DOST Region 1 Promotes Revolutionized S&T Learning in Bangar, La Union

February 19, 2025

by DOST Provincial Science and Technology Office - La Union

In an effort to foster scientific curiosity and technological innovation among young learners, the Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST Region 1), through the Department of Science and Technology- La Union (DOST-La Union), spearheaded an advocacy campaign for the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Station (STARBOOKS). The campaign was held during the Local School Board Meeting on February 19, 2025, at the Municipal Conference Hall in Bangar, La Union. STARBOOKS, a pioneering digital library offering free access to a vast collection of science, technology, and innovation (STI) resources, aims to bridge the digital divide and equip students and educators with reliable, curriculum-aligned learning materials.

The meeting, presided over by Bangar Mayor Joy P. Merin, brought together local school heads, Department of Education (DepEd) District Supervisor Mario P. Pascua, Sangguniang Bayan members Anacleto L. Yukee and Carmela Mariz Lauriaga, and other key stakeholders dedicated to advancing education. DOST-La Union Senior Science Research Specialist and STARBOOKS Provincial Focal Katrina F. Ronquillo introduced STARBOOKS’ key features, highlighting its role as a supplementary teaching and learning tool, particularly for K-12 students and educators. Meanwhile, Project Technical Aide IV and STARBOOKS Regional Focal Mary Ann B. Ofiana provided a virtual walkthrough of STARBOOKS Online, demonstrating how schools can seamlessly integrate the platform into their educational framework. A key concern raised was the alignment of STARBOOKS’ K-12 materials with DepEd’s upcoming curriculum revisions. Ms. Ofiana assured participants that the platform undergoes continuous updates to remain aligned with the latest educational policies and curricular developments.

Mayor Merin expressed appreciation for STARBOOKS’ innovative features, recognizing its potential to enhance both student learning and teaching methodologies. She also emphasized its broader impact beyond schools, noting that STARBOOKS could serve as a valuable resource for the wider community, including local government units (LGUs) and public institutions. In a strong show of support, she initially affirmed LGU Bangar’s interest in adopting the platform, acknowledging its potential to develop a more technologically adept and scientifically inclined youth.

This initiative underscores DOST’s commitment to “Providing Solutions and Opening Opportunities” in STEM learning by equipping students and educators with accessible, technology-driven resources like STARBOOKS. Through this, DOST Region 1 strengthens its mission to cultivate the next generation of Filipino scientists, engineers, and innovators. By expanding access to quality S&T education, the agency empowers learners with the knowledge and skills needed to drive national development and thrive in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

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