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16/12/2025

Kalinga Foundation Renews Lives and Hope Through Christmas Outreach

The Arnold Janssen Kalinga (Kain-Aral-Ligo-NG-Ayos) Foundation continues to live out its mission of restoring dignity and hope among homeless persons, the poor, and other marginalized sectors through a special Christmas outreach activity organized this year by Ms. Anna Donita S. Tapay, a long-time advocate and active partner of the foundation.

A non-profit, faith-based organization in the Philippines, the Arnold Janssen Kalinga Foundation provides holistic and dignified care aimed not only at survival but at rebuilding lives. Its integrated programs focus on three core phases: food and hygiene, education through the Alternative Learning System (ALS), and livelihood and employment. Anchored on the belief that poverty is a matter of justice and human dignity, the foundation empowers individuals through nourishment, education, hygiene, and livelihood, helping restore their self-image, self-respect, and self-worth.

In line with this mission, Ms. Tapay spearheaded a Christmas event specially designed for the poor, reaching 450 beneficiaries as the holiday season approached. She shared that for her, the true meaning of Christmas is the “unconditional love of Christ,” a love that must be shown through action rather than words alone. She emphasized that while expressions of love are easily spoken, they often fall short when it comes to concrete action, underscoring the need for genuine and selfless service.

One of the most meaningful highlights of the activity was the presence of former Kalinga beneficiaries who have since graduated from the program and returned to serve the foundation. These individuals shared their personal stories of transformation on how Kalinga helped them rebuild their lives and regain dignity. Their return served as a living testament to the foundation’s impact, inspiring current beneficiaries who are now experiencing Kalinga’s support through food, shelter, education, and livelihood opportunities, including ALS classes.

The Christmas outreach also reflected how Ms. Tapay extends kalinga,care and compassion not only to the foundation’s beneficiaries but also to her own employees. As an employer, she nurtures a culture of service that naturally flows outward. Together with her team, the activity was carried out not for recognition or publicity, but as an expression of faith and responsibility. According to Tapay, service becomes contagious when it is rooted in sincerity: “If you truly have the heart to serve, the people around you will do the same.”

Believing that Christmas is truly for the poor, Ms. Tapay chose not to wait for others to initiate similar efforts. Instead, she led the activity herself, reflecting the foundation’s commitment to making God’s love visible through concrete actions not merely through spoken words.

Beyond the Christmas event, Ms. Tapay actively organizes year-round initiatives that cater to various sectors. Among these is the recently conducted Hospital on Wheels, a mobile medical mission that brought much-needed healthcare services to individuals requiring medical attention. These sustained efforts reinforce her commitment to the Arnold Janssen Kalinga Foundation’s vision of holistic care and long-term transformation.

Through initiatives like this Christmas outreach, the Arnold Janssen Kalinga Foundation and Ms. Anna Donita S. Tapay continue to demonstrate that faith, when translated into action, can restore dignity, rebuild lives, and bring hope especially to those who need it most.

16/12/2025

Mga dokumentaryong pelikula ng Bulacan tungkol sa WWII, tampok sa ‘Kasaysayan sa MET’

LUNGSOD NG MALOLOS — Bilang paggunita sa ika-80 anibersaryo ng paglaya ng Pilipinas mula sa pananakop ng mga Hapones, itinampok noong Disyembre 9 sa Ermita, Maynila ang mga dokumentaryong pelikula mula sa SINEliksik Bulacan Docu Fest sa “Kasaysayan sa MET” ng National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) at National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), isang programa na may layuning itanghal ang iba’t ibang anyo ng sining sa Manila Metropolitan Theater.

Nagbigay-diin ang mga dokumentaryong pelikulang nagawa noong 2023 para sa ika-5 SINEliksik Bulacan DocuFest sa mga kuwento ng pakikibaka, sakripisyo, at kabayanihan ng mga beterano ng Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdig sa ilalim ng temang “Pagsubok at Pagtindig Noong Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdig.”

Sa kaniyang mensahe, hinikayat ni May Arlene DG. Torres, nanunungkulang puno ng Provincial History, Arts, Culture and Tourism Office (PHACTO), ang mga manonood na manatiling matatag sa pagharap sa mga hamong kinakaharap ng mga Pilipino sa kasalukuyan.

