spearheaded by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tubungan under the DOST Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST) Program on October 4, 2024, at Tubungan, Iloilo City.

This CEST Project, entitled “Rising Tubungan: Embracing Innovation and Digitalization”, involves five key S&T interventions namely, strengthening of community governance, disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation (DRR CCA), human resource development, economic development or livelihood opportunities, and health and nutrition.

Under the strengthening of community governance, the training on Barangay Infosystem for Development and Accountability (BIDA) will be implemented to 25 identified barangays while the DRR CCA component includes search and rescue training. Additionally, the human resource development component focuses on e-library equipped with multimedia equipment and DOST Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated KioskS or STARBOOKS and the provision of DOST-Science Education Institute’s (SEI) storybooks in three (3) schools. It also includes the provision of high-speed internet access to Igpaho Elementary School.

Under the livelihood program component, the project aims to digitize and commercialize products from different organizations to enhance their operations and competitiveness. It includes training in various sectors and conduct of laboratory testing. In terms of health and nutrition, parents and guardians will also be trained on DOST’s Pinggang Pinoy and meal planning and provision of tools and equipment in support of Gulayan sa Paaralan and Orientation on Backyard gardening to three schools.

The project will be implemented over twelve months in coordination with partners from the DOST VI, the Iloilo Provincial Government, Liga ng mga Barangay, Department of Education (DepEd), Igpaho Agri-Forestry Associations. Inc (IAFFAI), Indigenous People and ALS passers of Tubungan Barangay Agri-products, Sweets and Services Business Association (IPATUBAS), and Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina (Kalipi) Women’s Association and Solo Parents.

The activity was attended by guests from key agencies, including Engr. Sheila L. Oberio, Provincial S&T Director and Maven Anthony Mhil Mendoza of Iloilo PSTO, and Ms. Shara May Centina, Iloilo Province – Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (LEDIP). Partner agencies were also represented, with 1LT Mark Dalayap, Civil Military Operations Officer of the 61st Infantry Battalion, and Mr. Juan G. Gepullano, Tubungan Public Schools District Supervisor, offering their support. Local government officials, led by Municipal Mayor Hon. Roquito G. Tacsagon, Vice Mayor Leo Cezar T. Taypen, and SB Member Hon. Vicente Gargaritano Jr., were also in attendance, along with representatives from various organizations and community associations set to benefit from the project. (MMMendoza, DOST Iloilo/NABFactuar, KMO)