This month has been filled with magnitudes that Science and Technology can reach. Such is the deployment of Science & Technology Academic and Research‐Based Openly‐Operated Kiosks (STARBOOKS) at Doña Paz Sumulong Tanjuatco Elementary School located in Tanay, Rizal last 11 April.
STARBOOKS is an initiative by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Science and Technology Information Institute (STII) which includes kiosks that serve as information access portals in key areas in the Philippines. Local government units (LGUs), non-government organizations (NGOs), educational institutions, and private institutions can avail the one-stop Science and Technology (S&T) information source.
Councilor Paula De Guzman of Tanay LGU, Mr. Owen Cammayo, Executive Director of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Foundation Inc., Director Richard Burgos of DOST-STII, Engr. Trinidad Sager of DOST Rizal, and faculty and students of Doña Paz Sumulong Tanjuatco Elementary School were present during the event.
Upon the arrival of the visitors, the lively elementary students gave their warm greetings. Ms. Nieva Tongohan, Principal of said school, welcomed and acknowledged each stakeholder and donor.
DOST-STII Dir. Burgos of DOST-STII delivered his keynote message to extend his support to the students and teachers of Doña Paz where he emphasized the importance of advancing education through STI.
This was followed by Mr. Cammayo, who discussed the role of BPI as a financial stakeholder in the collaboration with DOST, after which, led a game and offered prizes for those who participated.
Toward the end of the program, Councilor De Guzman expressed her gratitude that their community was chosen as one of the beneficiaries of STARBOOKS.
“Lubos pong nagpapasalamat ang Lokal ng Tanay sa pagkakataong inyong binigay para sa ating mga mag-aaral,” she stated.
DOST and BPI Foundation Inc. then presented the STARBOOKS units to the school, represented by Principal Nieva Tongohan, during the ceremony proper.
On behalf of Provincial Director Fernando Ablaza of DOST Rizal, Engr. Sager delivered the closing remarks where he extended his gratitude for the trust and support of the BPI Foundation Inc. towards the project and wishes for constant partnership as allies for development.#
