DOST trains Caibiranons on Decorative-Candle Making

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Decorative candles output of the training

Who would have thought that a mouth-watering dessert could turn out to be your light in the dark night? It may sound absurd but for the participants of Decorative Candle-Making Training held at Caibiran, BIliran, the process is a piece of cake and as easy as ABC. All it needs is a little passion and a touch of creativity.

A conventional candle is usually a yellow or white-colored piece of wax that is molded into cylindrical or other forms and provide light for ceremonial or for general use. Alternatively, it can be utilized for emergency purposes especially when the power is out, and the gen-set is not accessible.

But what if it can be more exciting and vibrantly colorful? Like adding a twist and make an ordinary night-light into a more decorative and enticing one sprinkled with an aromatic scent. Yes! It is possible, through the joint-effort of DOST and the Pastoral Priest of Caibiran, Biliran and its BEC members, LGU-Caibiran, DTI and DA.

The participants

A Training on Decorative Candle-Making has been conducted last May 24, 2016 at St. James the Apostle Parish, Pastoral Center, Caibiran, Biliran to hone the skills of local community and to demonstrate other possible source of income for Caibiranons. An energetic resource speaker from Manila in the person of Mr. Napoleon B. Ladines, a retired DOST-ITDI employee, shared his expertise in a fun-filled one-day activity which covered topics about the materials used for candle-making, its types and formulation plus the techniques on how to make decorative and scented candles. The most exciting part is when accessories like drinking glasses, soft drinks and halo-halo containers were used in the demonstration. The result appeared to be mouth-watering just exactly as the palatable dessert found in restaurants that viewers would not even expect, at first glance, that what they are looking at is a mere candle!

Not only that this night-light is made superficially pleasing to the eye but it was also finished with an aromatic scent that is believed to have soothing effects that is ideal for peaceful meditation, lover’s date and for a relaxing massage.

For those who are curious as to how it was done, the process on decorative candle-making is available at DOST-ITDI web link Please take note that expert’s supervision is advised for safety purposes, especially for those who will be trying it for the first time.

Further DOST intervention is anticipated to be conducted after the said activity such as the inclusion to the DOST-GIA program for the assistance on the acquisition of equipment for candle-making. This is to ensure that the livelihood activity will not just end after the training but will still be sustained and continued for the benefit of the local community.

For more information about the Trainings, Program and Services offered by DOST, feel free to visit their website thru http://dost.gov.ph/ or you may also contact DOST- Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center at Tel/fax No. (053) 500-9347 and look for Ms. Maria Catherine G. Maniba. (Written by Ms. Gracevillalyn R. Saldo, PA-II, DOST-PSTC Biliran)

More photos from facebook.

DOST 8 Launched STARBOOKS in Biliran

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Ms. Maria Catherine G. Maniba, OIC-PSTD, welcoming all the
 participants of the STARBOOKS launching in NSU, Naval, Biliran

STARBOOKS or Science & Technology Academic and Research Based Openly Operated Kiosk Systems is the talk of the town.

Do you ever wonder what it is? Well, it's a digital library or in a layman's term a collection of books in a computer. This project is a compendium of S&T information gathered from all over the world and is a standalone information kiosk, which makes information access possible even without internet connection.

What is exciting is that, STARBOOOKS is now in several pilot schools in Biliran Division after it was launched last April 26, 2016 at the Audio Visual Room of Naval State University (NSU), Naval, Biliran.

The said launching was attended by the School Heads, Librarians and School ITs from the six (6) identified secondary schools and SUCs from the province namely: Tucdao NHS, Manlabang NHS, Naval NHS, Biliran National Agricultural HS, NSU- Main Campus, and NSU-Biliran Campus. These schools were strategically identified to provide the biggest impact in achieving the programs objectives.

DOST 8 Food Safety Team helps protect human health

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Mrs. Donata Victorioso, owner of Ayang’s Mini Bakeshop in Kawayan, Biliran
being interviewed by the DOST8 Food Safety Team during the firm visit last
February 11, 2016.

Food is the most basic of the human needs, and consumption of safe sustenance is the primary concern of health conscious consumers. According to World Health Organization (WHO) the process by which foodstuffs gets from the farm to the plate has changed drastically over the past half century that safe food handling must be highly observed. Unsafe food poses health threats endangering everyone particularly vulnerable population such as infants, young children, pregnant women, and elderly among others.

