The Recudo Taruc Rubber Planters Association (RETARPA) finally received the complete S&T Grants-In-Aid assistance package from the Department of Science and Technology – IX through its Provincial Science and Technology Center of Zamboanga Sibugay. RETARPA is an association based in Barangay Taruc, R.T.Lim, Zamboanga Sibugay.
After the turnover of funds to RETARPA amounting to P1,020,00.00 last 27 January 2022 for the procurement of 6 units of combined deco-spindle stripping machines, series of technology trainings have been conducted as part of the interventions for the community-based project.
Recently, training on the operation of acquired abaca deco-spindle stripping machines was held and actively participated by twelve members of the association who will directly operate the machines. The training was graced by DOST’s partner agency, PhilFIDA led by the Regional Director Eduardo Holoyohoy together with Mr. Keven Badon and Mr. Rowill Fortich who served as the trainers.
Moreover, training on Basic Computer Literacy on Microsoft Application Tools was also conducted last 25-26 April 2022 to maximize the utilization of one desktop computer unit and printer provided to RETARPA by DOST-IX. The 2-day training was conducted by Mr. Uris A. Fonollera, resource speaker from the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) – Zamboanga Sibugay. Four (4) members of the association who are directly involved in the administrative operations of the business successfully completed the training.
With the S&T interventions, RETARPA is expected to increase their productivity by at least 32% and produce better quality abaca fibers.
The Grants-In-Aid Program of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-GIA) aims to harness the country's scientific and technological capabilities by providing financial grants to S&T programs/projects to spur sustainable economic growth for the country.
For more information, contact DOST-IX PSTC-ZSP at (062) 991-2050/955-0825. To be updated on the latest happenings, follow our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DOSTRegion9 (Carlo Syl Quinte/ DOST-IX Press Release).
