DOST Biliran PSTD joins National planning

Regional Directors and representative Provincial Science and Technology Directors from around the country gathered at the Food and Nutrition Research Institute Audio-visual room in DOST at Bicutan on December 9-11, 2009 for the 2010 program and projects planning.

DOST Biliran's Mr. Romeo L. Dignos was among the representatives of the DOST 8 PSTDs together with Engr. John Glenn Ocaña, PSTD of Leyte. The rest of the team from DOST 8 Regional Office are Mr. Rufino Mengote-Planning Officer, Ms. Mae Anne D. Reyes-SET RPMO coordinator, Engr. Ernesto M. Granada, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Operations, and Engr. Edgardo M. Esperancilla, the Regional Director.

The Regional Office group presented the accomplishments for 2009 and the proposed programs and targets of the agency for 2010. The PSTDs, on their part, presented the successful and unsuccessful SETUP projects in their respective areas of assignment. The project presentations was a good opportunity to learn and adopt the good practices employed by successful projects and avoid the pitfalls of unsuccessful ones.

2010-2011 DOST SEI Scholarships

The DOST SEI Scholarship Examinations for SY 2010-2011 will be simultaneously conducted on November 15, 2009 in all Test Centers throughout the country. For Biliran the Test Center is located at the Audio Visual Room, Andaya Building, Naval State University, Naval, Biliran Province.

A total of 120 students from Biliran Province are expected to take the exams.

Takers are advised to bring with them their identifications (School ID) and examination permits. In cases where permits are lost or did not reach them, any valid ID and certification from the school head that they have submitted their applications and the same were recorded by authorized DOST official shall be considered.

Biliran PSTC conducts MPEX pre-assessment

Three micro enterprises in Biliran were pre-assessed on November 10, 2009 for possible assistance under the DOST-8's continuing effort to improve the productivity of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

Two beneficiaries were considered under Manufacturing Productivty Expansion Program (MPEX) as well as possible innovation support and one to be considered only for technology acquisition support. The Caril's Furniture in Naval, Biliran, which was earlier favorably evaluated by SETUP National Program Management Office (NPMO), is specializing in wood furniture but uses manual tools in boring and curve cutting. The firm needs to acquire new tools to improve their productivity. Training on wood bending and wood finishing techniques is proposed for next year's intervention.

ES Cator Steel Works is another firm considered for MPEX. They specializes on body building for motor cabs and tricycles, grilles, steel trusses, and other steel works. Their current need is on improvement on their welding and metal bending facility. The last one is Ungale Handicraft in Brgy. Ungale, Kawayan, Biliran, which specializes in home decors and novelty gift items made from abaca based materials and other local indigenous raw materials. They are hoping to upgrade their facility by acquiring new equipment for sewing the weaving of abaca.

The assessment team was headed by Ms. Mae Anne D. Reyes, Supervising Science Research Specialist and Executive Manager of DOST-8 Technology Transfer and Commercialization Unit and Ms. Lucy Dauz, Science Research Specialist II and Coordinator of the DOST-8 MPEX project together with the Biliran Provincial S & T Director, Mr. Romeo L. Dignos.

Cake Decorating assistance

In partnership with experts from the Naval State University in Naval, Biliran, the DOST Biliran facilitated the conduct of training on improvement of cake products of Jornales Bakeshop, a micro enterprise specializing in cakes and pastry, in Biliran town of Biliran province on November 8, 2009.

A total of four formulations for cake, four formulations for cake icing, and decorating techniques were transfered to the proponent who was a beneficiary of the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SET-UP) of DOST. The training was attended by 6 persons who are workers and owners of Jornales Bakeshop and other walk in clients.

Mrs. Ma Lourdes Bacason, from the Naval State University served as the resource person of the training which was coordinated by the school through its Extension Services Office.

DOST 8 is ISO 9001:2008 Certified

After a very tedious process of complying the major requirements for accreditation DOST-8 with its six Provincial Center including Biliran PSTC is finally accorded the ISO 9001:2008 certification this October by Certification International Philippines, Inc. (CIPI). With the certification is the assurance that our services passed a through Quality Management System at par with the rest of quality service providers of the world.

We will be posting more details of the certification sooner.

Training for emergency livelihood

In support to the Comprehensive Livelihood Emergency Employment Program (CLEEP) of the government, the DOST Biliran joined hands with the DTI in conducting training activities for the youth and women's group in the municipality of Naval, Biliran Province

A training on bocorillo production was conducted for the women beneficiaries while training on silk screen printing was designed for the youth group. Bocorillo is a local delicacy made from young coconuts mixed with caramelized sugar with milk and formed into small circular patties. The product is a popular dessert.

Meanwhile, silk screen printing using photographic film was specially taught to youngsters. The skill is specifically applicable in t-shirt printing, ribbon production, and other specialized printing for commercial purposes.