Thus, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) established the Food Safety Program to promote the adoption of safe food handling practices among food processors, especially DOST Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) adaptors, and other stakeholders of the processed food industry.

As part of the implementation of this program, the DOST 8 Food Safety Team, a group of experts in line with food safety, assisted by DOST-Biliran Provincial S&T Center staff conducted assessments of the food safety practices of three (3) SETUP-assisted firms namely: Mark Sahn’s Bakeshop, Symonn’s Bakeshop and Ayang’s Mini Bakeshop on February 11-12, 2016 in Biliran Province.

Mr. Arthur Cerera, owner of Mark Sahn’s Bakeshop
in Biliran, Biliran, being interviewed by Ms. Rosella L.
Gopo, DOST 8 Food Safety Team member, during the
firm visit last February 11, 2016.

Mark Sahn’s Bakeshop, a single proprietorship business from Biliran, Biliran, availed assistance from SETUP for acquisition of related equipment for the improvement of its bakery in 2014. Likewise, Symmon’s Bakeshop, a family enterprise from Naval, Biliran was granted P2, 000,000.00 financial assistance in 2015 for the adoption of vegetable based bread production technology. Ayang’s Mini Bakeshop, in the other hand, which is a family owned business from Kawayan, Biliran also received a financial assistance amounting to P200, 000.00 for improvement of its facility. 

The consultancy on Food Safety forms part of the package of assistance provided by DOST to its SETUP clients specifically for those firms belonging to the food sector. The three firms produce bread products that form part of Filipinos regular breakfast meal and even during snack treats. It must be ensured that the firms practice standard good manufacturing procedures so that their outputs are safe for consumption.

Mrs. Isabelita M. Pamposa, DOST 8 Food Safety member,
conducting an interview with one of the employees of
Symonn’s Bakeshop in Naval, Biliran last February 11, 2016

The Food Safety Team is expected to come up with recommendations to improve the efficiency in food handling and compliance of the firms with the FDA food safety standard. Follow up visits are expected in later dates to discuss their recommendation and ultimately implement the needed change (Juliet Aguirre, AA3, DOST-Biliran.)

EVSU Experts conduct CPT & EA Consultancies to Biliran SETUP beneficiaries

Through the coordination of the Provincial S&T Center- Biliran, the Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) Consultancy teams,   in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office No. 8 (DOST RO8),   Cleaner Production Technology (CPT) assessment and Energy Audit  (EA) were conducted to RG Herbal Oil Repacking & Marketing from Cabucgayan, Biliran and Know Well Office Systems in Naval, Biliran, respectively. The visit was conducted last January 15, 2016 to the 2 firms who are recipients of the DOST Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

RG Herbal Oil Repacking & Marketing, is a single proprietorship business and is a sole producer of herbal oil in the Province of Biliran. In the year 2012, an amount of PhP 413, 530.00 was released to the proprietor by DOST SETUP as financial assistance for the purchasing of equipment needed to upgrade his product. CPT consultants conducted direct observations on the method used in herbal extraction and formulation and the processes  done to maintain the product stability and storability. The  experts will come up with recommendations to improve further the firms processes using cleaner production approaches.

Meanwhile, Know Well Office Systems, is a single proprietorship business focusing on printing of labels for food and non-food products and also produce paper based commercial ads. The proprietor received the amount of PhP 398, 000.00 from SETUP for the upgrading of his services and products. However, it was noted that with the increasing number of equipment maintained by the proprietor there was also an increasing energy usage. Because of this EA was introduced.

It is expected that based on the assessment conducted by the experts from EVSU and DOST and upon the implementation of the suggestions/inputs to be provided, there will be improvements in the enterprises' efficiency and productivity.

3 Biliran studes qualify PSHS Scholarship

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Three pupils from Biliran Division passed the Philippine Science High School National Competitive Examinations (PSHS-NCE) held last October 2015. They are:

• CASAS, KRISTEN CASIL
• DUEÑAS, JOLLYMAE JUANES
• SABORNIDO, CYRILLE CATOR

In a press release published by PSHS in their official website, Hon. MARIO G. MONTEJO, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology and Chair of the PSHS System Board of Trustees, announces the names of the successful qualifiers to the Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) Search for Scholars for 2016.