“Tapos na po ang Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdig at wala na ang mga dayuhang mananakop, ngunit may bago tayong kinakaharap na mga hamon at pakikibaka sa ating lipunan. Sa gitna ng mga pagsubok na ito, ang panawagan ay malinaw: tumindig tayo bilang mga makabagong bayani ng ating panahon,” ani Torres.

Samantala, sinabi ni NCCA Chairman Victorino Mapa Manalo na ang mga pelikulang itinanghal sa MET ay hindi lamang anyo ng sining, kundi mahalagang piraso ng ambag sa paghubog ng kinabukasan ng bansa.

“Ang bawat pelikulang inyong napanood ay hindi lamang obra; ito ay ambag sa patuloy na paghubog ng isang bansang may malalim na pagpapahalaga sa katotohanan at kasaysayan,” aniya.

Itinampok sa programa ang lahat ng 21 lahok mula sa ikalimang edisyon ng paligsahang pampelikula sa buong lalawigan mula sa junior at senior categories, kabilang dito ang Bahawin: Lunas sa Gitna ng Giyera, Ciento Dos, Dapit Hapon: PISARA, Doyen, Impiong, Pionio: Beteranong Sundalong Doktor, Manong (Hen. Alejo Santos: Pagtakas sa Bataan at Paglaya ng Bulacan), Alaala ni Lolo Pimong, Ang Mamatay Nang Dahil Sa ‘Yo, Bulihan: Mga Kwento ng Labanan at Kabayanihan, DuHaWis (Gerilya: Dugong Bayani), Gunita ng Dapit Hapon, Henyo, Kunan, March of Death (Nicanor “Bapa” R. Songco Sr.: Minsan sa Isang Kasaysayan), Mga Bulaklak ng Nakaraan, Padoc, Panaghoy ng Isang Gerilya, Panaghoy: Mga Piping Sigaw sa Bahay na P**a, Sa Dagat at Bundok, at Sa Dulo ng Bayoneta.

Bukod dito, pinuri din ni Manalo ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Bulacan sa pamamagitan ng PHACTO para sa mga inisyatiba at programa nito na patuloy na nagtataguyod at nagpapalawak ng kultura at sining sa lalawigan.

“Actually, very impressed ako sa mga [nakita kong poster] ng mga pelikula. At every impressed ako lalo na ito ay isang project ng Provincial Government ng Bulacan. Talagang [sumasaludo] ako sa inyo sa gawain na ito. Napakaganda nitong project na ito,” dagdag niya.

15/12/2025

15/12/2025

📰 PLGU CAGAYAN, ONE OF THE MAIN BENEFICIARY IN REGION 2 OF THE SARAI CENTRO PROJECT OF DOST

📰 PAPI Gathers Nation's Media Leaders for 29th National Press Congress in Bulacan

📰 Lalawigan ng Bulacan, pinarangalan ng ginto sa 11th CLEXAH

📰 DOST-NCR Unveils New Programs for Smarter
Metro at RSTW 2025

📰 Suporta ng DOST Camiguin sa 3rd Provincial MSME Summit!

14/12/2025

DOST Region 02 Upskills S&T Pen Videography to Boost Scicomm

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 02 strengthened its science communication initiatives as it conducted Science That Sees: A Workshop on Videography for SciTech Storytelling.
The workshop was held from December 11-12, 2025, at NGN Hotel focused on elevating the quality and consistency of visual outputs used in field documentation, project reporting, and public information materials, emphasizing the growing role of videography in evidence-based science communication.
Participants took part in the session facilitated by videography resource speaker Sir John Lewie Reyes, an Information Officer from the Cagayan State University (CSU) who discussed the fundamental elements of videography, including framing, camera angles, shot types, camera movement, and visual continuity.
Reyes emphasized that videography plays a critical role in science communication by effectively capturing processes, transformations, and sequences that static images alone cannot fully convey, particularly in documenting scientific interventions and community-based projects.
He also highlighted ethical considerations in filming activities and community beneficiaries, stressing the importance of accuracy, consent, and proper representation in science, technology, and innovation (STI) documentation.
A storyboarding session guided participants in structuring their visual narratives prior to filming. Participants identified key messages, organized sequences, selected appropriate angles, and developed shot lists for their planned videos.
This was followed by an editing workshop where participants assembled video clips, refined pacing, and incorporated narration and graphics to enhance clarity and narrative cohesion.
As the culminating activity, participants were grouped into four teams, each tasked to produce a two- to three-minute video in different genres, incorporating the videography fundamentals discussed during the workshop. The final outputs demonstrated improved application of framing, sequencing, storytelling, and ethical documentation.
The groups presented their videos, showcasing enhanced competencies in visual sequencing, explanation, and narrative flow.
The workshop forms part of DOST Region 02’s ongoing efforts to standardize documentation practices and strengthen visual storytelling for programs such as SETUP, CEST, Smart and Sustainable Communities, and other STI initiatives.

