DOST 8 Launched STARBOOKS in Biliran

Share

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

Share

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

Share

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

Share

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)

Share

2015 Visayas S & T Fair in Ormoc City soon

Share

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

Share

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.
Admin

DOST releases livelihood assistance to LGU Biliran

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

Share

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

Share

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

Share

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)

Share

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

Share

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

Share

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

Share

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

Share

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

Share

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.

Biliran SETUP Database

DOST Biliran has added new information on its blogsite. The SETUP Projects of Biliran can now be accessed through the button on the right column of the Home Page. For the mean time limited information can be viewed and copied by any interested users. Soon the database can include updates as far as refund rates and other information which is made possible through the Cloud Facilities of Google.

Earlier we added the Map Page which will give you ideas of the location of our projects. Here's the link Map

You can also visit the link from this post.

Ms. Maniba named DOST Biliran OIC

Ms. Maria Catherine G. Maniba

With the awarding of the Scholarship for a Doctorate Degree of the concurrent Provincial Director of DOST Biliran, Mr. Romeo L. Dignos, Ms. Maria Catherine G. Maniba was named Officer-in-Charge of the office effective August 1, 2014 until the official return of Mr. Dignos.

MS. MARIA CATHERINE GONDA-MANIBA was born and raised in Brgy. Tucdao, Kawayan, Biliran being 2nd child among 3 children of Lilio Candido Gonda (deceased) and Cristina Tecling Borja a retired teacher. She finished her Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering cum laude at the Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) in 1997 as DOST Scholar. In April 2014 she completed her Master’s Degree in Technology Management at University of the Philippines-Diliman, Quezon City under the DOST Human Resource Development Program Scholarship (Residential).

As a government worker, Ms. Maniba, "Cathy" to her friends, started as a contractual Science Research Assistant under the Technical Operations Division of the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office 8 Gov’t Center, Candahug, Palo Leyte from February 2008- September 2009. She was transferred to the Scholarship Unit in October – December 2009 and served as Scholarship Project Staff II. In January 2010 she was promoted to a permanent position as Science Research Specialist II assigned in the Biliran Provincial S & T Center of the Department of Science and Technology holding office at NSU Compound, Naval Biliran Province.

She was married to Mr. Rodolfo Logro Maniba, Jr. from Brgy. Mapuyo, Kawayan, Biliran and blessed with 2 children. She and her family now resides in Brgy. Tucdao, Kawayan, Biliran.

DOST 8 approves PhP2.9M for 7 new SETUP project in Biliran

Some of the products of AR La Naval

A total of seven (7) micro enterprises from Biliran Province have recently availed of the DOST's SETUP program totaling PhP 2.935 Million worth of technology assistance for improving the productivity of each firm. The bulk of this assistance is on technology transfer and acquisition of technology related equipment.

The firms who were added in the roll of DOST SETUP assisted enterprises in this island province include the following: 1) AR La Naval Motor Parts and General Marketing, Naval, Biliran engaged in customized metals and motor parts productions and industrial tools and equipment fabrication; 2) Memua Minimart, Caibiran, Biliran for the production of veggie based bread; 3) Lego's Tailoring, Naval, Biliran for production of gifts and holiday decors; 4) USJ Welding Shop, Almeria, Biliran for the production of sidecars for tricycle and other fabricated steel products; 5) JC's Breadhauz, Almeria, Biliran for production of specialized bread products; 6) Kisha Snack House, Cabucgayan, Biliran for improvement of its snack food production facility; and 7) Brian's Landscaping and Agricultural Consultancy Services for upgrading of its hydroponic system for production of high valued vegetables.

The SETUP program primarily aims to upgrade the productivity of these firms so that their product will be of better quality and are GMP and Food Safety compliant, for those engaged in food preparation, through the infusion of appropriate technology.

With the infusion of technology the firms are expected to generate local employment and added income by increasing their production capacity and product marketability.

Henry brought floodwaters in Biliran

Bagongbong River Water Level reading

Typhoon Henry, despite having no storm signal in Biliran Province, brought torrential rains over Biliran Island causing floods in different areas around the province.

