PIKIT, Cotabato Province (PIA) — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Region 12 recently turned over some P1.5 million worth of solar-powered equipment to support the Philippine Army 90th Infantry ‘Bigkis Lahi’ Battalion in Pikit, Cotabato.
The DOST’s support was provided through its Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program.
According to information from DOST, the recipient organization received Starlink, solar lights, and a solar-powered water system, which are seen to intensify not only the battalion’s operations but also benefit the communities near its headquarters.
“Sa pamamagitan ng partnership ng DOST 12 at AFP, at sa tulong din ng CEST program, siguradong mas mabibigyan natin ng serbisyo ang mga komunidad kagaya ng GIDAs and areas with armed conflict,” Engr. Sammy Malawan, regional director of DOST in Region 12, said.
(Through the partnership of DOST and AFP, as well as the CEST program, we will be able to provide better services to communities such as GIDAs and areas with armed conflict.)
Malawan said that both military personnel and the local community should be able to access sustainable, potable water from the solar-powered water system, which has a water tank capable of storing 5,000 liters.
Meanwhile, the DOST said that Starlink and solar lights will be able to enhance the military’s operational capabilities and improve coordination during community development activities.
“Ang 90th IB, dako kayo ang pasalamat na isa kami sa mga unit na na-grant ng ganitong at nabigyan ng pagkakataon na masuportahan ng DOST,” said Battalion Commander Lt.Col. Rowel Gavilanes.
(The 90th IB is extremely grateful that DOST provided us this support and gave us the opportunity to access it.)
Also, this support will enable the military to respond more effectively to the needs of the locals, ensuring safety and fostering development in isolated areas, Gavilanes further explained.
The DOST, through its provincial office in Cotabato, is steadfast in not only bringing science and technology closer to the people but also in empowering communities, pursuant to the national government’s efforts to end local communist armed conflict in critical areas. (SJDM – PIA Cotabato City)
