DOST Biliran SETUP Team kicks-off anew

After ST Yolanda comes a new challenge for the DOST Biliran Team for CY 2014.

Gracevillalyn R. Saldo

The DOST Biliran SETUP Team has been refreshed by the hiring of a new staff in the person of Ms. Gracevillalyn R. Saldo, Computer Engineer by profession, and a Yolanda survivor herself. How she survived is history which she has the right to keep by herself or share them in whatever means she likes.

The month of January as usual is a ground-working stage with several lined up activities which include the orientation of new staff, Hydromet Project Installation, and Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) for new SETUP applicants.

DOST Biliran PSTD conducted the orientation of the new staff about the SETUP Program and its components, and a hands-on training on project proposal preparation, financial analysis, and TNA procedures to the new staff. The activities ran from January 4 to January 8, 2014. The next days were devoted to identification of prospective SETUP applicants with Ms. Saldo backed-up by SETUP Staff Mr. Teddy Abenido. After which they conducted one-on-one consultation with the MSME prospects around Biliran. DTI Biliran PO provided us the list of registered MSMEs, special thanks to Director Celerina Bato.

ARG Installation in Almeria, Biliran

On January 16 the DOST Biliran Team supported by the DOST Regional Office 8 Hydromet project team members: Engr. Heber Matuza and Mr. Dominic Abiabi installed the Automatic Rain Gauges in two locations: Almeria Central School, Almeria, Biliran and Biliran Municipal Grounds in the Municipality of Biliran in Biliran Province. The units were successfully installed despite the non-stop rain.

The next day, January 17, 2014 while the sun and the sky was partially covered with drizzle the Team went on to conduct Technology Needs Assessment to two MSMEs in Caibiran, Biliran.

at Canaan Hillside Farms, Uson, Caibiran

The first was Canaan Hill Farms and Honey Garden located at Brgy. Uson who sought assistance for their ginger powder processing venture. But the Team found more possible support through CAPE and MPEX programs. Next was Memua Minimart in Poblacion, Caibiran who needed support for then healthy bread production. The proponent needed help in production of bread with no animal fat added which is targeted for non pork eaters (Muslims, Adventists, etc). They are planning to adopt vegie-bread technologies.

The team's last stop for the day was the installation of Automatic Rain Gauge in the Municipal Grounds of Culaba, Biliran.

Damaged but recovering

Some of our SETUP clients tried their very best to stand despite the damages brought by super typhoon Yolanda.

Note: This is our initial post for the year since our Globe Broadband connection is still under repair. We have no telephone line as of this time.

Photo show some of damage facilities. There are several beneficiaries in Biliran who also suffered major setbacks.

Remedial actions were underway to minimize their economic losses.

DOST successfully conducted Scholarship exams in Biliran

The Department of Science and Technology Science Education Institute successfully conducted the DOST-SEI Scholarships qualifying examinations for 2014 particularly in Biliran Province with a 94% turn-out. The test was conducted simultaneously throughout the country last September 22, 2013, except for armed conflict affected areas in Mindanao. In Biliran, 200 students out of 212 registered applicants from different high schools of the Division of Biliran participated in the exams. It was held in the Naval State University Gym from 7:00AM - 12:00 Noon for the morning session and 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the afternoon session.

The examination is aimed at identifying the next batch of scholars for the coming school year 2014-2015. Graduating fourth year students who belong to the top 5% of their class and those enrolled in certified science based high schools were qualified to take the examinations. The scholarships were classified into two categories: the RA7687 and the Merit Scholarships. The former is intended for the poor but deserving students while the latter is for students with higher family income. All qualifiers of the scholarship are required to take science and technology based courses in certified schools within the country.

Few students from island municipality of Maripipi and Higatangan were not able to take the exam which was reportedly hindered due to prevailing bad sea conditions.

DOST-8 assists Biliran PDRRMC Operation Center's IT capability

Mr. Dignos-DOST Biliran with Mr Dacillo PDRRMO
with staff during the turn-over of equipment

The DOST-8 through the Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center provided support to the Biliran Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC)through infusion of IT capability to aid in its Prevention and Mitigation efforts. The assistance includes the acquisition of 1 unit Computer to store databases on hazard maps of Biliran Province for easy retrieval and updating and one unit Global Positioning System (GPS) for mapping of risk data. The computer will also be used as storage for different hazard mitigating and monitoring software promoted by the DOST such as Project NOAH, REDAS of PHIVOLCS, and links to PAGASA and other weather monitoring agencies.

As the agency mandated to lead the Council's Prevention and Mitigation Committee the DOST initiated the project entitled Establishment of IT Support Center for Hazard Mitigation of Flood and Earthquake Related Hazards in Biliran Province. It was funded by DOST-8 through its local Grant-In-Aid (GIA) program for a total amount of Sevety Five Thousand Pesos for the acquisition of 1 unit Desktop Computer and one unit GPS. It was generally aimed to improve the over-all preparedness of the local disaster risk reduction and management planners for hazard mitigation by establishing a facility for better hazard map preparation and updating and real time monitoring. Part of the project was the training conducted earlier on the REDAS software application which was attended by Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officers of the different municipalities of Biliran Province.

Mr. Sofronio "Jun" Dacillo, Jr., the Provincial Disater Risk and Reduction Management Officer of Biliran Provincial expressed his gratefulness to the DOST in behalf of the Council and the Provincial Government for the very valuable contribution.

The equipment provided by the project will be operated and managed by the PDRRMO and will be located at the PDRRMC Operation Center located at the Provincial Museum in front of Provincial Capitol, Calumpang, Naval, Biliran. The computer will have direct Internet link for access of Project NOAH site and other earthquake and typhoon monitoring sites both local and international. A system will be designed later to pool these links in one user interface for ease of access. Local database on different hazard maps will be integrated in the system for ease of monitoring and accessibility.-RLDignos

Phivolcs-DOST helps Biliran on Eartquake Disaster Mitigation

Drs. Ma. Leonila & Bartolome Bautista of Phivolcs during the lectures
(in white shirts)

Readiness in times of calamities is a key element in preventing disasters. This is the reason the Biliran Provincial Government quickly responded to the call of the Department of Science and Technology to adopt the Rapid Earthquake Disaster Assessment Software (REDAS) developed and promoted by DOST's Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS).

