Capiz State University, in cooperation with the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office 6 (DOST-VI) through the Capiz Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO), implements the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program in Brgy. Navitas, Panay, Capiz. This transformative initiative is dubbed Resilient, Innovative, and Sustainable Enterprises through CEST Program in Navitas, Panay Capiz.
The CEST program, developed by the DOST, aims to provide a source of livelihood and alleviate poverty in communities through science and technology interventions in health and nutrition, basic education, livelihood development, and disaster reduction.
On May 30, 2023, the CAPSU Project Team with the CAPIZ PSTO conducted an ocular inspection and site visit at Navitas Island, Panay, Capiz. Researchers and focal persons for seminars and training joined the said activity.
Leading the CAPSU Team was Dr. Stephanie S. Pimentel, FFRDC Director and Project Leader of CEST for Brgy. Navitas. Accompanying her were Dr. Leo Andrew B. Biclar, University Research Director; Dr. Ronilo G. Berondo, University Training Director; Prof. Jocelyn S. Legaspi, University Extension Director; Ms. Jerlie C. Bermejo, State Auditor (Commission on Audit), Dr. Matilde A. Perez, Chief Accountant; Ms. Cherry Anne M. Deang, Budget Officer, and other project team members. While the Capiz PSTO team includes Ms. Mia C. Pielago, Science Research Specialist II, Ms. Geselle R. Marcon, Administrative Assistant III, and Mr. Ramsey V. Bercades, Project Technical Assistant I.
The project seeks to establish a Fish Drying Facility that will contribute to the fishing industry’s growth while integrating agroforestry and crop production technologies that will improve agricultural practices and foster sustainable land use. The project also aims to increase the community’s awareness and preparedness on Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM), impart knowledge on meal management program for women, deploy Darag Native Chicken production through training and seminars, and strengthen governance by provision of Barangay Infosystem for Development and Accountability (BIDA) System. These expected outputs collectively aim to uplift the community of Brgy. Navitas by fostering resilience, innovation, and sustainability by applying science and technology interventions.