A total of 51 trainees benefitted from the 1-day simultaneous activity that was conducted on October 29, 2009 at the Naval Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office facility. The LGU of Naval was co-implementing the event through the MSWDO.

NIT is now Naval State University (NSU)

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has finally signed Republic Act 9718 converting the Naval Institute of Technology (NIT) into Naval State University (NSU) at Malacañang Palace on October 14, 2009.

Witnessing the event are Congressman Glenn A. Chong of the Lone District of Biliran and principal author of the law, Dr. Emmanuel Angeles, Chairman of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Naval Sangguniang Bayan member Jose T. Genson, and Dr. Edita S. Genson, NSU President
(PIA Biliran)

Photo from biliranisland.com

DOST Biliran is Biliran OTOP's Most Supportive Partner Organization

The Department of Science and Technology's Provincial Science and Technology Centers in Region 8 bagged the One Town One Product's (OTOP) Most Supportive Partner Organization awards in Provincial levels fro 5 out of 6 provinces. The 5 provincial awardees and nominated for the Regional level awards are Biliran, Eastern Samar, Samar, Northern Samar, and Southern Leyte with Samar PSTC emerging as the Regional OTOP Most Supportive Partner Organization.

The awarding ceremony was made during the Regional OTOP Congress conducted in Tacloban City on September 10, 2009 through the leading of the OTOP Secretariat, the Department of Trade and Industry. Also awarded during the event are the SMEs and LGU implementers.

Honorable Cynthia R. Nierras, Presidential Assistant for the Visayas, graced the occassion attended by OTOP partners and beneficiary LGU's and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) around the region.

S & T Scholarship Information Caravan in Biliran

Students from 13 high schools in Biliran Province joined the Information Caravan on DOST scholarships conducted by the the DOST-8 Scholarship promotion team together with Biliran Provincial S & T Center and the Department of Education Division of Biliran on August 20, 2009 at the Naval Central School, Naval, Biliran

Teachers and students were briefed on the requirements and application procedures of the diffrent scholarship programs implemented by the DOST. Specifically, the caravan was aimed to generate awareness on the scholarship programs and what benefits it would bring to the qualifiers. It was also geared towards encouraging all qualified students to apply and have the chance to qualify through the examinations slated on November 15, 2009 in designated testing centers nationwide.

Participating students are those belonging to the top 10% of the graduating class coming from the different high schools around the island province. Students not belonging to the top but who possess special aptitude in science and mathematics could also apply by showing proof through rating cards and certified by the school principal.

Students from Biliran and neighboring towns of Leyte i.e. Leyte and Calubian, may opt take the qualifying test at Naval State University, the designated testing center in Biliran, after proper coordination with the DOST-8.

Finally, the DOST Biliran PSTC extends its gratefullness to DepEd Biliran's Schools Division Superintendent, Dr. Sarah Apurillo for quickly organizing the forum.

Sec. Alabastro visits projects in Samar Provinces

The untiring Secretary, Dr. Estrella F. Alabastro, of DOST remarkably toured the entire island of Samar on August 13-15, 2009 in an effort to update herself of what DOST has done in this area. This visit is marked as the Region VIII leg of her countrywide project visits this year.

Sec. Alabastro maybe the first DOST Secretary to have visited in a single trip the projects in the provinces of Northern Samar, Samar (Western), and Eastern Samar. She scaled down urban areas, walk dirt roads, travelled bumpy streets, hiked hills, and even cross the seas through small boat, to reach DOST projects even in remote areas.

The 5th Visayas S & T Fair Opens Today

The 5th Visayas S & T Fair opens today at the People's Center in Tacloban City with a simple Opening Ceremony yet well attended by major science and technology stakeholders of the Visayas region and other DOST officials around the country.

For a more detailed report Click Here. Here is a glimpse of the major activities today:

Opening Ceremony:

Launching of the Visyas SET-UP Online, a web-based GIS database of DOST projects and programs.

Forging of the Visayas Consortium with Engr. Rowen Gelonga, Engr. Rene Burt N. Llanto, and Engr. Edgardo M. Esperancilla, Regional Directors of DOST 6, 7, & 8, respectively witnessed by DOST Assistant Secretary, Dr. Carol M. Yorobe.

Public Awarding of ISO 17025 Accreditation to DOST-8 Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory.

Awarding of S & T Kabalikat Award to ABC 5

Opening of the S & T Exhibits.

Press Conference.


Dialogue with SETUP beneficiaries.

5th Visayas Cluster S & T Fair

We are announcing the conduct of the 5th Visayas Cluster Science and Technology Fair on August 3-6, 2009 in Tacloban City. This S & T Fair is not only for science and technology professionals and students but also is designed for the benefit of the general public. We therefore call the general populace to come and participate.

The activity once again will feature the contribution of Science and Technology in the different sectors of society, the professionals, businessmen, and common people alike. A new type of exhibits will be featured during the fairs; products out of the firms the DOST assisted will also be sold in the exhibit area; and technologies that affect the people will be presented during the technical sessions.
(Photo was taken during the 4th S & T Fair from http://ro7.dost.gov.ph)

The following is the general lined up activities.

