DOST Gender and Development Unit

🎓✨ 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬: 𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐨𝐯ing 𝐔𝐩 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 ✨🎓

DOST proudly celebrates the graduation of the DOST Day Care Center (DDCC) learners who have successfully completed the 𝗘𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 (𝗘𝗖𝗖𝗗) 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 for School Year 2025–2026. The ceremony was held on April 8, 2026, at the DOST-PTRI Tela Gallery, marking a meaningful milestone in the children’s early learning journey.

The program began with a 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹of DOST officials, DDCC children, and their parents, followed by a heartfelt doxology led by the DDCC children and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem. Inspiring opening remarks were delivered by 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝘆. 𝗔𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗣. 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲-𝗔𝗹𝘃𝗶𝗮𝗿, Director of the Administrative and Legal Service, setting the tone for a celebration of growth and achievement. The audience was then delighted by a lively dance presentation from the DDCC children, showcasing their confidence and potential.

A meaningful short talk from 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗟. 𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗼, Assistant Secretary for Administrative and Legal Affairs, highlighted the importance of nurturing young minds and supporting early childhood development. Adding to the heartfelt program, graduate 𝗘𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗮 𝗠𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗔. 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝘇𝗮𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲 performed the song “I Am but a Small Voice,” followed by an inspiring teacher’s message from 𝗠𝗿𝘀. 𝗝𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗘. 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗻, who expressed pride in the children’s progress. The children then performed their moving-up song, “Ready to Go!”, symbolizing their readiness for the next stage of their educational journey.

The highlight of the event was the awarding of certificates, where each child proudly walked on stage with their parents to receive their certificates—marking their achievements and growth throughout the year. The program concluded with a heartfelt closing message from 𝗠𝗿𝘀. 𝗝𝗲𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗳𝗲𝗿 𝗥. 𝗖𝘂𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮, Parents-Teacher Association President, and their proud teacher, 𝗠𝘀. 𝗚𝗲𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗲 𝗔. 𝗘𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗱𝗮. Then, a joyful photo opportunity to capture this memorable milestone.

This meaningful celebration would not have been possible without the unwavering support and leadership of 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗟. 𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗼, Assistant Secretary for Administrative and Legal Affairs, whose dedication continues to foster a nurturing and empowering environment for the children of the DOST community. 💜✨

Congratulations, graduates! 🌟 Keep dreaming, learning, and shining bright!

#𝑮𝑨𝑫𝑻𝒐𝑲𝒏𝒐𝒘 💜✨(𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 6)💡🔬
We asked prominent DOST personalities on what does it mean to “𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘀, 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘀!” in today’s world of science and innovation.

For DOST’s 𝗠𝗮. 𝗟𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲 𝗨. 𝗔𝗴𝗯𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗹𝗮, Assistant Scientist, National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP), to lead like the Babaylans means grounding leadership in wisdom, integrity, and service—bridging science and society while ensuring that innovation remains safe, ethical, and responsive to the needs of people and the environment. It is about leading with evidence and empathy, standing firm in one’s principles even in the face of complex and controversial issues, and recognizing that Filipina leadership is not new, but continuously evolving and shaping the future.

𝙈𝙖𝙗𝙪𝙝𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙙𝙞𝙬𝙖 𝙣𝙜 𝘽𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙮𝙡𝙖𝙣, 𝙢𝙖𝙗𝙪𝙝𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙠𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙞𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙋𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙤!

Tag: DOST Philippines

💜𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 ✨
In celebration of the 2026 National Women’s Month, the Department of Science and Technology – Central Office (DOST-CO) conducted its outreach program activity titled “𝗛𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗮𝘁 𝗠𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗮 𝗟𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗵𝗶 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗔 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗗𝗢𝗦𝗧” on March 26, 2026, at the Don Pedro Reyes Avenue, Victoria Homes Subdivision, Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila.

