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Philippines Reaffirms Commitment to Media Workers' Rights and Safety at 5th EU-Philippines Subcommittee Meeting on Gover...
08/10/2025

Philippines Reaffirms Commitment to Media Workers' Rights and Safety at 5th EU-Philippines Subcommittee Meeting on Governance and Human Rights

The Philippine Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the rights and
safety of media workers during the 5th Philippines-European Union Subcommittee Meeting
on Good Governance, Rule of Law, and Human Rights held in Brussels, Belgium, on October
6, 2025.
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) underscored ongoing efforts to
protect media workers through legal reforms and capacity-building initiatives. PTFOMS
Executive Director Jose Torres Jr. highlighted the Task Force's initiatives to combat media-
related violence, ensure journalist safety, and counter misinformation and defamation.
“PTFOMS serves as a cornerstone in upholding democratic values and journalistic integrity in
the Philippines," said Undersecretary Torres. He emphasized legislative priorities, including
the decriminalization of libel, the Media Workers Welfare Bill, and the implementation of
safety and security training workshops.
To enhance journalists' digital safety, the Task Force proposed cybersecurity training
workshops and activities focusing on ethical journalism to reinforce accuracy, fairness, and
accountability, essential for restoring public trust in media.
A thorough review of cases involving attacks on media dating back to 1986 is currently
underway, aimed at ensuring justice and resolution. Regular consultations with local media
workers ensure that these efforts address the real-world challenges faced by journalists.
Recent collaborations with the Public Attorney's Office and the Commission on Human Rights
have been formalized, providing essential legal aid and protection to media personnel.
The meeting included key representatives such as European Union Ambassador to the
Philippines H.E. Massimo Santoro, Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Deena
Joy D. Amatong, who led the delegation, as well as officials from the Department of Budget
and Management led by Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, Department of Justice
Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes T. Andres, and officials from the Supreme Court, Climate
Change Commission, National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict,
Department of Migrant Workers, Department of the Interior and Local Government,
Republic of the Philippines
Office of the President
PRESIDENTIAL TASK FORCE ON MEDIA SECURITY
Presidential Human Rights Committee, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Bureau of
Corrections, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, National Security Council, and the
Philippine National Police.

Bringing Knowledge Closer| STARBOOKS Turnover in Misamis OccidentalAccess to science and technology just got closer to h...
08/10/2025

Bringing Knowledge Closer| STARBOOKS Turnover in Misamis Occidental

Access to science and technology just got closer to home!
Through the partnership between the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the BPI Foundation, Inc., represented by Mr. Geronimo G. Torres, four schools in Misamis Occidental received brand new computer units installed with the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated KioskS (STARBOOKS) — a DOST-developed digital library that brings thousands of science and technology resources right into the classroom.
The BPI Foundation donated these computer units for free, recognizing the pressing need to provide access to digital learning tools and information resources, especially for students in geographically isolated areas. One of the beneficiary schools is even located at the foot of a mountain — proof that learning knows no boundaries.
This initiative is part of BPI Foundation’s commitment to distribute 80 computer units nationwide by the end of the year, empowering more learners to access STARBOOKS and explore a world of science, technology, and innovation even without internet connection.
Beneficiaries of this turnover include Guiban Elementary School and New Casul Integrated School in the Municipality of Concepcion, and Napangan Integrated School and Nueva Vista National High School in the Municipality of Don Victoriano.
Held at the DOST Misamis Occidental Innovation Hub, the ceremony marked another milestone in bringing Agham na Ramdam — science that uplifts communities, bridges the digital divide, and opens doors of opportunity for learners across Misamis Occidental.

Towards a Smarter Cagayan Valley: Tuguegarao City Backs MOA Signing for ODeSSEE Project.The Department of Science and Te...
08/10/2025

Towards a Smarter Cagayan Valley: Tuguegarao City Backs MOA Signing for ODeSSEE Project.

