DOST - Samar PSTO

06/04/2026

Happening Now: Business Continuity Plan Orientation for MSMEs in Samar

The Department of Science and Technology – Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST Samar PSTO) is currently conducting a Business Continuity Plan (BCP) Orientation for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Province of Samar. The activity aims to equip local entrepreneurs with essential strategies to ensure business resilience, preparedness, and continuity in times of disruptions and unforeseen events, guided by key components of the BCP framework such as recovery planning, relocation strategies, and risk management .

The activity is led and graced by Dr. Evelyn Bacarra-Tablante, Provincial Science and Technology Director, together with Ms. Emelyn A. Maglahus, Supervising Science Research Specialist. Serving as the Resource Speaker is Mr. Zeyjec Tan, Trade and Industry Specialist from DTI Samar, who provides valuable insights on strengthening MSME preparedness and sustainability.

27/03/2026

🚨 Heads up, Future Scientists and Innovators! 🚨
The 2026 DOST-SEI Junior Level Science Scholarship (JLSS) online application will be open on April 13, 2026! 🌐🎓

👩‍🔬👨‍💻 Who can apply? Regular 2nd-year college students enrolled in a DOST-SEI priority S&T course at any of the identified universities nationwide.

✅ Learn more about eligibility, requirements, and how to apply, visit: https://science-scholarships.ph/

🗓️ Deadline of applications: May 15, 2026

25/03/2026

DOST8 Samar Takes Part in Regional DRR-CCA Roadmapping Effort

The Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST8 Samar PSTO) actively participated in the two-day “DRR-CCA for an Inclusive, Resilient, and Sustainable Eastern Visayas Strategic Planning and Roadmapping Workshop” held on March 23–24, 2026 at Hotel Alejandro in Tacloban City, Leyte.

The workshop brought together stakeholders from across Eastern Visayas to enhance regional collaboration in disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA). Resource persons from the University of the Philippines Los Baños – Department of Community and Environmental Resource Planning (UPLB-DCERP) led the discussions, providing guidance on DRR planning frameworks and strategies.

DOST8 Samar PSTO was represented by Dr. Evelyn B. Tablante, Provincial Director and Engr. Joseph Albert O. Lledo, DRRM Focal. Participants engaged in interactive sessions, exploring risk-informed planning, resilience-building approaches, and sustainable development integration. The workshop concluded with the formulation of a strategic roadmap to guide coordinated DRR-CCA initiatives across the region.

The activity affirms Samar PSTO’s commitment in upscaling science and technology programs and initiatives in building safer, adaptive, and resilient communities in Eastern Visayas.

21/03/2026

DOST Strengthens Smart and Sustainable Cities Development: Catbalogan Hosts Villarreal Benchmarking Initiative

“The DOST Smart and Sustainable Cities/Communities Program (SSCP) is people-centered and technology-driven, leveraging digitalization to enhance citizen well-being and deliver more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable services. Its implementation is anchored on cooperation, collaboration, and complementation.” This was emphasized by Ms. Emelyn A. Maglahus, DOST Samar SSCP Focal, during her presentation to the officials of LGU Villarreal on March 19, 2026, as part of Catbalogan's innovations showcase.
The City Government of Catbalogan, led by City Administrator Atty. Dennis Cosmod and Mr. Exequiel Cabregas III, Smart Catbalogan City Focal, warmly welcomed Hon. Mayor Marilou Latorre, Vice Mayor Jefferson Latorre, and the department heads of LGU Villarreal. In his message, Atty. Cosmod affirmed the vital role of DOST in achieving Catbalogan City’s innovation milestones.

Meanwhile, Ms. Maglahus, representing DOST–PSTO Samar, underscored that the success of these initiatives is rooted in strong leadership and the full support of local officials under the administration of Hon. Mayor Dexter Uy.

The benchmarking activity concluded with a tour of Catbalogan City’s established innovations and information systems, a clear example of how strong partnerships and a multi-stakeholder approach can drive meaningful transformation.

Indeed, another LGU to step forward toward a smart and more sustainable future.

DOST stays dedicated to open opportunities and bring solutions to establishing smart and sustainable communities.

20/03/2026

DOST VIII Samar PSTO Conducts Province-Wide Monitoring, Evaluation, and Inspection of S&T Projects

The Department of Science and Technology Regional Office VIII (DOST VIII), through its Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO), conducted a four-day Project Monitoring and Evaluation (PME), Inspection, and Tagging Activity across the Province of Samar from March 16 to 19, 2026. The activity aimed to assess the status, performance, and compliance of various science and technology (S&T) interventions implemented under DOST’s priority programs.

Covering projects under the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), Grants-in-Aid (GIA), and Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST), the initiative highlighted the agency’s continuing commitment to ensure that government-funded projects are effectively implemented and are delivering their intended outcomes to beneficiaries.