In partnership with 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮 𝘀𝗮 𝗜𝗸𝗮𝘂𝘂𝗻𝗹𝗮𝗱 𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗴𝗮 𝗞𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗶 𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗴𝗵𝗮𝗺 𝗮𝘁 𝗧𝗲𝗸𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗵𝗶𝘆𝗮 (𝗦𝗜𝗞𝗔𝗧), DOST extended support, compassion, and solidarity through the donation of essential items such as diapers, detergent, dishwashing liquid, food, vegetables, drinks, and cash assistance—bringing comfort and care to the elderly residents of the home. The foundation also conducted a meaningful orientation for first-time visitors, deepening awareness and understanding of the lives and needs of the elderly community.

The activity was warmly hosted by 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮 𝗙𝗲 𝗕. 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀𝗼𝗻 of the Gender and Development Unit, who also filled the venue with a heartfelt serenade of ‘Goodness of God’ for the elderly residents, followed by a song cover from 𝗘𝗹𝗺𝗮𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝗴𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗼 of ALS-General Services Division. Afterwards, a lively Zumba session to ‘Tayo’y Magsayawan’ took place, fostering connection, happiness, and shared celebration.

Numerous inspiring messages were delivered by 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗮 𝗚. 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘁𝗮 of the ALS-Personnel Division,𝗔𝘁𝘁𝘆. 𝗝𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗻 𝗖. 𝗧𝗶𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻, the President of SIKAT, 𝗝𝗵𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗚. 𝗟𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗮 of ALS-General Services Division, emphasizing the importance of empathy, service, and honoring the dignity of every woman.

In appreciation of DOST-CO’s generosity and wholehearted support, a Certificate of Appreciation was awarded by the Mother Elisabetta Longhi Foundation, symbolizing a shared commitment to care for and uplift women, especially those in vulnerable sectors.

Through this initiative led by 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗟. 𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗼, Assistant Secretary for Administrative and Legal Affairs and DOST-wide GAD Focal Person, DOST reaffirms its dedication to fostering inclusive, compassionate, and gender-responsive communities, where every woman is valued, honored, and empowered. 💜✨

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊: The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) successfully held the 𝐇𝐲𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐮𝐦: 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫-𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞, a Philippine side event of the 70th United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW70), earlier today, March 18, 2026, at the Philippine International Convention Center.

The forum opened with Welcome Remarks from 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗟. 𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗼, Assistant Secretary for Administrative and Legal Affairs of DOST, followed by a Keynote Message from 𝗗𝗿. 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗼 𝗨. 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝘂𝗺, 𝗝𝗿., Secretary of DOST, who emphasized the vital role of science and innovation in shaping inclusive and responsive governance. A Message of Support was also delivered by 𝗠𝘀. 𝗡𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗦. 𝗠𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗿, Executive Director of the Philippine Commission on Women, reaffirming the country’s commitment to advancing gender equality through collaborative and multi-sectoral efforts.

Distinguished speakers then shared global and local perspectives on leveraging STI for justice. 𝗠𝘀. 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝘂𝗹𝘀𝗲𝗻 of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) discussed the importance of strengthening gender-responsive and rights-based legal technologies, highlighting ethical governance, risks in digital systems, human rights-based approaches, and the need for accountability through oversight mechanisms and corporate responsibility.

Meanwhile, 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝘆. 𝗟𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗮 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗷𝗼-𝗞𝗮𝗽𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗻 delivered a comprehensive discussion on closing the gender digital divide to promote inclusive and accessible justice systems. She underscored why digital access is essential in ensuring that justice is within reach, particularly for marginalized sectors, and examined how gaps in technology access continue to hinder women’s ability to fully participate in legal processes. She highlighted the role of the justice sector, including ongoing initiatives of the Philippine Supreme Court to digitize services and improve access to justice.

