In a bid to revitalize the onion industry and uplift the livelihood of farmers in Occidental Mindoro, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is spearheading a series of interconnected science and technology-based interventions aimed at strengthening the entire agricultural value chain—from production and processing to market access.

Local farmers have long struggled with challenges such as market saturation, the influx of imported onions, and inadequate post-harvest infrastructure—issues that have resulted in substantial financial losses during peak harvest seasons. In response, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through its regional office in MIMAROPA and affiliated programs, is implementing targeted interventions to boost farm productivity, minimize post-harvest losses, and enhance market access. During a recent visit to Occidental Mindoro, DOST-MIMAROPA officials inspected key initiatives that reflect their commitment to inclusive rural development through science and technology.

These include the onion processing facility at Occidental Mindoro State College (OMSC) – Murtha Campus, the Smart Drip Irrigation System deployed in onion farms in San Jose, and the centralized weaving center for the Ina Buhid indigenous women in Bato-Ili, Monte Claro—all of which aim to improve the livelihoods of farming communities and indigenous groups by blending innovation with cultural preservation.

In addition, DOST officials visited four SETUP-assisted beneficiaries to assess their progress and identify opportunities for further support and innovation. These enterprises included the OMSC Food Processing Center cum Onion Processing Facility, which utilizes upgraded technologies to enhance the production of value-added onion products; Ufudan mga Ina Buhid sa Aligon Gamat, a women-led indigenous group preserving traditional weaving practices while generating income through handicrafts; Tawaraw Salt Producers, a local community enterprise engaged in the sustainable production and processing of salt; and Alpha Palay Trading & Rice Mill, which has improved its rice milling operations through technology interventions aimed at increasing efficiency and product quality.

One of the core technologies introduced is the Smart Drip Irrigation System under the Smart and Sustainable Communities Program. This system enables efficient water use, minimizes waste, and boosts crop yields—key components for climate-resilient agriculture.

To complement this, DOST has redeployed essential post-harvest equipment through its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), including a cabinet dryer and stainless steel tables, now installed at the OMSC – College of Agriculture’s Food Processing Center in Murtha Campus.

In line with the growing emphasis on value-added production, the facility is being expanded with a dedicated Onion Processing Facility, backed by a ₱10 million grant from the Department of Agriculture. The upgraded facility will house advanced equipment such as a freeze dryer and water retort, further enhancing OMSC’s capability to support both education and local agribusiness development.

To help farmers maximize available technologies, DOST-MIMAROPA, through its Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO), has conducted training on low-cost post-harvest techniques using locally available materials, teaching practical methods such as sun-drying, blending, and heat application. One standout product from these efforts is onion-based ice cream—an innovative creation that highlights the potential of crop diversification and value-added processing to generate new income streams and extend shelf life. Complementing these agricultural initiatives, DOST-MIMAROPA also supports cultural preservation and economic empowerment through the centralized weaving center of the Ina Buhid women, which provides livelihood opportunities while sustaining traditional handloom weaving practices.

Bridging the gap between innovation and commercialization, DOST has partnered with Lazada Philippines to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and farmer cooperatives expand their reach in the digital marketplace, giving locally developed products greater visibility and access to broader consumer bases. In addition, DOST continues to collaborate with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and other key stakeholders to promote inclusive supply chains and scalable agri-technologies that enhance the competitiveness of farmers, strengthen local enterprises, and ensure wider benefits for consumers.

These initiatives reflect DOST’s broader mission of transforming rural economies through inclusive innovation. By investing in R&D, enabling technology transfer, and fostering strategic partnerships, the agency is building a resilient onion ecosystem in Occidental Mindoro—one that sets a model for sustainable agricultural development nationwide.(Nelson Santos)

Amid circulating misinformation about its operations and ownership status, Dakak Beach Resort has clarified that it remains fully operational, not for sale, and is in fact expanding its offerings while opening doors for new business collaborations.