Day 1( August 3)

• 8AM-11AM Opening Ceremonies and Opening of Exhibits at the People's Center, Tacloban City.
• 11AM-1PM Press Conference, Hotel Alejandro
• 1PM-5PM Forum with SETUP assisted SMEs and Sec. Estrella F. Alabastro and Assistant Secretary Carol M. Yorobe

Day 2 -5 (August 4-6)

• Technical Sessions on Various Topics: (Renewable Energy, Gifts & Holiday Decors, Solid Waste Management, Climate Change, Food Safety, etc) Various experts on these fields will present important information that are useful even to the common person.

Further details on the activities will be posted here from time to time, so please keep watch.

Biliran PMSMED Council revitalized

The implementation of Republic Act (RA) 9501 paved the way for the revitalization of the Provincial Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Council (PMSMEDC) which is actively participated by the Biliran Provincial S & T Center. In Biliran, the Council is chaired by Mr. Tiburcio Morales, retired DAR 8 Regional Director, now representing the private sector. RA 9501 is actually an act to promote entrepreneurship by strengthening development and assistance programs to micro, small and medium scale enterprises, amending the "Magna Carta for Small Enterprises" (RA 6977).

Organized just in May 2009, a year after the Act was approved in May 2008, the Biliran PMSMEDC focued on three sectors as priority for development and implementation of support policies and programs. These are: Food processing, Gifts and Holiday Decors, and Tourism. The provincial council included the following agencies: DOST, DILG, DOLE, TESDA, PNP, PCA, NIT representing the academe, and major Provincial LGU Departments like the Agriculture, Toursim, and the Planning Office. The priority sectors were also represented by selected private enterprises.

This month on July 6-12, 2009 the SMED Week was celebrated and the Council embarked on intensive information drive and advocacy on its programs and projects currently implemented and those planned for implementation.

ISO Preparation activities

The month of June was a hectic month for Biliran PSTC. Not only that our activities were focused on finalizing our implementation of ISO 9000:2008 for accreditation purposes, but also that my assistant, SRS II, is on leave for the entire month, and sadly he planned to resign starting July 2009; for greener pasture, I suppose.

The whole DOST-8 was occupied with series of events on ISO and provincial staff were required to join. We have our Internal Audit training last month, of course with MIRDC, and the actual conduct of Internal Audit.

Despite the time pressure, with me out of office most of the time, new projects are being worked out and are on the pipeline. I would mention them on the next post. Thanks to my job order staff, a janitorial employee who is able to cope the instant promotion (of work only, not pay) in becoming my SRS II. Things really are tough in the DOST. Well, that's science and technology.

SETUP online database takes off in Visayas

After initially developing the DOST SETUP Projects Online in Mindanao The Department of Science and Technology is now on the process of extending the database to include data on projects from the Visayas and Luzon regions.

The DOST SETUP Projects Online is a web-based GIS that features the location of the projects and the interventions of the DOST to the MSMES in the country. A search facility allows one to find projects by major categories, by region, province, district and city/municipality. Each project location features a profile of the project and photos of the progress of implementation.

Currently, the site is hosted by GEOPLAN, a non government foundation that provides solutions and applications that makes use of geographic information systems (GIS) technology. GEOPLAN is responsible for the development of the project in close coordination with DOST Regional Office No. 7.

The DOST-8, through its designated project Administrator Ms. Mae Anne Reyes, has recently given signal to the PSTDs in Region 8 for the inputting of the necessary data and information.

The database for Mindanao can be initially accessed through http://geoplan.ph/dost-setup

PSTDs join PAGASA Training

The Biliran Provincial S & T Director, Mr. Romeo L. Dignos, joined the one week training on Extreme Weather Observation Protocol for PSTDs conducted by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on May 25-29, 2009 at the PAGASA Regional Training Center in Diliman, Quezon City.

The training was the second batch out of three batches designed for Provincial S & T Directors all over the country with the end view of augmenting and widening PAGASA's data gathering of weather parameters (like rainfall intensity) during extreme weather conditions.

The training include series of lectures on: PAGASA's functions, programs and services, The weather systems affecting the country, the forecasting and warning systems on typhoons and floods, some basics on climatology, agrometeorology, and climate change. The group also visited the different stations of PAGASA such as the Upper air station in Tanay, Rizal, the Agromet station in UP Los Baños, Laguna, and the Radar Station in Baguio City.

DOST Secretary visits DOST-8 project, event

The DOST Secretary Estrella F. Alabastro, despite the hectic schedule during the joint NAFC and Cabinet Meeting in Tacloban City managed to visit the TBI project in Palo, Leyte and DOST co-organized S & T Exhibits and Fair at the People Center, Tacloban City last April 28, 2009.

