By: Carla Joyce B. Cajala
ALAMINOS, CITY- The Department of Science and Technology Region 1, through OIC-RD Teresita A. Tabaog and Provincial Director Arnold C. Santos with their team, were warmly welcomed by the City of Alaminos through Mayor Arth Bryan C. Celeste and his staff on May 19, 2023. The visit aims to harness partnership in the implementation of the various programs, projects and activities (PPAs) of DOST 1 in the locality and serve as an venue to explore on the possible support of the agency to the city’s goal of transforming into a Smart and Sustainable Community with focus on economic development, disaster preparedness, agriculture, tourism and improve living conditions for its residents with the aid of science, technology and innovation (STI).
OIC-RD Tabaog emphasized the many benefits of STI when they are implemented in the city, such as improved participatory planning through the establishment of the City STI Council (CSTIC) and the implementation of the Innovation, Science and Technology for Accelerating Regional Development (iSTART) program; more sustainable livelihood for the people at the grassroots through the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST); improved quality of education through the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly-Operated KioskS (STARBOOKS); and competitive manufacturing processes through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).
Mayor Celeste commended the endeavors of DOST 1 and sought their assistance with community-developed inventions to be promoted and utilized. He urged the team to have good communication and coordination as he foresees that the city could benefit a lot from the numerous PPAs that the agency offers. “Malaking tulong itong mga ‘to [DOST PPAs] sa amin. Let’s have a good communication and coordination,” he remarked.
During her visit, OIC-RD Tabaog also met with local officials namely, Atty. Walter M. Macaiba, City Administrator and Mr. Eduardo A. Garcia, City Planning and Development Coordinator to discuss how STI could be leveraged to address their specific needs on salt iodization and bamboo industry. She also toured the Hundred Islands E- Kawayan Factory through the assistance of Mr. Jaime C. Navarro, Senior Administrative Assistant II, to identify other opportunities for collaboration and partnership.
The visit of OIC-RD Tabaog with her team truly highlights the great role of DOST 1 in leading, directing and guiding the local communities towards a holistic development. She expressed optimism about the future of Alaminos City and its potential to become a hub of science, technology and innovation. OIC-RD Tabaog encouraged the local officials to work closely with her office to develop programs and initiatives that could drive progress and growth. With the agency’s initiatives, and the full cooperation of the local government unit, the City of Alaminos may soon become a model of a Smart and Sustainable Community.