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20/07/2025

Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) Visits BauerTek Pharmaceutical Technologies

July 17, 2025 – Director Joell Lales, current head of the DA-BAR, led the agency’s visit to the world-class research, development, and manufacturing facility of BauerTek located in Guiguinto, Bulacan.

The collaboration between DA-BAR and BauerTek stands as proof that the Philippines’ agricultural wealth is yielding advancements in science, technology, and the national economy.

BauerTek is renowned for producing natural-based supplements that help combat various illnesses such as cancer. The raw materials used by BauerTek are locally grown with the help of farmers supported by the DA-BAR.

Joining the visit were personnel from the Institute of Plant Breeding - University of the Philippines Los Baños and Pampanga State Agricultural University, who also expressed admiration for the projects launched by BauerTek and DA-BAR.

This visit highlights DA-BAR’s continuing efforts to strengthen the link between science and agriculture through research and development, aiming to further improve the sector and promote local products in broader markets.

20/07/2025

Sip, Swing, and Savor: Boris Café Brings Coffee and Mini Golf Together in Pampanga

In a world of cookie-cutter cafés, Boris Café in Barangay Baliti, City of San Fernando, Pampanga offers something refreshingly different—a cozy coffee shop paired with an 8-hole mini golf course.
Co-founded by Iñigo Santos and Joy Bautista, Boris Café was born from the duo’s shared love for coffee and golf. “Why not have both the comfort of a café and the excitement of golfing?” they asked—and they made it happen.

With its warm ambiance and creative concept, Boris Café invites guests to sip and swing in style. For just P100 per 30 minutes, customers can test their putting skills on a playful yet challenging course that’s more than just a novelty—it’s a core part of the café experience.

The idea came to life during the pandemic, when Iñigo found comfort in visiting driving ranges. Blending that hobby with his business acumen, he helped turn this unique vision into reality.
The café’s name, Boris, is a heartfelt tribute to Iñigo’s grandmother’s cat—a clingy feline that took a liking to Joy during her visits. The name captures the personal, feel-good energy that the owners want to share with every guest who walks in.

Boris Café’s drink menu is equally exciting. From expertly brewed specialty lattes, rich chocolates, to fruit-based coolers, every cup is crafted with care. Among the favorites is the Boris Signature Latte, inspired by the iconic LA Bakeshop cheese bread—a nod to Iñigo’s heritage as a third-generation member of the family behind the beloved Pampanga bakery. You can even enjoy some of LA Bakeshop’s famed pastries right inside the café.

“Our goal is to build a community here,” says Joy, who oversees sales and finance while Iñigo manages day-to-day operations. Together, they’ve created a space where people can come for the coffee, stay for the swing, and return for the connection.

Whether you're in it for the perfect brew, a pastry fix, or a fun mini golf game, Boris Café is redefining what it means to chill in Pampanga—one sip and one swing at a time.(Nelson Santos)

19/07/2025

Associate Justice Villanueva Affirms Support for New PAPI Leadership

MANILA — In a strong show of confidence and commitment to the future of Philippine journalism, Supreme Court Associate Justice Raul B. Villanueva has expressed his full support for the newly installed leadership of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI), headed by President Rebecca Madeja-Velásquez and Chairman/Director for Media Affairs Nelson S. Santos.

Justice Villanueva’s affirmation is regarded as a significant endorsement of PAPI’s renewed direction and mission under its new leadership. His public support lends an air of continuity and stability to the organization as it pursues innovation and integrity in media practice.

“I believe in the vision and capability of the current leadership of PAPI. President Velásquez and Chairman Santos have demonstrated unwavering commitment to press freedom, media ethics, and the promotion of responsible journalism,” said Justice Villanueva. “Their leadership will help reinforce public trust in media institutions during these critical times.”
Rebecca Madeja-Velásquez, who recently assumed the presidency of PAPI, is recognized for her dynamic leadership and steadfast advocacy of community-based journalism. Nelson S. Santos, a veteran journalist and longtime media advocate, continues to play a vital role in strengthening PAPI’s national influence through his dual roles as Director for Media Affairs and Chairman.

The endorsement from a sitting member of the Supreme Court underscores the institutional trust and mutual respect between the judiciary and the press. It also highlights the essential role of media organizations like PAPI in upholding democracy, truth, and accountability.