Phivolcs stated that REDAS could provide a quick and near real-time simulated earthquake hazard information to disaster managers which will help them in assessing the distribution and extent of the impacts of a strong earthquake. This information will guide them in organizing a timely rescue and relief operations. Furthermore it could also serve as a tool for land use planners, policy makers, city and town development planners to consider earthquake hazards in their planning and development to mitigate seismic risks. The tool can calculate hazards of ground shaking, earthquake-induced landslides, liquefaction and tsunami.

Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officers from the eight Municipalities of Biliran Province joined the hands-on training conducted by Phivolcs on July 21-26, 2013 at Agta Beach Resort, Almeria, Biliran. Participants from other nearby provinces also attended the event.There were 43 individuals who participated the training workshop, the output of which are hazard maps on different earthquake related hazards.

The Phivolcs 9-man training team headed by  Deputy Director Dr. Bartolome Bautista provided the participants first hand experience in running the software and understanding its full functionality. This same team was responsible in gathering the initial data used in digitizing base maps and maps for earthquake related hazards for the Province of Biliran that were also used during the training.

The activity was jointly organized and supported by the DOST-Phivolcs who provided counterpart funds for the travel of the training team from Manila to Biliran, the Biliran Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office through the headship of Mr. Sofronio B. Dacillo Jr, PDRRMO, The DOST-8 through the Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center, with PSTD Mr. Romeo L. Dignos, and the Office of Civil Defense 8 headed by Director Rey Gozon who provided funding for the activity. Hon. Brigido Caneja III, representing Honorable Gerardo Espina Jr., Provincial Governor of Biliran at the same time Chairman of the Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Council graced the opening ceremonies of the training.

DOST Biliran Project Maps

The DOST Biliran has generated a Map using Google Maps of its local projects funded under the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program. The map is aimed at providing general information on the kinds of projects supported by the program. Place markers are color coded based on the sectors where the project is considered:
Green - Food,    Blue w/o dot - Metals,   Yellow - Furniture,  Red w/o dot - Pharmaceuticals,  Red - IT,  Blue - Others. Yellow push pin markers are DOST-GIA assisted project

The Map generated by Google

The place markers when clicked will show the SETUP Project Title and other pertinent project information.

For further inquiries about specific project, please email rdignos@hotmail.com. You can also call our landline at (053) 500 9347, or you can visit our office at DOST-Biliran, NSU Compound, Naval, Biliran Province.

ITDI conducts assessment for Gasifier Combustor technology application

The existing oven of Talahid Beach Resor

The Industrial Technology Development Institute through the expertise of Engineer Lorencito M. Pacatang, conducted recently an assessment of two micro enterprises from the Province of Biliran for the possible application of the gasifier combustor technology in their respective processing operations.

Gasifier combustor is a devise that converts biomass wastes into energy through gasification process. The biomass is burned inside a close chamber to produce blue flames that are used as heat source in any cooking processes. The common fuel used are rice hulls which are abundantly found in the rural areas.

Marksahn Breadshop in Biliran, Biliran signified interest in adopting the technology for its bakery business. The owner, Mr. Arthur Cerera was optimistic it would help him reduce his fuel cost. Engr. Pacatang provided the technology design and helped the beneficiary in contacting the fabricator of the equipment. Equipment acquisition will be supported by the DOST through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program.

Meanwhile, Talahid Beach Resort, in Agta Beach, Talahid, Almeria, Biliran who is famous for its unique broiled chicken sought the support of DOST in improving their broiler production facility. The Resort is currently using an old traditional type of oven. ITDI inspected the facility and provided recommendations to improve further their existing oven.

The series of activities that was conducted last June 25-27, 2013 was coordinated by the Training and Consultancy group of the Department of Science and Technology, Regional Office VIII through Engr. Ramil T. Uy, Sr. Science Research Specialist. It was also assisted by the Biliran Provincial S & T Center.

ACAI Goldsmith receives technology upgrading assistance from DOST

Cecil Joson, ACAI proprietress (2nd from left) during the training

The ACAI Goldsmithery shop in Naval, Biliran recently received a series of support from the Department of Science and Technology to make better its jewelry production facility. The assistance is expected to improve the quality of the firm's jewelry products and hopefully create new product lines such as medals, pins, and related items.

It started with the release of Innovation Support fund for the improvement of its process and acquisition of technology related equipment amounting to Four Hundred Sixty Thousand Pesos (PhP 460,000.00).

The transfer of technology on spin casting and electroplating was undertaken through their participation in a training conducted by Metals Industry Research and Development Center of DOST on June 4-7, 2013 at DOST Eastern Samar Conference Hall in Borongan City.

Electroplating technology is needed for the production of low cost jewelry and metal products which are made of low quality metals and coated with precious metals like gold, silver, bronze and the like. These products include: medals, trophy plates, name plates, and the likes. In the other hand, spin casting is the process where small items are molded to desired form before they are plated to produce the final products mentioned earlier.

The training which served both Eastern Samar and Biliran SETUP beneficiaries were jointly coordinated by the DOST Regional Office 8 and the DOST Provincial Offices of Eastern Samar and Biliran.

Engr. Wilfredo R. Lim and Engr. Edilbert M. Dela Peña, both Senior Science Research Specialist from MIRDC, served as resource speakers of the said event.

The upgrading assistance is expected to boost the production capability of ACAI Goldsmith which is currently using the old methods of forming and designing their products. The acquisition of better electroplating technology will also enhance the surface finish of their plated products while spin casting will open for new product lines.

DOST, DAR conducts Food Safety training

The Food Safety Team headed by Engr. Gopo

Food safety is everybody's business and the Eastern Visayas Food Safety Team is serious on its mandate of spreading awareness of ensuring fitness for consumption the food products produced even by micro-enterprises from rural areas. The Balaquid Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative, from Brgy. Balaquid, Cabucgayan, Biliran is the latest to receive the training on Food Safety and Good Manufacturing Practices conducted last May 29-30, 2013.

Department of Agrarian Reform Biliran Provincial office provided the funding for the two-day training under its Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Program III. The Department of Science and Technology Regional Office No. VIII through the Food Safety Team and the Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center joined hands in organizing the activity.