The PME Team from Samar PSTO, led by Engr. Joseph Albert O. Lledo, with the participation of Engr. Philip John V. Condes, Science Research Specialist II, and Engr. Allaine A. Pulma, Science Research Specialist II, spearheaded the monitoring and evaluation component of the activity. The team conducted on-site visits to assess project implementation, validate reported accomplishments, and determine whether the objectives and deliverables outlined in the approved proposals were being met. Through direct observation and engagement with project beneficiaries, the team was able to identify operational challenges and provide appropriate recommendations to improve project ex*****on and sustainability.

Parallel to the monitoring activities, an inspection team from the DOST VIII Regional Office, composed of representatives from the Regional Program Management Office (RPMO), Supply Office, and program staff, carried out the inspection and verification of equipment procured through DOST’s technical assistance. The inspection ensured that all delivered equipment conformed to the approved specifications and were fully operational, thereby safeguarding the integrity of government investments and ensuring that assisted projects are equipped with the appropriate technologies.

The activity also involved the systematic gathering of project data to support report generation and database updating. These data are essential for tracking project performance, informing management decisions, and strengthening future program implementation.

The teams visited various project sites across the province, including the municipalities of Basey, Sta. Rita, Talalora, Jiabong, Paranas, and Matuguinao, as well as the cities of Catbalogan and Calbayog. The extensive coverage reflects DOST’s proactive approach in reaching project beneficiaries across different localities and ensuring that all assisted initiatives are closely monitored.

The successful conduct of the PME, inspection, and tagging activity emphasized the importance of collaboration between provincial and regional offices in delivering responsive and accountable public service. More importantly, it reinforces DOST VIII’s commitment to promoting science, technology, and innovation as key drivers of inclusive growth and sustainable development in the Province of Samar.

17/03/2026

Strengthening Science-Based Conservation Efforts in Samar

On March 6, 2026, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office welcomed Ms. Leona M. Tumamak, Park Operations Superintendent of Samar Island Natural Park (SINP), together with Ms. Zenny C. Pabunan, for a productive coordination meeting aimed at advancing science, technology, and innovation (STI) initiatives in environmental conservation.

The discussion centered on seeking DOST’s assistance in developing technology-driven interventions for mapping the entire stretch of the Samar Island Natural Park. This initiative aims to strengthen the monitoring and documentation of human activities within the park, while also establishing a comprehensive databank system for flora and fauna. These efforts are envisioned to support evidence-based policy formulation, biodiversity protection, and sustainable park management.

The team also explored possible support from DOST Region VIII through funding mechanisms such as the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) and the Grants-in-Aid (GIA) Program, which can help operationalize the proposed initiatives.

Present during the meeting were Provincial S&T Director Dr. Evelyn Bacarra-Tablante, Supervising Science Research Specialist Ms. Emelyn A. Maglahus, and Senior Science Research Specialist Atty. Joseph Albert O. Lledo, who reaffirmed DOST Samar’s commitment to providing technical assistance and fostering collaborations for sustainable development.

Through strengthened partnerships and the integration of science and technology, DOST Samar continues to support initiatives that protect natural resources while empowering communities and guiding informed decision-making.

15/03/2026

Samar PSTO Joins GeoRiskPH Training to Strengthen Disaster Preparedness

The DOST Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office participated in the GeoRisk Philippines (GeoRiskPH) Training held on March 3–5, 2025 in Catarman, Northern Samar. The activity gathered representatives from the six provincial offices of Department of Science and Technology Region VIII and various Local Government Units (LGUs) in Northern Samar.

The training is part of the GeoRisk Philippines Initiative, a multi-agency program led by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology that provides platforms and protocols for sharing hazard and risk information. The initiative aims to help communities, LGUs, and national agencies better prepare for and reduce the risks from natural hazards.

The first two days focused on hands-on training in the use of GeoAnalyticsPH and HazardHunterPH, tools that provide site-specific hazard assessments and geospatial risk analysis. The third day featured a Training of Trainers session to enable participants to cascade the use of the GeoRiskPH platform to other stakeholders.

The delegation from Department of Science and Technology Region VIII was led by Dr. Rufino E. Mengote, Assistant Regional Director for Finance and Administrative Services. Engr. Joseph Albert O. Lledo represented the DOST Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office.

Through this initiative, DOST continues to promote science-based tools to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience in local communities.

12/03/2026

DOST Samar Empowers Daram Communities through Food Safety Training and Community Dialogues

March 10-12, 2026 📍 The Department of Science and Technology – Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST Samar PSTO), through the DOST KATHA Project, conducted a series of capacity-building and community engagement activities in Barangays Astorga and Marupangdan, Daram, Samar.

The first day featured a Training on Basic Food Hygiene and Food Safety Hazards for local food processors, aimed at enhancing their knowledge and practices on safe and hygienic food processing to ensure consumer safety. Participants actively engaged in the discussions, including the interactive question-and-answer portion as well as the pre-test and post-test activities.

On the second day, a Focused Group Discussion (FGD) was conducted with the farmers and fisherfolks of the two barangays to gather insights on local livelihoods, food production systems, market access, available resources, and key challenges encountered in their agricultural and fisheries activities.