Almeria town experienced flooding when rain accumulation reached 213mm from 10AM to 5PM on July 20, 2014. Sources estimated the annual global average precipitation at 715mm and the rains that poured over Almeria in 7 hrs is equivalent to almost 6 months of average rain.

Photo by Jocelyn Salloman Odiselam from biliranisland.com

Bagongbong River, which is the largest river in Almeria recorded rise in water level of up to almost 2 meters. The sensor reading taken from DOST-ASTI's PREDICT site is shown in the photo. The site can be accessed through this link Predict

Meanwhile, Naval which is Biliran's capital town experienced almost the same predicament with torrential rains reaching as high as 120mm of rain from 10AM to 5PM also July 20, 2014. The two major rivers Anas and Caraycaray registered rise in water level to about 2 meters from its normal level. Records of the WLMS reading are presented in the following photos taken from PREDICT site. The rise in water levels prompted the LGU to evacuate residents near the rivers and the suspension of classes on Monday July 21, 2014

Coco farmers appreciate Food Safety and GMP

"Food safety is everybody's concern," declares the Eastern Visayas Food Safety Team. For this reason, even aspiring food manufacturers need to understand their responsibility as far as production of safe food is concerned.

A group of coconut farmers from Brgy. Looc, Almeria, Biliran was made aware of the basics of food safety though a lecture on Food Safety and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)which form part of their training on Village Level Coconut Based Food Processing on June 25-28, 2014 at Looc, Almeria, Biliran.

A total of 32 participants, both men and women, who are members of the Looc Small Coconut Farmers Association in Almeria. The group was headed by Mr. Pastor Mecaydor, who is also the Barangay Chairman of Looc. The group was organized and assisted by the Philippine Coconut Authority, Biliran headed by Mr. Ladislao Atuel, the Provincial Manager. The training was facilitated by the Agricultural Training Institute, VSU, Baybay, Leyte

The DOST Biliran Provincial Director, Mr. Romeo L. Dignos presented the topic on Food Safety which covers basic principles on food safety, different types of hazards, and a brief discussion on DOH Administrative Order 153 s. 2004 that is the REVISED GUIDELINES ON CURRENT GOOD MANUFACTURING PRACTICE IN MANUFACTURING, PACKING, REPACKING, OR HOLDING FOOD. Mr Dignos also discussed the importance of appropriate labeling and packaging as part of cGMP and food safety advocacy. Packaging and Labeling is embodied in RA 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines under Chapter IV of the Act.

DOST-8 middle managers learn F.Covey's 7Habits

Imagine an organization with highly competent people. The field was cleared, instruments ran smoothly, and people were too eager with high spirits. The outputs were overflowing but there was a stinging pain of stress, anxiety, and exhaustion after the tasks were done. What could possibly went wrong? Perhaps, there needed to be some fine tuning in the workers' characters and values. There must be a revisiting of the habits of effectiveness.

The passion of Dir. Edgardo M. Esperancilla, DOST-8 Regional Director to share the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People to his middle managers came into fruition when 20 senior officers of the office completed the course last June 19-21, 2014. I was fortunate I was one of the 20. We thanked the soft-spoken Dir. Ed for letting us experience the program. Dir. Esperancilla completed the said training years back. "It changed my life," he told us.

'I felt grateful for this tool which will not only enhance my work effectiveness but my personal way of dealing with my own life, my relationship with others, and my duties as a human being.' Well, that's a quote from my own mind, which I could have said if I was given the chance to speak then during the closing program. But since time was limited, few volunteers uttered the same thought - of course, using different words.

Ms. Christine Javier of the Center for Leadership and Change, Inc. shared her experience and competence in the 7H program by facilitating the 3-day activity that was held in Tierra de Milagros in Palo, Leyte. Her talents made our spirits "levitate" from Cloud 7 to Cloud 9, with good synthesis and a healthy sense of humor. Ms. Mafe Caalim,also from CLCI, assisted Christine during the activities. That would be a thumbs up for Ma'am Christine and Mafe. Looking ahead for the follow up activities.

The challenge laid upon us is great. The next seven weeks will be the start of a journey in creating a path in our minds. A path that would make way for the habits to create a regular patterns in our routine. Though it's hard, being proactive is a key to achieving what had been carved in our mind as an end result, the vision of what we want to be.

