April - June 2014 Vol. 6 No. 2
Official Publication of the Department of Science and Technology Cordillera Administrative Region
Science for Safer Communities Campaign now in Cordillera
T
o enhance the ability and capacity of the Cordillera officials on disaster risk management, the Department of Science and Technology in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Office of Civil Defense conducted a campaign “Iba na ang Panahon: Science for Safer Communities” on May 8-9, 2014 at the Albergo Hotel, Outlook Drive, Baguio City. A total of 261 participants composed of local government officials, Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officers and representatives from the provinces of Cordillera, National Government Agencies officials and staff, representatives from State, Universities, Colleges (SUCs), and the local and national media attended the campaign. This activity is the 8th regional information educational campaign that is being conducted throughout the country through the directive of President Benigno S. Aquino III to implement an effective disaster management program. The two-day campaign is designed with plenary presentations highlighting the regional perspectives on hazards and disasters and the breakout sessions which provide provincial workshops for local risk knowledge and local hazards appreciation.
Press Conference on the “Iba na ang Panahon: Science for Safer Communities” held on May 8, 2014 at the Albergo Hotel, Baguio City. (L-R: Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat, Regional Director, DOST-CAR; Dir. Landrico Dalida, OIC of PAGASA; Mr. Raymundo Liboro, ASEC, DOST; Dir. Renato Solidum, Director of PHILVOLCS; Dir. Alfredo Mahar Lagmay of Project NOAH; and Dir. Alex H. Uy, Regional Director of OCD-CAR).
PSTC-Ifugao develops prototype of a customized rootcrop washer Root crop washing especially ginger rhizomes takes much time, effort and water when done manually. Hand brushing is employed by most root crop processors in Ifugao and that commercial washers are hard to locate in the locality and in nearby provinces. This prompted the Ifugao Science and Technology Center (ISTC) to conceptualize a Ginger Washer that can be locally fabricated. The Caba Rural Improvement Club (Caba RIC) in Caba, Lagawe, Ifugao is the recipient of the ISTC’s Proto-typed Ginger Washer which they will use in their ginger tea production. The intricate shape of the ginger drives this author’s mind to research and innovate on some page 8
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editorial board Editor/Writer SHEILA MARIE SINGA-CLAVER Science Research Specialist II Lay-out and Design HANSI G. DINUMLA Science Research Analyst Contributors MAX BERNARD M. CODAMON Science Research Specialist II CECIL C. GUAKI Project Assistant I, PSTC-Benguet
Editorial Adviser/Consultant NANCY A. BANTOG OIC-ARD TSD Editorial Consultants MARIA ROWENA C. MADARANG ARD for Finance and Administrative Services JULIUS CAESAR V. SICAT Regional Director
GYNERANETTE A. TRINIDAD Project Assistant II, USTC-Baguio City MARITESS A. BANAÑA Project Assistant III FERNANDO C. PINOS-AN Science Research Specialist II MINERVA C. DEP-ET Project Assistant II Guest Contributor CARLITO DAR PIA-CAR
what’s inside Editorial 2 News Stories Hydromet Update.. 3 Scholarship... 3 STEAM Writeshop... 4 Advancing Metals and Eng’g in Ifugao... 4 Semi-mechanization of dairy farm... 5 DOST-PIA Seminar Workshop... 5 2014 Technical Consultancy... 8
quote for the day
editorial
Preparation activities for the conduct of this year’s Cordillera Month Celebration was spearheaded by the DOST-CAR, being the chair of RDC’s Sectoral Council on Economic Development (ECONSECOM). With the theme, ““Boosting the Economic Competitiveness of the Cordilleras for ASEAN 2015”, it is hoped that the urgency of the Cordilleras’ need to be economically competitive in the wake of the ASEAN economic integration by 2015 will be highlighted. “The ASEAN economic integration is just around the corner and it is going to happen, whether we like it or not”, stated Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat, Regional Director of DOST-CAR. The ASEAN Website (http://www.asean.org/communities/ asean-economic-community) defines the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) as the goal of the regional economic integration by 2015. Specifically, it envisions the following key characteristics: “(a) a single market and production base, (b) a highly competitive economic region, (c) a region of equitable economic development, and (d) a region fully integrated into the global economy.” Further, “the AEC areas of cooperation include human resources development and capacity building; recognition of professional qualifications; closer consultation on macroeconomic and financial policies; trade financing measures; enhanced infrastructure and communications connectivity; development of electronic transactions through e-ASEAN; integrating industries across the region to promote regional sourcing; and enhancing private sector involvement for the building of the AEC. In short, the AEC will transform ASEAN into a region with free movement of goods, services, investment, skilled labour, and freer flow of capital.” The DOST, being the lead in pushing for science, technology and innovations has heed the call to ensure that the country is prepared to face the impacts of the ASEAN integration. It is for this reason that science and technological innovations are pushed in all projects because the Department truly believes that through S&T, we can make things happen. In fact, the DOST programs being pushed by Secretary Mario G. Montejo are programs that 1st: have an impact to Mang Juan and Aling Maria, 2nd: that the best S&T are used to reach optimum impact, 3rd: that all these technological inovations were developed by local scientists and engineers, of course, in collaboration with other entities.