The training held at Balaquid Women's Building was participated by twelve members of the cooperative who are producers of fruit and vegetable pickles. Engr. Rosella Gopo, Sr. Science Research Specialist and Provincial Science and Technology Director of Samar Provincial Science and Technology Center, headed the Food Safety team's training group. Engr. Isabelita M. Pamposa and Mr. Alfred Calibuso both Science Research Specialist II of DOST-8 was part of the team. Engr. Donnie Rey Duhig, SRS I, and Mr. Teddy Abenido, SRA of DOST Biliran assisted the trainers during the activities. Ms. Nancy Obligado, Provincial Marketing Assistance Officer and Development Facilitator of DARPO Biliran served as facilitator.

The participants were taught on different aspects of Food Safety including: hand washing techniques, Chemical, Allergens, and Physical Hazards, Cross contamination, Personal hygiene, and other topics related to good manufacturing practices. Hands-on activities were conducted to let the attendees experience first hand the topics discussed.

"Damo an amon mabaruan para mas malimpyo pa ang producto (We learned a lot to make our product more clean and safe)" was the general feedback of the participants.

BARBC is mostly composed of women who are family members of Agrarian Reform beneficiaries from the Agrarian Reform Community of Balaquid Cabucgayan. Their products are papaya pickles, mango pickles, and others. Their food processing venture is an added source of income. BARBC members are all farmers.

DOST supports NSU Research & Development efforts

Mr. Amosco & Mr Dignos during the critiquing

To boost the Naval State University's effort to improve its Research and Development capabilities, the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office No. VIII provided support by training NSU personnel on Statistical Procedures for Research and Development.

A training on Statistical Analysis, Data Interpretation, and Presentation was conducted by NSU in partnership with DOST-8 for the College of Education and College of Arts and Sciences in February 2013 and for the College of Engineering last April 25-26, 2013. Participants were taught on how to identify the best suited statistical analysis based on the design of their project. A matrix was provided to the researchers as easy reference.

Mr. Arnaldo T. Amosco, Jr., Provincial Science and Technology Director of Eastern Samar and the only qualified statistics expert of DOST-8 served as speaker during the series of trainings. DOST Biliran PSTD, Mr. Romeo L. Dignos assisted in the critiquing of the research proposals for the two separate trainings.

Research is one of the four-pronged mandates of state universities alongside instruction, production, and extension. However, many SUCs would admit they have limited capabilities as far as Research is concerned due to a lot of reasons. Among these is limited knowledge of researchers on experimental designs and data analysis and interpretation.

Statistical analysis in researches is a highly specialized knowledge that many researchers think its the sole responsibility of qualified statisticians. But good researchers agree that without knowledge of how the research is to be conducted and data analyzed good research is difficult to achieve.

DOST SEI SY 2013-2014 Scholarship Results

Listed below are the passers for the DOST SEI 2012 Scholarship Examinations from Biliran Province who will be considered scholars starting SY 2013-2014.

1. Apolinar, Lovely D.  Kawayan NHS  RA7687
2. Arche, Hizly Rose N. Naval SF  RA7687
3. Bagdoc, Analyn P.   Almeria NHS RA7687
4, Egipto, Rafael  C. Biliran NAHS  RA7687
5. Palconit, Patrick G.  Biliran NAHS  RA7687
6. Prudenciado, Renz    Maripipi NVS    RA7687
7. Racho, Jetran J.  Naval SF  RA7687
8. Rosel, Vanessa Joy C.  Manlabang NHS  RA7687
9. Tomenio, Rowel A. Culaba NVS  RA7687
10. Montes, Margie P.   Sisters of Mary School,

Congratulations Biliran passers!

Complete List of Passers from Region VIII , click here
Complete List of Passers Nationwide,click here

The DOST SEI SY 2013-2014 Scholarship qualifiers are entitled to free tuition and other school fees, book allowance, PE or NSTP uniform allowance, free round trip for one economy-class transportation if they study outside their home province, monthly living allowance, group health and accident insurance and post-graduation clothing allowance.

As DOST SEI scholars they can enroll in State Universities and Colleges (SUC) and other higher education institutions recognized by the Commission on Higher Education as Centers of Excellence or Centers of Development.

Qualifiers of the DOST SEI SY 2013-2014 Scholarship are advised to wait for formal notice of qualification with the schedule of scholarship orientation and signing of scholarship agreement and the requirements to be submitted. For further information they can reach our office at (053)5009347.

DOST brings S & T to the countryside

A shot during the Forum

Mang Pandoy heaves a sigh of hope after hearing a presentation of DOST's Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). Finally, from the corner of his entrepreneurial mind he saw a beam of light that lifted up his small metal fabrication shop to a higher plane. "Puede ak niyo mabuligan?" ("Can you help me?")was his only question.

Mang Pandoy (Fernando Goyjodo) was one of the participants during the Forum on the SETUP Program conducted in the Municipal Session Hall of Caibiran, Biliran last January 8, 2013. He is engaged in fabrication of farm implements, metal grilles, and similar products and had been in this venture for more than five years now. Just like other metal fabrication shops he just relied on experience without adopting improved welding and finishing techniques that could have helped improve his products. Thanks to the forum, he has realized he could upgrade his shop and there is an agency that could assist him. And thanks to the local government of Caibiran headed by Mayor Eulalio Maderazo who generously offered support for the activity that was conducted by the Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center.
In response to Mr. Goyjudo's question, DOST-Biliran, conducted a follow through activity in a form of Technology Needs Assessment of his firm. The TNA would ultimately determine what technological assistance DOST could provide to enhance his productivity and competitiveness. DOST lined up several programs to support him should he need them. These include the Manufacturing Productivity Enhancement program (MPEX), Cleaner Production Technology (CPT), Energy Audit, and others.

Preparation of support proposals will follow once technological needs are identified for Mang Pandoy's firm. This is also true to others who signified interest to avail DOST's Programs aas long as they belong to the priority sectors and their needs are technical. DOST-Biliran is always open for client's queries and they can be reached at (053)5009347 and their office is located at NSU Compound Naval, Biliran. (Donnie Rey D. Duhig, SRSI)

DOST helps improve Almeria's puffed rice product

Mayor Agajan of Almeria (2nd fr left)

Turning the simple puffed rice, popularly known as "ampaw" into a better marketable product is a challenge picked by the Department of Science and Technology Biliran Provincial Office by providing a package of assistance in a form of scientific and technological interventions to improve the product formulation and the processing techniques.