The Department of Science and Technology Regional Office No. 02 (DOST R02), led by Regional Director Dr. Virginia G. Bilgera and represented by Dr. Raquel B. Santos, participated in the Committee Meeting to deliberate on the Draft Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among the Local Government Unit of Tuguegarao City, DOST R02, Isabela State University (ISU), and the University of Saint Louis (USL) for the implementation of the project titled “Optimization of Decision Support System for Effective e-Governance (ODeSSEE) towards Strengthening Communities in Cagayan Valley.”
Present during the meeting were Dr. Albert A. Vinluan, Project Support Staff III from ISU; Dr. Darin Jan C. Tindowen, Project Support Staff I from USL; Dr. Marie Rose Mora of USL; Ms. Rodora B. Santos, PTA V of DOST R02; and Engr. Niko Angelo S. Tabangin, PTA V of DOST R02.
After the discussion, the Tuguegarao City Committee on Rules, Laws, and Ethics, chaired by Atty. Mark Aldous Baccay, endorsed the conduct of the MOA signing with the partner institutions. This initiative demonstrates commitment toward the collaborative implementation of Project ODeSSEE in Tuguegarao City, which will strengthen flood pre-emptive planning, enhance e-governance, and advance data-driven decision-making in line with the vision of building a resilient and sustainable Cagayan Valley Smarter City Belt.

Technopreneurs and Community Leaders Unite at the 2025 Regional SETUP and CEST Summit.The Department of Science and Tech...
08/10/2025

Technopreneurs and Community Leaders Unite at the 2025 Regional SETUP and CEST Summit.

The Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST Region 1) successfully brought together innovators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders at the 2025 Regional SETUP & CEST Summit held on September 16, 2024, at Hotel Ariana & Restaurant, Paringao, Bauang, La Union. The event, spearheaded by the Regional Program Management Office of the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) and Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program, served as a venue to highlight success stories, share knowledge, and strengthen partnerships for innovation and sustainability.
In her keynote message, DOST 1 Regional Director Teresita A. Tabaog described the gathering as a high-level conference that signifies the participants’ greatest achievements. She urged the attendees to treasure both good and difficult experiences, as these shape competence and drive innovation. “We all strive for success, and as Tony Robbins once said, ‘The path to success is to take massive, determined action.’ That action begins now,” she emphasized, inspiring technopreneurs and community leaders to continue learning and innovating for a brighter and more sustainable future.
The morning session focused on technology and innovation for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). On behalf of Balik Scientist Dr. Albert J. Causo, Engr. Nicole Abejuela underscored DOST’s support for beneficiaries through the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies such as big data, cloud computing, and cybersecurity to boost efficiency and competitiveness. Ms. Johnestle Loi Cena also introduced the CUATRO program, designed to bridge gaps between entrepreneurs and suppliers, describing it as a one-stop transformation platform that fosters growth for businesses and future-proofing policies for communities.
The afternoon sessions, dubbed “CESTsions,” centered on the theme “CESTalk: Circular Economy Demystified.” Ms. Aloha May Renion of DENR Regional Office discussed the Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022, which holds companies accountable for managing plastic packaging waste while promoting eco-friendly practices. Mr. Drake Lim of SM City La Union highlighted the Waste Free Future campaign, which recycles materials, processes food waste into compost, and converts cooking oil into biofuel. Engr. Edison Acosta of DOST-Ilocos Sur concluded the discussions by emphasizing the role of the circular economy in creating new opportunities for innovation through renewable energy, biodegradable packaging, and waste-to-product technologies.
The Summit closed with an open forum where participants shared insights and suggestions on sustainability and innovation. Overall, the 2025 Regional SETUP & CEST Summit stood as a platform for collaboration and inspiration, reinforcing the role of science, technology, and innovation in building smarter, more competitive, and sustainable communities in Region 1.( 𝐴𝑙𝑦𝑧𝑧𝑎 𝐽𝑎𝑛𝑒 𝑁. 𝐺𝑎𝑝𝑢𝑧 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐺𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑛𝑎 𝑀𝑎𝑒 𝐶𝑎𝑏𝑖𝑙𝑎𝑛)

PAPI Officers Sworn in at Supreme Court, Vow to Uphold Press Freedom Manila,Philippines – October 1, 2025. The Publisher...
08/10/2025