In her presentation, 𝗗𝗿. 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘇𝗼𝗻 𝗔. 𝗗𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗶𝗮, an Academician of the National Academy of Science and Technology highlighted the role of forensic DNA analysis and research in handling sensitive cases such as sexual assault, particularly those involving minors. She also emphasized the importance of proposed DNA-related legislation and called on forensic scientists across sectors to remain grounded in objectivity, excellence, and social responsibility—recognizing that behind every scientific endeavor are real lives seeking justice and truth.

The event concluded with an engaging open forum, followed by the awarding of certificates to speakers and participants. Words of Acknowledgement were delivered by 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗿. 𝗡𝗶ñ𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗮 𝗛. 𝗘𝘀𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 of Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), and Closing Remarks were given by 𝗗𝗿. 𝗧𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗮 𝗔. 𝗧𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗼𝗴, Regional Director of DOST Region I. The forum served as a meaningful platform for dialogue and collaboration, reinforcing DOST’s commitment to harnessing science, technology, and innovation in building a more gender-responsive, inclusive, and equitable justice system for all.

This milestone event was made possible through the strong collaboration of the DOST Central Office Gender and Development Unit (GADU), DOST Region I, Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), Science and Technology Information Institute (STII), and the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) under the leadership of 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗟. 𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗼. Beyond commemoration, the forum stood as a reaffirmation of a shared commitment to empower women and girls, advance gender equality, and harness science, technology, and innovation in building a more gender-responsive and accessible justice system for all. 💜✨

✨ 𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐏𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐑𝐒 ✨

Get ready to hear from 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) hosts the Hybrid Forum: Science, Technology, and Innovation as Catalysts for Gender-Responsive Justice, a Philippine side event of the 70th United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW70), at the Philippine International Convention Center on March 18, 2026.

Our esteemed speakers will share valuable insights on how science, technology, and innovation (STI) can drive gender-responsive justice, promote inclusive policies, and empower women and girls in shaping a more equitable future. Through their expertise and experiences, they will highlight innovative approaches and collaborative efforts that strengthen gender equality in today’s rapidly evolving world.

Stay tuned as we introduce the inspiring voices who will lead the conversation and help pave the way toward a more inclusive and gender-responsive society.

Register using this link: tinyurl.com/PHSideEvent-UNCSW70

✨𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗨𝗡𝗖𝗦𝗪𝟳𝟬 𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗜𝘀 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗔𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿!💜

Join us at the upcoming 𝗛𝘆𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗱 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺: 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝘀 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿-𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲—a Philippine side event of the 70th United 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 (𝗨𝗡𝗖𝗦𝗪𝟳𝟬), hosted by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) at the Philippine International Convention Center on March 18, 2026.

Join us as experts, policymakers, and stakeholders come together to explore how science, technology, and innovation (STI) can serve as powerful catalysts for gender-responsive justice, empowering women and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

Stay tuned for more updates, including the program highlights and our lineup of distinguished speakers. See you there!

𝑹𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒌: tinyurl.com/PHSideEvent-UNCSW70

#𝑮𝑨𝑫𝑻𝒐𝑲𝒏𝒐𝒘 💜✨(𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 6)💡🔬
We asked prominent DOST personalities on what does it mean to “𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘀, 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘀!” in today’s world of science and innovation.

For DOST’s 𝗥𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗕. 𝗗𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗿, to lead like the Babaylans means women should be highly regarded for their significant role and be celebrated for their value and inviting them to the table.

💬 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱! Don’t forget to tune in to our weekly segments! See you next week!

𝙈𝙖𝙗𝙪𝙝𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙙𝙞𝙬𝙖 𝙣𝙜 𝘽𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙮𝙡𝙖𝙣, 𝙢𝙖𝙗𝙪𝙝𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙠𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙞𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙋𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙤!

Tag: DOST Philippines

#𝑮𝑨𝑫𝑻𝒐𝑲𝒏𝒐𝒘 💜✨(𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 5)💡🔬
We asked prominent DOST personalities on what does it mean to “𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘀, 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘀!” in today’s world of science and innovation.

