𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐲𝐭𝐞 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐜’𝐬 𝐆𝐈𝐃𝐀 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬, 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐬 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊𝐒

October 21, 2025

by DOST - Southern Leyte PSTO

The DOST Southern Leyte PSTO, together with the LGU Bontoc, formally turned over units of the DOST STII's Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Stations (STARBOOKS) to Barangay Olisihan and Barangay Pamigsian of Bontoc, Southern Leyte, in a ceremonial event graced by Hon. Noel Alinsub, Mayor of Bontoc, on October 21, 2025.

This initiative forms part of the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) project being implemented in LGU Bontoc. The intervention aims to enhance S&T human resource development in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), helping communities gain access to vital science-based learning materials even in the absence of reliable internet connectivity.

Representing the beneficiary barangays during the turnover were Hon. Cirilo Papa, Jr., Barangay Chairperson of Pamigsian, and Hon. Ranie Trazo, Barangay Chairperson of Olisihan. Both expressed their gratitude to DOST and LGU Bontoc for extending opportunities that bridge the information gap between urban and rural areas.

Leading the turnover on behalf of DOST Southern Leyte PSTO was Supervising Science Research Specialist Emmanuel Lagdamen. The DOST team demonstrated how STARBOOKS can be used as a valuable tool for students, teachers, and lifelong learners seeking access to a wide collection of science and technology information.

Mayor Alinsub lauded the initiative, emphasizing the importance of providing educational and digital access to far-flung communities.

Through the deployment of STARBOOKS, DOST continues to bring “Science for the People”, ensuring that even the most remote communities are equipped with tools for knowledge, growth, and empowerment.

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