THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has lauded and recognized its provincial Science and Technology (S&T) directors during the PSTD Conference at Widus Hotel in Clark Freeport in Pampanga from Nov. 25 to 26.
The Provincial Science and Technology Directors’ (PSTD) Conference is a yearly gathering of all provincial S & T directors from the 16 regions since 2009 until the worldwide pandemic forced its discontinuance. It is being re-introduced this year by the Office of the Undersecretary for regional operations, Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, to recognize its “significant contributions to DOST in its underlying goal of bringing science and technology closer and relevant to the people.”
DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. complimented the provincial directors for the 18th Congress’ passage of Republic Act 119141, otherwise known as “converting the Provincial Science and Technology Center into the Provincial Science and Technology Office” and with fund appropriation.
Among the directors’ objectives are “to give recognition to the PSTD’s successful implementation of DOST’s programs, projects and services that have produced innumerable benefits to local communities; to provide opportunity to PTSDs to share their new ideas, effective strategies and best practices” and likewise boost the morale of the PSTDs amidst varied challenges in the socio-economic political landscape.
Mabborang said PSTD’s four operational components include communication, meetings and collaboration, workplace management and other administrative matters. They are also committed to continual improvement as they advocate for the same across the operation. They want to bring science, technology and innovations closer to the people which is possible with the significant and collective efforts of everyone in the regional operations.
Solidum announced one of DOST’s new programs for 2023 is the creation of smart and sustainable communities while Mabborang mentioned to monitor the transformation of Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSMES) of the adapted technologies of the industrial revolution.
Engr. Mabborang said inventors are being assisted by DOST to commercialize their products or inventions and Solidum explained that they are likewise being helped in the research and development aspect.
Among the speakers and guests in the event were DOST Region lll director, Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat; undersecretary Dr. Leah J. Buendia of Research and Development; Maridon Sahagun, Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services; Atty. Marc Fabian Castrodes, president and CEO of Arete Foods Corporation.
Due recognitions were given to the Most Outstanding PSTD and PSTDs who had served DOST for more than 20 years.
The succeeding press conference discussed a lot of topics like DOST’s regional and national development and the impact of climate change to the people. The attendees to the 2-day event were expected to have a renewed spirit of cooperation, collaboration, complementation and a re-ignited commitment to pursue DOST’s mission and vision.
