Combine Abaca Decorticating and Spindle Stripping Machine received by the Subanen IP
The Department of Science and Technology - IX (DOST IX) through Provincial Science and Technology Center– Zamboanga del Norte (PSTC-ZDN) and the Roxas Association of Subanen Tribe (RAST) have officially launched the project entitled Community Empowerment of Pres. M.A Roxas through Science and Technology (CEST- Roxas) last month.
RAST received P833,910.00 fund assistance under the agency's Grants-in-Aid (GIA) program used in the procurement of three units of Combined Abaca Decorticating and Spindle Stripping Machine, two units of Desktop Computers with Kiosk for Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly-Operated Kiosk Stations (STARBOOKS), and Nutri-feeding for 34 children.
Part of the interventions is the conduct of training on the use and maintenance of equipment attended by 35 abaca farmers who directly use the machines. Representatives from the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) namely Mr. Kevin Badon and Mr. Ruel Fortich serve as trainers of the said event.
Launching of STARBOOKS
Moreover, the deployment and orientation on the use of STARBOOKS were conducted last 27 May 2022 for Canibongan Elementary School and Marupay National High School. The orientation was attended by teachers and students, the beneficiaries of the technology, of both institutions.
Launching of Nutri Feeding Program
Lastly, in partnership and coordination with the Municipality of Pres. Manuel A. Roxas, the Nutri-feeding using Enhanced Nutribun started last 25 April 2022 for targeted beneficiaries in Sitio Malicas, Bgry. Panampalay. The feeding will run for 120 days.
With the above-mentioned S&T interventions, the project aims to hasten the harvesting process of abaca, inspire more farmers to engage in productive farming activities, improve the quality of education in the community by providing efficient access to S&T Information through STARBOOKS, and reduce malnutrition and improve the nutritional status of the community.
The project is funded through the DOST's local Grant-In-Aid (GIA) program, which aims to harness the country's scientific and technological capabilities to spur and to attain sustainable economic growth and development.
For more information, contact DOST-IX Provincial Science and Technology Center - Zamboanga del Norte at (065) 212-2244/ 908-0117/ 0998-792-4622. To be updated on the latest happenings, follow our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DOSTRegion9 (Neil Joseph G. Padao, DOST-IX- Press Release).