The third activity involved a Focused Group Discussion with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Daram, spearheaded by Vice Mayor Hon. Ryan Philip Astorga together with the respective Department Heads of the municipality. During the session, an overview of the programs and projects of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) was also presented. In particular, Ms. Ronalyn B. Pabello highlighted the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), a flagship DOST initiative that provides technology assistance, equipment upgrading, and technical consultancy services to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) improve productivity, product quality, and competitiveness.

These activities form part of the targeted deliverables of the DOST KATHA Project, spearheaded by Dr. Evelyn Bacarra-Tablante, Provincial Science and Technology Director of DOST Samar PSTO, which aims to strengthen community capacity, promote safe food practices, and support sustainable local food systems.

Serving as the Resource Speaker was Ms. Sheila Mae C. Pica, Science Research Specialist II, with the assistance of activity facilitators and documenters Ms. Ronalyn B. Pabello and Ms. Jessica Barredo, Project Technical Staff of DOST Samar PSTO, whose dedication and support greatly contributed to the successful conduct of the activities.

DOST Samar remains committed to working closely with local communities and government partners in promoting science, technology, and innovation to support safer food practices and sustainable livelihood development in Samar.

11/03/2026

𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐋𝐆𝐔 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐛𝐢𝐠𝐚

On March 10, 2026, the Department of Science and Technology - Provincial S&T Office of Samar (DOST Samar) conducted a courtesy visit and program presentation to the Local Government Unit of Calbiga (LGU Calbiga) at the Office of the Sangguniang Bayan in Calbiga, Samar.

The visit aimed to introduce and discuss ongoing and potential Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) initiatives and explore collaborative opportunities that could benefit the municipality. DOST8 PSTO Samar shared various programs designed to support local development through innovative solutions, focusing on building partnerships that will align with Calbiga’s specific needs and development goals.

Present during the meeting was Municipal Vice Mayor Hon. Eva Castillo; Ms. Ma. Rose Paulyn Nacario, Municipal Administrator; Ms. Delia Mabansag, PESO Manager and Ms. Anna Marie Orlanes, Information Officer. Representing DOST-Samar PSTO was Science Research Specialist II Engr. Philip John Condes, Science Research Specialist II Engr. Allaine A. Pulma, and Project staff Mr. Jincent I. Mercado.

During the meeting, Vice Mayor Castillo highlighted the urgent need for Science and Technology (S&T) interventions in the Municipality of Calbiga. Recognizing the challenges faced by the community, the vice mayor emphasized that S&T solutions could play a pivotal role in helping local businesses and community development initiatives.

The visit in the municipality also included the conduct of Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) for the prospective beneficiaries of the SETUP and GIA programs, the Hilom Wellness Spa, and the Polangi Calamansi Processors Association (PCPA) of Brgy. Polangi, Calbiga, Samar.

This engagement demonstrates DOST's unwavering commitment to a stronger partnership with LGU Calbiga, providing assistance in promoting innovative and sustainable solutions for the development of a resilient, innovation-driven, and technology-enabled Calbiga.

07/03/2026

🌏 Advancing Disaster Preparedness through GeoRiskPH

On behalf of the Department of Science and Technology Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office, Atty. Joseph Albert O. Lledo participated in the GeoRiskPH Training for the Province of Northern Samar, which concluded with a Training of Trainers session on March 5, 2026.

The activity, led by experts from Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, equipped participants with knowledge and practical skills on the GeoRiskPH Platform to support disaster preparedness, risk-informed planning, and resilient communities.

06/03/2026

𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 💜
This Women’s Month, we celebrate the women behind the work who make a difference in science, technology, and innovation in our communities, institutions, and across every sector of society in Eastern Visayas.
Their dedication, leadership, and passion continue to inspire progress and create meaningful impact for the nation.

𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 💜

This Women’s Month, we celebrate the women behind the work who make a difference in science, technology, and innovation in our communities, institutions, and across every sector of society in Eastern Visayas.

Their dedication, leadership, and passion continue to inspire progress and create meaningful impact for the nation.

06/03/2026

🌸 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧. 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧. 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧. 🌸
In celebration of the 2026 National Women’s Month, we are offering a 20% off on RSTL service fees for testing and calibration exclusively for Women Entrepreneurs!
Simply present your valid ID and proof of proprietorship to avail the discount.
Let us continue to support women in business and empower them to grow, innovate, and succeed.
🗓 Promo period: March 1-31, 2026
📍Visit our Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory at the DOST Regional Office No. VIII, Candahug Palo, Leyte and PSTO Metrology and Calibration Satellite Lab at PSTO Biliran, Southern Leyte and Samar.

🌸 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧. 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧. 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧. 🌸

In celebration of the 2026 National Women’s Month, we are offering a 20% off on RSTL service fees for testing and calibration exclusively for Women Entrepreneurs!
Simply present your valid ID and proof of proprietorship to avail the discount.

Let us continue to support women in business and empower them to grow, innovate, and succeed.

🗓 Promo period: March 1-31, 2026
📍Visit our Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory at the DOST Regional Office No. VIII, Candahug Palo, Leyte and PSTO Metrology and Calibration Satellite Lab at PSTO Biliran, Southern Leyte and Samar.