DOST-NCR Brings Science and Technology Information in a Box to Public Schools in Taguig ProbinSyudad

Benjamin Franklin famously stated, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”  

As part of its Science Beyond Borders campaign, which aims to  open new opportunities for all by democratizing access to scientific knowledge, the Department of Science and Technology-National Capital Region (DOST-NCR) turned over 15 sets of the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosks (STARBOOKS) last February 20, 2025 to representatives of the recipient public schools in the City of Taguig. The event, which was done in collaboration with the DOST- Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII), the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division Office of Taguig-Pateros (SDO-TaPat), and the Local Government of Taguig, was held at the People’s Hall, SM Aura Tower, Bonifacio Global City, City of Taguig.   

Present during the turnover were DOST-NCR Regional Director, Engr. Romelen T. Tresvalles, Taguig City Mayor Maria Laarni “Lani” L. Cayetano, Chairman of Taguig’s Committee on Science and Technology, Councilor Edgar Victor S. Baptista, DepEd SSDO-TaPat Superintendent, Dr. Cynthia L. Ayles, SDO-TaPat Science Education Supervisor, Dr. Marivic T. Almo, DOST-STII Chief of Information Resources and Analysis Division (IRAD), Mr. Allan C. Taule, and DOST-STII Chief for Finance and Administrative Division (FAD), Ms. Arlene E. Centeno.   

In her message at the event, RD Tresvalles emphasized that despite the multisectoral challenges that our education system is facing nowadays, one thing remains constant, and that is DOST’s commitment to excellence and innovation.   

For her part, Mayor Cayetano underscored the significance of STARBOOKS for all schools in Taguig City, “Sinabi ko noon na kailangan magkaroon ng ganito [STARBOOKS] ang Taguig dahil mahalaga ito, hindi lang sa pagkatuto ng ating mga estudyante, kundi pati na rin sa mas efficient na pagtuturo ng ating mga guro.”   

The STARBOOKS project aligns with Taguig City’s Digitech Program, which seeks to enhance all schools’ digital and technological readiness by upgrading computer and robotics laboratories and establishing digital classrooms. Aside from benefiting students, STARBOOKS also provides valuable reference material for teachers’ lessons and learning activities.   

STARBOOKS is just one of the many initiatives of DOST-NCR to enhance the education system in the National Capital Region (NCR), empowering schools to remain competitive and to thrive in today’s global education landscape.   

Known as the “Philippines’ First Science Digital Library in a Box,” STARBOOKS provides offline access to thousands of digital learning materials, research references, interactive activities, scientific journals, and technology-based livelihood resources. Additionally, the technology includes DepEd competency-based learning materials tailored for the Grades 1 to 12 curriculum. It also features sample exercises that are similar to international assessments like the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) and Trends in International and Science Study (TIMSS) exams, thus helping students to prepare for international examinations.   

After the turnover ceremony, technical personnel from DOST-STII conducted an orientation on how to navigate and maximize the use of STARBOOKS. Training participants included SDO-TaPat Education Program Supervisors and staff, and school principals, teachers, school ICT focals, and school librarians from the following schools:  

1. Western Bicutan National High School    
2. Enlisted Men’s Signal Village Elem School – ESVE    
3. Pateros Elementary School    
4. Ricardo P. Cruz Sr. Elementary School    
5. Benigno “Ninoy” S. Aquino High School    
6. Napindan Integrated School   
7. Taguig Integrated School    
8. Pitogo High School    
9. Pateros National High School    
10. Comembo Elementary School    
11. Rizal Elementary School    
12. Daanghari Elementary School    
13.Makati Science High School    
14. Taguig Science High School    
15. Senator Renato “Compañero” Cayetano Memorial Science and Technology High School   

The rollout of STARBOOKS to the public schools of Taguig City reflects the strong commitment of both national and local government agencies, as well as educational institutions, to shape the future, transform lives, and strengthen communities. Through this initiative, DOST-NCR, DOST-STII, DepEd SDO-TaPat, and the City Government of Taguig are investing, not just in technology, but also in the education and future of the learners in Taguig ProbinSyudad. 

By: Noel G. Calcetas, SCCU