DOST 1 Builds Stronger Communities with CEST Program

IN CELEBRATION of the 35th National Statistics Month, the Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST 1) featured its Community Empowerment through Science & Technology (CEST) Program on Tekno Presyensya: Syensya ken Teknolohiya para kadagiti Umili, in partnership with DZAG Radyo Pilipinas Agoo on October 3, 2024. The episode highlighted the critical role of science and technology in improving livelihoods and building resilient communities across the Philippines, with Mr. Decth 1180 P. Libunao, Assistant Regional Director for Field Operations and CEST Project Leader, as the resource person.

The CEST Program, a key initiative under the Philippine government’s poverty alleviation efforts, aims to create progressive, gender-responsive, and empowered communities. Through science and technology interventions, CEST helps improve the quality of life for marginalized sectors, including geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA), coastal and Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities, women’s groups, and urban poor sectors.

As of 2024, DOST 1 has engaged 27 continuing communities and six (6) new ones under the CEST program, benefiting 1,335 beneficiaries with over 1,152 science and technology interventions, which span key areas such as livelihood enhancement, health and nutrition improvement, human resource development, environmental protection, and disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM). One of the significant impacts of the CEST program is in livelihood development, where communities have enhanced their local products using available resources and technology. The program ensures gender inclusivity by providing livelihood projects that empower women, promoting equality in economic opportunities.

Mr. Libunao also discussed how CEST evaluates community progress using indicators such as income growth, employment rates, and microenterprise success. The program also checks improvements in health and nutrition, while fostering interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among children, guiding them toward scholarships and educational opportunities. Looking forward, DOST 1 envisions the establishment of Municipal and City Science & Technology Innovation Councils to embed science, technology, and innovation in local governance. These councils aim to sustain the benefits of CEST interventions, ensuring long-term community progress.

By showcasing the CEST program, DOST 1 highlights how science and technology can be powerful tools for inclusive growth, aiming for a more resilient and progressive Philippines. (Christian Dominic I. Casimiro)