Feature Green Salad Farm... 10 SETUP Corner 6-7 In the Cordillera region, the impact is expected to be on the Photo Releases 11 agricultural sector in as much as CAR is an agricultural region. People S & T Trivia 12 should learn to take advantage of the ASEAN Economic Integration and at the same time, put up safety measures particularly in the upcoming free movement of goods and services. Collaborative efforts should continue between and among the government agencies, private entities and other stakeholders to ensure that the country remains competitive in the wake of ASEAN 2015. (smsc)
10 April-June 2 April - June2014 2014
s&t news 114 Hydromet Sensors Installed in CAR
Application for DOST Scholarship open for SY 2015-2016
The installled Water Level Monitoring Station (WLMS) with Automatic Rain Gauge (ARG) at the Aluling Bridge (Cervantes & Tadian, Mt. Prov. Boundary) on June 30, 2014. One of the hydromet devices installed to complete the national target of 1000 hydromet devices installed nationwide by June 30, 2014.
Dr. Osmundo Belmonte, ARD-TSD, orients the 2014 scholars during the opening of their Summer Orientation and Enrichment Program at the Saint Louis University on May 5, 2014.
A total of 114 hydromet sensors were deployed in the Cordillera Region by DOST-CAR under the Hydromet Project, a subcomponent of the DOST’s Project NOAH. Specifically, 97 Automated Rain Gauges and 17 Water Level Monitoring Stations (WLMS) were installed in 103 locations/ stations distributed in the municipalities of the Cordillera. Since 2011, DOST-CAR has been working with the different LGUs and SUCs of CAR for the deployment of these sensors with the ultimate objective of enhancing PAGASA’s forecasting accuracy and for DRRM purposes. (hgd) Table 1. Hydromet Devices Installed per Province CITY / PROVINCE
ARG
WLMS
TOTAL
Abra
28
5
33
Apayao
8
3
11
Baguio
1
1
2
Benguet
17
3
20
Ifugao
18
1
19
Kalinga
11
1
12
Mt. Province
14
3
17
TOTAL
97
17
114
The Department of Science and Technology- CAR is inviting graduating high school students in the region to avail of the DOST Scholarship program designed to provide scholarships for students who want to pursue careers in mathematics and sciences. This undergraduate scholarship program under the Department’s Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) is open to qualified graduating high school students who wish to pursue careers specifically under the Basic and Applied Sciences, Engineering, and Science and Mathematics Teaching. Scholarship application is now open for this coming school year, AY 2015-2016. There are two scholarship programs under the S&T Undergraduate Scholarship specifically the RA 7687 and Merit scholarship programs. RA 7687, otherwise known as the S&T Scholarship Act of 1994, provides college scholarships to talented and deserving students whose families’ socioeconomic status does not exceed the set cut-off values of certain indicators. The applicant under RA 7687 must be a member of the top five percent (5%) of the regular high school graduating class; or a member of the graduating class of a DOST-SEI identified or DepED- recognized science high school; a naturalborn Filipino citizen; a resident of the municipality for the last 4 years as attested by the Barangay/ school records; of good moral character and in good health. For the Merit Scholarship program, the applicant must belong to the upper 5% of the high school graduating class; be a natural-born Filipino citizen; be in good health; and be of good moral character. The scholarship benefits include tuition fee (not to exceed P 10,000.00/semester; P 8,000.00/trimester; Book Allowance (P 5,000.00/semester); Monthly Stipend (P 5,000.00 for page 9
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s&t news DOST conducts proposal writeshop and packaging development training for city/municipal links
Advancing the metals and engineering industry in Ifugao The Wood Furniture Industry in Ifugao is at a stand still. Wood is still abundant in Ifugao because of the people’s love to tend to trees which is why the province’s forest reserves are never depleted.