AR La Naval is DOST Biliran's 2014 best technology adoptor

What does it mean to dream of bolts-and-nuts?

Perhaps there are psychic explanations, but for Mr. Rogelio G. Cabulang, proprietor of AR La Naval Motor Parts and General Marketing, that dream is the beginning of a growing business in the metals and engineering field.

AR La Naval, as we call his business name in short, is the leading supplier of motor parts in Biliran today and has the first complete facility for motorcycle servicing in the province. It has a metal fabrication facility that could provide customized small motorcycle components such as mufflers, crash guards, bushings, customized bolts and nuts, gears, and a lot more. Its metal working facility could provide, sleeving and reboring of small engines and fabricate different kinds of farm implements like rice winnower, land master, thresher, and industrial tools and equipment like coco milk extractors, electric graters, stainless tables, pipe benders, and many others.

When Mr. Cabulang first meet Engr. Willy Lim of the Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC) of the Department of Science and Technology during the visit of the latter in Naval sometime in 2008, his first question was "How can I start a business of bolts and nuts production?" This idea came into his mind because as a supplier of motor parts in a developing town of Naval in the young province of Biliran, bolts and nuts is one of its best selling product with high demands. But the discussion turned into some twist that lead Mr. Cabulang to realize his passion is in machining.

AR La Naval has a small shop which is annexed to his first store, a rented space in downtown Naval, that provided re-boring services to motorcycle engines. Since, motorcycle is the primary transportation system in the rural areas of Biliran, his services was in demand. But he had a problem, he was only using an old boring machine and improvised honing machine. So his first step to realizing the dream was by contacting the Department of Science and Technology in Biliran Province.

The technology needs assessment conducted during the MIRDC visit assisted by DOST Biliran staff paved the way for a SETUP assistance to improve his machining facility intended to improve the quality of the rebored products plus the improved capability to produce customized motorcycle components. The assistance included acquisition of equipment worth PhP 985,000.00.

But like his bolts-and-nuts dream, the going sometimes gets tough. Because of his expansion efforts he had to invest on the infrastructure by acquiring a lot and constructing his own building to house the newly acquired equipment. He sourced his capital through mortgaged loan from commercial banks.

AR La Naval needed to double his efforts in order to pay his obligations. He started refunding DOST assistance in December 2009. He faced some highs and lows along the way but was able to complete refund in April 2014. Way before the time the repayments has been completed, AR has already opened a new store outlet in Sogod, Southern Leyte with a small shop providing the same reboring services to the Southern Leyte clients.

From the initial 5 workers before DOST entered into AR La Naval's business the firm now employs 30 personnel in his 3 outlets. Comparing the financial records submitted to the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the firm has a total assets of around PhP 7million before DOST intervention and a total of about PhP 10M by the enterprise completed its refund.

Mr. Cabulang's dream maybe far from ending but his determination and hard-work is always there just like bolts-and-nuts strongly attached together.

2015 DOST Undergrad Scholarships now open for application

The Science Education Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-SEI) now accepts applications for the undergraduate scholarship programs for the school year 2015-2016.

Graduating fourth year high school students for this school year 2014-2015 who belong to the top 5% of the graduating class are qualified to apply. Other criteria include the following: natural-born Filipino citizen; poor, talented and deserving student who belongs to a family whose socio-economic status does not exceed the set values of certain indicators; member of the graduating class of a DOST-SEI identified or DepEd-recognized science high school; resident of the municipality for the last 4 years as attested by the barangay; and of good moral character and in good health.

Passing the qualifying exams slated on September 21, 2014 is a requirement to become a DOST Scholar. Deadline for submission of application is on August 22, 2014. Forms can be obtained at any DOST offices in the provinces and the Regional Offices. It cn also be downloaded through the following links:

2015 DOST-SEI S&T Undergraduate Scholarship Application Form

2015 DOST-SEI S&T Undergraduate Scholarships Brochure

In Biliran we are located at NSU compound, Naval, Biliran Province.

No mountain too steep for DOST Consultancy program

Biliran Scents & Fragrance citronella plantation assessment

The DOST-8 Consultancy team literally walks though hills and climb mountains just to reach its clients in the countryside.