As PAPI ushers in a new chapter in its storied history, Justice Villanueva’s support serves not only as a moral boost to its leadership but also as a rallying call for members and stakeholders to unite under a shared vision of journalistic excellence.(Giselle Toriano) Photos courtesy of Beck Madeja Velásquez

18/07/2025

📰 CREATIVITY, CULTURE, AND FRIENDSHIP SHINE AT FFCCCI'S TIKTOK VIDEO COMPETITION AWARDING CEREMONY

📰 Young Filipino Content Creators Celebrate 50 Years of PH-China Friendship Through Stellar Storytelling

📰 Celebrating another year with street dwellers
filling their

📰 DOST Bukidnon meets with LU Kãl langan for a CEST Kamustahan with Mayor Atty. Raymon Charl Q. Gamboa

📰 Lanao del Norte, DepEd, DOST launch future-ready classroom with 21st century learning technology

📰 Dengue Cases Rise

17/07/2025

SETUP-Assisted MSMEs Undergo Regional Evaluation in Region 1

To recognize the outstanding achievements of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Region 1, the Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST Region 1) conducted an on-site evaluation for the Calendar Year 2025 Search for the SETUP 4.0 Awards for MSMEs and the SETUP Praise Awards from July 7 to 10, 2025.

The regional evaluation mission, covering all four provinces of Region 1, was spearheaded by the Regional Program Management Office (RPMO) of DOST Region 1, led by Assistant Regional Director for Technical Operations Ms. Racquel M. Espiritu and Ms. Adelisa Florendo, SETUP Regional Coordinator for DOST Region 1, along with RPMO support staff.
The following SETUP-assisted firms were visited and evaluated during the on-site assessment: Bakers PH from Ilocos Norte; Malakas Farm Livelihood Development Enterprises, Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corporation from Pangasinan and Jaypee’s Bakeshop from La Union - nominated for the SETUP Praise Award; Costales Ricemill from Ilocos Sur nominated for the I-Ready Award (Most Industry 4.0 Ready);NIKS Printing Shop from Ilocos Sur, which was nominated for the ICON Award (Industry 4.0 Champion of Innovation). These enterprises showcased their technological upgrades and innovations made possible through the assistance of DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

The evaluation process included site inspections, interviews with business owners and staff, and a thorough review of the enterprise's innovation practices, technology adoption, productivity gains, and alignment with Industry 4.0 standards.
To ensure transparency and objectivity in the evaluation process, a panel of external evaluators was convened to join the on-site assessments. The panel was composed of Mr. Francis Gerald Amansec, Senior Economic Development Specialist; Dr. Arnelie G. Laquidan, Associate Professor V; Dr. Ismael Gurtiza, member of the Regional Technical Evaluation Committee (RTEC); Atty. Romina Boado-Cabrillos, Board Secretary VI; and Ms. Annalie L. Rosales, also a member of the RTEC. Their collective expertise contributed to a fair and comprehensive evaluation of the nominated SETUP-assisted firms.

The SETUP 4.0 Awards aim to highlight MSMEs that have demonstrated significant technological and operational improvements through DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). The SETUP Praise Awards, on the other hand, recognize firms that have shown exceptional commitment and performance in implementing their innovative strategies.

The awardees are carefully screened and selected by the panel of evaluators, and the official representatives of Region 1 will be recognized during the upcoming CEST and SETUP Summit in August 2025. This event will highlight the achievements of outstanding MSMEs and celebrate their contributions to innovation and regional development through science and technology. (Ms. Alyzza Jane N. Gapuz)

17/07/2025

TESDA awards outstanding TVET programs

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has conferred honors to exemplary technical vocational education and training (TVET) programs in the country through the agency’s System for TVET Accreditation and Recognition (STAR) Awards Program.

The recognition was awarded during the 7th National Quality TVET Forum held on July 8 at the Hilton Manila Hotel, Pasay City, with the theme ““Empower, Innovate, Transform: Cultivating the Growth Mindset in TVET for a Sustainable Tomorrow”.

TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez underscored the importance of continuous improvement and innovation in the TVET system and highlighted that these awards reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to quality, accountability, and future-ready skills development.

“To ensure that our policies, processes, and procedures [remain relevant], from curriculum to instruction to assessment, we are continuously improving and aligning with industry standards and global benchmarks,” Sec. Kiko said.

“Let us continue to strengthen our systems, embrace a growth mindset, and promote excellence in every training center across the country,” added the TESDA chief.