PAPI Officers Sworn in at Supreme Court, Vow to Uphold Press Freedom Manila,

Philippines – October 1, 2025. The Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) officially held the oath-taking ceremony of its newly elected officers at the Supreme Court Session Hall, highlighting the strong collaboration between the judiciary and the press in advancing truth, accountability, and democracy.
The oath was administered by Acting Chief Justice Marvic MVF Leonen, who underscored the crucial role of responsible journalism in safeguarding democratic institutions and ensuring that the people’s voices are faithfully represented through ethical reporting. Also present was Hon. Maria Theresa Dolores C. Gomez-Estoesta, who lauded the organization for its continuing efforts in promoting transparency and good governance through independent journalism.
The ceremony was further honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including renowned inventors Dr. Richard Nixon Gomez and Mr. Ronald Pagsanghan, along with Dra. Lily Lim, who witnessed and expressed their support for PAPI’s mission to uphold press freedom and integrity.
Newly appointed Chairman / Director for Media Affairs – Nelson Santos Newly, elected officers President – Rebecca “Beck” Madeja-Velásquez, Executive Vice President – Ian Israel Junio, Vice President for Luzon – Alma Ochotorena, Vice President for Visayas – Giecel Toriano-Albar, Vice President for Mindanao – Anila Anne Acosta, Secretary – Reyland Lopez, Treasurer – Leonida Cardona, Auditor – May Ann Reyla, Board of Directors for Luzon – Dina Diaz Luzon and Eduardo Cardona, Board of Directors for Mindanao – Elpedio Bermas Soriano Jr. and Joseph Denmarc Avila III.
The newly installed officers pledged to continue uniting publishers nationwide in advancing professional standards, ethical media practice, and innovative approaches to journalism. As one of the country’s oldest and most respected media organizations, PAPI’s new leadership signals a renewed commitment to its vision of empowering the press as a cornerstone of democracy while promoting integrity, accountability, and progress in Philippine journalism. (Jian Carl Toriano Castillo / G.I.E.C.E.L AN-PAPI VP-Visayas)

Innovation and Sustainability in Focus at Northern Mindanao’s 2025 STI WeekOroquieta City, Misamis Occidental — Science,...
08/10/2025

Innovation and Sustainability in Focus at Northern Mindanao’s 2025 STI Week

Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental — Science, technology, and innovation took center stage in Northern Mindanao as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 10 officially opened the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) on October 1–3, 2025, at the Bayfront Arena in Oroquieta City. The three-day celebration gathered key leaders from the DOST System, local government units, academe, and partner institutions to highlight groundbreaking technologies, impactful research, and programs that advance sustainability and inclusive growth.
The event was graced by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST-Northern Mindanao Regional Director Engr. Romela N. Ratilla, Oroquieta City Mayor Hon. Lemuel Meyrick M. Acosta, Misamis Occidental Governor Atty. Henry S. Oaminal, along with other officials and partners from various institutions. In his keynote message, Secretary Solidum emphasized the importance of ensuring that no community is left behind in the journey toward sustainable and smart development, saying that the goal is for every city, town, and province to cross the finish line of achieving the sustainable development goals by becoming smart and sustainable.
Underscoring the value of grassroots initiatives, Usec. Mabborang pointed out that sustainability is not just a buzzword but a practice that is already being realized at the community level. For Mayor Acosta, hosting the RSTW is both a privilege and a milestone, as Oroquieta City continues to take bold strides toward becoming a smart city. RD Ratilla also expressed hope that the Bayfront Arena would not only serve as a space to showcase technologies but also as a venue to spark conversations, build connections, recognize outstanding personalities in science, and award impactful projects. Meanwhile, Governor Oaminal affirmed that the gathering reflects a shared commitment to shaping a future that is technologically advanced, inclusive, and sustainable.
The celebration also highlighted significant ceremonial activities, including the turnover of the DOST Research and Development Agenda to Northwestern Mindanao State College of Science and Technology and La Salle University – Ozamiz City, as well as the ceremonial turnover of project funds for the establishment of a 21st Century Learning Environment Model Classroom at Misamis Occidental Science and Technology High School. Throughout the three-day RSTW, participants and visitors witnessed different fora, technology exhibits, and recognition ceremonies, all showcasing how science, technology, and innovation continue to transform communities and pave the way for a smarter and more sustainable Northern Mindanao.(Nelson Santos)

PULSO NG BAYAN NEWSVOL. ###VIII, NO. 44 October 9 - 15, 2025- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - PULSO NG BAYAN...
08/10/2025

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DOST, Lazada ink deal to expand market reach of Filipino MSMEsby Allan Mauro V. Marfal, DOST-STIIDOST Secretary Renato U...
02/10/2025

DOST, Lazada ink deal to expand market reach of Filipino MSMEs
by Allan Mauro V. Marfal, DOST-STII

