DOST Isabela

30/03/2026

𝗛𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗦 𝗨𝗣, 𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗥𝗗 𝗬𝗘𝗔𝗥 𝗦𝗧𝗨𝗗𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗦 🙌

The application for the Junior Level Science Scholarships will be open on 𝟭𝟯 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲.

For full details on the eligibility criteria and other important information, visit: https://jlss.science-scholarships.ph/

25/03/2026

𝗨𝗗𝗦𝗔 𝗚𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗹𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲

The DOST Cagayan Valley through its Scholarship Unit proudly shares the successful conduct of the University of Saint Louis DOST Scholars’ Association (UDSA) General Assembly on March 18, 2026 at the University of Saint Louis. With the theme "Catching Fire: Igniting the Flames of Science, Technology, and Service," the event brought together 36 dedicated scholars to focus on leadership and their role in nation-building.

The morning session kicked off with welcome remarks from UDSA Adviser Mr. Aldwin D. Tuliao, who emphasized the importance of unity among the scholars. This was followed by a message from DOST Cagayan Valley Regional Director Dr. Virginia G. Bilgera, which was shared with the group by Mr. Kris Andrew P. Evanculla. During this talk, the scholars were called the "mitsa ng pagbabago" or the sparks of change. The message focused on the Filipino idea of Kapwa, helping the group realize that their success is not theirs alone. Instead, their achievements are part of a bigger picture that belongs to their whole community and the people they will someday serve.

To ensure everyone was well-informed, the scholars also participated in an orientation facilitated by Mr. Kris Andrew P. Evanculla of the DOST Cagayan Valley Scholarship Unit. This session was designed to help the scholars fully understand their responsibilities and the benefits of the program. It provided a clear roadmap for their academic journey and strengthened the bond between the scholars and the regional office. To keep the momentum going, student leaders Charity Joy Ganado, Lloyd Asley Sibbaluca, and UDSA President Roden John Baloca presented the organization's constitution-and-by-laws and past accomplishments. This helped everyone see the impact the association has already made and the work that still lies ahead.

To deepen their sense of duty and purpose, the scholars participated in a series of talks that focused on leadership and social responsibility. Engr. Leandro Daniel Paat, a Batch 2019 DOST scholar, shared his insights on the heart of true servant leadership. In his talk titled "Volunteering as Tribute," he encouraged the students to see their education as a tool for helping others and giving back to the nation.

This was followed by a session with Dr. Herbert Corpuz, USLT Academic Dean of the School of Education, Criminology, Arts, and Psychology, who spoke about moving science from the capitol into the local districts. He explained how to translate STEM concepts into Agham na Ramdam so that science is felt by everyone. These sessions challenged the scholars to see the human side of every technical problem. They were reminded that their skills should be used to provide real solutions and create opportunities for their fellow Filipinos, especially those in underserved areas.

A central and symbolic part of the assembly was the reciting and signing of the DOST Scholars Manifesto. Before the signing began, Mr. Kris Andrew P. Evanculla took the stage to explain the deep meaning and importance of this document to the group. He emphasized that the manifesto is a life-long commitment to the country and a guide for how scholars should act as leaders in their fields. Following this discussion, UDSA President Roden John Baloca led the group in a collective recital of the pledge. Each of the 36 scholars then signed the manifesto, making a formal promise to use their knowledge and innovation for the common good. This act served as a reminder that their duty is to create Solutions and Opportunities for All.

To end the day on a high note, the scholars participated in team building activities. These activities helped strengthen the bond between the future scientists and engineers, building a supportive network that will help them as they work toward making science felt by every Filipino. The assembly closed with remarks from Salve Marie Cardenas, leaving the participants with a renewed mission. These 36 future leaders are now ready to make science something that people can truly feel and benefit from in their daily lives.

Ignite the fire. Lead with soul. Serve the people.