The STAR Awards Program recognizes training programs that have exceeded the minimum registration requirements set by TESDA. The STAR Program has 4 categories, with the lowest “Candidate Status” given to training programs with identified weaknesses, and the highest “Three Stars” awarded to those that present standards substantially above the threshold of competency-based training programs. This year, 54 training programs being offered by 34 public and private tech-voc institutions were conferred with the STAR Award.

Receiving the higher, Two Stars level of the awards for their training programs are Jacobo Z. Gonzales Memorial School of Arts and Trades (for Electronic Products Assembly and Servicing (EPAS) NC II); Regional Training Center – CALABARZON (for Organic Agriculture Production NC II and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) NC I); and, Provincial Training Center – Bilar (for Cookery NC II).

One Star awardees include TESDA - NAVOTAAS Training Institute (Refrigeration and Air - Conditioning Servicing (DomRAC) NC II); Regional Training Center - National Capital Region (Mechatronics Servicing NC II and PV Systems Installation NC II); IGAMA Colleges Foundation, Inc. (Health Care Services NC II); Pangasinan Technological Institute (Bread and Pastry Production NC II); Lasam Institute of Technology (Agricultural Crops Production NC I); Aparri Polytechnic Institute (Electrical Installation and Maintenance (EIM) NC II); Regional Training Center - II Tuguegarao (Housekeeping NC II and Cookery NC II); Isabela School of Arts and Trades (Housekeeping NC II, SMAW NC II, and Computer Systems Servicing NC II).

Other One Star awardees are Southern Isabela College of Arts and Trades (Caregiving NC II, Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) NC II, Food and Beverage Services (FBS) NC II, Cookery NC II, and Driving NC II); Provincial Training Center – Calumpit (EIM NC II); Provincial Training Center – Tarlac (EIM NC II); Rizal Provincial Technical Education and Skills Development Center – Cainta (EIM NC II); Provincial Training Center - Rosario (EIM NC II and PV Systems Installation NC II); Jacobo Z. Gonzales Memorial School of Arts and Trades (Dressmaking NC II); Regional Training Center – CALABARZON (EPAS NC II); Torrijos Poblacion School of Arts and Trades (DomRAC NC II); Puerto Princesa School of Arts and Trades (EIM NC II); and Buyabod School of Arts and Trades (EIM NC II).

Also receiving One Star recognition are Provincial Training Center – Palawan (Driving NC II); Simeon Suan Vocational and Technical College (Dressmaking NC II and Organic Agriculture Production NC II); Camarines Sur Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (Organic Agriculture Production NC II); Dumalag Vocational Technical School (Housekeeping NC II, FBS NC II, and Dressmaking NC II); Leon Ganzon Polytechnic College (Organic Agriculture Production NC II and Cookery NC II); Provincial Training Center – Samboan (EIM NC II); Provincial Training Center – Daanbantayan (Housekeeping NC II); Regional Training Center VII Cebu (Automotive Servicing NC I); Regional Training Center - VIII Tacloban (Automotive Servicing NC IV); Balicuatro College of Arts and Trades (SMAW NC II); Dipolog School of Fisheries (Bartending NC II and Bread and Pastry Production NC II); Oroquieta Agro-Industrial School (Organic Agriculture Production NC II); Davao Oriental Polytechnic Institute (Animal Production (Poultry-Chicken) NC II, Bread and Pastry Production NC II, and Cookery NC II); General Santos National School of Arts and Trades (FBS NC II); and Surigao del Norte College of Agriculture and Technology (Cookery NC II and SMAW NC II).

TESDA’s STAR Program reviews how well training programs are being implemented and checks if they meet international quality benchmarks like the EAS TVET Quality Assurance Framework and the Asia Pacific Accreditation and Certification Commission. Incentives such as exemption from compliance audit, and scholarship allocation grants are given to STAR Awardees.

11/07/2025

📰 KALIBO LGU TURNOVER CEREMONY

📰 DOST Region 1 Acts to Secure Safe and Sustainable Water for Communities in llocos Norte

📰 PCO Secretary Jaybee Ruiz Urges United Front Against Fake News at PAPI 2025 Midyear Assembly and National Elections

📰 PAPI ELECTS ITS NEW BOARD FOR 2025-2028

09/07/2025

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — One of the country's largest and oldest media organizations representing the publishing sector, the Publisher’s Association of the Philippines Inc. (PAPI), has elected its new set of board members last June 24, 2025, at the National Press Club in Intramuros, Manila.