Of the 22,791 applicants, 1,355 examinees successfully hurdled the one-step screening administered on October 2015. The qualifiers have to IMMEDIATELY contact the Registrar or the Campus Director of the PSHS Campus where they are qualified to enroll, or visit the following websites: www.pshs.edu.ph or www.dost.gov.ph, for more information on early enrolment. Deadline for slot confirmation / reservation of principal qualifiers is on January 29, 2016. Specific schedule of other enrolment activities shall be announced by the respective campuses.

For complete list of passer please follow this LINK

2015 Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits sets off

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The Department of Science and Technology Regional Office VIII (DOST8) in partnership with Technology Application and Promotions Institute (TAPI-DOST) and the Eastern Visayas Consortium for Industry and Energy Research and Development (EVCIERD) is pleased to announce the holding of the 3rd Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits (RICE) for 2015 on November 25-27, 2015 at the Robinson's Tacloban Activity Center, Annex Building, Robinson's Place, Marasbaras, Tacloban City. This is one of DOST's contribution to support the Republic Act 10055 popularly known as Technology Transfer Act of 2010 and R.A. 7459, a.k.a, "Ïnventors and Invention Incentives Act of the Philippines".

This year's theme of RICE, "Philippines: A Science Nation Innovating and Inventing for Global Competitiveness" will serve as pre-screening/selection contest where regional winners of each category will vie for the National Invention Contest and Exhibits (NICE). The holding of the national contest is scheduled every other July of the year coinciding the celebration of the National Science and Technology Week for 2016. The following are the contest six (6) categories:

Invention Category (Tuklas Award)

Utility Model Category

Industrial Design Category

Creative Research Category (Likha Award)

Student Creative Research for College Category (Sibol Award)

Student Creative Research for High School Category (Sibol Award)

The contest is open to all researchers, inventors, faculty, students and any interested individuals to submit their entries to DOST Regional Office VIII with address at the Government Center, Candahug, Palo, Leyte or any DOST Provincial Offices (Leyte, Southern Leyte, Biliran, Samar, Eastern Samar & Northern Samar).

For more information please do not hesitate to call DOST8 at (053) 323-7110 or 832-4139 and look for Engrs. Ramil T. Uy or Florentino L. Quiñones, Jr.,

DOST conducted livelihood training for ASEMCO

This photo was taken during the Closing Ceremony of training

DOST through its Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center recently conducted a livelihood training on Meat and Fish Processing Technology for the employees, members and valued clients of Almeria Seafarers Multipurpose Cooperative (ASEMCO). The three-day activity was held on November 9-11, 2015 at ASEMCO Compound, Del Bano St., Poblacion, Almeria, Biliran. The training was aimed to enhance the skills of the participants in meat and fish processing and to introduce another possible source of income for small entrepreneurs.

ASEMCO, aside from being a lending institution, is one of the active beneficiaries of DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) for their meat processing project. It is their second time to avail of SETUP after successfully completing a charcoal briquetting project in 2014. Last April 2015, they received a financial assistance in the amount of Php 370,000.00 for the acquisition of additional meat processing equipment for the project “Upgrading of Meat Processing Facility”.

The livelihood training covered six different topics which include Tocino Processing, Beef Tapa Processing, Fresh Native Longanisa Processing, Skinless Longanisa Processing, Deboned Bangus and Rellenong Bangus. Expert from DOST-Leyte in the person of Ms. Imelda S. Picorro, served as the resource speaker of the event who demonstrated the safe and proper way of meat and fish processing. The training started with a lecture discussing about the recipes and ingredients, techniques, and the dos and don’ts in the production. Then it was followed by hands-on-demonstration with the use of the equipment acquired through DOST-SETUP fund. 

Meat Preparation and Curing

Packaging of  Product Samples

ASEMCO, spearheaded by its General Manager Ms Anita S. Corto, enthusiastically showed their cooperation as partner with DOST in facilitating the three-day activity. They cater venue for functions and meetings in which Hostel and Function Hall is among the many allied services provided by the cooperative.

The activity ended with a message from the OIC of DOST-Biliran, Engr. Maria Catherine G. Maniba, who thanked everyone for spending their valuable time and for extending their full support and participation during the training. She also shared a glimpse of information regarding the programs and services offered by DOST and invited the participants to visit the DOST-Biliran office if they like to know more about the agency and its services. 