Development assistance through the DOST-8 GIA Program was provided to LGU-Almeria in the amount of Two Hundred Forty Five Thousand Pesos (PhP245,000.00) and was handed by Mr. Romeo L. Dignos, DOST Biliran Provincial Director to Hon. Dominador O. Agajan, Almeria's Chief Executive during a simple ceremony at the Municipal Hall in Almeria, Biliran last December 21, 2012.

The Municipality of Almeria in Biliran Province identified "ampaw" as one of the rice based products for which the town considers as its focus for improvement under the One Town One Product.

This financial assistance will be used for acquisition of equipment and will be housed in a facility which will serve the local producers of "ampaw" from the municipality. The Community based project is expected to provide training and technology demonstration as well as a common service facility for "ampaw" production. Establishing this facility is will benefit directly the local producers and indirectly the rice producers and the retailers of the improved ampaw products. The facility will focus on product quality improvement through technology and equipment acquisition plus packaging improvement.

"Ampaw" processing involves cooking the rice, drying the cooked rice, and then deep frying it. After which, caramelized sugar is added and the mixture is formed into balls or molded and cut like gold bars.

The product is a traditional snack or dessert items across all ages as long as the consumers have the capability to chew harder food, which is one of the characteristics of the product aside from its crispiness. Hardness could sometimes be a disadvantage among younger or older consumers.

But latest technological innovations developed better process and formulations that makes "ampaw" more easily chewable and even more nutritious. These technologies are essentially needed to be transferred to the local manufacturers not only to enhance product quality but also to make it more convenient for the consumers.

4 Biliran studes qualify the PSHS scholarships for SY 2013-2014

Four students from Biliran Division all coming from the Naval SPED Center in Naval, Biliran Province has been named to qualify as scholars for the premier science high school of the country- The Philippine Science High School. This developed after they passed the National Competitive Examinations conducted in September 2012.

(1) ANCERO, Velle Aila Maamo; (2) NAQUILA, Erika Mae Vicente; and (3) CAIRO, Maria Sheena Gudula Sabong qualify for the Eastern Visayas Campus, in Palo Leyte while (4) BADUYA, Mary Snow Haya Pilapil qualifies for the Central Visayas Campus in Cebu City.

For a complete list of passers, please click Complete List from PSHS site.

The passers are advised to refer to the respective campuses where they qualify after they received the official notice from the PSHS system.

As scholars, the qualifiers will have the privilege to study at the designated campus with benefits including free tuition, monthly stipend, and the opportunity to be among the best high school students of the country.

CONGRATULATIONS to all the passers.

DOST Biliran Inaugurates New Home

Two decades of moving from different locations until finally DOST Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center settled on a place it can call home.  Related Article-PIA

November 8, 2012 when Engr. Edgardo M. Esperancilla, DOST-8 Regional Director and Dr. Minerva Sanoza, Dean of the College of Education, representing Dr. Edita S. Genson. the President of the Naval State University led the Biliran and NSU Science community in inaugurating the newly erected DOST Biliran PSTC building within the campus of NSU, Naval, Biliran.

The proposal for establishing the DOST Biliran building started in 1992 when Biliran became a full fledged province (Biliran was a Sub-Province of Leyte until May 2012). The DOST-8 office was then under Dir. Redia N. Atienza as Regional Director, while Mr. Ronaldo Villaver as Provincial Coordinator for Leyte and Biliran PSTC.

Every year since then, budget for construction of the office was proposed but was always slashed. Until finally in 2011 budget hearing for the 2012 GAA Biliran PSTC Building worth PhP 3.0M wasfunded with the persistent effort of Dir. Esperancilla and the support of DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo.

DOST-Biliran through the voice of Mr. Romeo Dignos, the DOST Biliran Provincial Director echoed its gratefulness for the full support of DOST-8 Management and to NSU for providing the use of its lot to house the center through a USUFRUCT agreement with DOST-8.

With the establishment of the center, the DOST is hopeful to provide better services and open more opportunities for assistance to to its target clientele. Dir Esperancilla said that the building will be a venue to other services sooner when it will be equipped as a science and technology library and even a small laboratory to cater to demands of micro, small, and medium enterprises in Biliran.

Dr. Genson in her message delivered by Dr. Sanoza, emphasized that with the establishment of the new building, DOST will "continue to be an important entity in partnership with the academe like NSU for the goal of promoting and developing the country."

The simple ribbon cutting ceremony was followed by a blessing rite. Together with the NSU faculty members who were witnesses to the event was Mr. Matias Bentor, University Board Secretary and NSU Biliran campus Director.

Meanwhile, the DOST-8 family was joined by DOST Technology Application and Promotion Institute Executive Director, Engr. Edgar Garcia, who was present with some staff to conduct evaluation of TAPI program implementation in Biliran.

Also present were national agency partners such as DepEd, TESDA, DOLE, PIA, and DTI among others.

The grateful clients assisted by DOST's Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program were witness to the ceremonies as well. Related Article-PIA

DOST Supports Organic Farming

Mr. Macorol, POFII (right) with Ms. Radam (2nd left)
during the training on CFA production

Organic has been the current trend in agricultural production. Along the agricultural value chain, subsistence farmers in the one end and large industrial companies in the other, both agreed on the advantages of going organic. These especially is abated by the felt rise of diseases related to consumption of products containing trace chemicals from synthetic fertilizers and pesticides

Process Organic Farming Innovations Incorporated (POFII) is one of those convinced to focus on production of organically grown crops including the use of organic fertilizers. With the headship of Mr. Nestor Macorol, a native of Maripipi, Biliran, POFII sought assistance from DOST-Biliran for acquiring technical knowledge on use of Compost Fungus Activator (CFA) for the production of organic fertilizers. Ms. Marilyn O. Radam, Center Manager of DOST VIII S & T Laboratory Services, supported by her staff Mr. Alfred Calibuso, trained Mr. Macorol's group on CFA production last August 2-3, 2012 at Naval, Biliran.

CFA is a formulation of natural substrates (sawdust, and other organic materials) inoculated with naturally occuring Trichoderma harcianum, a type of fungus that hastens decomposition of farm wastes from the normal one month to at least a week.

POFII envisions to produce CFA for and distribute it to local farmers. Likewise, he plans to develop organic fertilizers either in liquid or solid forms utilizing the CFA technology.