A household name in Philippine tourism, Dakak continues to stand as one of Mindanao’s premier destinations. With its sweeping white sand beaches, lush landscapes, and luxurious accommodations that feature uniquely Filipino designs — including bamboo-crafted rooms and capiz-shell windows — Dakak offers an immersive and serene escape for both local and international guests.

Recently, a Supreme Court ruling caused some public confusion after it ordered the resort to vacate a 1,602-square-meter property in Barangay Taguilon, Dapitan City. However, the legal dispute — which dates back several years — pertains only to less than 1% of the resort’s 156-hectare property and does not involve any areas accessed by guests. Resort management has filed a motion for reconsideration and stressed that operations remain unaffected.

In a public address, Dakak President Svetlana J. de Leon shared that the resort has not only weathered pandemic-era challenges, but is also now focused on innovation, tourism recovery, and strategic partnerships. Inspired by earlier business collaborations in areas like Tagoloan and Siquijor, Dakak is actively exploring tie-ups that promote sustainable tourism and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Over the years, Dakak has evolved beyond being just a beach resort. It now houses nine dining venues, a 24-hour café, multiple swimming pools (including a waterfall-fed children’s pool), water sports facilities, and the Dakak Adventure Zone, home to the longest dual zipline in the country. A highlight of the resort is its world-class golf course, considered one of the most beautiful and scenic in the Philippines. The course’s coastal views, well-manicured fairways, and championship-level design make it a destination in itself for golf lovers. Paired with the resort’s top-notch amenities, it offers a complete package of relaxation and recreation.

For those seeking a truly elevated experience, Dakak also offers helicopter tours aboard the Robinson R-44 chopper, allowing guests to explore Dapitan’s coastline and nearby islands from above.

Adding to the resort’s appeal is its strategic location. Just a 30-minute drive from Dipolog Airport, Dakak serves as the perfect jump-off point to explore Dapitan’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Visitors can walk through time with landmarks like the Relief Map of Mindanao, the Rizal Shrine, and the Spanish-era seat of government, as well as heritage houses that offer a glimpse into the city’s storied past. Nature lovers can venture into the area’s many caves, waterfalls, and mountain trails, making it a haven for hikers and adventurers.

Despite legal noise surrounding a small land parcel, the message from Dakak is clear: the resort is not only fully operational but actively growing. It remains committed to Filipino hospitality, innovation, and tourism excellence — and welcomes both travelers and future partners to take part in the next chapter of its story.(Nelson Santos)

Energy efficiency in the Philippines has evolved from a regulatory requirement into a national movement, driven by data, empowered by innovation, and sustained through collaboration. This transformation represents a significant step forward in the country’s pursuit of a low-carbon, energy-secure future, where every watt saved contributes to inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Green financing is an essential driver at the heart of this shift, transforming goals into tangible action. By harnessing innovative financial tools such as green bonds, energy service contracts, and performance-based incentives, industries, communities, and local governments are empowered to translate policy objectives into real-world implementation.

This agenda took center stage at the opening of the inaugural Philippine Conference on Energy Efficiency and Conservation (PCEEC) 2025, held yesterday at the Makati Diamond Residences. The event’s theme, “Advancing EEC through Green Financing and Artificial Intelligence,” highlights the dual roles of sustainable finance and emerging technologies in accelerating energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) across sectors.

Energy Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella stated in his keynote address that “The evolution of energy efficiency from compliance to a culture of conscious consumption reflects our national commitment to sustainability.” He added that it’s about being wiser and smarter about energy use, and to achieve this, complicated financing mechanisms are being simplified to drive innovation and enable inclusive participation.

Artificial intelligence (AI) was showcased as a game-changing tool for enhancing energy performance. AI enables organizations to optimize consumption, reduce costs, and minimize their carbon footprints through predictive maintenance, real-time energy monitoring, and intelligent building automation.

