LUNA, Apayao—Showcasing DOST-developed technologies, DOST-CAR organized webinars and fora during the celebration of the Science For The People caravan held on-site at the Provincial Science and Technology Center (PSTC)-Apayao and webcast live via Zoom from November 22-26, 2021.
“Despite new challenges brought about by the pandemic, DOST-CAR made sure to keep in step with the new normal so that our programs, projects, and activities will continue to benefit the people not only of Apayao, but the whole region as well,” DOST-CAR Regional Director Nancy Bantog said in her message during the Opening Ceremonies.
Stakeholders from different sectors and communities in the province participated in the week-long series of activities. On November 24-26, 20 participants, composed of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and high school teachers and students joined the 3-day training on Breads and Pastries, where they were able to learn the basics of baking and produce baked goods such as cakes, and pizza.
Meanwhile, a total of 70 participants from government agencies, Local Government Units (LGU) in Apayao, MSMEs enrolled under the Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) and Local Grants-In-Aid (LGIA) program, and other potential technology adoptors from the region were present physically and virtually during the technology forum on different DOST technologies on November 25. Partner institutions from the DOST and the academe highlighted their programs and services: Food and Nutrition Research Institute (on SquashEnriched Bakery Products) and the Industrial Technology Development Institute (on Virgin Coconut Oil), and Central Luzon State University (on Itik Pilipinas and Hydroponics).
Also, one unit of Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly-Operated Kiosk Stations (STARBOOKS) each were turned over to Upper Atok Elementary School and Malayugan Elementary School (with solar panel system) in Flora, Apayao. The digital library is a stand-alone information source designed to reach those with limited or no access to Science and Technology information resources.
Likewise, PSTC-Apayao, headed by PST Director Engr. Debbie Glynn V. Manangkil, held collaborative forum with the officials of the LGU of Sta. Marcela lead by Mayor Evelyn B. Martinez for upcoming partnership projects with MSMEs and weavers in the locality.