DOST approves support for Babesken pastries

(L-R):Mr. DIgnos-PSTD DOST Biliran, Ms. Recuerdo,
Ms. Bacordo, & Engr. Gonda-DOST Biliran

From hobbyist to full scale entrepreneur, partners Norma Bacordo and Emma Recuerdo, proprietors of Babesken General Merchandise from Naval, Biliran received the nod from DOST's Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program for support in acquiring improved technology for pastry production as well as improving its packaging system.

 In a simple turn-over ceremony at DOST Biliran in NSU Compound on June 20, 2012 Babesken General Merchandise received the check amounting to Three Hundred Eighty Nine Thousand Pesos (PhP389,000.00) as financial support for acquisition of technology related equipment including label design and procurement of packaging materials.

Babesken's products with the current packaging

Babesken specializes on bread puddings,banana cakes, cassava cakes, and other specialty cakes. Currently the use of ordinary gas range from the kitchen or outsourced baking services is what they use to cook their cakes. The use of small capacity hand mixer is also a burden for Ms. Recuerdo. With the assistance from DOST SETUP, Hand mixing will be substituted by heavy duty mixer and a new baking oven specially designed for bakery purposes will be acquired.

Part of the assistance will also improve the packaging of Babesken's product which is simply just placed in styro and wrapped with thin plastic film. DOST SETUP will provide support for designing of improved product label and procurement of suitable packaging materials for their product.

Norma and Emma were both optimistic to see their product soon to come out from the market with new appearance which would be comparable with the well-known Gardenia products which their firm is also distributing throughout the province of Biliran.

Suman is Naval's new pride

Different variants of suman from Naval, Biliran

The lowly traditional delicacy from Naval, Biliran locally known as "suman" has become a new pride for Navaleneos recently both as "Pasalubong" treat or a special dessert or snack item in different occasions. This developed as the suman makers of Naval has been upgraded technologically with convergence support from DOST, DOLE, DTI, NSU, LGU Naval with the MSWDO,

Suman is a rice based delicacy using white and black glutenous rice cooked in coconut milk then rolled and twirled alongside, for black and white type (tinambiran), or rolled single either white or black, then wrapped either using "anahaw" leaves or banana leaves, then steamed. The white suman comes in salty or sweet taste.

L-R: Bacordo-MSWDO Naval, Vice Mayor Villordon
Mr Dignos-DOST, Mr Jamin-DTI, Ms. Solite

It all started when the local government of Naval decided to name it as its One Town One Product  and launched it during the Suman Festival in 2010 spearheaded by Hon. Mayor Susan Parilla and Vice Mayor Redy Villordon. The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer of Naval, Ms. Norma Bacordo lead the Search for Naval's Best Suman which was technically backed up by the expertise of the Department of Science and Technology-Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center through Mr. Romeo L. Dignos, the Provincial Director, and his staff Engr. Ma. Catherine B. Gonda.

As an offshoot of the festival, "suman" started to become talk of the town. DTI and DOLE Biliran Provincial offices joined the crusade and organized the producers into what has become now, Naval Suman Makers Association (NASUMA). DTI through its RUMEP and with convergence support from DOLE, DOST, NSU and LGU Naval trained the members for new techniques in suman making. DOST-8 also trained the group on food handling and GMP appreciation. Later on DOST Biliran through the request of the MSWDO's Ms. Bacordo, prepared proposals for DOLE funding which was later approved. NASUMA members were able to acquire sets of equipment for suman making such as coconut grater, coconut milk extractor, steamer, heavy duty stove, large woks, and some supplies for suman production.

Soon, Naval will become suman capital of the Visayas and its quality product will be distributed from Biliran to Manila and out of the country through suman loving Balikbayans. There could never be a trip to Biliran without a taste of suman. So the next time you visit the Island Paradise of Biliran think and taste the suman of Naval.

DOST 8 Executive named 2011 GAWAD CES Awardee

His friends call him Ed, but in DOST-8 he is Sir Ed. and he is worthy to be called Sir not just because of his good leadership but also because he steered the office into exceptional civil service noticeable enough for him to be named one of the five government service executives to receive the 2011 Gawad Career Executive Service Presidential Award, one of the most prestigious award given by the Career Executive Service Board to government executives.

DOST joins 20th Biliran Provincehood

DOST Biliran grabs 3rd place among other national government agencies in the recently held booth dressing contest, one of the main highlights of the 20th Biliran Provincehood Anniversary celebration on May 9-11, 2012 held at the Biliran Provincial Capitol grounds in Calumpang, Naval, Biliran.

The DOST exhibits, which was a jointly arranged by DOST Biliran staff and Engr. Ramil Uy of DOST Regional office, featured the DOST's Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) and all the products out of the projects assisted by it.

Products displayed include: 1) citronella oil packed in 10ml bottles produced by Biliran Essential Oil Manufacturing Philippines from Bato, Biliran, 2) Otap produced by JV Bakeshop from Kawayan, Biliran, 3) handicrafts from Ungali handicrafts, Ungali, Kawayan, Biliran, 4) Papaya pickles of Culaba Papaya Producers Association in Culaba, Biliran, 5) Nata-de-coco atsara product of ELSHIRGLOW Processed Foods, Bariis, Caibiran, 6)Coconut wine of LGU Cabucgayan, 7) Furniture products of Caril Furniture, Naval, Biliran, 8)Veggie-noodles of White-Rose Bakeshop, Naval, Biliran, and 9)Balintawak suman by Wincofel Suman Special, Naval, Biliran.

Also in the top of the winning exhibits are DepEd and DA Regional Office, 1st and 2nd places, respectively.

Wine making technology transfer to the grassroots

Joebit and Oliver presenting the ITDI wine kit to tuba producers 

Oliver and Joebit were as excited as Josefina and 64 of her friends as they met in one venue to teach and learn, respectively on the standard method of wine making using coconut sap as raw materials. The event was a training on social preparation and entrepreneurship appreciation course with training cum production on coconut wine conducted in Brgy Bunga, Cabucgayan, Biliran on April 17-20, 2012

Joebit Ocasla and Oliver Evangelista, who visited the place for the 1st time, are both resource persons from the Industrial Technology Development Institute of the Department of Science and Technology in Bicutan, Taguig City who trained 65 members of the Cabucgayan Corn Farmers Association who are also producers of the traditional tuba, a wine produced from coconut sap.