This has become the routine of the Comprehensive Agricultural Productivity Enhancement (CAPE) coordinators and its commissioned consultants during assessment of interested clients who signifies interest to avail of DOST services.

CAPE is one of DOST's consultancy window together with the Manufacturing Productivity Expansion (MPEX) Program, Cleaner Production Technology (CPT), Food Safety (FS), Energy Audit (EA), and other technology specific consultancies.

On June 2-3, 2014 the DOST-8 Team lead by Engr. Ramil Uy, STS Coordinator, Ms. Lucia Dauz and Engr. Florentino Quenonez, MPEX Coordinators, and Ms. Evelyn Tablante, CAPE Coordinator together with the DOST-Biliran Team headed by Mr. Romeo L. Dignos, PSTD, Ms. Ma. Catherine B. Gonda, SRSII, Ms. Gracevillalyn Saldo, Project Assistant II, and Mr. Teddy Abenido, Project Assistant I visited 8 firms from around the Province of Biliran who are enrolled for consultancy assistance for CY 2014.

Canaan Hill Farms Assessment

The DOST Teams were joined by a group of CAPE consultants from the Visayas State University in the persons of Dr. Alfredo B. Escasinas, Dr. Arsenio Ramos, and Dr. Mario Baliad who are experts in their respective fields in Agriculture.

These firms will receive free consultancy services from DOST commissioned consultants from various schools in the region for a period of 3-6 months. The consultants will assist the recipient firms in improving their operations both on technical and management aspects. DOST provides support for the transportation and other incidental expenses of the experts during the consultancy engagements. The consultants, in return, will make necessary recommendations and other technical inputs that will help solve common problems in the business operations. On the receiving end, the firm will be responsible for the cost of any changes he/she is willing to adopt out of the consultants recommendations.

The cost of consultancy fee is so high nowadays that it would be impractical for micro and small enterprises to avail the expertise of consultants by spending some amount out of their own pockets. DOST’s assistance is therefore a big help for them since DOST convinced these consultants to do their share without asking for standard rate consultancy fees.

>The firms to be assisted include: 4 for MPEX: JC Breadhauz, Almeria, Biliran, USJ Welding Shop, Almeria, Biliran, Kisha Snack House, Cabucgayan, Biliran, and Memu Minimart, Caibiran, Biliran; 4 for CAPE: Atipolo MPCI, Naval, Biliran, Biliran Scents & Fragrances, Biliran, Biliran, Canaan Hill Farms, Caibiran, and Maderazo Farm, Caibiran. Also USJ Welding Shop will be assisted with the CPT Program and Energy Audit.

SY2014-2015 DOST-SEI Scholarship Examination Results

The result of the 2014 DOST-SEI Scholarship Examinations for the SY 2014-2015 is now available.

Congratulations to the following passers from Biliran Province:

1. LACSON, JOVIE ANN ALMERIA NHS
2. BORAGAY, GRANT G. BILIRAN NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL HS
3. CORPIN, PRINCESS MICAH T. BILIRAN NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL HS
4. ORZAL, KRIS ANN M. CABUCGAYAN NSAT
5. CABALQUINTO, MICHELLE B. MANLABANG NHS
6. FIEL, ROVIE JOY Q. MANLABANG NHS
7. BORROMEO, ANGELYN A. CULABA NVS
8. PAPILLERAS, KAREN ANTONETTE A. KAWAYAN NHS
9. RADAM, ANITA J. MARIPIPI NVS
10.GULFO, JEFFERSON G. LUCSOON NHS
11.MAHINAY, JEDALYN V. NAVAL NHS
12.SUMAYAN, KIM REYMART BILIRAN SHS

Click the link for the Complete List of qualifiers.

The new scholarship awardees must seek admission in any of the priority S&T fields of study at state colleges and universities and CHED-identified Centers of Excellence/Centers of Development. Each qualifier shall receive a notice of award from the DOST-SEI or DOST Regional Office stating the date of orientation and contract signing. He/she shall report at the designated venue with a parent/legal guardian who must bring a 2014 Community Tax Certificate or Official Passport. The legal guardian is required to present his/her affidavit of guardianship. The names of some potential qualifiers are put on hold pending re-evaluation of some requirements.

Congratulations to all passers.