Sec. Alabastro was not suppose to go out after the Cabinet meeting due to tight schedules but the exhibit, which is one of the highlights of the on-going Palarong Pambansa in Tacloban City, is worth visiting for. Meanwhile, The TBI project in the Leyte Academic Center is a major project of DOST-8 in the Region and is among the unique ones, and therefore worth seeing as well.

Through the leadership of Dir. Edgardo Esperancilla, DOST-8, the visit was very fruitful not only because of the successful projects and event but also because it brought fellowship among the top leader of DOST and its middle managers, the PSTD and the Regional Unit heads.

ITDI trained rural folks on mushroom production

Naval, Biliran. The Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) recently trained 16 beneficiaries, including women, from Barangay San Pablo this town, on the production of mushroom spawn fruiting bags and the culture of mushrooms. The training ran from April 23-25, 2009.
Facilitated by the DOST-Biliran PSTC through Engr. Manuel Letran, training coordinator and Mr. Romeo Dignos, PSTD and Mr. Ramil Uy, Sr. SRS of DOST-8, the activity was made possible through the expertise of Mr. Emilio Montiague, SRS II of ITDI. The activity was partly funded by the DOST SETUP program and the Barangay LGU of San Pablo, Naval.

The participants were trained on the production of mushroom spawn fruiting bags using saw dust and dried banana leaves and inoculation of mushroom spores. After the training the trainees are expected to produce the bags for growing of mushrooms or selling them to intersted growers.

For further details on the activity, you may contact the DOST-PSTC Biliran on its phone numbers and e-mail address.

CAPE Team assess Fish Farm in Naval

The DOST 8 Regional CAPE Team and the Samar State University aquaculture experts group conducted assessment of a Fish Farm operated by retired Col. Arcadio Lelis in Brgy San Pablo, Naval, Biliran last March 31, 2009.

The consultancy engagement was in response to the beneficiary's request for technical assistance to assist him in improving the fish pond operation in an initial area of 3 hectares situated at Brgy. San Pablo which is about 5 kilometers from Naval town. "There had been operations in the area in the past but they are at small capacity despite the wide area which has potential for development," the soft-spoken retired Biliran Police Provincial commander said in native tongue.

"If the project would succeed, this vast area will be further developed by other investors," he added.

Col. Lelis informed the experts they have stocked the farm previously with prawn fries of PL21, but they have not recovered anything. On initial testing, the experts found out that the water is highly saline, which maybe one of the reasons for the mortality. The large pond has only one water entrance gate coming from the saltwater side and so a second gate for the fresh water is recommended.

Other results and recommendations from the assessing team will be crafted later and which would serve as guide for the beneficiary.

The consultancy team was led by Dr. Renato Diocton and his assistants: Mr. Raul Celmar, Mr. Danilo Mabonga, and Mr. Fernando De Guzman. Facilitating the activity was Ms. Mae Anne D. Reyes, Supervising SRS of DOST 8, Ms. Evelyn Tablante DOST-8 CAPE coordinator, Mr. Marcelino Nicer Sr, driver., and the DOST Biliran PSTD Mr Romeo L. Dignos.

Passers of the DOST-SEI 2009-2010 Scholarship Examinations

Congratulations to the following passers from the province of Biliran:

BS Regular RA 7687
1. Basmayor, John David - Higatangan NHS
2. Cabriana, Marchie delos Santos - NSF
3. Cipriano, Song Shin Woong Ill Abad - Tucdao NHS
4. Estrada, Edward Joseph Honrejas - Kawayan NHS
5. Macanip, Divine Saberon - PSHS
6. Olimba, Romelyn Amador - Almeria NHS
7. Sanoy, Richard Baylon - Almeria NHS

BS with Bridging to other school:
1. Rico, Nikko Mercado - Manlabang NHS

Ladderized (Technician)
1. Cale, Rogelen Mae Isidto - Biliran NAHS
2. Garin, Loida Maderazo - Manlabang NHS
3. Najera, Nico Nestor Bacalla - Biliran NAHS
4. Prudenciano, Dianne Calda - Maripipi NVS
5. Rabonza, Roger Jr. Seguios - Biliran NAHS

Merit A
1. Castro, Samuel Clark Thadeus Velasquez - PSHS
2. Ebio, Mark Francis Cotejar - PSHS
3. Sabitsana, Clemens Lee Mocorro - PSHS

For the complete list please follow the LINK

Dr Cordero as CAPE consultant

Dr. Paciente Cordero, retired Executive Director of the National Research Council of Philippines (NRCP 2001-2006) of the DOST, who hails from Burauen, Leyte recently visited Biliran for a consultancy engagement on Seaweeds Production. Dr. Cordero is a known expert in Marine Biology and conducted several studies particularly on the morpho-taxonomy of marine algae, including edible seaweeds of sea vegetables(NAST.gov.ph)


The visit was initiated through the support of the Comprehensive Agricultural Productivity Enhancement (CAPE) Program of the Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI) of DOST. The beneficiary group is the local people of Brgy. Villa Enage in Biliran town of the Province of Biliran headed by Mr. Arvie Buenconsejo, the Brgy. Chairman. The assistance include consultancy service on improving the farmer's propagation practices and to address farming problems to increase the output.