Green finance is no longer limited to physical infrastructure upgrades; it can also fuel research and development, enable digitalization, support capacity-building, and foster the adoption of smart systems. These aspects are essential for making energy efficiency efforts scalable, impactful, and self-sustaining.

The DOE continues to strengthen enabling policy and regulatory frameworks to de-risk investments, attract a broader range of stakeholders, and mainstream energy efficiency as a strategic pillar of the country’s energy transition and climate action goals under the Philippine Energy Plan. Through PCEEC 2025, the DOE aims to build strong public-private partnerships, engage financing institutions, and mobilize collective action. The Department calls on all sectors to view energy efficiency not only as a responsibility but also as an opportunity for national transformation.

By unlocking the power of green financing and artificial intelligence, the Philippines is demonstrating that sustainability is a collective journey powered by every decision to use energy more wisely. (DOE)

On May 28–29, 2025, the Provincial Government of Cavite thru the Office of the Provincial Public Employment Service Manager (OPPESM) held the Career Fest 2025 at De La Salle University – Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) High School Complex. In partnership with the DLSU-D administration, the event brought together graduating college students and alumni of the school for a two-day event focused on career preparation, employment opportunities, and government support.

Aimed at guiding students as they transition from campus to career, the event featured keynote addresses, career coaching, labor market insights, and job matching activities. DOLE Provincial Director Marivic B. Martinez graced the event, emphasizing the importance of career coaching for graduating students.

She also encouraged participating employers to provide on-the-spot hiring to help jumpstart the careers of qualified applicants.

Cavite PESO Manager Rizalie Pinpin-Enero formally opened the program with welcome remarks, while Dr. Jeff S. Buenviaje, DLSU-D Director for Advancement and Alumni Relations, gave a message of encouragement, motivating students to embrace the next chapter of their professional journey with confidence and purpose.

A key component of the event was the presentation of Labor Market Information (LMI) by DOLE staff. LMI provides critical data and projections on employment trends, helping students make informed career and education decisions.

Career coaching sessions led by OPPESM further enhanced student readiness, offering guidance on resume writing, interview strategies, and workplace expectations.

The event also featured a strong presence from various national government agencies including NBI, SSS, TESDA, DOLE, PSA, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, and PhilPost, providing essential pre-employment services and support for attendees.

A total of 1,773 students and alumni participated in Career Fest 2025, making it a successful initiative in preparing young professionals for the competitive labor market.

With the combined efforts of educational institutions, government partners, and the private sector, the event served as a vital stepping stone for many as they begin their careers.— A.Sarte (CPIO)

The provincial government of Cavite’s medical and dental mission was successfully conducted at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) facility in Naic, Cavite on May 30, 2025, extending much-needed healthcare services to a total of 347 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs).

The initiative was made possible through the request of the Vicarial Coordination Prison Ministry and San Isidro Labrador Parish, which actively support the well-being and rehabilitation of PDLs. The activity aimed not only to address their physical health needs but also to promote compassion and dignity for those currently behind bars.

With the unwavering dedication of medical professionals and volunteers, the activity became an opportunity to extend public service to one of society’s often-overlooked sectors.

It also reinforced the commitment of both church-based and government institutions to uphold inclusive health services and restorative justice. —JDP (CPIO)

A total of 335 residents of Tropical Village, Brgy. San Francisco, City of Gen. Trias benefited from a medical and dental mission held last May 29, 2025.

The activity was conducted by the Provincial Government of Cavite (PGC) through the Office of the Provincial Governor and Office of the Provincial Health Officer.

Medical and dental professionals from General Emilio Aguinaldo Memorial Hospital (GEAMH) provided free services such as medical consultations, dental check-ups, and tooth extractions.

Free medicines and mosquito repellent lotion were also distributed to all recipients.

The mission aimed to bring basic health services closer to the people, especially those in need.— R. Dones (CPIO)