14/12/2025

DOST Ilocos Region Deepens its Advocacy for a VAW-Free Philippines Through “ Orange your Icon” Event

Moving the region closer to a truly VAW-free community, the Department of Science and Technology Ilocos Region (DOST Ilocos Region) once again showed its strong and continued support for the nationwide advocacy to End Violence Against Women (VAW) as it joined the Department of Tourism Region 1 for this year’s “Orange Your Icon” activity under the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW. Held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Barangay Madayegdeg, City of San Fernando, La Union, the gathering brought together regional agencies and community leaders united by one message ‘every woman deserves safety, respect, and a life free from violence.’
Under the leadership of Regional Director Teresita A. Tabaog, who also serves as Chairperson of the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) Region 1, DOST Ilocos Region continues to push forward programs and initiatives that empower and protect women and children. Her guidance reflects the Department’s belief that building safer communities goes hand in hand with promoting science, technology, and innovation.
During the activity, DOST Ilocos Region participated in the Bougainvillea Planting—a simple yet powerful symbol of resilience, hope, and the shared vision for a violence-free community. The event also featured the lighting of orange icons around the monument, serving as a reminder that awareness and collective action are essential in ending gender-based violence.
Assistant Regional Director Raquel M. Espiritu, who represented Dr. Tabaog, delivered the Department’s message of support. She emphasized that the 18-Day Campaign is not just a yearly observance but a year-round, day-to-day commitment that everyone must take part in. She shared that DOST Ilocos Region remains dedicated to promoting safety, equality, and empowerment—values that continue to guide the Department in its community engagements and advocacy efforts.
Through consistent action, strong partnerships, and genuine compassion, DOST Ilocos Region stands firm in helping build a Region 1 where women and children are empowered.
(A***n Joy M. Soliman )

14/12/2025

Recto: Human security must be central to national security

Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto has underscored that human security must be central to the Philippines’ national security, saying that real security lies in safeguarding everything that allows Filipino families to live with dignity and hope.
In his speech at National Security Summit 2025, Executive Secretary Recto said national security must be defined by the everyday issues that affect the lives of Filipino families.
“It is food that is affordable. Power that stays on. A job that pays enough. Truth in our newsfeeds. Trust in our institutions,” he said. “Because security is more than the absence of a shooting war. It means the presence of opportunity,” he added.
In line with this, the Executive Secretary commended the National Security Council (NSC) for aligning the National Security Strategy (NSS) 2024 with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP), which addresses every thread of Filipino life—from farmers facing climate uncertainty, to soldiers guarding frontiers, to teachers shaping young minds against disinformation.
To secure the Filipino people’s future, the Executive Secretary highlighted that the Marcos Jr. administration is strengthening food security, expanding universal healthcare, and investing in quality education and workforce development.
“For our greatest asset—our greatest defense—is the empowered, enlightened, engaged and educated Filipino people,” he said.
Restoring Public Trust
Executive Secretary Recto also stressed that weak governance and institutional challenges—including corruption, misuse of public funds, and lack of transparency—pose serious risks to national security.
“This is why we are pushing for good governance reforms—finally pursuing an anti-political dynasty bill, reforming the party list system, and giving public access to government expenditures,” he said.
“For building stronger and more transparent institutions is the nation’s sturdiest security defense,” he added.
He also highlighted the administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline and maintaining a disciplined national budget focused on quality spending to ensure that public funds are directed to programs that genuinely benefit the Filipino people.
To address multiple challenges the country is facing today, the Executive Secretary emphasized the need for strategic synergy across all sectors, including the uniformed forces, policy leaders, academics, civil society, industry, and local communities. He said that true national security requires “a government that moves as one, an economy that is strong and felt by every household, and a future defended by all.” In closing, he urged all stakeholders to view the Summit as a renewed commitment—not just to protect the State, but to safeguard the hopes and dreams of every Filipino family.