A survey was conducted last March 10, 2009 which showed there are about 16 hectares of coastal area which can be developed for the seaweeds production particularly Eucheuma spp. ("gozo"). Dr. Cordero was assisted by DOST-Biliran PSTD Mr Romeo L. Dignos and staff Engr. Manuel P. Letran, and the DOST-8 regional CAPE team headed by Ms. Evelyn Tablante.


Also with the evaluating group was the team of researchers from Biliran National Agricultural College (BNAC), Biliran, Biliran which is an attached school to the Naval Institute of Technology, headed by Dr. Nicasio Elatico.

After the initial evaluation the expert will provide necessary recommendation which will be adopted by the beneficiary.

(Photo from top to bottom: 1) Dr Cordero with PSTC staff Mr. Dignos (yellow), Engr Letran (blue), Dr. Elatico, & Ms. Tablante standing. 2) The inspection team, 3) The "gozo" production area.)

FNRI trains studes, SME in Biliran

The Food and Nutrition Research Institute conducted two separate technology transfer engagement in Biliran on March 9-10, 2009. The first one was the successful conduct of the Meal Management and Food Safety Training at NIT and second, the technology transfer on the Veggie bread technology with White Rose Bakeshop.

With the Naval Institute of Technology's would be Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Managers, the Meal Management training which ran on March 9-10, 2009 was held at the NIT Gymnasium in cooperation with the HRTM Department in the College of Technology of NIT. About 160 graduating HRTM students joined and benefited from the seminar. FNRI' Ms. PaulaC. Huelar and Ms. Josefina T. Gonzales served as resource persons. Ms. Maya Divinagracia and Ms. Evelyn Tablante served as facilitators during the event.

The students actively participated in the discussions and were highly appreciative of the added knowledge which they found useful as they face their chosen fields after graduation. For others who are going on the job training (OJT), the inputs were an enhancement to the knowledge gained in classrooms since practical experiences are shared during the discussions.

Meanwhile, Ms. Cecilia Quindara and Ms. Dahlia Diaz, conducted the transfer of the veggie bread technologies to the White Rose Bakeshop, still in Naval on March 9, 2009. The exact formulations and actual processing were demonstrated to the workers of the bakeshop. White Rose will be the first bakeshop in Naval that would integrate squash in their bread formulations. Results of the product demonstration show that the new formula would produce a better and more nutritious products than those they used to produce. The FNRI support also provide WR the authority to use the nutritional facts of the products generated by FNRI.

First DOST Visayas Management Conference

The top and middle managers of the DOST Regional Offices Number 6, 7, and 8 gathered in Sugarland Hotel, Bacolod City on March 4-5 in the First Visayas Cluster Management Conference to craft a cohesive plan to address major issues relevant to current DOST programs and policies. This is a step ahead in the DOST Visayas family's dream of "One Visayas connected with waters" guided by the principles that working together builds a strong organization. Shall we say it "1 > 3" or "6 + 7+ 8 = 1."
Among the major issues discussed were the sharing of best practices in the areas of technology transfer, human resource development, and networking. In the course of program implementations, issues and problems were identified and then integrated plans for whole of Visayas was developed. The conference was also made a venue in developing a stronger bond among DOST Visayas personnel through fellowship event during the 1st day.

Among the DOST officials present were Usec. Graciano P. Yumul Jr., Dr. Nuna Almanzor, ITDI Executive Director, Engr. Edgar Garcia of TAPI with Mr Jess Torreda and Rose Olaer, Ms. Ninaliza Escorial of PCIERRD, Dr. Mario Capanzana, Executive Director of FNRI, Ms. Lauren Teena Velasquez of TRC, and a representative from SET-UP NPMO Mr. Ronnel Palileo. The PSTDs from Visayas component provinces and the ARDs and program coordinators from the 3 Regional offices were the major actors in the conference. The presence and able leadership of the 3 Regional Directors, Engr. Rowen Gelonga, Engr. Rene Burt Llanto, and Engr. Edgardo Esperancilla, made the event a very fruitful one.

As the group returned to their respective areas, each one is eyeing for the next round of gatherings to push out the plans that were forged during the event.

Jobs at DOST 8

The Department of Science and Technology, Regional Office No. VIII with office at Candahug, Palo, Leyte announces the opening of the following vacant positions:

1. Senior Science Research Specialist - 1 item vacant, Grade 19, PhP 20,318/mo. Basic Salary, Qualification: BS degree relevant to the job, 2 yrs experience, CSC 2nd level eligibility, Assignment: DOST East Samar.
   