It is a dilemma however that the availability of “plantation trees” grown by the Ifugaos cannot be used to advance the wood furniture industry since most land owners with tree plantations do not have the necessary papers for this to be legally cut, transported and made into furniture pieces. Accordingly, the basic requirement to initiate the processing of required Mr. Ramiel Lagaban, DOST-CAR Artist-Designer lectures on the documents is not a thing that wood owners would bother to basics of packaging and labeling during the STEAM writeshop acquire. Hence, most lot owners cut their trees without the on April 22-24, 2014 at Tublay, Benguet. required permits thereby leaving the buyers with no legal LA TRINIDAD, Benguet, April 21 (PIA) - - The document to use. Department of Science and Technology- Cordillera Regional The SMEs of Ifugao have then realized that the Metals and Office (DOST - CAR), is set to conduct an S&T – based Engineering Industry has a better future compared with the project proposal writing workshop and packaging and labelling wood industry. Most who entered into this business however development training for science and technology linkaging in has not undergone the necessary training to start and operate the cities and municipalities in the region on April 22 to 24 the business. But their perseverance has made them succeed. at the Winaca Eco Cultural Village in Acop, Tublay, Benguet. DOST – Ifugao initiated the acquisition of the necessary Focus on the first day of the activity will be the importance skills to start making their firms comply to Good Metal Shop of improving packaging and labeling design and laboratory Practices through a training cum plant site evaluation. The testing for local or community livelihood product development shop owner – participants voluntarily presented their shops and The second day will be allotted to a re-orientation on appropriate recommendations were provided by the resource DOST - CAR programs, projects and activities including speaker, Engr. Reynaldo Gregorio of the Philippine Center for updates, and S&T Development Project Proposal Writeshop Post-harvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech). It was very fortunate that the participants were very receptive to (writing workshop) the activity, implementing suggestions and recommendations The participants will be presenting their S&T-based immediately after the training. development project proposals for critiquing and finalization The participants were also very enthusiastic to participate on the third day. The finalized proposal will be submitted to in an educational tour to PHilMech in Muñoz, Nueva Ecija that DOST for approval and funding. they sponsored their own expenses for the trip. This particular This three –day activity is part of DOST’s STEAM (S&T activity, which was set on March 18, 2014 was made possible for the Enhancement and Advancement of Municipalities) through the coordination of Engr. Genna B. Jallorina, PSTD project, a brainchild of DOST – CAR Regional Director Julius of Ifugao. She accompanied them in their plant visit and they Caesar Sicat, which main objective is to technically equip the were able to see what is in store for a business on Metals and identified municipal S&T coordinator from all the cities and Engineering. Hopefully, those who were not able to join the municipalities in Cordillera for effective project identification, initial group could also find time to visit the said agency. (mbc) development, project proposal preparation, as well as project implementation, monitoring and evaluation. Sicat, in a statement, disclosed that through STEAM, they hope to give their local S&T links continuous training until the time that they can eventually work on their own, especially in bringing development projects for their respective communities. (JDP/CCD and Jhina Feliciano – PIA Intern)
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April-June 2014
Semi-mechanization of dairy farm in Baguio City through SETUP
S&T heads, project managers and partner consortia undergo capacity building workshop
SETUP Cooperator, Mr. Johnny Adjaro of Adjaor’s Dairy Products based in Balacbac, Sto. Tomas Proper, Baguio City.
Mr. Harley Palangchao of the Baguio Midland Courier lectures on basic Adobe photoshop techniques last May 15, 2014 at the BSU-NPRCTC, La Trinidad, Benguet.
It is no secret that dairy farmers work hard to ensure that fresh wholesome milk products are provided to consumers. One such dairy farmer is Mr. Johnny Adjaro of Lower Balacbac, Sto. Tomas Proper, Baguio City.
LA TRINIDAD BENGUET, May 21 (PIA) - - For better information dissemination and delivery of programs and services to the public, Cordillera Provincial Science and Technology (S&T) heads, program managers and representatives from partner consortia attended a three-day basic news and feature writing and photo documentation workshop.
His business, registered as “Adjaro’s Dairy Products” in 1997 with the Department of Trade and Industry started with an initial two (2) cows and one (1) bull. The owner’s dairy combines the indoor and outdoor production systems which means that during the daytime the cattle are fed on pastures and during nighttime and adverse weather conditions, the cattle are fed in their stalls. Adjaro’s Dairy Products is focused on milk production and collection, and stock (dairy cow) expansion. Stock expansion for milking cows is on-going in collaboration with the National Dairy Authority (NDA) through artificial insemination. Female calves are maintained by the dairy farm while male calves are sold to cattle fatteners. In 2010, Mr. Adjaro availed of DOST’s technology assistance through the Small Enterprise Technology and Upgrading Program (SETUP) wherein the the business adopted the mechanized milking technique in the collection of milk products. Manual milking usually takes 15 minutes per udder making the total time of milking the cow to 60 minutes. However, the introduction of the mechanized milking collection machine has effectively reduced milk collection to three (3) minutes per udder or 12 min total milking collection per cow. All milk products of the firm are being collected and brought to NDA for selling. As of July 2014, the firm graduated from SETUP and has a total of 7 cows and 1 bull. As Sir Johnny said, “it was a milking success”.
