DOST awards Bontoc for science, tech programs

By Alpine Killa

BONTOC, Mountain Province - The Dept. of Science and Technology (DOST) awarded the Bontoc local government a plaque of recognition for its outstanding progress, marking the municipality as one of the most remarkable Community Empowerment through Science and Technology ( CEST) program implementors in the Cordillera Administrative Region.
    The plaque of recognition was received by Sangguniang Bayan members Viola Okko and Timothy Pongad, Jr., along with Science and Technology coordinator Jenelyn Caluza during the 2023 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week in Bangued, Abra, last week of September.
    The Bontoc CEST initiatives have become good example of how science,technology, and innovation can act as catalysts for sustainable growth and development in Mountain Province being selected as the Provincial Best CEST Awardee and regional nominee.
    Bontoc Mayor Jerome "Chagsen" Tudlong, Jr., in his message delivered by SB Member Okko, said the recognition conferred to the municipality of Bontoc is a humbling and inspiring feat, not only to the Bontoc LGU but to the
Bontoc community and partner stakeholders in general.
    He added that recognition was testament to dedication and commitment of government towards the progress of the municipality.
    With the bestpractices of Bontoc, the innovative initiatives have not only improved the lives ofresidents but have also set a benchmark for others to follow in the pursuit of science and technology-driven progress.
    The mayor further said that the award reaffirmed Bontoc as hub of innovation and a model for harnessing the power of science and technology to addresscommunity needs and achieve lasting development.
    The recognition also cited importance of nurturing a culture of scientific exploration and innovation at the grassroots level.
    Thus, part of the present local government’s administration’s initiatives in empowering communities is implementation of the DOST -CEST program in barangays Dalican, Guina-ang, and Mainit.
    The plaque of recognition was formally handed over to Mayor Tudlong and Vice Mayor Eusebio Kabluyen Oct, 2. At municipal grounds