DOST Brings STARBOOKS to 20 Public Schools in Nueva Vizcaya

July 16, 2025

by DOST R02 PSTO Nueva Vizcaya

Nueva Vizcaya — Twenty public schools in Nueva Vizcaya have been equipped with STARBOOKS, the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Station developed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), bringing science and technology resources closer to learners and educators.

The installation, led by Engr. Jay-vee T. Lanchon, STARBOOKS Focal Person of DOST Region 02, and Ms. Rowena G. Da-ang of the Provincial Science and Technology Office - Nueva Vizcaya, aims to benefit schools in areas with limited or no internet connectivity. The initiative was made possible through a partnership with the Department of Education - Nueva Vizcaya, headed by Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Orlando E. Manuel.

To ensure effective use of the platform, Engr. Lanchon conducted an orientation for librarians and STARBOOKS coordinators from the 18 beneficiary schools. The session highlighted system navigation, content access, and strategies for promoting digital learning within the school community.

PSTO Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Director Engr. Jonathan D. Nuestro underscored the value of STARBOOKS in enhancing education. He emphasized that the digital library provides thousands of science and technology materials that can support teaching and learning even in remote schools.

Mr. Chester C. Cortez, Librarian II of the Schools Division Office’s Learning Resource Management Section, also encouraged school librarians and coordinators to actively promote STARBOOKS. He challenged them to be innovative in making the platform a key learning resource in their respective schools.

Developed by DOST–Science and Technology Information Institute (STII), STARBOOKS serves as the country’s first digital science library-in-a-box. It offers free access to thousands of science articles, research papers, video lessons, K–12 resources, and livelihood guides without an internet connection.

The project reflects DOST and DepEd’s shared commitment to making education more accessible, innovative, and inclusive for Filipino learners—wherever they may be.