Check more about their organization at: facebook.com/uslt.dost.sa

20/03/2026

DOST Press Release: Amid rising fuel costs, pollution, and the challenge of preserving heritage sites while improving mobility, communities like Intramuros face the urgent need for cleaner, efficient, and culturally sensitive transport solutions. Through its e-tranvia and innovations in electric mobility, materials engineering, and R&D partnerships, Department of Science and Technology delivers sustainable, Filipino-made technologies that empower local sectors, enhance tourism, and drive inclusive, future-ready transport systems.

See the full story in the comment section:

For more updates on the programs and services of the Department of Science and Technology, just follow our official social media accounts.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOSTph
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Threads:https://www.threads.com/.ph?hl=en
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/.phl

20/03/2026

Rolling toward a greener future 🚋🇵🇭

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Intramuros Administration (IA) unveiled the first-ever Filipino-engineered, all-electric e-tranvia—set to cruise the historic streets of Intramuros, Manila on March 19, blending sustainable transport with heritage tourism.

For more updates on the programs and services of the Department of Science and Technology, just follow our official social media accounts.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DOSTph
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dost.ph/
X: https://x.com/DOSTphl
Threads:https://www.threads.com/.ph?hl=en
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/.phl

20/03/2026

𝗗𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝘀𝗮𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗧𝗡𝗔 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮 𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗚 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗜𝗻𝗰.

𝗘𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗚𝗨𝗘, 𝗜𝘀𝗮𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗮 – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Isabela has successfully conducted a Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) with the Narra Self-Help Group (SHEG) and Farmers Association, Inc. at Purok 2, Narra, Echague, Isabela. The initiative sought to identify key technological gaps, operational challenges, and innovation opportunities to boost food processing, agricultural productivity, and sustainability.

The participatory assessment allowed members of the farmers’ association to share current practices, production concerns, and aspirations for enterprise growth. Through structured discussions and on-site evaluations, DOST specialists underscored areas where science, technology, and innovation can directly support operations—from food handling and processing technologies to quality assurance systems and enterprise management tools.

One challenge highlighted was the production of banana chips using a manual slicer and the traditional "pugon "cooking method. The need for modernized processing facilities and innovative packaging solutions was emphasized. Addressing these issues will enable the association to expand value-adding activities, increase income, and strengthen competitiveness in local and regional markets.

The results of the TNA will guide DOST Isabela in crafting tailored interventions under its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) and other support mechanisms. By aligning solutions with the farmers’ actual needs, the initiative reinforces the agency’s commitment to empowering local communities and advancing inclusive development in the Cagayan Valley.

This effort reflects DOST’s broader mission of bridging science and technology with grassroots enterprises, ensuring that innovation delivers tangible benefits for farmers and their families.

20/03/2026

𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐬: 𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝟎𝟐 𝐑𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

Participatory methodologies play a crucial role in ensuring that community needs, perspectives, and local knowledge are fully integrated into project development and implementation. By actively involving stakeholders in the assessment and planning process, these approaches promote inclusivity, ownership, and sustainability of programs, leading to more responsive and impactful interventions.

Recently, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) successfully conducted the activity titled “Retooling of DOST Personnel on Concept of Participatory Development Methodology for Community Project Assessment and Planning,” equipping its personnel with enhanced knowledge and skills in participatory approaches for development work.

The activity formally opened with an inspiring message from Regional Director Virginia G. Bilgera, who emphasized that the training is both timely and relevant. She highlighted that the concepts and approaches to be learned can be applied across all aspects of DOST programs and projects, particularly in strengthening planning processes and ensuring that initiatives are responsive to the real needs of communities.

A key highlight of the training was the discussion led by resource speaker Dr. Emma L. Ballad, Career Scientist I. She provided an in-depth discussion on participatory development methodologies, including its core features and guiding principles. Dr. Ballad also elaborated on the standard guidelines in conducting these methodologies and introduced various tools and techniques that can be effectively utilized in assessing communities and identifying appropriate projects for funding. In addition, Dr. Ballad emphasized that when doing appraisal in community, local people are the one that draws up plans and analyze the problems and the experts/outsiders will only act as facilitators.