A project of the Department of Science and TechnologyCordillera Regional Office (DOST – CAR), in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA – CAR), the activity was held at the Benguet State University Northern Luzon Root Crops Research and Training Center last May 14 to 16. In welcoming the participants, PIA – CAR Regional Director Helen Tibaldo outlined the importance of learning the information medium as well as the new media (social media) as effective multipliers in disseminating to the public the DOST’s programs, projects and services. DOST – CAR Assistant Regional Director for Finance and Administrative Services Ma. Rowena Madarang pointed out the importance of such tie-up project with PIA, so as to equip their program managers from every province/city in Cordillera as well as their partner consortia for the effective communication of their programs, projects and services to the general public. For the opening day workshop, Baguio Correspondents and Broadcasters Club (BCBC) president and Philippine Daily Inquirer correspondent Franklin Cimatu gave a lecture on Social Media 101, while Lita Jane Cadalig of Baguio Midland Courier gave a briefing on the theories of news writing. For the second day, the participants enjoyed lectures on basic photography, the art behind photography, photo journalism and actual outdoor photo session, wherein their individual outputs were critiqued. Actual lessons on photo enhancement/editing and captioning were also done. page 9
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set-up corner
SETUP 2nd Quarter Update The authority to approve project proposals with budgetary requirement within two million pesos now vests with the Regional Director effective June 11, 2014. During the second quarter, there were 28 project proposals which were approved for financial assistance by RPMO with a total amount of PhP 12,316,562.86. The approved proposals emanated from the different provinces as follows: Project Title
Name of Enterprise
Address of Cooperator
Sector
Amount of Project (PHP)
APAYAO 1
Upgrading of the Facilities for Kae Venice Meat Shop and Merchandise
Kae Venice Meat Shop and Merchandise Mr. Mark Allen Bagabay M & N Eatery Mrs. Norma P. Daquioag
Poblacion East, Flora, Apayao
Food
144,700.00
2
Upgrading of Facilities of M & N Eatery for the Production of Veggie Noodles
Caglayan, Conner Apayao
Food
220,000.00
3
Upgrading of Facilities of Bayaua’s Welding and Vulcanizing Shop for the Fabrication and Repair of Farm Implements and Other Metal Products
Bayaua’s Welding and Vulcanizing Shop Mr. Paterno M. Bayaua
Poblacion, Pudtol Apayao
Metals and Engineering
335,000.00
Upgrading of Equipment and Product Quality of Robee Sweet Delicacies Upgrading of Equipment for the Production of Jayc Food Products
Robee Sweet Delicacies Ms. Rebecca A. Rivera
Food
151,850.00
Food
480,870.86
Upgrading of Equipment for the Production of Malec’s Pastry Upgrading of Equipment & Packaging of Health 100 Baked Products
Malec’s Pastry Mrs. Flor Caoili Health100 Restoreant Mr. Elmer Macalingay
Food
554,000.00
Food
151,850.00
8
Equipment Upgrading for the Production of Win-Art Furniture and Wood Crafts
Furniture
287,322.00
9
Equipment Upgrading for the Production of Meat-Based Product & Cakes for Spezia Bistro & Grill
Win-Art Furniture and Wood Crafts Mrs. Agustina Ramon and Mr. Rosendo Ramon Spezia Bistro and Grill Mrs. Maricris M. Marrero
Diplomat Cmpd. Dominican Hill Baguio City #42 Bengao Bakakeng Central Baguio City 51 Cypress Point, Irisan, Baguio City #350 Magsaysay Ave. Corner Private Road Baguio City Kennon Road Baguio City
BAGUIO CITY 4
5
6 7
Jayc Food Products Mr. Guillermo Calado
Kings Court Pension Food House, #31 Rimando Road, Baguio City
255,050.00
MA 181 Puguis, La Trinidad, Benguet
Metals and Engineering
600,000.00
OB-022 Boted Tawang, La Trinidad Benguet
Food
BENGUET 10
Upgrading of Adler Technical Machine Shop
11
Upgrading the Production Efficiency and Market Competitiveness of the Belma’s Fruit and Vegetable Preserved Food Products
62
Adler Technical Machine Shop Mr. Adler Tecne Belma’s Fruit and Vegetable Preserved Food Products Mrs. Mary G. Dionisio
April-June April - June2014 2014
92,145.00
12 13 14
15
Upgrading of the By the Gardens Bakery Improving the Production Capability of Rocky Mountain Shop Improving Production Efficiency of the AC Shutters Manufacturers
By the Gardens Bakery Mrs. Brenda Tabingan Rocky Mountain Shop Mr. Mencio C. Oydot AC Shutters Manufacturers Mr. Ariole Cabigting
Improving Kerobee’s Tea Production Process Through Technology Intervention
Kerobee’s Tea Products Mr. Romeo Kimbungan
Madaymen, Kibungan, Benguet Dengsi, Tawang, La Trinidad, Benguet AE-139 Western Buyagan La Trinidad, Benguet Riverside, Ambiong La Trinidad, Benguet
Granary Bakery Mrs. Josla B. Bindadan Mila’s Bakeshop Mrs. Karen T. Surla
Food
120,337.50
Metals and Engineering Metals and Engineering
605,000.00 1,600,000.00
Food
1,420,337.50
Poblacion, Banaue Ifugao Poblacion West Lamut, Ifugao
Food
316,350.00
Food
903,000.00
Baguiwa’s Enterprises Mrs. Evangeline Baguiwa
Poblacion West, Maitab, Lagawe, Ifugao
Food
216,100.00
Bulaglag's Bakery Ms Fernanda Bulaglag Ivan Troy's Sili Myrna A. Dupli Shaquil’s Fruit Wine Production Ms. Brienda A. Gup-ad Arboleda’s Food Products Ms. Catherine A. Arboleda N. Sarol Meat Shop & Frozen Products Ms. Nellie L. Sarol
Purok 2, Bulanao Tabuk City, Kalinga Dangoy, Lubuagan Kalinga Dagupan, West Tabuk City, Kalinga
Food
200,000.00
Food
104,000.00
Food
107,500.00
Dagupan West Tabuk, Kalinga Mayangao St. Dagupan, Tabuk City Kalinga
Food
107,500.00
Food
499,000.00
Pedro's Bakeshop Mr. Pedro Kigas Jr Bolinget Pan Mrs. Esther Bolinget Dogo Enterprises Mr. Moses B. Padayao Green Salad Farm Mr. Jonie Calawa
Suyo, Sagada Mt Province Bangaan, Sagada Mountain Province Dogo, Patay, Sagada Mt. Province Guisguisaan Mount Data, Bauko Mt. Province Poblacion, Sagada Mt. Province
Food
215,000.00
Food
475,000.00
CHB
255,000.00
Food
946,000.00
GDH/ICT
450,000.00
IFUGAO 16
Upgrading of Granary Bakery
17
Upgrading of Production Facilities and Improvement of Product Quality of Mila’s Bakeshop in Lamut, Ifugao Upgrading of Baguiwa’s Bakery
18
KALINGA 19 Process Upgrading for Bulaglag Bakery 20 Equipment Upgrading of Ivan Troy's Sili 21 Quality and Packaging Improvement in Shaquil's Fruit Wine Production 22 23
Improvement in the Manufacturing of Fruit Wine De Kalinga Products Productivity Improvement of N. Sarol’s Longganisa
MT. PROVINCE 24
Upgrading of Pedro’s Bakeshop
25
27
Improving the Production of Bolinget Pan Enhancing the CHB Production of Dogo Enterprises Upgrading of Green Salad Farm
28
Upgrading of MR Printer
26
MR Printer Mr. Michael Pacyaya
Total Funding Provided
12,316,562.86
MSMEs in CAR are encouraged to avail of this program. Interested firms may visit the provincial S&T centers and the regional office for further details.