2. Science Research Specialist II - 4 items vacant, Grade 16, PhP 17,059/mo. Basic Salary, Qualification: BS degree relevant to the job, 1 yr experience, CSC 2nd level eligibility, Assignment: 2 DOST Samar, 1 DOST North Samar, 1 DOST Leyte.
3. Administrative Aide - 1 item vacant, Grade 6, PhP 9,204/mo. Basic Salary, Qualification: 2 years in college, 1 yr experience, CSC sub-prof eligibility, Assignment: DOST Regional Office

Interested applicants are advised to submit application letter with pertinent documents(certificates of employment, certification of good moral character, personal data sheet, etc.). Applications should be addressed to:

Engr. Edgardo M. Esperancilla
Regional Director
DOST-8, Palo, Leyte

Deadline for submission of applications is on April 13, 2009. For more details you may contact (053)323-7111, (053)323-6356, and (053)323-6036

Meal Management and Food Safety Training in Biliran

The DOST Biliran PSTC is announcing the conduct of a Training on Meal Management and Food Safety on March 9-10, 2009 at the Naval Institute of Technology campus, Naval, Biliran.

The training program is designed for entrepreneurs engaged in meal planning and preparation like caterers, restaurant owners, and the likes, other meal managers, food preparation professionals and workers, and even students taking up Hotel and Restaurant Management and related course. DOST therefore is inviting interested parties to attend the training. For reservations the DOST PSTC can be reached by phone at (053) 5009347 or see the staff directly at their office located at NIT Compound, Naval, Biliran, and look for Engr. Manuel P. Letran.

This activity is jointly organized by the DOST Regional Office No. VIII, the DOST Biliran PSTC, the Naval Institute of Technology, and the Food and Nutrition Research Institue. FNRI experts will serve as resource persons of the training.

Training for business development

The Industrial Technology Development Institute of the Department of Science and Technology located in Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila is offering the following training courses for the month of March 2009.


SOYBEAN PROCESSING
STEP-BY-STEP PROCESSING OF TAHO, TOKWA AND SOYMILK
FROM SOYBEAN
DURATION: MARCH 3 – 4, 2009
TRAINING FEE: P 2,000.00

SPECIALTY SOAP
STEP-BY-STEP PROCESSING OF HERBAL BATH SOAP, MEDICATED SOAP, LIQUID BATH SOAP AND TRANSPARENT SOAP
DURATION: MARCH 11 -13, 2009
TRAINING FEE: PHP 2,300.00

FISH PROCESSING
DIFFERENT METHODS OF FISH PROCESSING AND OTHER VALUE ADDED FISHERY
DURATION: MARCH 24-25, 2009
TRAINING FEE: PHP 2,400.00

Registration Information:

PAYMENT MUST BE MADE IN ADVANCE BUT NOT LATER THAN FOUR (4) DAYS BEFORE THE TRAINING SCHEDULE. PAYMENT/CHECKS PAYABLE TO INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE ARE ACCEPTED THROUGH ANY LAND BANK OFFICE AND ADDRESSED TO LAND BANK OF THE PHILIPPINES, BICUTAN BRANCH WITH ITDI TRAINING ACCOUNT NUMBER: 1822-10-28-63.

TRAINING FEE COVERS EXPENSES FOR SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS, USE OF FACILITIES, MEALS, HANDOUTS, CERTIFICATE AND PRODUCT SAMPLES (IF APPLICABLE).

CERTIFICATES WILL BE GIVEN TO THE PARTICIPANTS.

ITDI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CANCEL ANY OF ITS TRAINING PROGRAM DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES

For further inquiries, please write or call:

RURAL TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION DIVISION
Industrial Technology Development Institute
DOST Compound, Bicutan, Taguig City
Tel. Nos. 837-2071 to 82 loc. 2270/2269
Telefax no. 837-6156
E-mail: rtid@dost.gov.ph
Webpage: http://itdibiz.com

Interested parties from the Province of Biliran may contact the PSTC at NIT Compound, Naval, Biliran with Tel No. (053) 5009347 or you may call ITDI directly using the contact addresses and numbers provided above.

DOST SEI SY 2009-2010 Scholarship Exam Results

Scholarship Advisory:

This office received a lot of calls and other inquiries for the result of the DOST-SEI SY 2009-2010 Scholarship Examinations which was conducted on November 9, 2008 nationwide. DOST has not released the result yet as of this posting.

We however inform our examinees from Biliran and the other provinces that we will be posting the list of passers in this site once they are available. We will also announce the web links of the official examination results and other advisories as soon as they become available.

PSTD, Biliran

Weather Outlook from PAG-ASA

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), through Dr. Prisco D. Nilo, Administrator released on February 9, 2009 this Weather Outlook for February 2009.

"The unusually cold conditions in the tropical Pacific are expected to continue until early 2009. The most likely scenario is for the central and eastern Pacific to remain neutral until the first half of 2009.