The acquisition of equipment and training is part of the implementation of SETUP project in line with the intention of ASEMCO to expand its existing Meat shop.  (Written by Ms. Gracevillalyn R. Saldo, PA-II, DOST-PSTC Biliran)

Sample Finished Products
(Left: Skinless Longanisa, Right: Beef Tapa)

Passers of 2015 Junior Level Science Scholarships (JLSS - RA 10612)

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2015 Visayas S & T Fair in Ormoc City soon

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The Visayas leg of the Science Nation Tour will be coming to Ormoc City on September 23-25, 2015. The three day event to be held in Ormoc City Superdome, Ormoc City is part of the national roadshow of DOST to promote the agency’s programs, projects and services.

DOST SEI Scholarship SY 2015-2016 Result

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Congratulations to the passers of the DOST SEI SY 2015-2016 Scholarship Examinations from Biliran Province. Complete list of passers will be posted once official list will be released.

RA 7689 PASSERS-BILIRAN PROVINCE

• BAYLON, FREDERICK SULTERAS
• BOHIYAN, GIRLY PAN
• BORAGAY, GILDA GERVACIO
• CUBELO, VERCHIEL BATUTO
• VILLACORTE, SHAN GIL FERNANDEZ
• PANIS, SELWYN IAN ROCHA
• YAGUEL, JOAN ORO
• GONZAL, KING PHILIP CHING
• ARANSADO, JEFRY EBIO
• VILLAHERMOSA, ERNIE JEASH CHIQUILLO
• CATAMORA, ROWENA JANE MATIAS
• SAN ANTONIO,VAN LESTER CULIBRA
• BENAIRES, KENNEY DELA CRUZ
• DONDRIANO, ELDON JAY ELMUNDO
• GARCIA, MARVEN SABONSOLIN
• JAMIN, IRAH MAE EBINA
• ESTRERA, CHARRIE MAE PEROL*

(*Estrera is a student from Leyte, Leyte enrolled at Biliran Science High School)

For the complete list of qualifiers please follow this COMPLETE LIST

Qualifiers are advised to wait for notice from the DOST for the schedule of contract signing and orientation for new scholars. For further information you may visit the DOST Biliran Provincial Office at NSU Campus or contact our phone numbers posted in this blogsite.
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DOST releases livelihood assistance to LGU Biliran

Hon. Mayor Casil (center) receives the check from DOST-8

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The Municipal Government of Biliran, represented by its very own Municipal Mayor Honorable Grace Casil, received a financial assistance in the amount of PhP 250,000 from DOST-8 for the Establishment of Common Service Facility for Meat Processing during the recently conducted SETUP Forum in Naval, Biliran on January 12, 2015.

The funding support is intended for the purchase of necessary equipment to be used by local residents who are producing processed meat products. The project is primarily aimed to assist the household meat processors in improving the quality of their processed meat products and enhance their production skill through the establishment of a common service facility for meat processing.

The equipment will be housed in a building that will be provided by the LGU as counterpart. Identified beneficiaries who are producing meat products but have no equipment at home can go to the facility and use them. The facility will also be used for training new entrepreneurs who want to learn meat processing technologies.

Meat and meat products is a major component of the diet of every Filipino. Food consumption survey conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute show that the average per capita consumption of meat and meat products is around 50 grams per day. Based on this data, an average household of 3 persons would consume a kilo, more or less of meat and meat products every week. FNRI survey further stressed that per capita consumption is also increasing every year. This information would tell us that there is a growing demand for meat products as population grows and further increases as times progresses. Because of these, meat production and processing has become a potential venture even in rural areas.

Several enterprising individuals within the municipality of Biliran, Biliran are among those who took the opportunity to venture into home-based meat processing but because of limited capital for equipment acquisition they end up producing low volume, improperly packed, and even inferior quality products. Homemade processes also compromise food safety and good manufacturing practices and might pose some problems to the consumers.

In response to this scenario, the Municipal LGU of Biliran sought the support of the DOST-Biliran to help establish a common service facility that is equipped with Food Safety and GMP compliant processing equipment for the production of processed meat like tocino, longanisa, ham, and similar products.

The LGU, through its livestock production programs supported by the Department of Agriculture and other private companies like BMEG, assured the availability of raw materials such as locally produced cattles, hogs, and chicken grown by different individuals around the municipality.

With the existing volume of raw materials from local hog growers and the stable demand of the finished product coupled with the willing entrepreneurs group what is only needed is the technology and the facility that would help these producers. Once this is available a supportive LGU will make the project financially viable and sustainable.