PVN Point Viewer Publishing

06/07/2025

CREATIVITY, CULTURE, AND FRIENDSHIP SHINE AT FFCCCII'S TIKTOK VIDEO COMPETITION AWARDING CEREMONY

Young Filipino Content Creators Celebrate 50 Years of PH-China Friendship Through Stellar Storytelling

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), led by President Dr. Victor Lim, in collaboration with special guests from the Chinese Embassy headed by Minister Councilor Wang Yulei, celebrated the extraordinary talent of Filipino youth at the TikTok Video Competition Awarding Ceremony held today, July 5, 2025.

The event comes on the heels of the recent induction of newly-elected FFCCCII officers, where President Bongbong Marcos urged the Federation to help promote better economic cooperation, trade and diplomacy between the Philippines and China, the country's biggest trade partner.

The competition, which invited young creators aged 18 to 35 nationwide to showcase the rich cultural ties and enduring friendship between the Philippines and China, drew hundreds of dynamic entries. After a rigorous two-round judging process by an esteemed Board of Judges, the most compelling, creative, and heartfelt videos emerged victorious.

A NIGHT OF TRIUMPH AND INSPIRATION
The ceremony honored winners whose works captured the essence of shared heritage, mutual respect, and the vibrant future of PH-China relations.
GRAND PRIZE WINNERS

1st Prize (₱100,000): #1 The Fusion of Filipino & Chinese Traditions – Mark Capareda (Tagum City, Davao del Norte)

A visually stunning masterpiece blending festivals, cuisine, and traditions in a dazzling display of unity.
2nd Prize (₱50,000): #24 PHChina50years – Emmanuel Labrador (Navotas)

A moving tribute to five decades of diplomacy, trade, and camaraderie.

3rd Prize (₱30,000): #6 Magkaibigan (Pilipinas at Tsina) – Richard Samulde (South Cotabato)
A heartwarming narrative of cross-cultural friendship that resonated deeply with audiences.

SPECIAL AWARDEES
President's Choice (₱20,000): #14 Dugong Tsino, Pusong Pinoy – Ricardo Todio Jr. (Leyte)
A powerful testament to the Filipino-Chinese identity, chosen by FFCCCII President Dr. Victor Lim.
Youth & Integration Committee's Choice (₱20,000): #16 Friendship Beyond Borders – Aaliyah Mara Adriano (Paombong, Bulacan)

A youthful, energetic portrayal of cross-border solidarity.

Media & Public Information Committee's Choice (₱20,000): #7 Pengyou hanggang dulo (Dugong Filipino, Pusong Tsino) – Liwileen Dalupang (Tarlac)
A viral sensation praised for its engaging storytelling and emotional depth.

Inspirational Story Award (₱20,000): #10 A Wish Not Written on Khoom Fay (Sky Lanterns) – Aresteo Antalad (Navotas)

A poetic, visually arresting tale of hope and shared dreams.

Cultural Story Award (₱20,000): #20 PhChina50years – Misra Aina (Sulu)
A rare and beautiful glimpse into the blending of cultures in the southern Philippines.
NOTABLE ENTRIES (₱10,000 Each)
Eleven additional creators received Consolation Prizes for their outstanding contributions, showcasing humor, animation, historical deep dives, and personal narratives that captivated judges and audiences alike.
A CELEBRATION OF YOUTH, ART, AND DIPLOMACY
In his keynote speech, President Victor Lim praised the winners for their innovation and passion, stating:
"These videos are more than just content—they are bridges. Through creativity, our youth have strengthened the bond between two nations, proving that friendship knows no borders."
WATCH THE WINNING ENTRIES!
Relive the magic by searching on TikTok or visiting FFCCCII's official social media pages.

GOOD NEWS! FFCCCII also announced the next FFCCCII TIKTOK YOUTH VIDEO COMPETITION shall have deadline of Sept. 30,2025 midnight 12 am, same age range 18 to 35 years old, Filipino citizens. Short videos of not over 2 minutes on the theme: "Chinese Contributions to Philippine Progress (focusing on local Chinese community contributions to Philippine economy and philanthropy). Details are in the FFCCCII Facebook, TikTok and Instagram.