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s&t news DOST-CAR jumpstarts 2014 technical consultancy programs in the region The DOST-CAR through its Technical Consultancy Services awarded 30 clusters of farm beneficiaries out of the 40 target clusters under the Consultancy on Agricultural Productivity Enhancement (CAPE) Program. These 30 clusters of farms awarded under the CAPE program are composed of 10 clusters of cacao farms distributed in the six (6) municipalities of Abra, as follows: 1 cluster each in Bangued and ASIST, Lagangilang and 2 clusters each in the municipalities of Bucay, Dolores, Pidigan, and San Juan. The other 20 clusters of farms are engaged in coffee production. Ten (10) clusters of coffee farms are located in Jolongan, Kiangan, Ifugao and the other 10 clusters are distributed in the four (4) barangays of Otucan, Guinzadan, Mabaay and Sadsadan in the municipality of Bauko, Mountain Province. The 10 clusters of cacao farms in Abra and the 10 clusters of coffee farms in Ifugao were awarded to the Plumb, Level and Square Technologies Group, Inc. (PLSTGI) consultancy firm represented by Dr. Dionisio G. Alvindia based in the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija. Meanwhile, the remaining 10 clusters of coffee farms in Mt. Province was awarded to the Cordillera Agricultural Productivity and Environmental Technologies Services (CAPETS), Inc. represented by Ms. Ligaya A. Poled with postal address at Shilan, La Trinidad, Benguet. On the other hand, 30 firm beneficiaries out of the 40 target firm beneficiaries under the Manufacturing Productivity Extension (MPEX) Program were likewise awarded to two (2) accredited consultancy firms. These 30 firms are composed of 20 firms on food processing, nine (9) firms on metals and one (1) firm on handicraft. The 21 firms on food based in Abra, Baguio and Benguet were awarded to Ploughshares, Inc. (PI) Consultancy firm represented by Ms. Hazel B. Alfon based in Quezon City, whereas, the nine (9) firms on metals, four (4) firms in Baguio City, and five (5) firms in Benguet were awarded to the Covenant Consultants International, Inc. (CCI) consultancy firm represented by Ms. Rebecca C. Josiah based in Makati City. The remaining 10 clusters of coffee farms under the CAPE program in Apayao and 10 firms on metals in Ifugao under the MPEX program will be awarded by the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) of DOST-CAR to accredited firms within the 3rd quarter of 2014. (fcp)
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April-June 2014
The Ginger Washer Prototype
PSTC-Ifugao...from page 1
developed technologies and conceptualize a ginger washer utilizing or applying simple mechanical cleaning movements or motions. A complicated machine is not welcome to a remote area where transportation is difficult. Machines should come in “handy” and spare parts should be available locally so that repairs or innovations could be made on the spot. Utilization of locally available materials, the simplicity and the “user friendly” aspects are the prime factors considered in the design. So far, the simplest mechanical motion seen to be employed in mechanizing the ginger washing process is rotation combined with the action of gravity by the ginger rhizomes falling and rolling on neatly arranged plastic bristles. The ISTC-designed ginger washer basically consists of a rotating drum that will contain the ginger rhizomes and a fixed drum that contain the wash water and serve as collector of all other debris and serving also as the enclosure. The rotating drum shall be mounted with its rotation on the y-axis and has perforated walls lined with plastic bristles. The fixed outer drum is installed with water inlet and water discharge valves. The ginger washer was designed to run at low speed with the intention to keep the ginger rhizomes hold on the revolving walls (due to centrifugal force) and would eventually fall unto the plastic bristles as they approach the top most part of rotation. The designed speed will also avoid massive splashing of wash water reducing the risk of exposing the electric motor and other electrical parts from being wet. The machine worked pretty well during the testing and commissioning. It was observed that the bigger the size of the ginger, the faster it would take to wash them. Since the machine is a prototype, the Caba RIC members are encouraged to explore further and observe the best method to maximize its utilization and also establish the actual capacity of the machine. The machine shall eventually be used for other root crops in season as the group expands their product lines. Further innovations or adjustments shall be made later to be able to improve or increase the capacity of the machine.(mbc)
Science...from page 1
DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo, represented by DOST Assistant Secretary Raymund E. Liboro, stressed in his message that because of Yolanda’s unprecedented ferocity, DOST, DILG and OCD have partnered to harness science for community disaster preparedness throughout all 17 regions. He further stressed that we can together uplift the state of disaster planning and preparation at national and local community levels through the 4-point agenda for community preparedness: 1) increase local risk knowledge, 2) capacitate hazards monitoring, 3) test warning and communications protocol, and 4) build response capability. “Early warning calls for early action” said DOST Sec. Montejo as he challenged the participants to commit and do their best to perform the task. Furthermore, PHILVOCS Director Renato U. Solidum, presented a comprehensive geologic survey of the Cordillera Administrative Region, emphasizing that CAR is prone to geological hazards such as landslides and earthquakes. He also highlighted the importance of disaster imagination in developing appropriate DRRM measures to be able to prepare adequately for worst scenarios. He urged stakeholders to make full use of the latest S&T tools and information not only in making our communities safer but also in preserving and building on our development gains. A comprehensive overview of hydromet hazards and warning systems in CAR was also presented by PAGASA OIC, Office of Deputy Administrator, Dr. Landrico U. Dalida, Jr. He issued El Nino advisory to warn about its potential effects especially in power generation and agricultural irrigation and he introduced PAGASA’s latest warning systems including the improved website (www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph). “A more science-based DRRM planning approach should be a key feature in every community’s over-all plan to ensure its sustainability and continued growth” added Dr. Dalida. Meanwhile, Project NOAH Executive Director, Dr. Alfredo Mahar A. Lagmay, discussed a quick overview of Project NOAH and its impact in providing graphical visualization of weather data from satellites, Doppler stations, as well as ground weather stations, rain gauges, and water level sensors. Through NOAH, DOST underscores the urgency of creating and enhancing endto-end communication protocols to develop a more responsive, interactive feedback loop through the latest information and communications technologies. Engr. Czar Jakiri Sarmiento of Project DREAM also presented a general overview of Disaster Risk Evaluation and Assessment for Mitigation (DREAM) Project and their work in producing high-definition hazards maps using LIDAR technology of all river systems in the country. During the workshops, the participants were able to identify geological hazards and weather systems affecting their respective jurisdiction. They were also
briefed on the use of hazard maps and generation of 3D hazard maps. On the second day of the campaign, the Office of the Civil Defense presented the National and Regional state of DRRRM. Its scope consisted of the Implementation of OCD-Smart Infoboard system, “Batingaw”-NDRRMC mobile phone apps, and the Rapid Emergency Telecommunications Team (RETT). Meanwhile, the Department of Interior Local Government headed the workshop for each municipality to identify and draft their plans, strategizing their actions, assessing their available disaster risk prevention facilities and noting their development interventions. As the campaign finally ended, DOST-CAR Director Sicat underscored in his message to strengthen the focus and advocacy towards prevention and mitigation through science and technology. “Let us be the Galileo’s who dared to look through the telescope, to look through project NOAH, DREAM LIDAR, PHILVOCS hazard maps and discover its vast potentials”, Dir. Sicat concluded.(ccg)
DOST SEI..from page 3
Physics/ Applied Physics/ Geology/Mining Engineering courses and P 4,000.00/month for other courses); Uniform Allowance; Transportation Allowance and Group and Accident Insurance. Interested applicants may visit the DOST- CAR Regional Office located at Km. 6, La Trinidad, Benguet or at the Urban/ Provincial Science and Technology Center, Governor Pack Road, Baguio City. Brochures and application forms are also available in the said offices. The deadline for filing of application is on August 22, 2014 (Friday). Likewise, the qualifying examination is scheduled on September 21, 2014 (Sunday). For further information about the scholarship program, please contact Dr. Nancy A. Bantog- OIC, ARD- TSD/ Scholarship Coordinator; Ms. Maritess A. Banaña or Ms. Evelyn A. SicatScholarship staff at (074) 422-0979 and 422-2214 or to any DOST Provincial Centers. (mbanaña) S&T heads.. from page 5
The photography session and workshop were jointly conducted by photojournalists Harley Palangchao of the Baguio Midland Courier and Richard Balonglong of the Philippine Daily Inquirer. Capping the three day workshops were a basic news writing session from Robert Jaworski Abaño of the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Basic Feature Writing session with Ramon Dacawi, a past president of the BCBC and Public Information Officer of the Baguio City Hall. (JDP/CCD – PIA CAR)
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feature Technology Innovation in the Highland Vegetable Farming Industry:
THE GREEN SALAD FARM OF BAUKO, MOUNTAIN PROVINCE It was as usual, cold and foggy that September afternoon in Bauko, Mountain Province. We just came from the capital town of Bontoc and intended to drop by the Green Salad Farm, a SETUP cooperator, whose business is to produce high value commercial crops such as romaine lettuce. From the national highway, we traveled around 2 kilometers of rough road towards the farm. Upon reaching the three-hectare farm, it wasn’t hard to note that most of the vegetable gardens are covered with green houses. You will know, right from the start that this farm is no ordinary one. On the contrary, it was quite impressive.