DOST honors 7 SETUP Graduates from Biliran

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January 12, 2015 marks an important milestone in the history of Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) implementation in the Province of Biliran. It is the time when DOST 8 celebrated and honored the success of seven beneficiaries of the SETUP, the biggest number yet, who completed their obligations of the SETUP for the prescribed period of implementation. These micro entrepreneurs all came from different areas of Biliran Province.

The SETUP graduates who attended the ceremony. 4 out of 7 were present. In photo (L-R). Ms. Ma. Catherine Maniba - PSTC Biliran OIC, Ms. Mae Anne Reyes-DOST-8 RPMO Coordinator, Ms. Anita Corto - ASEMCO Manager, Mr. Rogelio Cabulang-owner AR La Naval Motor Parts & Gen. Marketing, Ms. Josefina Buban-proprietor Elshirglow PFP, Ms. Adela Caril and Mr. Caril, owners of Caril Furniture, Engr. Erneto Granada - ARD TO of DOST-8, & Mr. Romeo L. Dignos PSTD of DOST-Biliran

The graduates include: AR La Naval Motor Parts and General Marketing from Naval, Biliran who also was named as DOST-8's best SETUP adoptor of 2013 who was honored during the National Science and Technology Week in July 2014 held at SM MOA. DOST provided PhP 985,000 in equipment acquisition support fund for improvement of its small motor parts fabrication facility. The firm completed the refund of DOST assistance last April 2014.

Also in the list is Caril's Furniture owned by Ms. Adelfa Caril who received assistance for improvement of its wood cutting and finishing processes amounting to PhP 70,000. Refund was completed in May 2014. Caril's furniture has become one of the best furniture makers in Biliran today. They cater to customers from other parts of Leyte and Samar as well.

The Almeria Seafarers Multi-purpose Cooperative (ASEMCO) received assistance from DOST for the acquisition of charcoal briquetting machine in the amount of PhP 105,500. The project was intended to support the solid waste management program of LGU Almeria by converting agro-waste into cahrcoal briquettes. They started refund in June 2011 and completed in May 2014.

Elshirglow Processed Food Products is from Bariis, Caibiran, Biliran. Owned by Ms. Josefina Buban in partnership with a group of women from the same Barangay, the enterprise produces nata-de-coco in various forms -cubes or strips, and different flavors. The group received support from SETUP for acquistion of equipment, Food Safety Improvement, Productivity Enhancement through MPEX, and packaging improvement of its product. Its SETUP financial support for equipment acquisition amounted to PhP 81,000 was completely refunded last September 2014. Presently, they are the only producer of nata-de-coco atsara in the Province.

White Rose Bakeshop, Naval Biliran was assisted by DOST-SETUP for the acquisition of technology and related equipment in the production of vegetable based noodles and bread. Presently, the firm is the only producer of squash breads and squash and malunggay noodles in Naval. Their financial assistance amounting to PhP 413,200 was completely refunded from July 2010 to April 2013.

Roselyn Espina Marketing took over the responsibility of the Biliran Integrated Coconut Industries (BICI) who suffered financial setbacks in 2009. BICI received PhP 740,000 in 2007 for the acquisition of equipment for coco-coir production. Ms. Roselyn Espina Paras who was BICI's manager then continued the refund despite the project becoming non-operational due to market problems. The obligation was finally completed on July 2014.

DADINIRT Food Products is another firm who assumed another project. It assumed the responsibility of Carding Meat Store after it suffered financial problems in 2008. DADINIRT accepted the equipment worth PhP 202,240 for meat processing from Carding Meat Store. It completed the refund from January 2012 to August 2013.

2014 Accomplishments

DOST-Biliran staff during the 2014 Christmas fellowship

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Another year has passed, another year comes. As the working calendar 2015 officially opens today it is our duty as a government office to report what we have done according to our mandates. The following is the scoop of our accomplishments based on the set performance indicators:

SETUP

The DOST Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center's major mandate is to support the micro, small, and medium enterprises (mSMEs)by applying science, technology, and innovation to improve their productivity. Through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), DOST-Biliran targeted to assist 5 new mSMEs for a total proposed allocation of PhP 2.13M. It was able to assist 7 enterprises with approved funding support of PhP 2.9 M or 140% and 138% as to the number of enterprises and the amount of assistance respectively.