13/12/2025

Weavers Manifesto cries for respect, support for Philippine weaves, denounces machine replicas, printed substitutes

The growing popularity of traditional handloom-woven textiles has placed Filipino weavers at a critical crossroads. Their designs, heritage, and livelihoods are increasingly threatened not only by printed and machine-made replicas but also by unfair market access, lack of intellectual property protection, and limited recognition of their rights as artists, cultural bearers, and workers. While counterfeit fabrics dilute authenticity and deceive consumers, deeper challenges persist. Weavers struggle to reach inclusive markets, secure fair compensation, and pass down their craft to future generations. These shared concerns have prompted weaving communities across the country to unite and assert their rights to livelihood, cultural identity, and a rightful place in the nation’s textile value chain.

In response to this growing concern, the Department of Science and Technology, Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST PTRI), consolidated the weavers’ insights and thoughts through the Weavers Manifesto during the 1st Philippine Handloom Weaving Festival held at Robinsons Ilocos in Ilocos Norte on 22 November 2025 as part of the National Science, Technology and Innovation Week. The signing was led by Dr. Julius Leaño Jr., Director of DOST PTRI, and the delegation of more than 120 weavers from over 40 weaving communities across the country. It was witnessed by DOST Ilocos Region Director, Dr. Tereista Tabaog and Assistant Secretary Anna Carmela V. Remigio, Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon.
The DOST–PTRI and the weavers initially conducted a focused group discussion (FGD) that raised the concerns and needs of weaving communities across the country. The resulting Weavers’ Manifesto captured the 8 main and critical issues raised during the FGD. The signatories call for the following:
• Opposition to the widespread use of counterfeit handwoven textiles and machine-made woven replicas as substitutes for the authentic handwoven fabrics of the Philippines. (Pagtutol sa malawakang paggamit ng mga pekeng hinabing tela at mga hinabing replika na gawa ng mga makina bilang panghalip sa mga tunay na habing-kamay ng Pilipinas.)
• Use of handwoven textiles for the uniforms and attire of government employees and students. (Paggamit sa mga hinabing tela para sa uniporme at kasuotan ng mga kawani ng pamahalaan at mga mag-aaral.)
• Strong opposition to the use of woven textile designs in sublimation printing and in printed fabrics being sold as if they were handloom woven. (Mariing pagtutol sa paggamit ng mga disenyo ng hinabing tela bilang disenyo sa sublimation printing at sa mga printed na tela binebenta bilang hinahabing tela.)
• Expanded access for weavers to cotton and natural textile fiber-based yarns. (Mas pinalawak na akses ng mga manghahabi sa cotton at natural textile fiber-based yarns.)
• Broader access to training programs to prepare the next generations of weavers and to promote knowledge about the art and science of weaving, especially among the youth. (Pinalawak na akses sa mga programa sa pagsasanay upang maihanda ang mga sumusunod na henerasyon ng mga manghahabi at pagpapalaganap ng kaalaman ukol sa sining at agham ng paghahabi lalo na sa mga kabataan.)
• Unification of all weavers across the Philippines into an organized group. (Pagbubuklod ng lahat ng mga manghahabi sa buong pilipinas bilang isang organisadong grupo.)
• Strengthening policies for the development of the weaving sector and for the protection of intellectual property and the creations of weavers and their respective communities. (Pagpapaigting ng mga polisiya para sa pagpapaunlad ng larangan at pagprotekta sa yamang-isip at mga likha ng manghahabi at ng kanilang grupong kinabibilangan.)
• Respect for the rights and recognition of weavers, especially women whose livelihoods depend on this craft. (Paggalang sa mga karapatan at pagpapahalaga sa mga manghahabi lalo na ang mga kababaihang nakabatay ang kabuhayan sa larangang ito.)
As the Weavers’ Manifesto underlines the importance of keeping weaving traditions alive for cultural and economic advancement of weavers, a testimony came from Marlyn Muyana of the Baraclayan Weavers Association of Iloilo who shared how their community’s weaving center contributes to their community advancement, “Before the weaving center was established, our barangay was considered one of the poorest in the municipality. Many families struggled to meet daily needs, and sending children to school felt like an impossible dream. But through hard work, unity, and commitment, the weaving center became our turning point. Today, we are proud to say that we have no out-of-school youth in our community. Almost all our students now have the chance to pursue higher education in colleges and universities.”
The said Manifesto is also in line with the advocacy raised by Dr. Leaño, Jr., during the opening ceremony of the festival, when for the first time he publicly called on the public and said, “Sana po ‘wag na kayong bumili ng fake handloom woven fabrics…because you are not just depriving them of their livelihood. You are depriving them of their culture. You are depriving them of their identity. And most importantly, you are depriving them of their future.”
The Philippine Handloom Weaving Festival generated over ₱2 million in gross sales of handloom woven products from over 120 participating weavers from more than 40 weaving communities representing various regions across the country. A total of 600 kilograms of cotton yarns was also distributed to the weavers as part of the CottonPH Weaving Movement, a program that aims to boost local handloom weaving, reduce dependency on imported yarns, and promote sustainability by providing weavers with locally spun quality yarns. This is the first massive distribution of yarns that awaits feedback on the weavibility and the overall transitioning journey that the weavers will undergo in weaving Philippine cotton yarns. Ilocos Norte will also be able to spin and produce cotton yarns for Northern Luzon after the inauguration of the facility last 20 November in Vintar, Ilocos Norte, during the duration of the Festival.
The four-day festival attracted over 1,000 participants in all its activities. The 1st Philippine Handloom Weaving Festival is a collaboration of the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Norte Tourism, Cebu Pacific Air, Robinsons Ilocos, and the Local Government of Taguig City, which is the host city of the Philippine Handloom Weaving Center

