DOST S&T Foundation Unit

𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏-𝙎𝙁𝙐 𝙄𝙉 𝘼𝘾𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 — The DOST-SFU is awarded 𝐁𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝐒&𝐓 𝐄𝐱𝐡𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫 - 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐄𝐱𝐡𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐭 during the 2024 DOST-CALABARZON Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Week (RSTIW) conducted at the Carmona Community Center, Cavite, 14-16 October 2024. During the RSTIW the DOST-SFU promoted the DOST certification and its goal of building strategic partnerships with its certified science foundations. The Unit also exhibited the programs and initiatives of its partner Science Foundations within the Sustainability Pillar. This initiative of DOST-SFU is part of its commitment to strengthen partnerships and engagements and to feature success stories and milestone accomplishments of the Science Foundations particularly those that provide innovative and inclusive social and economic impacts. The exhibit is made possible with the contributions of the Oscar M. Lopez Center, Mindoro Biodiversity Conservation Foundation Inc., WWF-Philippines, Haribon Foundation, and the Marine Environment and Resources Foundation, Inc. The RSTIW exhibit is FIRST in the history of the DOST-SFU! The Unit extends its gratitude to the DOST-CALABARZON for providing a platform to introduce its initiatives and to promote the Science Foundations. #oneDOST4U #DOSTStrategicPartnership #DOSTScienceFoundation

𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏-𝙎𝙁𝙐 𝙄𝙉 𝘼𝘾𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 — As the year draws to a close, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all DOST-certified Science Foundations and STI partners for your continued collaboration and support. Your dedication to innovation and excellence has played a pivotal role in advancing our shared goals and fostering a thriving scientific community. We wish you a joyous holiday season filled with peace, happiness, and success. May the new year bring fresh opportunities, strengthened partnerships, and continued achievements in our collective endeavors. We look forward to further collaboration and strategic partnerships in the coming year, as we work together to make a lasting impact on the STI landscape. Very truly yours, DOST S&T Foundation Unit Melvin P. Jusi, ASEAN Eng AMIChemE Michelle Lolec Calzado Corlita Canilao Dex Joefel A. #oneDOST4U #DOSTStrategicPartnership #DOSTScienceFoundation

𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏-𝙎𝙁𝙐 𝙄𝙉 𝘼𝘾𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 —The Department of Science and Technology’s S&T Foundation Unit (DOST-SFU) and DOST VII recently held a touch-base meeting with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) to discuss future collaboration and alignment on science and technology (S&T) initiatives. The meeting aimed to present RAFI's ongoing projects, explore DOST-SFU’s goals for S&T advancement, and strengthen partnerships with science-oriented foundations. RAFI, a non-profit organization founded in 1966, focuses on community empowerment through initiatives in economic, social, and physical well-being. Its programs include micro-finance, disaster risk management, and health initiatives such as the Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center. DOST-SFU shared its objectives in advancing S&T, noting the alignment between its Smart and Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP) and RAFI’s community-focused initiatives. The most notable outcome of the meeting was the potential collaboration on the CEBLOOM Program, which aims to protect cultural heritage sites in Cebu. RAFI is focused on creating a cultural hazard map to preserve historical landmarks, and DOST-SFU supported the idea of integrating S&T solutions into cultural preservation. The possible partnership with DOST VII was also emphasized as a critical area that may further strengthen the implementation of the SSCP, starting in Cebu with plans for potential nationwide expansion. This meeting highlights the growing synergy between DOST and RAFI in utilizing S&T to foster sustainable community development while preserving cultural heritage for future generations. #oneDOST4U #DOSTStrategicPartnership #DOSTScienceFoundation

𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏-𝙎𝙁𝙐 𝙄𝙉 𝘼𝘾𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 —  The Department of Science and Technology - S&T Foundation Unit (DOST-SFU) and DOST VII recently organized a touch-base meeting with the Central Visayas Information Sharing Network Foundation, Inc. (CVisNET) to discuss potential collaborations and the way forward in advancing science and technology (S&T) initiatives. One of the key goals of the meeting was to explore opportunities for certification and partnership between DOST-SFU and prospective S&T-focused organizations like CVisNET. Additionally, it aimed to promote and strengthen collaboration between DOST and various regional offices, sectoral councils, and attached agencies with certified and prospective science foundations. CVisNET, a pioneering initiative supported by both the government and private sectors, has been instrumental in harnessing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for productivity and business solutions over the past 25 years. The foundation has contributed a wide range of ICT services, including web presence, internet connectivity, disaster communications, and e-governance for local government units. Mr. Santiañez, a representative from CVisNET, highlighted the foundation's existing partnership with DOST VII, which has bolstered their initiatives. Engr. Jusi of DOST-SFU also introduced the Smart and Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP), emphasizing the role CVisNET could play in the digital transformation of local governance. Both parties agreed that their ongoing projects align well with the goals of SSCP, and CVisNET expressed eagerness to expand their collaboration with DOST, including applying for certification to enhance future endeavors. #oneDOST4U #DOSTStrategicPartnership #DOSTScienceFoundation

𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏-𝙎𝙁𝙐 𝙄𝙉 𝘼𝘾𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 —  The Department of Science and Technology S&T Foundation Unit (DOST-SFU) and DOST VII recently conducted a consultation and monitoring visit to the University of San Carlos-Office of Population Studies Foundation, Inc. (USC-OPS), in line with DOST Administrative Order No. 015, s. 2021. The visit served as a platform for USC-OPS to share the comprehensive details of its programs, while also allowing DOST-SFU to share its strategic goals for advancing Science and Technology (S&T) in the country. USC-OPS, a non-stock, non-profit organization, has built a strong reputation for its population, health, and development research. The foundation has been instrumental in conducting longitudinal studies, particularly in maternal and child health, with one of its ongoing studies spanning over 40 years. Mr. Bechayda, a representative of USC-OPS, shared insights into their expertise and highlighted the significant contributions the foundation has made in this field, emphasizing their commitment to improving public health outcomes through in-depth research and data collection. During the meeting, DOST-SFU presented DOST's strategic plan framework for 2023-2028, focusing on its Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) agenda. The team outlined key operational strategies for wealth creation, wealth protection, promotion of human well-being, and sustainability. The DOST-SFU also introduced its certification process and ongoing revision of the guidelines, aiming to streamline operations and increase accessibility. USC-OPS discussed the need for local partnerships in areas like nutrigenomics and biochemical assessments, which are currently outsourced abroad. The DOST-SFU also encouraged USC-OPS to reach out to the DOST VII Regional Office to explore potential collaborations and/or partnerships. The meeting successfully strengthened the relationship between DOST and USC-OPS, highlighting the foundation’s expertise in population studies and reinforcing the importance of partnerships in advancing the country’s scientific and technological capabilities. #oneDOST4U #DOSTStrategicPartnership #DOSTScienceFoundation

Warmest birthday wishes to DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr.! A heartfelt salute to your excellence and unwavering dedication in championing the programs and projects of all DOST agencies and offices, bringing the benefits of science, technology, and innovation to every Filipino for a prosperous life. #OneDOST4U #ScienceForThePeople

𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏-𝙎𝙁𝙐 #UPDATE — The DOST-SFU, DOST Region 3, and PSTO Zambales recently held a productive meeting with i-STREAM Education for Youth Corp., a key partner in promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education among marginalized youth. Established with the mission of addressing educational inequalities, i-Stream aims to provide underprivileged learners with access to high-quality STEM education, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. During the meeting, the DOST-SFU presented an overview of the Department’s initiatives, highlighting the DOST-Regional Operations Framework and strategies for strengthening collaborations with science foundations. A key focus of the discussion was the strategic partnerships between DOST and domestic, non-stock, non-profit organizations like i-STREAM, which are vital in creating innovative learning environments for students. Additionally, DOST-SFU shared important certification guidelines and offered reminders for organizations aiming to achieve DOST certification as a Science Foundation. i-Stream, a longstanding partner of DOST Region 3 and the Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) in Zambales, expressed its eagerness to become a DOST-certified science foundation. This certification would further enhance i-STREAM’s capacity to continue its mission of empowering youth through STEM education. The collaboration between DOST and i-STREAM marks an important step in fostering educational equity, with both organizations working together to provide marginalized communities with the opportunities and resources needed to thrive in a rapidly advancing technological world. #oneDOST4U #DOSTStrategicPartnership #DOSTScienceFoundation

𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏-𝙎𝙁𝙐 #UPDATE —On 18 November 2024, the Department of Science and Technology-Science Foundation Unit (DOST-SFU) conducted an online consultation meeting with the Philippine Social Science Council, Inc. (PSSC) as part of the evaluation process for their renewal application for DOST certification. PSSC, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing social science knowledge and bridging research with public policy, had previously presented their ongoing initiatives during an on-site consultation on 22 October 2024—the online meeting to discuss the thematic application process and the certification reminders. The DOST-SFU team provided a summary of the application process, covering the timeline from the submission of documentary requirements to the online meeting between 15 October and 18 November 2024. Presented also are the evaluation scores that PSSC received from the technical evaluators. Both commended PSSC’s initiatives, recognizing the foundation’s significant contributions to social science research and policy advocacy. The meeting was brief and concluded at 10:12 A.M., marking an important step in the certification process for PSSC. #oneDOST4U #DOSTStrategicPartnership #DOSTScienceFoundation

𝘿𝙊𝙎𝙏-𝙎𝙁𝙐 𝙄𝙉 𝘼𝘾𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 — In a recent teleconsult meeting, NGOs for Fisheries Reform, Inc. (NFR) engaged with the Department of Science and Technology’s Science Foundation Unit (DOST-SFU) to explore obtaining DOST certification for STI-oriented domestic, non-stock, non-profit organizations. This certification is an important recognition for organizations like NFR that are working towards community development, particularly in the area of sustainable fisheries. NGOs for Fisheries Reform, Inc. (NFR) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting sustainable fisheries management and empowering coastal communities in the Philippines. NFR works to create an enabling policy environment that supports the rights of municipal fishers, particularly women and marginalized groups, through active participation in policy-making and advocacy. The organization focuses on raising awareness, conducting research, and fostering partnerships with other civil society organizations, government agencies, and the private sector to address key challenges such as climate change, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable livelihoods in the fisheries sector. NFR's mission is to ensure the sustainable and equitable development of fisheries resources, benefiting coastal communities for generations to come. The DOST certification process thoroughly reviews the STI programs/projects/activities (PPAs) of the certified Foundations and their impact on its supported communities and the overall STI landscape. It ensures that the organization meets the required standards and alignment with national development goals. Certification is not just a mark of credibility but a formal acknowledgment of an organization’s commitment to strategic partnership toward positive social change. The DOST certification would offer a formal pathway to strengthen collaborations and form strategic partnerships with the Science Foundations and other STI partners. As a certified organization, they would be better positioned to work closely with these partners on joint initiatives aimed at addressing critical challenges in the various sectors, such as agriculture, fisheries, climate change, disaster resilience, and science education, among others. Ultimately, the DOST certification process offers an opportunity for DOST, NFR and other S&T-oriented foundations/organizations to expand their network of allies and increase their capacity to contribute to meaningful change. #oneDOST4U #DOSTStrategicPartnership #DOSTScienceFoundation

The DOST S&T Foundation Unit (SFU) attended the presentation of the results of the #Doing #Good #Index (DGI) 2024 conducted by the Association of Foundations (AF) and the Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society (CAPS) on 06 November 2024 in Makati City. The DGI focuses on the four (4) sub-indexes which include regulations, tax and fiscal policy, procurement, and ecosystem wherein the 17 participating Asian economies including the Philippines were assessed. Dr. Ruth Shapiro, CEO of CAPS presented the results among the representatives from #civil #society #organizations and the government agencies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission Philippines, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Education, and the PH Commission on Higher Education - National Capital Region. For more details about the activity and the DGI 2024, you may visit this link: https://lnkd.in/gTPVbt8F We are glad to note that the current #strategies, #initiatives and #plans of the Department of Science and Technology (Philippines) in engaging with S&T-oriented NGOs in the country are #responsive to the needs and challenges identified in the DGI 2024. Our sincere gratitude to AF, CAPS and the Philippine Council for NGO Certification, Inc. for the opportunity to attend the activity and participate in the discussion on how we can improve further the environment for #social #delivery #organizations (SDOs) in the Philippines. Photo Credit: Association of Foundations and CAPS