"Weather systems that are expected to affect the country are the Northeast Monsoon, the tail-end of the cold front, easterlies, and a slim chance for a tropical cyclone occurrence. The country is expected to experience near to above normal rainfall conditions during the month. The expected stronger than normal easterlies will likely enhance cooling in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean (CEEP) which may influence climate conditions in the country in terms of increased rainfall.

"Air temperatures for the month are expected to be slightly warmer than normal, ranging from19°C-31°C in Luzon and 13°C-24°C over its mountainous areas, 22°C-31°C in the Visayas, 21°C - 33°C in Mindanao and 18°C - 29°C over its mountainous areas.

"PAGASA will continue to monitor the day-to-day rainfall/weather conditions and the large-scale climatic patterns that affect the country. The general public is advised to take necessary precautions for possible flooding and landslides over areas which may experience heavy rainfall."

For other weather concerns please visit the PAGASA Website

Veggie based products in Biliran

White Rose Bakeshop, believed to be the oldest yet surviving bakeshop in Naval town, is coming up soon with another show of its innovative culture. This developed as the manager, Mr. Allan Ang signed this February an agreement with the DOST-8 and the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI-DOST) adopting the veggie-bread and veggie noodles production technologies.

"We also go with the trend, so that we can compete with other new bakeshops," Mr. Ang commented, as he explained why their family business remained stable and stood the challenge of emerging competitors. And the adoption of the technologies is an initiative that proves to that culture.

FNRI would provide the formulations of the two products to WR Bakeshop through training that would be conducted for their workers.

Meanwhile, DOST through the Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program (SET-UP) will provide support funds for the acquisition of equipment for the production of veggie-noodles.

PSHS Passers for CY 2009-2010

Three Biliranons hurdled the Philippine Science High School National Competetive Examinations conducted in November 15, 2008. All came from Naval SPED Center in Naval North District Naval, Biliran. The successful examinees are: Apura,SHIURABELLE BELLO, Curso, MARK ANTHONY RELENTE, and Dignos, EVA CLARISSA GABOR. All three are qualified to enroll at the PSHS Eastern Visayas Campus in Palo, Leyte.

For further information interested parties are advised to refer to the PSHS website. Click these link: PSHS Website

Congratulations!

For a complete list of the passers please follow this link: PSHS Nov 15, 2008 Results

We move to a new location

The Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center office has moved to a new location within the NIT Campus. Starting February 2009, we are situated at the 1st Floor of NIT Gymnasium.

We hanged a streamer to enable clients to locate us easily. Please be advised that our telephone and fax numbers are still the same.

Tel/fax: (053) 500-9347
e-mail: rdignos@hotmail.com

First SET-UP Project visits in 2009

A DOST-8 Regional SET-UP Team and an Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) expert conducted an assessment of three ITDI assisted projects in Biliran Province last January 31, 2009 to evaluate the progress of their implementation.

Ms. Mae Anne D. Reyes, Supervising Science Research Specialist headed the team which is composed of Engr. Ramil Uy, Sr SRS, Ms. Lucia Dauz, SRS II, and Marcelino Nicer Sr., driver from the Regional Office and Mr. Romeo L. Dignos, the Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Director. Engr. Melchor Valdecañas who is the technology expert relevant to the visited projects represented the ITDI.

Among the projects visited was the Fish Processing Demonstration Project in Bunga, Cabucgayan, Biliran operated by the Municipal LGU of Cabucgayan. The facility uses the mechanical dryer and smoke house designed by ITDI through Engr. Valdecañas and his team. The dryer was tested during the visit which was attended by the Sangguniang Bayan of Cabucgayan headed by Vice Mayor Gemma Garcia Adobo. The facility is expected to serve the fisher folks of Cabucgayan in producing high quality dried fish by providing a clean facility for drying.

The team then proceeded to Brgy Bato. Biliran at the site of the Biliran Essential Oil Manufacturing Philippines, a facility producing citronella oil. The factory uses a SET-UP funded extraction equipment designed by Engr. Jesus Villamil with technical support from ITDI, again through Engr. Valdecañas. The facility is currently running in full operation and apparently providing income both to the owners and those laborers hired in the citronella farm and the processing plant.

In Naval, the Team visited the newly relocated Meat Processing Facility of Carding Meat Store which is now situated at Vicentello Street, Naval, Biliran. The firm has tried initial operation just recently and has volume of processed meat (smoked sausages) ready for testing. The firm had been assisted by ITDI in terms of Good Manufacturing Practices in the past consultancy visits.

The team provided recommendations to the cooperators of the respective project in improving their operations to attain the required out which revolves around employment and income generation.

DOST Biliran joins 2009 OTOP Planning

Another year has passed and the One Town One Product (OTOP) Program of the government spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry and actively co-implemented by other line agencies including the Department of Science and Technology is still lively pursuing its mandate of generating employment and investment in the countryside.