The fun on their part was shown in the very enthusiastic mood of imparting the knowledge they have on wine making using improved fermentation techniques using their agency designed wine kit. The process was really enjoyable with Oliver and Joebit explaining highly technical information in a very down to earth manner and examples that is comprehensible to the levels of the tuba gatherers (manangiti) who didn't even reach high school. Yet the participants understood and appreciated the methods introduced.

Josefina L. Genoguin, who is CACOFA president,with the rest of the members, intensely joined the learning and fun. Another encouragement on their part is the vision of improving their coconut wine to evolve into a more classy product at par with commercial wines in the market.

Mr. Romeo Dignos, DOST Biliran PSTD also presented the project concept on coconut wine improvement project and the technology needed to achieve the project goals. Ms. Rosario Orejola of DOLE Biliran together with Ms. Charity Nicolas, a private consultant, joined hands in providing social preparation seminar and entrepreneurial appreciation to the CACOFA members.

Mayor Gemma Adobo of Cabucgayan was so appreciative of the efforts of the DOST and DOLE and exerted full support for the project despite being so busy with other appointments by deputizing her Municipal Agriculturist Ms. Maria P. Suson.

Members of the facilitating team included Engr. Cathy Gonda, Engr. DOnnie Rey Duhig, Engr. Jefferson Aribe, and Mr. Teddy Abenido of DOST Biliran, Eng. Florentino Quinones, and Mr. Dominic Abiabi of DOST-8.

The training included the demonstration on the use of ITDI wine kit which was acquired by LGU Cabucgayan for the project. The farmers were also taught on the basic raw material control by measuring sugar level of sap using refractometer and measuring the acidity of the materials and finish products using Titratable acidity method and using pH meter, and measuring alcohol levels using ebolliumeter. In addition the producers were taught on simple bottling and labeling of their finished wine.

The experience is an additional know-how on the part of the learners who had been using for decades the traditional method of coconut wine or "bahalina" making. DOST Biliran was passionate on uplifting the level of the products quality by improving the process through the use of improved technology and equipment.

Convergence among national and local partners made the training possible. The Department of Labor Region VIII and Biliran Provincial Office was very supportive of the endeavor and even provided grants for acquisition of improved utensils to the sap gatherers and the wine fermentors amounting to PhP 623,160.00. DOST Region VIII also provided funds amounting to PhP 176,400 for acquisition of equipment and tools that would serve as common service facility for wine production, product quality control, and packing services. LGU Cabucgayan provided the rest of the support including the building and area to house the CSF, the training cost, and other expenses.

Regional Director Exequiel Sarcaoga, of DOLE 8, graced the closing ceremonies of the training by giving his message and distributing the certificates to the 65 members of the group who completed the 4-day training program.

2012 S & T Scholarship Result

Seven students from Biliran Province Qualifies the Science and Technology Scholarships for SY 2012-2013. Five qualifies for RA 7687 and 2 under the Merit Scholarship Category.

RA7687 Qualifiers:

1. Castillo, Jemimah Dorcas Mapalad, NSU LHS
2. Verba, Nicka Elorza Manlabang NHS
3. Pamor, Ronald Montealto Culaba NVS
4. Balame, Paul Leonard Amparo NSU LHS
5. Sanosa, Wyndel Bornillo NSU LHS

Merit Qualifiers:
1. Ambe, Ennah Marie Deguinon PSHS Central Visayas Campus
2. Sanchez, Joseph Alwin Supremo PSHS East Visayas Campus

The 2012 S & T Scholarship exams was conducted last November 20, 2011. Qualifiers for the examination will enjoy several benefits including free tuition, monthly stipend, and other allowances.

For inquiries and more information you may visit the provincial offices in your area. For Biliran you can visit us at NSU Campus, Naval, Biliran.

Biliran Products

The DOST Biliran has launched a new blogsite for products generated by DOST assisted projects

This site will also serve as an information sharing facility as well as opportunities to e-market the local products. Interested buyers will have the opportunity to place inquiries and if possible place orders.

To visit you can click here. There are also links on the top menu bar and on the left side bar uppermost portion. Please have a visit and leave your comments.

Leyte and Biliran LGUs project cooperation

Mayor Ramon Oñate, Palompon (2nd from left) with Mayor Gemma Adobo
of Cabucgayan (3rd from left). The fish dryer in background

Fish processing opportunity is what encouraged Mayor Ramon Oñate of Palompon, Leyte to visit the town of Cabucgayan in Biliran Province, hoping they would learn from Cabucgayan's experience in utilizing technology to produce quality dried fish products.

Cabucgayan has tested the mechanical fish dryer designed by DOST's Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI-DOST) with positive results and in his plan to pilot test the said dryer in his town, Mayor Oñate seek the support of DOST to transfer the equipment used by Cabucgayan for its pilot testing project to Palompon. The dryer will be used in improving the dried "danggit" which is a popular product of Palompon, Leyte.

Cabucgayan received assistance from DOST through PSTC Biliran in 2007 for the use of fish dryer and smoke house as a technology demonstration to improve its fish products. The LGU was able to produce better quality dried fish using fish species available in the area like "besogo", stick fish ("tubo-tubo"), and others.

Since the project has been completed, Palompon signified interest to use the facilities from Cabucgayan to pilot its use for "danggit" and if found to be viable they will adopt the technology for commercial production.

DOST Biliran in coordination with DOST Leyte and the DOST VIII Regional office is currently facilitating the rehabilitation and speedy transfer of the dryer to Palompon.

Wanted Civil Engineers

DOST is in need of two(2) Project Assistant III (Contractual), SG12 with monthly salary of PhP18,333.00.

QUALIFICATIONS

1.Education: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
2.Eligibility: Licensure Examination for Civil Engineers
3. Experience: 3 years Experience in Building Construction and Supervision (at least 2 storey building)

REQUIREMENTS
1. Curriculum Vitae
2. Certified Photocopy of Transcript of Records
3. Certified Photocopy of License
4. NBI Clearance
5. Service Record/Record of Employment Issued by Previous Employer(s)

OTHER REQUIREMENT
1. Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excell
2. Proficiency in AutoCAD operation is an advantage

DURATION OF CONTRACT: Six (6) months (May to October 2012)

AREA OF ASSIGNMENT: PSTC Biliran, NSU, Naval, Biliran and PSTC Samar, SSU, Catbalogan City, Samar

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Supervise all phases of construction for the Establishment of PSTC Biliran Office Building.
2. Prepare and submit required reports on time.
3. Evaluate the quality and quantity of construction materials used in all construction works.
4. Evaluate building structures to ensure its conformance to specifications and building standards.
5. Perform other relevant duties to ensure timely and smooth completion of the construction of office buildings.

