KABANKALAN CITY, Negros Occidental — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)–Negros Occidental met with Hope Builders Organization Negros Island, Inc. (HBONI) on Friday, February 27, at HBONI’s Balay Paglaum in Kabankalan City to explore a potential collaboration aimed at strengthening science and technology initiatives in hinterland communities across Negros Island.
The DOST delegation was led by Provincial Director Engr. Allan Francis P. Dara-ug, who joined discussions with HBONI officers and staff at the organization’s staff house. Talks centered on aligning HBONI’s grassroots development programs with DOST’s Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) framework.
During the meeting, HBONI Founder and Chief Executive Officer Kenneth Bacala presented the organization’s key projects and milestones since its establishment in 2019. He highlighted HBONI’s sustained efforts in education, community development, disaster response, and youth engagement in underserved and geographically isolated areas of Negros Island.
HBONI team members Andrelyn Bello, Reymund Titong, and Leonel Flores also shared updates on their initiated programs, including ECO 143, E-skwela on Air, Parent-Community Engagement, Tikang, and TUGDO. These initiatives focus on environmental action, alternative learning delivery, strengthened family and community participation, and youth empowerment — all tailored to address the unique challenges faced by remote communities.
Meanwhile, Ms. Ginelle Jane G. Pabillo, Project Technical Assistant I for CEST/GIA, provided an overview of DOST’s programs and the core components of the CEST initiative. She emphasized how science and technology interventions can enhance livelihood opportunities, improve education, promote environmental sustainability, and support disaster risk reduction in marginalized areas.
Also present during the meeting was Ms. Ellin Grace V. Andana, Science Research Specialist I and focal person of the CEST project in Negros Occidental.
Both parties expressed optimism about forging a partnership that would integrate scientific innovation with community-based development strategies. The collaboration aims to create sustainable, data-driven solutions that will empower hinterland communities and strengthen their resilience for years to come.
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