DOST Isabela

𝗨𝗗𝗦𝗔 𝗚𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗹𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲

The DOST Cagayan Valley through its Scholarship Unit proudly shares the successful conduct of the University of Saint Louis DOST Scholars’ Association (UDSA) General Assembly on March 18, 2026 at the University of Saint Louis. With the theme "Catching Fire: Igniting the Flames of Science, Technology, and Service," the event brought together 36 dedicated scholars to focus on leadership and their role in nation-building.

The morning session kicked off with welcome remarks from UDSA Adviser Mr. Aldwin D. Tuliao, who emphasized the importance of unity among the scholars. This was followed by a message from DOST Cagayan Valley Regional Director Dr. Virginia G. Bilgera, which was shared with the group by Mr. Kris Andrew P. Evanculla. During this talk, the scholars were called the "mitsa ng pagbabago" or the sparks of change. The message focused on the Filipino idea of Kapwa, helping the group realize that their success is not theirs alone. Instead, their achievements are part of a bigger picture that belongs to their whole community and the people they will someday serve.

To ensure everyone was well-informed, the scholars also participated in an orientation facilitated by Mr. Kris Andrew P. Evanculla of the DOST Cagayan Valley Scholarship Unit. This session was designed to help the scholars fully understand their responsibilities and the benefits of the program. It provided a clear roadmap for their academic journey and strengthened the bond between the scholars and the regional office. To keep the momentum going, student leaders Charity Joy Ganado, Lloyd Asley Sibbaluca, and UDSA President Roden John Baloca presented the organization's constitution-and-by-laws and past accomplishments. This helped everyone see the impact the association has already made and the work that still lies ahead.

To deepen their sense of duty and purpose, the scholars participated in a series of talks that focused on leadership and social responsibility. Engr. Leandro Daniel Paat, a Batch 2019 DOST scholar, shared his insights on the heart of true servant leadership. In his talk titled "Volunteering as Tribute," he encouraged the students to see their education as a tool for helping others and giving back to the nation.

This was followed by a session with Dr. Herbert Corpuz, USLT Academic Dean of the School of Education, Criminology, Arts, and Psychology, who spoke about moving science from the capitol into the local districts. He explained how to translate STEM concepts into Agham na Ramdam so that science is felt by everyone. These sessions challenged the scholars to see the human side of every technical problem. They were reminded that their skills should be used to provide real solutions and create opportunities for their fellow Filipinos, especially those in underserved areas.

A central and symbolic part of the assembly was the reciting and signing of the DOST Scholars Manifesto. Before the signing began, Mr. Kris Andrew P. Evanculla took the stage to explain the deep meaning and importance of this document to the group. He emphasized that the manifesto is a life-long commitment to the country and a guide for how scholars should act as leaders in their fields. Following this discussion, UDSA President Roden John Baloca led the group in a collective recital of the pledge. Each of the 36 scholars then signed the manifesto, making a formal promise to use their knowledge and innovation for the common good. This act served as a reminder that their duty is to create Solutions and Opportunities for All.

To end the day on a high note, the scholars participated in team building activities. These activities helped strengthen the bond between the future scientists and engineers, building a supportive network that will help them as they work toward making science felt by every Filipino. The assembly closed with remarks from Salve Marie Cardenas, leaving the participants with a renewed mission. These 36 future leaders are now ready to make science something that people can truly feel and benefit from in their daily lives.

Ignite the fire. Lead with soul. Serve the people.

Check more about their organization at: facebook.com/uslt.dost.sa

Rolling toward a greener future 🚋🇵🇭

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Intramuros Administration (IA) unveiled the first-ever Filipino-engineered, all-electric e-tranvia—set to cruise the historic streets of Intramuros, Manila on March 19, blending sustainable transport with heritage tourism.

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