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. (seated, left) together with Lazada Philippines John Kenneth Estiller formalized the partnership with the e-commerce platform that will benefit local MSMEs in expanding their market reach. Also, in photo are DOST officials (L-R) Assistant Secretary Napoleon K. Juanillo Jr., Assistant Secretary Maria Teresa B. De Guzman, and Undersecretary Sancho A. Mabborang.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) formalized its partnership with e-commerce platform Lazada Philippines on Wednesday to help Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) expand their market reach and strengthen competitiveness through the digital platform.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on September 24, 2025, at the DOST Central Office in Bicutan, Taguig City.
Under the MoU, DOST and Lazada will collaborate in several key areas.
These include onboarding DOST-assisted MSMEs to Lazada’s platform, providing them access to a wider consumer base through the Lazada Marketplace and LazMall, and leveraging Lazada’s logistics, marketing, and payment systems.
The partnership also seeks to integrate DOST’s oneSTORE initiative with Lazada, further boosting the digital presence of the DOST assisted products.
To ensure long-term growth, MSMEs will undergo training through Lazada University (LAZ-U), with modules on digital marketing, supply chain management, customer engagement, and online selling.
DOST and Lazada will also co-develop targeted marketing campaigns and promote innovation and digital transformation, aligning with DOST’s mandate to advance science, technology, and innovation for sustainable and inclusive growth.
“Lazada’s partnership with the government is patriotic at its core. Your ability to reach millions makes you a powerful ally in promoting science, technology, and innovation, which are key drivers of national progress. This collaboration is especially significant because MSMEs make up more than 99% of businesses in the Philippines and provide over 60% of employment,” shared DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr.
Solidum added that the partnership marks a milestone in the country’s growing innovation ecosystem, with the Philippines now ranking 3rd among lower-middle-income economies and proving itself a consistent regional performer. Through Lazada, DOST envisions not just a selling platform but a complete ecosystem that empowers MSMEs with logistics, training, digital tools, and access to wider markets.
DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang highlighted that the MoU represents a strategic alliance aimed at enhancing MSMEs’ market access, operational capacity, and digital capabilities—factors essential in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.
“It is gratifying to see how that early vision has evolved and now finds a significantly enhanced platform through Lazada’s expansive reach. The synergy between DOST’s programs and Lazada's digital marketplace opens unprecedented opportunities for MSMEs, especially those enterprises assisted by DOST, to access a wider market,” Usec. Mabborang said.
Meanwhile, John Kenneth Estiller, representing Lazada CEO Carlos Barrera, emphasized that the collaboration is designed to expand MSMEs’ market reach while improving operational capacity and competitiveness both locally and globally.
He added that MSMEs will be supported in their growth journey, helping them scale from small and medium enterprises into larger businesses.
This partnership is among the DOST initiatives aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions, Opportunities for All.
For more information, visit www.dost.gov.ph. (With information from the Office of the DOST Secretary and the Office of the DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations)

02/10/2025

PhilATOM Law ni Cayetano, susi ng bansa tungo sa mas ligtas at mas matalinong paggamit ng nuclear technology