05/07/2025

Dengue Cases Rise

From January to February 21, 2025, dengue cases in Isabela rose to 659 - up from 434 during the same period last year.

To address the surge, the Cauayan City Local Government—one of the Philippine cities named among the top 50 finalists in the 2025 Bloomberg Global Mayors Challenge—has proposed Project C-DEWS (Community Dengue Early Warning System). The proposal aims to strengthen public health through an early warning system that raises awareness, alerts households, and encourages active community participation in dengue prevention.
Project C-DEWS is an online platform that uses an IoT-based OL trap to predict household mosquito infestation levels. It provides early warnings and recommends sanitation practices to help prevent the spread of dengue.

This project is a collaboration between the Cauayan LGU, Isabela State University (ISU), and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) under the Smarter City Project.

Liveable Cities Philippines, a proud local partner of Bloomberg Philanthropies Bloomberg Mayors Challenge, will continue working with Cauayan City throughout the challenge.

04/07/2025

Lanao del Norte, DepEd, DOST launch future-ready classroom with 21st century learning technology
Baroy, LANAO DEL NORTE

IN a significant move to modernize the learning environment, the Department of Science and Technology Region 10 (DOST-10), in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the provincial government of Lanao del Norte, launched the 21st Century Learning Environment Model (21st CLEM) at the Lanao del Norte National High School on May 6, 2025.

DOST’s 21st CLEM project aims to establish future-ready classrooms designed to promote collaborative, tech-integrated, and student-centered learning. These innovative spaces combine flexible classroom designs with cutting-edge educational technologies to develop essential 21st century skills among learners.

“Our school is fortunate to be chosen as the recipient of the 21st CLEM in Northern Mindanao. Our learners in Lanao del Norte will now experience and enjoy the technology that comes with this initiative. As the school head, it is a dream come true to finally provide our learners with a world-class learning environment. Its presence will make a significant difference in improving the literacy and numeracy of our students,” said Principal Hadjah Anisah A. Sinal during her address.

During the launch, DOST technical personnel, alongside Science and Mathematics teachers, showcased a range of advanced learning tools, including digital smartboards, interactive projectors, drones, and both virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) systems. Other educational innovations introduced were COURSEWARE, Strategic Intervention Material for Teaching with Augmented Reality (SIMATAR), and the Learning English Application for Pinoys (LEAP).

The 21st CLEM classroom is equipped with reconfigurable desks and chairs; instructional, immersive, and creative educational technologies; and olOpen Learning Spaces (OLS) to support flexible and interactive learning.

Key stakeholders such as DepEd Region 10 Assistant Regional Director Dr. Federico P. Martin, CESO III, and DOST Lanao del Norte Provincial Science and Technology Director Engr. Roy C. Sagrado underscored the long-term educational benefits of the project and its transformative impact on the province's learning ecosystem.

Provincial Gov. Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo reaffirmed her commitment to educational progress, saying: “With the rapid advancements in technology today, I firmly believe that the introduction of the 21st Century Learning Environment Model is not just about infrastructure, it is an investment in the future of our students, in the hopes and dreams of our learners, and in the advancement of a progressive learning system. The provincial government of Lanao del Norte, through the Provincial School Board and with the invaluable support of our dedicated partners, especially the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), is making this dream a reality.”

The initiative not only fosters 21st century competencies and strengthens STEM education but also provides essential tools to enhance teaching and learning processes. It directly supports Sustainable Development Goal No. 4, which advocates for inclusive, equitable, and quality education while promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Moreover, it aligns with the DOST’s Strategic Pillar of promoting human well-being through science and technology. (SAAli, MAHDonio/DOST Lanao del Norte)

03/07/2025

𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐁𝐮𝐤𝐢𝐝𝐧𝐨𝐧 𝐦𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐋𝐆𝐔 𝐊𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐂𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝐊𝐚𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐲. 𝐑𝐚𝐲𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐥 𝐎. 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐚

The meeting centered on updates regarding ongoing projects under the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program. Provincial S&T Director Ritchie Mae L. Guno also introduced innovative DOST technologies that align with the municipality’s development goals — including the 21st Century Learning Environment Model, VISSER, and DOST Courseware.
Mayor Gamboa expressed strong support for initiatives that uplift the education sector, one of his key priorities for Kalilangan. Through programs like CEST, DOST continues to provide solutions and open opportunities for communities to thrive.