For DOST Asec. Diana L. Ignacio, leading like the Babaylans means recognizing that women have long been capable leaders. They have guided communities with wisdom, strength, and vision since precolonial times. While women around the world continue to face challenges in leadership roles, especially in the field of STEM, the Philippines stands as a beacon of progress. In fact, according to UNESCO, 55% of researchers in the country are women, proving that Filipinas are making meaningful strides in shaping the future of science and innovation.

💬 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱! Don’t forget to tune in to our weekly segments! See you next week!

𝙈𝙖𝙗𝙪𝙝𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙙𝙞𝙬𝙖 𝙣𝙜 𝘽𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙮𝙡𝙖𝙣, 𝙢𝙖𝙗𝙪𝙝𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙠𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙞𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙋𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙤!

Tag: DOST Philippines

𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧'𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐲!💜

In celebration of the 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) proudly recognizes the remarkable 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 who continue to shape the future of science, technology, and innovation in the country. From advancing research and development to strengthening scientific and technical services, these dedicated officials exemplify leadership, excellence, and commitment in driving the nation toward a more inclusive and progressive STI landscape.

Together, let us celebrate these inspiring women leaders of DOST who continue to break barriers, lead with purpose, and empower the next generation in science, technology, and innovation. ✨

𝙉𝙊𝙏𝙀: In the photo are the DOST Central Office Undersecretaries, Assistant Secretaries, Service Directors, Attached Agency Officials, and Regional Office Directors.

[1𝙨𝙩 𝙍𝙤𝙬] 𝙀𝙭𝙚𝙘𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙊𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙡𝙨:
• Ms. Maridon O. Sahagun – Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services
• Dr. Leah J. Buendia – Undersecretary for Research and Development
• Dr. Diana L. Ignacio – Assistant Secretary for Administrative and Legal Affairs
• Engr. Maria Teresa Bien de Guzman – Assistant Secretary for Countryside Development

[2𝙣𝙙 𝙍𝙤𝙬] 𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝘿𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙨:
• Atty. Angely P. Medalle-Alviar – Director IV, Administrative and Legal Service (ALS)
• Dir. Racquel P. Alvendia – Director IV, Financial and Management Service (FMS)
• Dir. Lita S. Suerte Felipe – Director, Department Legislative Liaison Office (DLLO)

[3𝙧𝙙 𝙍𝙤𝙬] 𝘼𝙩𝙩𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝘼𝙜𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙮 𝙊𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙡𝙨:
• Atty. Lucieden G. Raz – Deputy Director & Officer-in-Charge, Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI)
• Dr. Annabelle V. Briones – Director, Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI)
• Dr. Ronnalee N. Orteza – Executive Director, Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System
• Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena – Director, Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI)
• Dir. Luningning E. Samarita-Domingo – Director IV, National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST)

[4𝙩𝙝 𝙍𝙤𝙬] 𝙍𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙊𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝘿𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙨:
• Dr. Nancy A. Bantog – Regional Director, DOST Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)
• Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog – Regional Director, DOST Region I
• Dr. Virginia G. Bilgera – Regional Director, DOST Region II
• Engr. Romelen T. Tresvalles – Regional Director, DOST National Capital Region (NCR)
• Ms. Emelita P. Bagsit – Regional Director, DOST Region IV-A (CALABARZON)
• Dr. Naomicossette R. Luis – Officer-in-Charge, Regional Director, DOST NIR Regional Office
• Ms. Rosemarie S. Salazar – Regional Director, DOST Region IX

"𝑳𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑩𝒂𝒃𝒂𝒚𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒔, 𝑭𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒔!"

