BONTOC, Mountain Province – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) bestowed the municipal government a plaque of recognition for its outstanding progress, marking the municipality as one of the most remarkable Community Empowerment through Science and Technology ( CEST) program implementers in the Cordillera Administrative Region.
The plaque of recognition was received by Sangguniang Bayan members Viola Okko and Timothy Pongad, Jr., along with Science and Technology Coordinator Jenelyn Caluza, during the 2023 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week held at the Gymnasium in Bangued, Abra, last September 28-29, 2023.
The Bontoc CEST initiatives have become a shining example of how science, technology, and innovation can act as catalysts for sustainable growth and development in Mountain Province being selected as the Provincial Best CEST Awardee and a regional nominee.
Bontoc Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., in his message delivered by SB Member Okko, remarked that the recognition conferred to the municipality is a humbling and inspiring feat, not only to the municipal government but to the Bontoc community and partner stakeholders in general.
He added that the recognition serves as a testament to the tireless dedication and commitment of the government towards the progress of the municipality. With the best practices of Bontoc, the innovative initiatives have not only improved the lives of residents but have also set a benchmark for others to follow in the pursuit of science and technology-driven progress.
The mayor further said that the award reaffirms the municipal government’s position as a hub of innovation and a model for harnessing the power of science and technology to address community needs and achieve lasting development. The recognition also underscores the importance of nurturing a culture of scientific exploration and innovation at the grassroots level.
“This is a challenge for us to raise the bar higher in bringing government services to the community. I firmly believe that Science for the People means the kind of science which changes the lives of people, and which can push the community forward and make the lives of people more comfortable and humane, “Mayor Tudlong emphasized.
It is to be noted that under the present administration’s roadmap which is ENLANGAKHA: Achieving the Vision for a Dynamic Bontoc, one of its pillars is Empowered Communities.
Thus, part of the present administration’s initiatives in empowering communities is the implementation of the DOST -CEST Program in the three ELCAC barangays of Bontoc namely Dalican, Guina-ang, and Mainit.
The Plaque of Recognition was formally handed over to Mayor Tudlong and Vice Mayor Eusebio Kabluyen on October 2, 2023, during the Monday Flag Raising Ceremony. By Alpine L. Killa-Malwagay & Nicole Shane Fidchao