18/08/2026
๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฒ๐ญ๐-๐๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐ฎ๐๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ซ๐๐ฆ๐จ๐ง๐ข๐๐ฅ ๐๐ฎ๐ซ๐ง๐จ๐ฏ๐๐ซ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฃ๐๐๐ญ ๐
๐ฎ๐ง๐๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐จ๐ซ๐๐ข๐ง๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) โ Leyte Provincial Science and Technology Office conducted a Ceremonial Turnover of DOST CEST-Funded Projects and Coordinators Meeting on August 13, 2026, in Tacloban City, bringing together barangay leaders, project coordinators, and academic partners to strengthen the implementation of Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) projects in Leyte.
During his message, the Provincial S&T Director Mr. Montejo, emphasized the importance of cooperation among DOST, local government units, barangays, and other implementing partners in ensuring that CEST projects are properly carried out and provide meaningful benefits to their intended beneficiaries.
The activity provided a venue to discuss key matters concerning project implementation, including an overview of the CEST Program, the new DOST Grants-In-Aid (GIA) Guidelines, and the responsibilities of project implementers. Participants were also introduced to CEST 2.0, highlighting the programโs continuing efforts to make its interventions more responsive to the needs and development priorities of communities.
Financial and administrative matters were likewise discussed, particularly the proper disbursement and utilization of project funds, adherence to approved budgets, and submission of required supporting documents. Guidance on procurement procedures, including Small Value Procurement (SVP), Direct Contracting, and other applicable modes, was also provided to help project coordinators comply with requirements and minimize implementation delays.
One of the highlights of the activity was the ceremonial turnover of DOST CEST-funded projects, which was graced by the Regional Director, Dir. Ocaรฑa symbolizing DOST's continued partnership with local communities in addressing their needs through science, technology, and innovation.
More than simply discussing guidelines and procedures, the activity provided an opportunity for DOST and its partners to come together, clarify concerns, and strengthen their commitment to ensuring that CEST interventions are properly implemented and ultimately provide meaningful benefits to the communities they serve.
Through continued coordination and partnership among DOST, barangay leaders, local government units, academic institutions, and project implementers, the CEST Program remains committed to bringing science, technology, and innovation closer to the communities of Eastern Visayas.