Based on KPIs

Based on our key performance indicators, DOST Biliran targeted to provide 34 Technology Interventions to 5 existing mSMEs and 3 new mSMEs that would generate PhP 3.754M Gross Sales and employ a total of 42 persons. As the year closed, the Center was able to extend a total of 45 Technology Interventions or 132% of the target. Technology Interventions included provision of technology, acquisition of technology related equipment, proposal preparation, plant lay-out assistance, product and process improvement, etc. The interventions helped 21 existing firms and 3 new firms. The gross sales generated by assisted mSMEs as a result of the support reached PhP 7.8 M or 208% on target. It also generated an employment of 70 persons which is 165% of our target.

Provision of consultancy services is another task of the DOST Biliran. Implementation of the regular consultancy programs of DOST  achieved 100% accomplishments as targeted. The MPEX helped 4 firms, another 4 firms availed of CAPE, 1 for CPT, 1 for Energy Audit, and 2 firms for Food Safety. In addition the office rendered one-on-one consultancy with various clients in different technology concerns. For 2014 the office provided 52  other consultancies (target = 44) to 95 clients (target=44) with 77 experts deployed (target=55). These figures are also higher to as much as 216% against target

For training services, DOST Biliran targeted 9 trainings for 9 firms with 94 participants with 17 experts deployment. The office conducted 9 trainings, assisted 16 firms with 160 participants and 17 experts. Accomplishments surpassed the target to as much as 178% for the number of firms assisted.

Network and Resource Generation

The DOST Biliran could not achieve its mandate alone. Partners such as the LGUs, other line agencies, and NGOs are crucial in project implementation. Because of this one of its major KPIs is Networks and Linkages established. In 2014 DOST targeted 12 networks and linkages with 3 projects co-funded with LGUs and 3 trainings conducted with LGUs. The office was able to create 44 linakges with 34 projects supported with LGUs and 3 trainings conducted with LGUs.

These projects implemented and linkages established in 2014 generated project resources amounting to PhP 1.3 M from LGUs, PhP 0.6 M from SUC, PhP 2.05M from other line agencies, PhP 2.92M from NGOs/mSMEs and PhP 0.3 M from other government organization.

Internal Resources

The DOST-Biliran was able to achieve all these with a very skeletal force. The office is composed of a 5-personnel team. Total budget for SETUP Implementation for the past year was only PhP 0.56 M and another PhP 0.6 M for Office operations excluding salary and benefits of regular staff. DOST is currently housed in its own 2-storey building inside the campus of the Naval State University in Naval, Biliran

Biliran draws up for Typhoon HAGUPIT (22W)

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The Biliran Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council conducts its first briefing today to discuss preparations for the approaching weather disturbance - Tropical Storm 22W with International name HAGUPIT. The phenomenon has already created fears among Biliranons who were traumatized by the effects of STY Yolanda that hit the area more than a year ago.

The council identified every member's resources that could be utilized for emergency response including personnel, vehicles, supplies, equipment, and facilities. The meeting also served as initial action to identify contact persons from every agency including their contact numbers and other possible means of reaching them under worst case scenario.

Present during the briefing were the Municipal Mayors from Almeria, Naval, Biliran, and Cabucgayan and representative from critical agencies like the PNP, the Provincial DSWD, PHO, NFA, DPWH, PIA, DOST, and others.

HAGUPIT threatens to hit Eastern Visayas based on various forecasts from International Weather stations (see photo: taken from http://www.typhoon2000.ph/).

Meanwhile, PAGASA-DOST issued the official warning at 11 AM today with the following text "FOR: TYPHOON RUBY (INTERNATIONAL NAME “HAGUPIT”)
ISSUED AT: 11:00 AM, 03 DECEMBER 2014

AT 8:00 AM TODAY, THE TYPHOON OVER THE PACIFIC OCEAN WITH INTERNATIONAL NAME “HAGUPIT” WAS ESTIMATED BASED ON ALL AVAILABLE DATA AT 1,610 KM EAST OF DAVAO CITY (7.5˚N, 140.4˚E), WITH MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS OF 140 KPH NEAR THE CENTER AND GUSTINESS OF UP TO 170 KPH. IT IS FORECAST TO MOVE WEST NORTHWEST AT 30 KPH.

THIS WEATHER SYSTEM IS EXPECTED TO ENTER THE PHILIPPINE AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (PAR) BY TOMORROW MORNING AND IT WILL BE NAMED “RUBY” THEN IT WILL MOVE CLOSER TO EASTERN VISAYAS ON FRIDAY. HOWEVER, “HAGUPIT” IS STILL TOO FAR TO AFFECT ANY PART OF THE COUNTRY.