Interested applicants may submit application letter together with the requirements not later than March 15, 2012 to:

RUFINO E. MENGOTE
ARD for Finance and Administrative Services
Department of Science and Technology
Regional Office No. VIII
Government Center, Candahug, Palo, Leyte
Tel/Fax: (053) 323-6356
Email: rufinomengote@yahoo.com

OL Trap rolls out in Biliran

When life is at stake, heroes always come running. It was proven true when 132 school principals and school nurses from the elementary and secondary schools in the Biliran Division joined the roll-out training of the Ovicidal-Larvicidal Trap (OL Trap) conducted by the Department of Science and Technology on February 15, 2012 at the Department of Education's Library Hub in Brgy. Larrazabal, Naval, Biliran.

What is noble with the activity is its purview of reducing the deadly dengue menace. Dengue had been one of the growing problem that even caused fatalities mostly among school aged children through-out the country. It is currently the subject of intense campaign of the government to reduce if not eliminate the causes.

Ms. Rosario Canlas, representing Dr. Pedro T Escobarte, Jr., the Biliran Schools Division Superintendent of the Department of Education, welcomed the enthusiastic participants while Ms. Mae Anne Reyes, Supervising Science Research Specialist and OL Trap Project Coordinator of DOST Region VIII, presented the life cycle of the dengue carrier mosquito and the nitty-gritty of operating and using the device to reduce the mosquito population. Mr. Romeo Dignos, Senior Science Research Specialist and Provincial Director for DOST Biliran, encouraged the school principals and head teachers to be serious in accomplishing the tasks required of them since the project's vision is a dignified one.

The OL Trap a sytem developed by DOST's Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) in cooperation with the DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development and the Department of Health is designed to attract the Aedes egypti mosquitoes, the carrier of the dengue virus, to lay their eggs in it and kill the offsprings before it could live and spread further.

DOST VIII  through the project will provide every rooms in all schools about 4 sets of the device including supplies that will be used and monitored for the next 6 months. The school heads will report the data to DOST Biliran Provincial office who will submit the same to the Regional Office for analysis.

The OL trap system roll-out in Biliran is a part of the project of DOST Secretary, Hon. Mario G. Montejo to promote the use of the ingenious gadget throughout the country. "As we are conducting this training, other parts of the country, may also be doing the same this time," Ms. Reyes disclosed.

When love and candies meet

Candies and love can be as sweet but they can be sweeter together. This holds true in the case of Santiago and Rose Nierra when their love for candy making turned their love nest into a growing enterprise of producing milk candy and related products. But how did it started? Well, let's find out.

The enterprise name SAN-ROSE Processed Food Products obviously is a mixture of the owners first name. And as candies are bound hard with sugar, SanRose's commitment to pursue the venture is bound with the love and purpose of helping not only themselves but also the community they serve through the people they employ.

This commitment led SanRose to seek assistance from DOST Biliran who in turn enrolled the micro-enterprise under its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading program (SETUP). The firm later received consultancy support through the MPEX. This year, 2012 a technology acquisition support amounting to Eighty-Five Thousand Pesos (PhP85,000.00) which include improving the packaging system of its products is released to the firm.

Few years ago, Mr. and Mrs. Nierra was suppose to return to Manila to work after a visit to their hometown in Almeria, Biliran. They felt how hard it is in the metropolis with meager income as candy factory worker. Tasked to lead his local church community the couple contemplated on starting a small business instead. Hesitant at first to venture into such a business but after seeing a lot of rural people having no work encouraged them to help. And so armed with enough knowledge on candy making they started very small.

They produced milk candy (yema) initially, hired unemployed women and youth as packers and sell the products to peddlers with motorcycle who in turn distributed the products around Almeria and the neighboring towns. And so San-Rose products became available in stores around the province.

Seeing young people, mostly women with hairnets and aprons, usually inspires rural folk with the thought of having a small candy factory in their remote rural community. This impression is what SANROSE has given to constituents of Brgy. Caucab, Almeria, Biliran about 5 kilometers from Almeria town. The firm generated about four hundred thousand pesos (PhP400,000) worth of products and was able to employ at least 12 workers from the community based on its operation last year.

Mr. Nierra, a local church leader, set a small area near his house as a processing section for milk candy, pastillas, peanut butter, and similar products. With the help of consultants from Naval State University commissioned by DOST's MPEX program, San-Rose was able to improve its processing lay-out as well as the formulation of its candy products.

Micro as it is categorized, the firm strive to increase its production by 20% through the assistance of DOST and other agencies by the coming years.

With the enthusiasm to help and the love and inspiration of family members, the sweetness of San-Rose candy can be an instrument of building a stronger community if properly sustained.

There's future for a roadside bamboo furniture shop

Who would think that a road shoulder in a rural community could be a start of a promising venture?

Ronie Villanueva utilizing a small lot along the Kawayan-Culaba road in  Barangay Bulalacao, Kawayan, Biliran started his small bamboo furniture venture armed with a few thousand pesos, a bunch of willing skilled craftsmen, a backward set of woodworking tools, and an optimistic heart.

And this optimism yielded the support of DOST SET-UP program through a series of consultancy and finally approving a technology acquisition assistance for Ronie Furniture this year 2012 in the amount of PhP 111,000.00.

A security guard turned entrepreneur, Ronie convinced and earned the trust of an unemployed furniture maker from his place and put up a small capital to start the business. The initial arrangement was for him to acquire the materials and sell the finish products, while the partner do the crafting with his family in a makeshift area along the road. This space became their production as well as display area for the products.

Ronie realized that his plan worked well "and it was good," borrowing from the famous lines of Genesis, so he aspired bigger. Hearing about DOST SETUP program, he didn't hesitate to visit the DOST Biliran Provincial office in Naval, Biliran where a collaborative project was hatched.