To apply the concepts discussed, participants actively engaged in workshop sessions where they applied their new learnings. Through hands-on exercises, they practiced using different tools and techniques, enabling them to better understand how to gather, analyze, and interpret community-level data in a participatory manner.

The activity concluded with a deeper appreciation of the importance of participatory methodologies in development work. For CEST implementers and other DOST project facilitators, the training serves as a vital step toward ensuring that programs are community-driven, inclusive, and sustainable. By integrating these approaches into project assessment and planning, DOST personnel are better equipped to design interventions that truly address local needs and contribute to meaningful and lasting development outcomes.

18/03/2026

𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀: 𝗠𝗦𝗠𝗘𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝗸𝘀 𝗦𝗘𝗧𝗨𝗣 𝗔𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗗𝗢𝗦𝗧

ECHAGUE, Isabela—Four (4) micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Isabela are set to boost their operations with the help of the Department of Science and Technology’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (DOST-SETUP).

DOST Isabela recently conducted a SETUP Orientation and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing with the beneficiary firms last Thursday, March 12, 2026, at its office in San Fabian, Echague. This milestone marks the final step before the release of assistance, paving the way for innovation‑driven growth among local enterprises.

The assisted MSMEs include:
- AMC Printing Press of Santiago City
- Zachary Livestock & Poultry Supply of Echague
- Alili Piggery Farm of Echague
- R3A2 Hardware & Construction Supplies of Alicia

Each enterprise proposed projects to acquire modern equipment designed to increase production capacity, improve efficiency, and enhance competitiveness in their respective industries.

During the orientation, DOST Isabela underscored the importance of transparency, accountability, and shared responsibility between the agency and the enterprises to ensure the program’s success.
Through SETUP, DOST continues to provide MSMEs with access to appropriate technologies that boost productivity, elevate product quality, and strengthen market competitiveness.

This initiative reflects DOST’s unwavering commitment to empowering local industries and promoting inclusive economic growth through science, technology, and innovation — ensuring that small businesses remain vital contributors to community development and regional progress.

17/03/2026

17/03/2026

17/03/2026

09/03/2026

𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝗔 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝘀

ECHAGUE, Isabela — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO)– Isabela, in partnership with the DOST Industrial Technology and Development Institute (ITDI) – Packaging Technology Division (PTD), conducted an on-site experimentation for the Application of Pineapple Leaf Fiber-Based Cushion Pads as Auxiliary Packaging for Honeydew Melon on March 4, 2026, in Santa Ana, Echague, Isabela.

The beneficiary of the project is Simons Farm, an assisted enterprise under the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), owned by Ms. Mary Ann R. Pungan. The study aims to evaluate the reduction of transport losses of honeydew melon using the developed display/transport packaging and auxiliary packaging materials.

During the activity, the research team conducted a one-day visit to the client’s farm and collected honeydew melon specimens with an approximate volume of 600–800 kilograms. These were packed using the developed packaging prototypes, specifically the pineapple leaf fiber-based cushion pads and the transport/display box, for examination and testing.

The gathered specimens were then stockpiled in a re**er van and transported to the Simulation Packaging and Testing Laboratory of the DOST ITDI – Packaging Technology Division in Bicutan, Taguig City. The laboratory tests will evaluate the effectiveness of the developed green transport packaging in reducing transport losses caused by bruising and fruit softening during long-distance travel and stockpiling.

The project is spearheaded by Ms. Mary Joy P. Paico, PFT, Science Research Specialist II of the ITDI Packaging Technology Division, with assistance from the team of the DOST PSTO–Isabela.

Once fully validated, the initiative is expected to contribute to the development of sustainable, cost-effective, and biodegradable alternative packaging solutions. This innovation supports efforts to reduce the carbon footprint in agricultural logistics while improving product quality and minimizing post-harvest losses in the industry.