11/12/2025

Filipino cyclists from PH, abroad conquer DRT's mountainous trails in Lakbike Festival Teban 7

CITY OF MALOLOS — Nearly 300 racers across the country and from abroad convened for another adrenaline-fueled installment of Lakbike Turismo: Lakbike Festival Teban 7 - Enduro Race, a premier downhill competition held last Sunday, December 7, on the rugged trails of Doña Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan, sealing the town’s reputation as one of the adventure and eco-sports destination in Luzon.
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Organized by the Provincial Government of Bulacan (PGB) through the Provincial History, Arts, Culture and Tourism Office (PHACTO) along with the Bulacan Gravity Crew, the event was participated by cyclists from La Union, Tuguegarao, Pampanga, Cavite, Batangas, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Metro Manila, Laguna, Baguio, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Cagayan De Oro, Bicol, Mindanao, Guam, London, Australia, Chicago, and Singapore.
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This year’s race introduced a diverse roster of categories to provide the participants a competitive and inclusive sporting experience ranging from Open Men and Women, E-MTB, Executive, Men Age 50 and Above, Men Age 40-49, Men Age 30-39, Men Age 20-29, Men Age 15-19, Men Age 14 and below, and Hardtail categories.

Steven Adler Paulino of the Bulacan Gravity Crew expressed his gratitude to the participants for pushing through the competition despite the forecasted high chance of rainfall a day before the event.

“Let’s do the 100% pa rin, gawin pa rin nating 100%. Lahat ng supplies ipasok natin para lahat ng darating masaya. [Kaya] sa mga nandito, maraming salamat po,” Paulino said.

The seventh edition of the racing tilt also featured four special stages that highlighted the natural landscapes and sceneries of the town, starting at the Candle Monument in Brgy. Camachin and concluding at the Teban Trail Parking in Brgy. Talbak.

On the other hand, OIC Department Head of PHACTO May Arlene DG. Torres shared in her message how the PGB consistently promotes sports and eco-tourism in the province, highlighting Doña Remedios Trinidad’s potential as an emerging tourist destination in the country.

“Ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan po ay itinataguyod ang sports tourism tulad po nito, at gano’n din po ang eco-tourism. Ito pong DRT ay emerging na tourist destination, kaya sana po sa mga darating na taon ay mas mapasyalan niyo pa po ang iba’t ibang bahagi ng DRT at ng Bulacan. At sana ay sa inyong palaging pagpunta sa Bulacan, mahalin n’yo po ang [aming lalawigan],” she said.

Meanwhile, a tree-planting activity was also conducted in certain parts of the town prior to the competition participated by selected racers, stressing Bulacan’s continued advocacy for ecotourism, environmental stewardship, and responsible outdoor recreation.

09/12/2025

Voices That Cannot Be Silenced: PAPI's Stand Against Fake News and Corruption

BALIWAG, Bulacan — Long before the speeches began and the applause filled the halls, a quiet realization settled over the delegates of the 29th National Press Congress:

In an age drowning in misinformation, their calling has never been more vital.

Held on December 3–4, 2025 at The Greenery in Baliwag, Bulacan, this year’s gathering of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) was more than an annual event—it was a reunion of truth-seekers, a summit of storytellers, and a testament to the enduring power of Philippine journalism.
The theme, “Unmasking Deception: The Role of Investigative Media in Exposing Fake News and Corruption,” set the tone for a congress that was both reflective and forward-looking.

A Ceremony That Set the Stage

Day 1 opened with the solemn Entry of Colors by Bulacan State University, followed by a heartfelt doxology by Pastor Elpedio B. Soriano Jr. As the AVP played the National Anthem and the PAPI Hymn, delegates paused—perhaps remembering the honor and responsibility behind their work.

Congress Director Alma Ochotorena welcomed the participants, but the moment grew more emotional when the assembly turned its attention to a man whose legacy continues to guide PAPI.

A Tribute to a Fallen Pillar of Journalism

During the opening program, PAPI members and guests offered a heartfelt tribute and prayer for the late PAPI Chairman Emeritus Juan P. Dayang, one of the country’s most respected journalists and a towering figure in community media.

His immense contribution, wisdom, and decades-long dedication to Philippine journalism were remembered in solemn reflection. Many delegates bowed their heads, acknowledging the profound void left by his passing—and the responsibility of continuing the work he championed.

It was a moment that anchored the congress in gratitude and purpose, reminding every journalist in the room that they stand on the shoulders of pioneers who fought tirelessly for truth.

Leadership, Commitment, and a Keynote That Hit Home

Following the tribute, a welcome message from Baliwag City Mayor Sonia Viceo-Estrella—delivered through her official representative—affirmed the city’s support for responsible journalism.

PAPI Chairman for Media Affairs Nelson S. Santos then took delegates through PAPI’s decades-long commitment to defending press freedom.

When Jason Phillip V. Gutierrez of The New York Times and Asia Times took the stage for the keynote address, he spoke candidly about disinformation’s growing sophistication and the danger it poses to truth, democracy, and journalists themselves.

Learning, Sharing, and Confronting the Digital Battlefield

Lively open forums reflected a common battle cry from journalists across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao: The fight against misinformation must be collective, continuous, and courageous.

Governor’s Night: A Celebration of Unity and Diversity

Delegates later returned dressed in striking United Nations–themed attire for Governor’s Night—a celebration of cultural pride and journalistic solidarity.

PAPI President Rebecca Velasquez opened the ceremony followed by Vice President for Mindanao Anila Anne Acosta who introduced the guest of honor Governor Daniel R. Fernando, though unable to attend in person, Governor Daniel R. Fernando sent his administrator to deliver a message praising the press as "guardian pillars of truth.”

Media leaders, government officials, and innovators echoed their support throughout the night.
A major highlight was the awarding of ₱30,000 in raffle prizes and in-kind items, administered by PAPI Vice President for Visayas, Ms. Giecel Toriano-Albar. Donations from supporters across the country showcased how far the community of journalism advocates extends.

Day 2: Tourism, Technology, and a Nation’s Story

The second day opened with a journey through Bulacan’s cultural soul, guided by May Arlene DG. Torres, who presented the province’s heritage-rich landmarks, historic sites, and preservation efforts.

