SIQUIJOR, Siquijor (PIA) — It was a day full of smiles for the children and teachers of a remote barangay in Maria, Siquijor when government workers and volunteers conducted an outreach program in Brgy. Cantugbas.
The outreach program led by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) included the awarding of outstanding teachers in the barangay, donation of computers, and a “trick-or-treat” party for the kids and teachers.
Evelyn Magsayo, teacher-in-charge of Cantugbas Elementary School, thanked DOST and its partners for choosing her school to be the recipient of the outreach initiative.
“We are profoundly grateful for this outreach activity, which has not only put a smile on the faces of the students but also empowered our entire school as well,” said Magsayo.
Children, parents, and teachers of Cantugbas Elementary School in Brgy. Cantugbas, Maria pose for a photo during the outreach activity conducted by DOST. (PIA Siquijor/Engr. Reinhold Jek Abing photo)
Brgy. Cantugbas is a small village composed of 106 households located 28 kilometers northeast of the capital town of Siquijor.
The outreach program was conducted by DOST in partnership with the Maria LGU, Department of Education (DepEd) Division of Siquijor, Cantugbas Elementary School, Cantugbas Women’s Association, and the non-profit organization, Travolunteers.
“This is an endeavor that brought smiles to the faces of the beneficiaries and left an indelible mark on the Cantugbas community in Maria, Siquijor for years to come,” said Engr. Mario E. de la Peña, provincial science and technology director of DOST Siquijor.
He added that the outreach is a “true testament to the transformative power of collaboration” when government agencies, non-profit organizations, and stakeholders work together.
Maria Mayor Roslyn Asok (right) thanking Geraldine Lugod of Travolunteers for their support during the outreach activity in Brgy. Cantugbas, Maria, Siquijor. (PIA Siquijor/Engr. Reinhold Jek Abing photo)
Teachers’ Appreciation
The outreach program kicked off with a Teachers’ Appreciation Award, where five educators were recognized for their contributions to the local education system.
The teacher awardees are Jyle Rae Inguito, Joan P. Baguis, Roxanne Mae L. Pal-ing, Ivy Joy Caspiz, and Anna Liza S. Jimenez.
They each received a P5,000 cash prize and a certificate of appreciation.
Travolunteers also turned over a computer set to Cantugbas Elementary School, which will be installed with the latest version of STARBOOKS, or Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly-Operated KioskS.
STARBOOKS is an application that serves as an invaluable resource for teachers and students for science and technology information.
“Even without an internet connection, the STARBOOKS will offer a wealth of science and technology information,” explained de la Peña. (RAC/PIA7 Siquijor, with reports from Engr. Reinhold Jek Y. Abing, Senior Science Research Specialist/DOST Siquijor)
Dr. Angie Manginsay (w/ mic), SGOD Chief of DepEd Division of Siquijor, thanking the stakeholders for recognizing the exemplary teachers in the province and donating a computer set to Cantugbas Elementary School in Maria, Siquijor. (DOST Siquijor photo)