THIS OUTLOOK WILL BE UPDATED AS SOON AS SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN THE WEATHER PATTERN OCCUR.

THE NEXT UPDATE WILL BE INCORPORATED IN THE PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST TO BE ISSUED AT 5:00 PM TODAY WHILE THE NEXT WEATHER ADVISORY WILL BE ISSUED AT 11:00 AM TOMORROW.

Food Safety Team trains rural group

Participants eagerly listening to the speakers

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The Eastern Visayas Food Safety Team conducted another training on Good Manufacturing Practices and Food Safety to a group of 24 Agrarian Reform beneficiaries in Brgy. Looc, Culaba, Biliran on October 13-14, 2014.

The Looc Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association (LARBA) is engaged in fish processing producing smoked fish and dried fish among others. With membership mostly women, the association is aiming to improve the quality of the product in order to raise acceptance of the market. This would in turn benefit their families by augmenting their farm incomes.

The group's product

The EVFST is composed of competent resource persons from the Department of Science and Technology Region 8. The team includes: Ms. Imelda Piccoro, SRS II of DOST-Leyte, Mr. Emmanuel Lagdamen, SRS I, and Mr. Alfred Calibuso, SRS II DOST Laboratory project. DOST Biliran PSTC, headed by OIC Ms. Ma. Catherine G. Maniba with staff Ms. Gracevillayn Saldo, PA II and Mr. Teddy Abenido, PA I assisted the training as facilitators.

The Department of Agrarian Reform in Biliran Province, currently supervised by Mr. Noel Salloman, MARPO through the Project Coordinator Mr. Arnel Javines, ARPO I, facilitated the conduct of the activity which is part of the agencies support projects for the beneficiaries of their land transfer programs.

DOST Biliran orients new SETUP beneficiaries

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They all came as invited.

Yes, the seven CEOs of the firms assisted by DOST SETUP from around Biliran Province this year 2014 joined the orientation activities conducted by the DOST Regional Project Management Office (RPMO)at the DOST Biliran Provincial Office this day October 9, 2014. The event was meant to clarify issues as far as the obligations of the firms to DOST.

The Memorandum of Agreement signed by the firms with DOST was revisited and each provisions were discussed further. Questions and clarifications were raised on required reports and documentations and what needs to be done now that the project implementation has commenced.

Ms. Mae Anne D. Reyes, DOST-8 SETUP RPMO Coordinator discussed the MOA and the requirements of the program during the early phase of implementation. She also stressed to the young entrepreneurs the need to be innovative especially with the opening of the countries business environment as ASEAN Integration is nearing. "Think not of the usual market, but open up for the international market," Ms. Reyes stressed.

Meanwhile, Ms. MA. Catherine Maniba, DOST Biliran OIC who warmly welcomed the beneficiaries, echoed her request for cooperation for the smooth implementation of the project. She encouraged everyone to become open for improvement and to coordinate freely with the DOST Biliran office for whatever problems they may encounter in the course of project implementation.

The event was also a venue for giving the companies insights and practical advises as far as manufacturing practices specially in dealing with machinery that use electricity. The MPEX consultants of Naval State University provided inputs to the group on Electrical Safety and Equipment maintenance. The NSU team was composed of Engr. Jude Banico, Electrical Engineer and Engr. Arthur Calomadre, Mechanical Engineer.

Mr. Romeo L. Dignos, Biliran PSTD (On-Scholarship) also joined the activity and delivered the closing remarks. Ms. Gracevillalyn Saldo, DOST Biliran Project Assistant II for SETUP served as the EMCEE, while Mr. Teddy Abenido, PA-I lead the group in prayer during the opening.

The DOST 8 SETUP RPMO Team who joined the activity include Ms. Joan Aligante, Mr. Andrew Soledad, and Mr. Lysander King III

DOST joints SME Caravan in Maripipi

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The DOST Biliran's Officer-in-Charge Ms. Maria Catherine G. Maniba joins the team spearheaded by the DTI-Biliran Provincial Office who brought The Roving Academy to the Maripipi Island of Biliran Province. The Academy was there last September 23-24, 2014 to deliver talks on the support programs of various agencies for the micro, small, and medium enterprises of the municipality.

