TACLOBAN CITY, LEYTE — Highlighting the vital role of science and innovation in grassroots development, the Department of Science and Technology – Leyte Provincial Science and Technology Office (DOST Leyte-PSTO) held a Ceremonial Turnover of Project Funds alongside a CEST Coordinators Meeting on August 13, 2026. The milestone gathering brought together barangay officials, project coordinators, and academic partners to streamline the execution of Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) initiatives across the province.
Strengthening Inter-Agency Partnerships and Community Leadership
The activity served as a collaborative venue to discuss key operational frameworks, including the updated DOST Grants-In-Aid (GIA) Guidelines and the evolution into CEST 2.0. In his address, Provincial S&T Director Mr. Montejo underscored that active cooperation among DOST, local government units, and grassroots implementers is essential to delivering long-term, measurable benefits to target beneficiaries. DOST Regional Director Dir. Ocaña graced the ceremonial turnover, reinforcing the agency's dedicated partnership with local leaders to address community needs through technological interventions.
Streamlining Financial Management and Procurement Compliance
To guarantee project transparency and avoid operational delays, the meeting provided comprehensive orientation on administrative and financial procedures. Participants were guided on proper fund disbursement, strict adherence to approved project budgets, and the timely submission of supporting documentation. The discussion also covered official procurement protocols—including Small Value Procurement (SVP) and Direct Contracting—equipping local coordinators to maintain full compliance with government auditing standards.
Building Momentum for Science-Driven Growth Across Eastern Visayas
The successful turnover and coordination meeting reaffirm DOST’s long-term strategy to democratize access to technological tools, sustainable livelihoods, and community-level solutions. By fostering direct engagement between state scientists, municipal leaders, and academic researchers, the CEST Program continues to advance regional socio-economic development, ensuring that science, technology, and innovation meaningfully transform communities throughout Leyte and the wider Eastern Visayas region.