The planning and assessment for Biliran Province was conducted on January 28, 2009 at Marvin's Seaside Inn pool-side conference hall. The event highlighted what was accomplished in CY 2008 and what needs to be done in CY 2009.

DOST Biliran's contribution to the efforts of OTOP covered technical consultancy, provision of experts and facilities for training, and technology acquisition support funds for the participating micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME). Innovation support assistance for acquisition of equipment totalling approximately 1.5 million pesos for three projects comprises the bulk of DOST's part in OTOP program implementation. These funds were directly provided to legitimate SMEs whose projects are aligned with the priority products of the LGUs.

The local government of Culaba was highlighted as among the best municipal OTOP implementers in the Province of Biliran. Their success was due to the active involvement of the local elected officials and the persistence of the Municipal OTOP coordinator Mrs. Epifania Loyola, the Municipal Agriculturist of Culaba, Biliran.

2008 in Review

The Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Center, true to its mandate of delivering S & T services in the countryside as a linking arm of the DOST to its clients has contributed notable accomplishments for CY 2008. Priority projects and activities were centered on technology transfer and commercialization and support services including provision of technology information, equipment acquisition, and consultancy. These things were carried out by a lean PSTC organization, with two (2) regular staff and one (1) job order personnel, through proper networking of several partners and stakeholders in the area.

With very limited resources, the Center were able to submit several projects which were consequently approved and funded by the SET-UP NPMO for technology acquisition support. A total of six (6) projects were approved for CY 2008 for Biliran amounting to about PhP 2.3 M.

Innovation Systems Support

SET-UP Core Funded Projects

The Biliran PSTC facilitated the approval of the following project for core funding under the SET-UP technology acquisition support for CY 2008:

1. Upgrading of Metal Working Facility of the AR La Naval Motor Parts and General Marketing, Naval, Biliran. The project includes acquisition of equipment for production of rebored cylinder heads for motorcycle and small engines. With MIRDC as partner other services include consultancy for process and productivity improvements. Total approved amount is PhP 995,000.00

SET UP also approved a project on Fish Processing which was later on split into two due to some intervening events:

2. The Bangus Processing project of Biliran Agri-Center involves the acquisition of equipment used in the preservation and storage of smoked bangus. The project is also located in Naval, Biliran with a total project cost of PhP 44,400.00

3. The second of the fish processing project is the Fish Processing Demonstration project in Cabucgayan, Biliran managed and operated by the Local Government Unit. The project involves the demonstration on the use of Smoke House and Mechanical Dryer for the production of quality smoked and dried fish. The project costs PhP 750,000.00.

4. Jornales Bakeshop of Biliran, Biliran a new firm established through DOST support, has its project on Cake Production approved in the amount of PhP 70,000.00. The project involves the acquisition of equipment for cake production such as heavy duty mixer and baking utensils.

5. Caril Furniture of Naval, Biliran. is another project approved in principle in the amount of PhP 70,000.00 but release of funds were delayed due to non-submission of some additional document needed.

6. Innovation Support for Vegetable based Noodles Production of WR Bakeshop, Naval, Biliran amounting to PhP 413,000.00 were also approved in 2008. The project would involve acquisition of equipment for noodles production using FNRI developed technology.

Technology Transfer and Commercialization

Based on key performance indicators, the Center was able to provide 26 technology interventions to 15 existing, and 2 new SMEs, province wide. DOST assisted projects generated gross sales of PhP 1.45 M and 155 man-months employments. The firms assisted made an average of 72% improvement in their productivity based on their initial capacity before DOST assistance.

Projects that contributed to these economic data include: the citronella oil extraction project of the Biliran Essential Oil Manufacturing Philippines in Biliran, Biliran, meat processing of Carding Meat Store in Naval, Biliran, coco-coir based handicrafts production by the Biliran Integrated Coco-Industries in Naval, and AJ Handicrafts metal-fiber based production.

Under the consultancy services to help improve productivity of MSMEs, 3 firms were assisted under MPEX and 1 under CAPE. A total of 30 other consultancy engagements were also conducted for the year benefiting a total of 127 clients, served by 36 local experts. In addition 35 experts under the STEVPP were able to serve the technical needs of 50 clients.

In coordination with line agencies like TESDA, DTI, DOLE, NIT, the FTTC of TESDA-CNSAT, a DOST assisted training facility, and other agencies, the PSTC was able to conduct 15 technology trainings involving 32 firms with a total of 252 participants.

In the process of promoting DOST technologies, the Center was able to conduct 2 technology fora participated by 16 firms and attended by 60 individuals from around the province.

Under the DATBED Program, a total of 8 student beneficiaries from 1 school were able to experience hands-on entrepreneurial activities through SET-UP funds.

(Photos (from top to buttom): The fish dryer in Cabucgayan, BICI coco-coir processing plant, BEOMP citronella processing plant, Carding Meat Store processing facility, sample squash based products, AWA soap packaging training)