The technology intervention, coupled with the diligence and determination of the cooperator to succeed in the business resulted to a weekly harvest of about 7.5 tons of high quality romaine lettuce.
When Mr. Jonie B. Calawa came up to meet us, I was, admittedly, taken aback. He looked like any other highland farmer, from the bonnet on his head to the thick jacket shielding him from the cold weather to those wellloved jeans and down to the worn slippers on his feet. He sure didn’t look like the owner of this farm. But that is what I love about my people in the highlands. You’d never know a millionaire even if he was staring you right on the face.
During the guided tour that cold afternoon, I noticed that the romaine lettuce have unusually loose open heads with abundant tops and crisp stems. A typical farmer who is proud of his produce, Mr. Calawa generously offered some to us and I can say firsthand that the lettuce is exceptionally crisp, the flavor sweet and mild. He told us that right after harvest, the lettuce are packed in crates and delivered to their institutional buyers. Mr. Calawa also explained that the produce of the farm is of good quality because the greenhouse ensures that the produce has uniform growth.
The highlands of Cordillera Administrative Region are known as the premier producers of semi-temperate crops in the country. The high elevations and very cool weather conditions is a competitive advantage for farmers in the production of semi-temperate vegetables and crops, making this one of the major sources of livelihood in the area. Aside from the province of Benguet, Mountain Province is also one of the major producers of semi-temperate high value commercial crops such as cabbage, carrots, lettuce, salad tomatoes and bell pepper. The Green Salad Farms, a single proprietorship enterprise established in 1988 and registered with the Department of Trade and Industry in 2009 was initially established by Mr. Calawa’s father. From the start, the family was determined to become the lead producer of highland fresh vegetables through the use of greenhouse technologies as well as the use of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). It was a noble goal, and they worked very hard to get it.
The adoption of the greenhouse technology including the innovations applied by Mr. Calawa created a great impact in the whole business. Their cropping system has increased their production cycles from 8 times to 52 times annually. Such intensive cropping system can never be realized in open field conditions.
When it comes to solid waste management, the cooperator makes sure that nothing is wasted. All non-biodegradable wastes are placed in proper containers and sold to junk shops. Green Salad Farms has an existing composting area where all rotten vegetables, leaves, peelings, and other biodegradable wastes are collected in the compost pit which are then processed into fertilizers. He proudly added that they do not use inorganic fertilizers since they strictly adhere to organic farming. I remember thinking, that’s good especially since their main produce is romaine lettuce. The efforts of this innovative cooperator in the highland vegetable farming industry have not gone unnoticed. He was, in fact, awarded the Certificate of Achievement as Outstanding Farmer in 2011 during the 44th Mountain Province Foundation Day and the Gawad Saka Award in 2013 by the Department of Agriculture.
In 2009, Mr. Calawa approached the DOST-CAR through the Provincial Science and Technology Center-Mountain Province to inquire about possible technological assistance that could improve his production process. Specifically, he was looking for technologies that would protect the crop from the freezing cold that spreads in the open 1,300 square meter area. Fortunately, SETUP approved his project entitled “Upgrading of Greenhouse for High Value Crops Production” in 2010.
It was dark when we left the Green Salad Farms. The very cold weather became colder when it started to drizzle. But we left, knowing that this SETUP project is a successful one. It is a project where government support was complemented by the right cooperator--- innovative, diligent and even with all his success, still manages to remain very humble. Truth be told, he is one of those who make me even prouder to be a highlander, an Igorot of the Cordilleras.
Through the SETUP project, the Green Salad Farm was able to improve its production of different varieties of lettuce. The greenhouse technology enabled the cooperator to produce enough romaine lettuce for its institutional market, the DOLE Philippines, Live Green International, Mountaineers Trading, Daisy’s Trading, Green Crops Trading, Cheryl’s Trading and Isla Trinidad Veggies. Further, Mr. Calawa has adopted the protected cultivation technology with automated system which is essential to protect the crops from climatic changes and adverse weather conditions. These include innovations such as drip irrigation, wind breaker system, aeration system of the greenhouse and production programming to ensure a year round supply of crops.
As an afterthought, I think about how the agricultural industry in the Cordillera Region particularly the production of semi-temperate vegetables has been threatened in recent years due to the importation of vegetables, both legal and illegal. Vegetable growers do need all the government assistance that they can get if they are to compete in the market. The DOST has been doing its part in assisting the vegetable growers in CAR through the infusion of appropriate technologies to give them an edge in the local market. That too, makes me proud to be part of this Department.(smsc)
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Note: The Green Salad Farm is this year’s regional winner for the Best SETUP Adoptor and DOST-CAR’s entry to the 2014 NSTW-Best SETUP Adoptor.
photo releases
Project NOAH Executive Director, Dr. Alfredo Mahar A. Lagmay, discussed a quick overview of Project NOAH during the INAP:S4SC activity on May 8-9, 2014 in Baguio City.