💜𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞: 𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧'𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔!💜

The 𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐢𝐜𝐤-𝐎𝐟𝐟 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 officially opened on 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟯, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 at the DOST Plaza, DOST Compound, Bicutan, Taguig City, with this year’s empowering theme: “𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘀, 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘀!” The celebration gathered the DOST community in a vibrant show of unity, strength, and commitment to women empowerment in science, technology, and innovation.

The program began with a lively 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 around the DOST Grounds and Main Building, symbolizing solidarity across agencies and offices. An inspiring welcome message was delivered by 𝗗𝗿. 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗟. 𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗼, Assistant Secretary for ALA, In-Charge of the GAD Unit and DOST-wide GAD Focal Person. This was followed by an encouraging message of 𝗗𝗿. 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗼 𝗨. 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝘂𝗺 𝗝𝗿., Secretary of DOST, which reaffirms the Department’s commitment to inclusive leadership and women empowerment.

A meaningful highlight of the celebration was the 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝗢𝗮𝘁𝗵-𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘆 for the 𝗠𝗲𝗻 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗩𝗶𝗼𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗔𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 (𝗠𝗢𝗩𝗘) 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲𝗿𝘀, conducted in a hybrid setup officiated by Secretary Solidum. The event also featured a Nationwide MOVE Message from 𝗨𝘀𝗲𝗰. 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗼 𝗔. 𝗠𝗮𝗯𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴, DOST-wide MOVE President, strengthening the call for collective action among men in advancing safe and respectful spaces.

Adding color and cultural pride to the celebration was the much-anticipated 𝗕𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝗕𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁, showcasing nine empowered representatives from DOST Central Office, National Capital Region, ITDI, MIRDC, STII, PSHS System, PCHRD, PCIEERD and NAST. Each contestant embodied the strength, wisdom, and grace of the modern-day Babaylan. The following are the winners of the Babaylan Beauty Contest:
• 𝗠𝘀. 𝗕𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝗤𝘂𝗲𝗲𝗻 — 𝗠𝘀. 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗩. 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝗶 of PSHS System
• 𝗠𝘀. 𝗕𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗥𝘂𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿-𝗨𝗽 — 𝗠𝘀. 𝗚𝗶𝗲-𝗔𝗻𝗻 𝗢. 𝗕𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗻𝗴 of DOST-NCR
• 𝗠𝘀. 𝗕𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝟮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝘂𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿-𝗨𝗽 (𝗧𝗶𝗲) — 𝗠𝘀. 𝗝𝘂𝗱𝘆 𝗠𝗮𝗲 𝗚. 𝗔𝘀𝗶𝘀 of PCIEERD and 𝗠𝘀. 𝗞𝗮𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗠𝗮𝗲 𝗕. 𝗔𝗹𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗮 of MIRDC

The celebration also featured a vibrant 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗕𝗮𝘇𝗮𝗮𝗿 showcasing Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) of DOST-National Capital Region (NCR) beneficiaries including DOST employees with entrepreneurial skills. Employees in the Bicutan Community can visit their products from March 3 - 6, 2026.

The success of this year’s kick-off would not have been possible without the leadership and dedication of 𝗔𝘀𝗲𝗰. 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗟. 𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗼, DOST-wide GAD Focal Person, whose vision continues to inspire meaningful action toward gender equality and women’s empowerment initiatives across the Department. 💜

Tag: DOST Philippines

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💜 𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗗𝗢𝗦𝗧 💜
This National Women’s Month, let’s come together in championing gender equality and empowering every woman to lead, thrive, and inspire. 💜

Show your support by wearing purple 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵. This is a simple yet powerful way to stand in solidarity.

Your voice matters! Spark conversations, promote inclusivity and be part of the change. 💜✨

𝙈𝙖𝙗𝙪𝙝𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙙𝙞𝙬𝙖 𝙣𝙜 𝘽𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙮𝙡𝙖𝙣, 𝙢𝙖𝙗𝙪𝙝𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙠𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙞𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙋𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙤!

Tag: DOST Philippines

’sMonthKickOffCelebration2026