Naisabatas na ang isang landmark law na magbibigay ng malinaw na gabay sa paggamit at pamamahala ng nuclear energy sa Pilipinas, salamat sa mga pagsisikap ni Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano.
Ito'y matapos lagdaan ni President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ang Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act (Republic Act No. 12305) bilang isang batas noong September 18, 2025.
Si Cayetano ang nanguna sa pagsusulong ng batas at ipinaglaban ang mga naunang bersyon nito sa Senado bilang chair ng Senate Committee on Science and Technology sa 19th Congress.
“Across the globe, nuclear energy has been used for peaceful and beneficial applications contributing to sectors such as medicine, agriculture, industry, and energy production,” wika ni Cayetano.
Sa ilalim ng batas, itatag ang PhilATOM bilang isang independent regulatory body na may eksklusibong kapangyarihang mangasiwa sa kaligtasan, seguridad, at mga pananggalang na may kaugnayan sa nuclear energy, mga pinagmulan ng ionizing radiation, at radioactive materials.
“It’s obvious why we need the PhilATOM [as established by the] Nuclear Energy Safety Act. It plays a vital role in treating diseases, food security, improving crop yield, mitigating the effects of climate change and generating clean, reliable power or electricity,” giit niya.
Layon din ng batas na i-update ang mga luma nang batas na may kaugnayan sa nuclear energy at maiwasan ang conflict of interest. Mananatili sa Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) ang tungkuling magtaguyod ng nuclear energy, habang ililipat naman sa PhilATOM ang tungkuling mag-regulate.
Kaugnay ng ionizing radiation, ang regulatory function ng Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Device Regulation, Radiation Health and Research ay ililipat din sa PhilATOM.
Ang paghihiwalay ng tungkulin ng PNRI at FDA ay para makatuon ang mga ahensya sa research and development, at sa gayon ay lalong mapapainam ang mga praktikal na aplikasyon ng nuclear energy sa larangan ng medisina, agrikultura, at industriya.
“We will align with our international conventions. It is also not really possible for those who promote nuclear atomic energy to be the ones who regulate it. This will fix that problem,” aniya.
Upang pangalagaan ang kalayaan ng regulatory body, binigyang diin ng senador na ang PhilATOM ay malaya sa mga political appointment.
“Unless the politico or barangay captain or senator has at least 7 years of actual distinguished experience in specific fields of science, they cannot be appointed. In PhilATOM, they should regulate use of nuclear energy, not promote it,” sabi ni Cayetano.
Binanggit din ng senador na isa sa mga layunin ng PhilATOM ay ang magbigay-inspirasyon sa mas maraming Pilipino na magtamo ng karera sa larangan ng nuclear energy. # # #

DOST 10 Regional Science and Technology Week 2025 Set in Bayfront Arena in Oroquieta CityOroquieta City will take the sp...
02/10/2025

DOST 10 Regional Science and Technology Week 2025 Set in Bayfront Arena in Oroquieta City

Oroquieta City will take the spotlight on October 1–3, 2025, as it hosts the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) at the Bayfront Arena. Organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Northern Mindanao, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental and the City Government of Oroquieta, the RSTW is the regional annual event that offers the public an opportunity to see how science and technology are being applied to improve lives and communities.
The RSTW is the regional counterpart of the annual celebration of the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) as mandated under Presidential Proclamation No. 780, signed in 2019. This year’s theme is “Agham at Teknolohiya: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan” and sub-theme “Building Smart and Sustainable Communities.”
The RSTW will feature a Technology Expo, where visitors can explore DOST-developed innovations that offer solutions and opportunities for local industries, enterprises, local government units, students, and people from all walks of life to promote human well-being, foster wealth creation, reinforce wealth protection, and institutionalize sustainability. It is also the platform where the scientific community can meet, collaborate, and network, as well as DOST’s vehicle in bringing Science, Technology, and Innovation programs and services closer to the people and support the development agenda of the local governments.
The event will also highlight learning hubs designed to inspire young learners. The Mobile Planetarium will provide a window to the wonders of the cosmos, while nuLAB, a mobile STEM learning facility, will offer high school students hands-on experiences with science and technology and laboratory experiments in an interactive setting.
A major highlight will be the launch of the Innovation Hub (iHUB) in Misamis Occidental. The facility is envisioned as a collaborative space for innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs to co-create solutions that respond to local challenges.
Admission to RSTW is free and open to the public. Residents, students, professionals, and visitors alike are encouraged to join the activities, explore the exhibits, and learn more about how science, technology, and innovation can be utilized to improve lives and livelihoods. For updates and the full schedule, visit the DOST Northern Mindanao page.
The Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week is held annually to showcase DOST’s programs, projects, and services that contribute to regional development. It serves as a platform for communities, industry partners, the academe,
and government agencies to engage with science and technology through exhibits, forums, and technology demonstrations, while also recognizing achievements in research and development across Northern Mindanao.
The 2025 RSTW is one of the many initiatives of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions, Opportunities for All. For more information, visit www.dost.gov.ph
About DOST Northern Mindanao:
The Department of Science and Technology – Northern Mindanao aims to be a dynamic and competent driver of inclusive development, delivering world-class, innovative Science and Technology services that empower and uplift Region 10 toward a more sustainable and progressive future. (By Joshua Robin, Ada Bahian, DOST Northern Mindanao)

DOST Region 1 Prepares for Data Driven Agriculture with Project SARAIThe Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (...
02/10/2025