Never mindful of the threats of monsoon waves, the lady OIC of DOST, joined DTI team on board a chartered small boat. The trip became both a challenge and an enjoyment. It was a challenge to bring the office services even across rough seas and remote municipalities. An enjoyment to be of service while exploring the beauty of nature.

Ms. Maniba presented the DOST's SETUP Program to about 25 participants from various parts of the town. The presentation gained interest among the ears of local entrepreneurs and generated potential clients under SETUP's various windows of assistance. Photo above shows Ms. Maniba answering the various queries from interested MSMEs of Maripipi.

The SME Roving Academy is a continuous learning program for the development of micro, small and medium enterprises to become competitive in the domestic and international (global) markets. Its main strategies contain: Integration of the business development services for SMEs at the national and local levels, establishment of the Provincial, Regional, and National Entrepreneurship Development Networks, & Management of an inclusive promotion program.

The academy employs the support of partner agencies such as:Business Development Services (BDS) Providers, the LGUs, the academes and training institutions, local chamber, academe, financial institutions, trade and industry associations, and other government and non-government organizations.

In Maripipi, the academy was joined by the Philhealth who discussed on employees health benefits, the Bureau of Internal Revenue, for business licensing, and the DOST for technology support to SMES.

DOST-8 releases livelihood support for Yolanda victims of Cabucgayan

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The Department of Science and Technology Regional Office VIII through the Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center, released its counterpart funds on Wednesday, September 24, 2014 for the project "Establishment of Common Service Facility for Fiberglass Boat Production in Support to the Aquamarine Industry."

The amount of Two Hundred Thousand Pesos (PhP 200,000.00) from the DOST-8 Grant-in Aid (GIA) Program will be used to acquire the needed equipment for the fabrication of fiberglass boats. The target beneficiaries are the fisher-folks affected by the devastating typhoon Yolanda that also hit the Municipality of Cabucgayan.

The project also aimed to train the beneficiaries in fiberglass boat production for their livelihood. The boats produced will be provided to the fishermen beneficiaries and used for their livelihood. The Project Management team, headed by the Mun. Agriculturist and the Office of the Mayor, will decide how the fishermen will pay or how the cost of boat shall be recovered for production of subsequent units.

Earlier this year, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) released their counterpart funds for the procurement of supplies and materials needed for the production of this boats.

In a simple turn over ceremony at the office of the Mayor, Hon. Gemma G. Adobo, Mr. Romeo L. Dignos, Sr. Science Research Specialist of DOST 8, Provincial Director of DOST-Biliran (on Study Leave) handed the check to the mayor and witnessed by Ms. Maria P. Suson, the Municipal Agriculturist and the Project Coordinator and Mr. Victoriano C. Gunabe Jr. the Municipal Treasurer.

Equipment acquired by the project shall remain the property of DOST-8 unless they will be donated if the implementing team will find it beneficial to the target clients.

2015 DOST Scholarships Exams: 97% turnout in Biliran

Students humble themselves in prayer before the test

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The DOST Biliran registered 97% turn out of examinees during the recently conducted DOST-SEI Scholarships Examinations for 2015. A total of 309 out of the 319 registered applicants were able to take the examinations and have their chance to be chosen as DOST scholars by the first semester of SY 2015-2016. Results of the said tests will be out by March 2015.

Biliran registered 45% increase of applicants based on official records. Last year Biliran received a total of 212 applications. Twelve of those who took the 2013 tests passed and are now enjoying privileges as DOST scholars in different schools in Region VIII and the NCR (Read related story).

The increase in participation was due to the intensive campaign headed by the DOST-8 Human Resource Development Unit through Engr. Ramil T. Uy, Sr. Science Research Specialist. In Biliran, Ms. Ma. Catherine G. Maniba, Officer-in-Charge of DOST Biliran PSTC conducted information caravan throughout the Province to convince all schools to send their science and mathematics inclined students who are also performing well in their academics.

Support programs to boost the chance of passing the scholarships were also conducted throughout the region. This include the conduct of weekend reviews in various locations. In Biliran the review classes were conducted at Naval School of Fisheries, Naval, Biliran.

"This is just a pilot activity. If the result will be good, we plan to expand the review classes next year," Engr. Ramil cited during an ambush interview at the DOST Regional Office.

Parents of vying students express their gratitude to the Department by at least giving their deserving students a chance to be counted among the top scholars of the nation if they pass the DOST scholarships.