Dir. Alex Uy of OCD-CAR demonstrates the “Duck, Cover and Hold” for earthquake hazards during the Kapihan on July 2, 2014 in observance of the National Disaster Consciousness Month attended by the CRDRRMC member directors and LCEs.
The press conference/kapihan on June 25, 2014 at the PIA-CAR to promote the upcoming 2014 Cordillera Month Celebration in July. DOST-CAR, being the chair of the RDC ECON SECOM is this year’s lead for the event.
MOA Signing of the project on “Field-Testing of Integrated Gold-Copper Mineral Processing Pilot Plant in Benguet”, a joint project of UP, DOST, PLGU Benguet, and BFSSMI on June 6, 2014 at the Benguet Prov’l Capitol, La Trinidad, Benguet.
Installation of a Water Level Monitoring Station with Automated Rain Gauge at the San Juan Bridge in San Juan, Abra on May 20, 2014 by DOST-Abra staff.
Installation of a WLMS with ARG at the Aluling Bridge on June 30, 2014. (L-R: Hon. Anthony Wooden, Mayor of Tadian, Mt. Province; Hon. Benjamin Maggay, Mayor of Cervantes, Ilocos Sur; and Dir. Norberto Cobaldez, PSTC-Mt. Province).
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s & t trivia
The Internet of Things: A Seamless Network of Everyday Objects Compiled by: Hansi G. Dinumla
The Internet of Things isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a thing and it’s here to stay. So what exactly is the Internet of Things and why should you care? Most people still don’t have a firm grasp on this concept or a clear idea of how it will affect not only their business, but their everyday life. However, I believe that five years from now, the phrase “The Internet of Things” will be as common as the words “digital” or “social media.” Gone are the days of computers, smartphones and tablets being the only objects able to connect to the Internet. Today, nearly everything around us — from coffee pots and household lights to vending machines and cars — has the ability to be brought online to interact with other machines. This idea of physical objects communicating and interacting with each other online is referred to as the Internet of Things. In a 2009 presentation, SAP Research’s Stephan Haller defined the Internet of Things as “a world where physical objects are seamlessly integrated into the information network, and where the physical objects can become active participants in business processes.” This online network of physical objects is accomplished through the use of RFID tags and other types of sensors. Implanting these tags inside a physical object gives it the power to be monitored and controlled remotely through the Internet. This eliminates the need for humans to constantly enter and monitor data. Instead, objects can work directly with each other, without the need for a person to link them together. While this technology is currently seen by most consumers through homebased smart products like thermostats, lights and security systems, in the future businesses are expected to fully integrate it into their operations in order to become more efficient.
History of the Internet of Things Kevin Ashton, co-founder and executive director of the Auto-ID Center, is credited with coining the term the Internet of Things. Ashton said he first used the term in a presentation in 1999 he made to Proctor & Gamble on how to link the company’s RFID supply chain technology to the Internet. “If we had computers that knew everything there was to know about things — using data they gathered without any help from us — we would be able to track and count everything, and greatly reduce waste, loss and cost. We would know when things needed replacing, repairing or recalling, and whether they were
fresh or past their best,” Ashton wrote in a 2009 RFID Journal article on what he originally meant by the Internet of Things. “We need to empower computers with their own means of gathering information, so they can see, hear and smell the world for themselves, in all its random glory.” Since then, technology companies around the world have been feverishly trying to develop new ways to link the Internet with physical objects. Currently, there are more than 12 billion devices that can connect to the Internet. However, by 2015, IT giant Cisco projects there will be 25 billion, with that number jumping to 50 billion by 2020, nearly seven times the number of people on the planet.
Applications and examples of the Internet of Things The Internet of Things is currently being applied in a wide variety of uses throughout the home, businesses, hospitals, cars and entire cities. The most common places everyday consumers see Internet-connected devices are in the home. Internet-connected objects, from thermostats and lights to smart outlets and key tracking devices, are used in the home to help owners save time and money. Being able to remotely monitor and control which devices are on and off at any certain time helps homeowners reduce monthly electric, gas and water bills. The Internet of Things is seen similarly in businesses. Companies in every industry are incorporating Internet-connected devices into their operations as a way to save money. While the majority are using things temperature and lighting controls, some are figuring out more advanced ways to use the devices. Examples include vending machines that send signals to a business’ computers when they’re running low, or manufacturing equipment that can send warnings when it is malfunctioning. But that’s only one layer of what the Internet of Things is capable of. Its full potential can be seen when multiple devices are interacting and communicating with each other all at one time. For example, Cisco paints a picture of a sleeping employee who receives an email overnight letting them know their first appointment of the day is being pushed back 45 minutes. That email will then notify the employee’s alarm clock, which will then readjust when it is set to go off. When the alarm does go off, the clock can then communicate with the coffee pot to start brewing a cup and let their car know they need to start defrosting those ice-covered windows. Experts agree that as it becomes easier and easier to bring physical objects online, the opportunities presented by the Internet of Things are endless. http://www.livescience.com/38562-internet-of-things.html http://www.cmswire.com/cms/internet-of-things/the-internet-of-things-its-big-and-its-here-to-stay-023731.php
Department of Science & Technology Cordillera Administrative Region Km. 6, La Trinidad, Benguet ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________
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