The University of Northern Philippines joined the Provincial Science and Technology Office–Ilocos Sur (PSTO-IS) of the Department of Science and Technology–Regional Office 1 (DOST-RO1) in the implementation of the  Community Empowerment Through Science and Technology (CEST) Program in Sta. Catalina, Ilocos Sur on April 17 to 19.

The program’s execution was based on a thorough community assessment, which served as the groundwork for a planning workshop. During the workshop, stakeholders discussed the assessment results and crafted science and technology interventions to address the identified needs, gaps, and opportunities in the participating barangays.

As a result of this program, partnerships with various institutions have been established, including the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC), University of Northern Philippines (UNP), Philippine Science High School–Ilocos Region Campus (PSHS-IRC), Office of the Civil Defense (OCD), Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

These partnerships aim to provide sustainable solutions and opportunities for the residents of Sta. Catalina. UNP remains highly supportive of sustainable development among communities and is highly devoted to maintaining its social responsibility to the communities around.

Article by Emman Trevor A. Quilala.