DOST Region 1 Prepares for Data Driven Agriculture with Project SARAI

The Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST Region 1), under the leadership of Regional Director Teresita A. Tabaog, with Assistant Regional Director for Field Operations Mr. Decth-1180 P. Libunao serving as the project lead, is preparing to bring the Smarter Approaches to Reinvigorate Agriculture as an Industry in the Philippines (Project SARAi) closer to the farming communities of the Ilocos Region. While the establishment of the SARAi Regional Hub in Region 1 is still underway, the active participation of its technical team in recent trainings and workshops marks a crucial first step toward building the foundation for smart, data-driven agriculture in the area.
Project SARAi, which began in 2013 through the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) with support from DOST-PCAARRD, harnesses remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), crop models, and weather-based advisories to provide farmers and local governments with actionable information for resource management and climate adaptation. Now entering its expansion phase, SARAi is working closely with DOST regional offices to train personnel, transfer technologies, and eventually establish functional regional hubs that will serve as platforms for localized agricultural innovation.
As part of this national rollout, SARAi Team One of DOST Region 1 composed of Engr. Dana Bliezelle V. Hernaez (Co-Lead), Engr. Novilyne O. Obfan (Lead Researcher and GIS Expert), Ms. Jeisel O. Labatete (Crop Expert), Mr. Christian Dominic I. Casimiro (Capacity Development Lead), and Ms. Miriam A. Oliva (GIS Support) joined a series of trainings to deepen their technical expertise. The online component, held via Zoom on September 2–4, 2025, introduced the Community-Level SARAi-Enhanced Agricultural Monitoring System (CL-SEAMS) and provided orientation on GIS tools, including digitizing agricultural land and applying geospatial analysis for crop monitoring.
The sessions were followed by a hands-on training at DOST-PCAARRD in Los Baños, Laguna on September 9–10, 2025, where the Region 1 team practiced using Google Earth Engine for time-series data preparation, running scripts to compute the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) for crops, and managing Automatic Weather Station (AWS) data. They also gained practical skills in AWS installation, maintenance, and weather data visualization using the Weatherlink platform. A content management system under the SARAi Knowledge Portal was likewise introduced to streamline data and information sharing once the regional hubs are in place.
In preparation for hub establishment, DOST Region 1 also took part in the SARAi inception meeting on September 8, 2025 at PCAARRD, which gathered representatives from across the country to align project objectives, set deliverables, and strengthen collaboration between the Central Hub and the regional offices. The meeting highlighted the importance of tailoring SARAi technologies to local contexts while laying the groundwork for their integration into farming systems nationwide.
For Region 1, these trainings and consultations are more than just capacity-building, they are investments in the region’s agricultural future. With the leadership of Dr. Tabaog and ARD Libunao, and the commitment of its technical team, DOST Region 1 is positioning itself to play a central role in the eventual rollout of the SARAi Regional Hub. Once established, the hub will provide farmers and local governments with access to timely, science-based tools that can help boost yields, reduce risks, and make agriculture in the Ilocos region more resilient to climate change. ( Christian Dominic I. Casimiro)

DOST Showcases iFWD PH Program for OFW Entrepreneurs at National Reintegration Event in IsabelaISABELA — The Department ...
02/10/2025

DOST Showcases iFWD PH Program for OFW Entrepreneurs at National Reintegration Event in Isabela

ISABELA — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 02 spotlighted its flagship program for returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) during the National Reintegration Network cm Awarding of Livelihood Program for OFWs Reintegration (LPOR) held on September 24 at the Ilagan Capitol Amphitheatre.
The event, organized by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Regional Office 02, gathered over 300 participants—including OFWs, their families, and partner agencies—for a day of reintegration support and livelihood recognition.
DOST’s iFWD PH program was presented as a key initiative to help OFWs transition into entrepreneurship through science, technology, and innovation.
Engr. Jude Michael C. Magora of DOST Region 02 explained that iFWD PH operates in two phases: the first focuses on training and business development; the second provides access to innovation funding and DOST’s technology resources to launch tech-based enterprises in local communities.
Now in full swing across region 02, iFWD PH continues to support OFWs in building sustainable livelihoods upon their return—underscoring that reintegration is not the end of their journey, but the start of a stronger, self-reliant future.
The event also highlighted the collaborative efforts of DOST, DMW RO2, OWWA RO2, and other agencies in creating a comprehensive support system for OFWs reintegrating into Philippine society

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