COTABATO – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) recently organized a turn-over ceremony for the DOST Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program, where 1.5 million worth of livelihood assistance was distributed to five People’s Organizations (POs). The event took place on July 3, 2023, at the Headquarters of the 39th Infantry Battalion in Brgy Poblacion, Makilala, Cotabato.
Engr. Sancho A Mabborang, Undersecretary for Regional Operations of DOST, and other officials including Hon. Rudy S. Caoagdan, DPA, Representative of the 2nd District of North Cotabato, Hon. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza, MNSA, Governor of the province of Cotabato, and Brigadier General Patricio Ruben P Amata, 1002nd Brigade Commander, were present during the ceremony.
Engr. Sancho A Mabborang highlighted the significance of addressing socio-economic issues within communities. He emphasized the positive impact of government programs in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) and former conflict-affected regions, specifically in mitigating insurgency-related concerns.
The DOST CEST Program aims to provide technology-based livelihood programs to former conflict-affected areas and vulnerable communities, particularly those identified as GIDAs.
The distribution of livelihood assistance was based on profiling and needs assessment surveys conducted prior to the turn-over ceremony. The POs received capacity development training to ensure they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to utilize the livelihood services effectively.
The beneficiary POs include Daig Peace and Development Farmer Association in Tulunan, Biangan Farmers Association in Makilala, Bahaning Nod Tamong to Buwis Tanong to Ancestral Domain to Datu Ladayon in Arakan, Hugpong Pagbabago Sagcungan Association in President Roxas, and Bagumbayan Lumad Christian Association in Magpet, all located in the province of Cotabato. These POs were identified during the Community Support Program conducted by the 39th Infantry Battalion and 72nd Infantry Battalion under the 1002Bde.