This was followed by a powerful Zoom lecture by Professor Jeremiah Opiniano, PhD, titled “Combating Misinformation in Advancing Digital Literacy.” His sharp insights mapped the evolving digital battlefield and prepared journalists for the challenges ahead. Closing Remarks were delivered by PAPI Executive Vice President Ian Israel D. Junio who thanked the delegates, speakers, and partner institutions for their support and reaffirmed the organizations commitment to strengthening ethical and investigative journalism nationwide.

Heritage, Innovation, and a Dinner to Remember

Delegates then visited historic Malolos sites before proceeding to Bauertek Pharmaceutical Technologies, where Dr. Richard Nixon Gomez showcased Filipino innovation at its best.

The congress concluded with a heartwarming Christmas boodle fight dinner, also hosted by Dr Richard Gomez- an evening of fellowship, laughter and renewed commitment to the profession.

A Congress That Reignited Purpose

As delegates traveled back to their respective provinces, they carried renewed conviction -- and the memory of a tribute a fallen giant whose legacy continues to illuminate the path forward. Because in the age of deception, the Filipino journalist’s mission remains clear; To seek truth, expose corruption and never allow misinformation to prevail. --- G.I.E.C.E.L AN-PAPI VP-VISAYAS

07/12/2025

DOST CAR leads the benchmarking in Santa Rosa City to advance smart and sustainable initiatives

Through the coordination of DOST-CALABARZON, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of the City of Santa Rosa hosted a successful benchmarking activity on December 3, 2025. The event was attended by officials and representatives from various DOST regional and provincial offices.

This activity is a key component of the project “Empowering Communities through SMART Roadmaps and Technologies,” spearheaded by DOST-CAR. Its primary goal is to benchmark progressive cities across the country, with the City of Santa Rosa in Laguna recognized as a leading example. The event served as a vital platform for sharing best practices in implementing smart and sustainable community initiatives, including programs on digital transformation and smart governance efforts.

Site Tour and Best Practice Sharing
The benchmarking delegation conducted a comprehensive site tour to observe Santa Rosa's innovative projects firsthand:

1. Water Testing Laboratory and Pyrolysis Facility: The tour commenced here, where Engr. Maria Amor Salandanan, City Environment and Natural Resources Officer, provided an in-depth discussion on the city's innovative waste management and circular economy projects.

2. Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO): Mr. Antonio Z. Lu, City DRRMO Operations Manager, guided the delegation, showcasing Santa Rosa's advanced disaster preparedness and response capabilities. This included facilities, equipment, vehicles, the AI-powered traffic monitoring system, incident response mechanisms,
and sophisticated weather monitoring approaches.

3. Santa Rosa City Hall and IT Room: The third stop focused on digital governance. Key information systems supporting internal business operations and health-related programs were presented, followed by a brief tour of the IT Room and the City Health Office.
The event concluded with a courtesy visit to the City Mayor’s Office, where the delegation was graciously received by Honorable Arlene Arcillas.

The City of Santa Rosa is one of the pioneer smart cities in the country and was recently recognized in various categories of DOST’s Smart and Sustainable Communities Award during the 2025 National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) held in Laoag City last November 21, 2025. Among the seven distinguished awards received by the LGU are:

In the Human Well-Being Pillar

• Quick Response: Safer Santa Rosa (Level 2)
• Santa Rosa Book and Ride: Free Toyota Community Shuttle (Level 3)
Wealth Protection Pillar
• Increasing Santa Rosa City's Resilience Through Disaster Preparedness (Level 2)
• Assistance of the Santa Rosa Manpower Training Center in the Employment of Graduate Students (Level 2)

• Santa Rosa e-Recruit: Digitalizing Local Employment Matching and Services (Level 3)
•Santa Rosa Central Command Center (SRCCC) (Level 3)

• Sustained Nourishment: A Collaborative Feeding Initiative with the City of Santa Rosa (Level 3)
Santa Rosa City, through the technical assistance of DOST-CALABARZON, continues to reinforce its commitment to serving as a model smart city—one that actively embraces and employs Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) to sustain and elevate its standard of public service.
For S&T-related contents, follow DOST CALABARZON.