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  • ISPSC, DOST, DENR, LGU Cervantes forge partnership for Project KALIKASAN

    The Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC), the Department of Science and Technology Ilocos Region (DOST-1), the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Cervantes, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Ilocos Region (DENR-1) formally strengthened their collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the implementation of Project KALIKASAN (Kiosk for Advocating and Learning through Innovative Knowledge Advancement of Safeguarding and Appreciating Nature), held at SM Laoag, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte on September 10, 2026.

    The initiative seeks to promote environmental education, biodiversity conservation, and ecotourism through the use of science, technology, and innovation, with the Bessang Pass Natural Monument/Landmark in Cervantes, Ilocos Sur serving as the pilot implementation site.

    Under the agreement, DOST Ilocos Region, through the Provincial Science and Technology Office–Ilocos Sur, will lead the overall implementation of the project and provide funding support amounting to ?300,000 for the acquisition of two STARBOOKS Nature Interactive Kiosks. The kiosks will serve as innovative digital platforms providing information and multimedia resources on biodiversity, natural habitats, protected areas, and the country's natural resources.

    LGU Cervantes, meanwhile, will support the implementation of the project by providing the necessary site and local resources, ensuring the operation and maintenance of the kiosks, and coordinating with DOST and other partner agencies for the project's sustainability.

    As the partner academic institution, ISPSC will contribute its research and technical expertise in the development and enhancement of the digital system and educational content for Project KALIKASAN. 

    The DENR Ilocos Region, through the DENR-CENRO Tagudin, will provide technical assistance and environmental information concerning the Bessang Pass Natural Monument/Landmark and other natural resources within Cervantes. It will likewise contribute available photographs and documentation of the area's natural habitats, flora, fauna, and biodiversity to support the development of accurate and relevant educational content.

    The MOA signing were led by ISPSC President Mario P. Obrero, DENR Secretary Atty. Juan Miguel T. Cuna, DENR Ilocos Region Regional Executive Director Atty. Ronnel C. Sopsop, CESO IV, DOST Ilocos Region Regional Director Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog, DOST Ilocos Sur Provincial Science and Technology Director Engr. Jordan L. Abad, and Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Rosemarie B. Jornacion.

    Also present were Director for Extension Ms. Rose Marie C. Detran, Director for Forest Advancement and Resources Management Research Center, Ms. Elena Ato, and the System Developers including Mr. Jonathan Cenezan, Mr. Ryan Jay Cuevas, Mr. Kim Dave B. Rafael, Ms. Fe Airam Dakig,  Mr. Jeffrey Rapanut, and Dr. Gina Mae Villanueva. 

    The collaborative initiative is anchored on the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program, which aims to utilize science and technology solutions to support communities, strengthen resilience, promote environmental stewardship, and contribute to sustainable development.

    Through Project KALIKASAN, local communities and visitors are expected to gain greater access to science- and technology-based information about the area's rich natural resources while enhancing awareness of their importance and the need for their protection and conservation. This supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 on Quality Education by expanding access to relevant, technology-enabled environmental learning and SDG 15 on Life on Land through greater awareness and appreciation of terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. 

    The project's focus on environmental stewardship, conservation, and community resilience also contributes to SDG 13 on Climate Action, particularly by strengthening environmental awareness and encouraging communities to participate in sustainable practices.

    The partnership further reflects SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals, as ISPSC, DOST, DENR, and LGU Cervantes bring together academic, scientific, environmental, and local government expertise and resources toward a shared development objective.

    With the combined expertise and resources of the four partner institutions, Project KALIKASAN seeks to establish a stronger link between science and technology, environmental conservation, education, and ecotourism, contributing to the sustainable development and protection of Bessang Pass and its surrounding communities. 
    Article and Photos by Niño A. del Rosario

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