DOST Biliran facilitated the conduct of technology assessment for Ronie which was then enrolled under the Manufacturing Productivity Expansion Program (MPEX) involving consultants from Naval State University in Naval.

DOST realized that Ronie Furniture's potential could be more harnessed through improving its facilities and so an Innovation Support Project was proposed and technology and equipment need were identified with assistance from the DOST's Forest Products and Natural Resources Research and Development Institute in Los Banos, Laguna through Engr. Vic Revilleza and Ms. Zenaida Reyes.

With the DOST support, soon the ordinary planes and saws used by the workers will be replaced with more efficient cutting, cleaning, and boring tools which will greatly improve the quality of their finished product.

The MPEX consultancy conducted by NSU has earlier created improvement in the lay-out of the production area and the over-all management of the business. 

Biliran studes join DOST Scholarship exams

A total of one hundred twenty three (123) graduating high school students from around Biliran Province and nearby Leyte town flocked to Naval State University where the SY 2012-2013 DOST Scholarship Qualifying Examinations was conducted on November 20, 2011 from 7:00 AM to 6:00PM.

The students came from the different private and public high schools from the Division of Biliran and were members of the top 5% of the graduating class and those from special match and science classes of science accredited high schools.

If this examinees would pass the test, they will be considered DOST scholars who can avail free tuition and monthly stipend and other benefits in accredited universities around the country.

Micro-entrepreneurs in Biliran receive free consultancy

The MPEX Team with Ms. Lucy Dauz of DOST 8

Through the assistance of the Manufacturing Productivity Extension (MPEX) Program of the Department of Science and Technology, five (5) new micro enterprises from around Biliran province will benefit through a free consultancy services from local and national experts.

DOST will provide the consultancy support fund to Naval State University to mobilize their experts to conduct technical, marketing, and management advises to improve the productivity of the firms.  These consultancy will run for six months where consultants submit short and long term recommendations to the MSME for enhancement of their firms in line with the business operational areas mentioned earlier.

The beneficiary enterprises are: San Rose Processed Food Products from Sampao, Almeria, Biliran producing milk candy and other related candy products; the Almeria Builders from Almeria, Biliran producing metal products such as steel windows, grilles, steel trusses and others; CM Furniture in Acaban, Culaba specializing in wood based furniture; the Ronnie Furniture Shop in Bulalacao, Kawayan, Biliran who develops bamboo based furniture; and Julyanna's Cakes and Catering Services on cake production.

DOST Regional Office No. 8 in coordination with the Naval State University organized two consultancy teams to handle these five clients. The teams will be supervised by Mr. Daniel Ariaso, the Vice President of NSU responsible for external affairs and extension related services.

SETUP approves 2 new projects for Biliran

A total of PhP355,000 worth of technology upgrading assistance has been released to two (2) micro enterprises in the Province of Biliran in the 3rd quarter of 2011. The financial support include the acquisition of new equipment to improve production efficiency and production volume and improve the packaging and labeling of their products.

Winconfel Suman from Naval, Biliran would soon be acquiring improved set of equipment for the processing of glutenous rice into the popular native delicacy from Naval - the "Balintawak suman." In the otherhand, JV Bakeshop from Kansanoc, Kawayan, Biliran will be improving their process of producing the sweet otap, a sugar coated pastry popular among Cebuanos.

The financial support aims to improve the production volume of the msmes by at least 20% from their current production. This support will economically result to increase revenue and will provide employment opportunity in the locality.
(Inset Photo: wrapping of balintawak suman in anahaw leaves)

Online Rain Monitor for Biliran is on

DOST-Biliran has completed the installation of the Automatic Rain Gauge (ARG) in Naval, Biliran Province. The rain gauge is located at the back of the Biliran Provincial Capitol in Calumpang, Naval, Biliran. The automatic rain gauge uses the tipping bucket to collect the amount of rain in the location and automatically send the data to a central database managed by the DOST's Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI).

The instrument helps to provide a real time assessment of the amount of water absorbed by the soil and assess potential flooding or landslides. It is therefore of great help in hazard mitigation and in other use requiring precipitation data. 

The ARG deployment is part of a nationwide project implemented by the Phillipine Atmospheric, Geophysical, & Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) and ASTI. In Biliran, the Provincial Government provided support with the use of the lot and security of the unit, while DOST Regional Office No. 8 provided the materials for installation and fencing.

Protect your creations, DOST tells inventors

Aside from encouraging Eastern Visayan inventors to get creative through inventions and innovations, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 8 underscored the importance of protecting their creations through intellectual property rights.

“Protect your products first before you sell them,” advised Dr. Edgar Garcia, DOST’s Technology Application and Promotion Institute director, to inventors and student researchers who participated in the first ever Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits (RICE) at the Robinson’s Place in Tacloban City August 22-25.
Protecting inventions, said Garcia, means applying for patent or intellectual property right of an inventor’s creation or product. Securing a patent protects the inventor from duplication of the product and entitles him or her royalties when the product is sold or commercialized. Read Full story here
(from dost.gov.ph by: Framelia V. Anonas, S&T Media Service)

Phase II of citronella project in Biliran takes off

BEOMP consultant Engr. Jesus Villamil, inspects new distilling still

Another set of new citronella oil distilling equipment is about to be used by Biliran Essential Oil Manufacturing of Brgy. Bato, Biliran, Biliran Province after DOST provided the company the second phase of financial support for technology upgrading of its processing plant.

BEOM is the first success story of the SETUP program in Biliran province when it created income opportunity to the community through employment, improvement of its product quality, and increasing the production volume, on top of other economic parameters (see related article). Above all these indicators is the successful completion of the firm's refund of the financial support provided by DOST for the Phase I of equipment acquisition. DOST provided PhP 865,000.00 for the Phase II new equipment.

The equipment is ready for testing at the fabrication site in Kananga, Leyte who is supervised by BEOM consultant Engr. Jesus Villamil. "When tests will be completed the equipment will be transported to the plant site in Brgy. Bato for on-site testing and trial operation," Mr. Jesus Doyon Sr., BEOM propriator said. The new equipment is expected to replace the old distilling unit used by the firm when its operation started. The old unit had been inefficient due to frequent bug downs and repair. With the acquisition of the new unit, cost of maintenance will be reduced and production capacity of the plant will be optimized.

The new unit will now be working side by side with the distiller purchased during the phase I of the project