DOST - Samar PSTO

DOST Samar PSTO Strengthens Coastal Stewardship through Sustainable Coastal Resource Management Training in Daram, Samar

May 29, 2026 - The Department of Science and Technology – Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST Samar PSTO), through the DOST-ISLA (Let's CARE) Project – KATHA, successfully conducted the Training-Orientation on Sustainable Coastal Resource Management for fisherfolk of Brgy. Astorga, Daram, Samar at the Brgy. Astorga Covered Court.

Funded by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) and implemented in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology – Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST Samar PSTO) and Samar State University (SSU), the activity aimed to enhance the knowledge and awareness of fisherfolk on the sustainable management, conservation, and protection of coastal and marine resources. The training likewise emphasized the vital role of coastal communities in safeguarding marine ecosystems while ensuring food security and sustainable livelihoods for future generations.

The activity was formally opened by Ms. Sheila Mae C. Pica, Science Research Specialist II of DOST Samar PSTO, who highlighted the importance of science-based approaches and active community participation in promoting sustainable fisheries and coastal resource conservation.

Serving as resource person was Mr. Alex N. De Luna, MFT, Agricultural Technologist from the Office of the Provincial Fishery Officer, who facilitated discussions on Coastal Resource Management and JAO No. 1, Series of 2014 on Blue Swimming Crab Management. His presentations provided participants with valuable insights on responsible fisheries management, sustainable harvesting practices, and the protection of marine resources that support the livelihoods of coastal communities.

Also present during the activity was Ms. Jessica D. Barredo, Project Technical Staff of DOST Samar PSTO, who assisted in the facilitation and successful conduct of the training.

This activity forms part of the continuing implementation of the DOST- KATHA Project, spearheaded by Dr. Evelyn Bacarra-Tablante, Provincial Science and Technology Director of DOST Samar PSTO, which seeks to empower agri-fishery communities through science, technology, and innovation interventions that promote environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and inclusive development.

Together, let us protect our coastal resources today and build resilient communities for generations to come.

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DOST Samar Strengthens Digital Connectivity in Sohoton Tourist Area Through STARLINK Initiative

BASEY, Samar — In a significant step toward strengthening ecotourism services and digital connectivity in Samar, the Department of Science and Technology Region VIII (DOST8) through the Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) formally turned over a STARLINK satellite internet unit to the Sohoton Services Cooperative on May 28, 2029, in Basey, Samar.

The Sohoton Services Cooperative manages the well-known Sohoton Cave and river cruising activities within the Sohoton River area, one of Eastern Visayas ecotourism destinations. Prior to the intervention, the facility had no stable internet connectivity and only relied on peso WiFi services and WiFi phones for communication and internet access.

The provision of the STARLINK unit aims to equip the tourism facility with reliable and accessible internet connectivity to improve communication, operational efficiency, tourist services, and online promotion of the Sohoton ecotourism site.The intervention was provided under the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program of DOST, which seeks to improve the socio-economic condition of communities through science, technology, and innovation-based interventions.

Leading the turnover activity were Engr. Joseph Albert O. Lledo, Engr. Philip John V. Condes and Mr. Jincent I. Mercado of the DOST8 Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office.

Present during the ceremony was Dr. Evangeline Ritaga, Municipal Tourism and Development Officer of Basey, Samar, representing Hon. Mayor Luz Chu-Ponferrada. Also in attendance were the officers and members of the Sohoton Services Cooperative, who are the direct beneficiaries of the project.

As part of the continuing support for the sustainable development of the Sohoton ecotourism area, DOST Samar PSTO also announced the provision of a Modular Ecology-friendly Domestic Wastewater (MEDOWW) Treatment Facility, also funded under the CEST Project. The intervention aims to promote environmental protection and sustainable wastewater management in the tourist destination, further strengthening Sohoton’s position as an ecotourism attraction in Samar.

The initiative reflects DOST’s commitment to empowering local communities through appropriate technologies and sustainable development programs that contribute to inclusive growth and environmental stewardship.

DOST Samar PSTO Empowers Farmers through Sustainable Conservation Practices Training in Daram, Samar

May 28, 2026 - The Department of Science and Technology – Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST Samar PSTO), through the DOST-ISLA (Let’s CARE) Project – KATHA, successfully conducted the “Sustainable Conservation Practices Training” for the farmers of Brgy. Marupangdan, Daram, Samar at the Brgy. Marupangdan Covered Court.

The activity brought together local farmers for a meaningful learning engagement focused on sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, climate resilience, and responsible resource management. Discussions highlighted practical approaches on vegetable production, nursery management, and insect pest management to strengthen local agricultural productivity and sustainability.

The training featured resource speakers from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA), namely Ms. Maria Mara P. Picorro, Agricultural Technologist I, who discussed Vegetable Production; Ms. Adelfa V. Gadin, Administrative Officer IV, who shared valuable knowledge on Nursery Management and Insect Pest Management Control; and Mr. Johnie M. Liguid, Administrative Aide II, who conducted the demonstration activity for the participants.

Also present during the activity from DOST Samar PSTO were Ms. Sheila Mae C. Pica, Science Research Specialist II, and Ms. Jessica D. Barredo, Project Technical Staff, who provided support in the successful conduct and facilitation of the training.

The activity forms part of the continuing commitment of DOST Samar PSTO, spearheaded by Dr. Evelyn Bacarra-Tablante, Provincial Science and Technology Director, to empower communities through science, technology, and innovation while promoting inclusive and sustainable agri-fishery development in Samar.

Through initiatives like this,
DOST Samar PSTO continues to cultivate resilient communities and sustainable livelihoods toward a greener and more progressive future.