DOST-NCR, Taguig Probinsyudad, Unveil Cutting-Edge Interactive Science Education Complex and State-of-the-Art Lab 

Source: Official Facebook Page: Lani Cayetano 

Students in the Taguig Probinsyudad will now have all the opportunities to leverage cutting-edge educational technologies and equipment with the official turnover of the project “Establishment of Interactive Science Education Complex and State-of-the-Art Laboratory in Taguig City (ISEC-SAS Lab)” to the Local Government of Taguig. This Project is funded under the DOST’s Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST) Program.   

The blessing and turnover held on March 19, 2025 at the Taguig National High School (TNHS), marked a significant milestone in educational development in Taguig, and aligns with the City’s Digitech Program, which seeks to enhance all schools’ digital and technological readiness by upgrading computer and robotics laboratories and establishing digital classrooms.    

The event was graced by DOST-NCR Assistant Regional Director (ARD) for Technical Support Services, Ms. Bianca Claudette R. Canlas, Taguig City Mayor, Hon. Maria Laarni “Lani” Cayetano, Officer-In-Charge of DOST-NCR MUNTAPARLAS CASTO, Mr. Kim L. Atienza, Taguig City Committee Chair on Science and Technology, Hon. Edgar Victor S. Baptista and Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division Superintendent of Taguig-Pateros, Dr.  Cynthia Ayles.   

In her message at the event, ARD Canlas emphasized that this collaborative effort between the DOST-NCR, City Government of Taguig, Office of Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and SDO-TAPAT (Taguig and Pateros), especially the Taguig National High School, is an affirmation in the belief that investing in education today is a direct investment in a brighter, more innovative tomorrow.   

For her part, Mayor Cayetano expressed her optimism that this newly established facility will significantly enhance the science and technology capabilities of schools in the Taguig Probinsyudad, “Hangad natin na ang facility na ito ay hindi lang bubuo ng mga school-based outputs,  kung hindi magiging driving force rin para mas mai-angat ang agham at teknolohiya sa bansa, with Taguig students and graduates leading the way.”   

The collective vision of DOST-NCR, the Taguig LGU and their partners underscores the shared commitment of both the National and Local Governments and the Education sector to empowering students with the tools they need to thrive in today’s rapidly changing learning environment.    

A Future-Ready Science Hub for Taguig Probinsyudad   

The facility contains state-of-the-art technology and equipment, with the laboratory allowing students to explore fields such as engineering, robotics, space science, and industrial design in a practical and engaging way.   

The learning hub offers 3D printing technology, including desktop plastic 3D printers and a multitool 3D printer that can also perform CNC carving and laser engraving. A vacuum forming machine enables students to learn about manufacturing processes by creating molded prototypes. These tools help turn ideas into real objects, fostering creativity and innovation.   

An ultrashort throw interactive projector enhances classroom presentations, making lessons more dynamic and engaging. The lab also houses a dedicated desktop computer loaded with DOST Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosks (STARBOOKS), the country’s first science digital library in a box – offering thousands of science and technology references aligned with the K-12 DepEd Curriculum.   

Students interested in space technology will be thrilled to see replicas of the Diwata-1 and Diwata-2 satellites, along with a satellite orbit model that provides insights into how satellites function. The laboratory also features a small-scale observatory, giving students a chance to explore the wonders of astronomy and celestial observation firsthand.   

Bridging the Gap in Science Education   

In the 2022 assessment conducted by the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), the Philippines ranked among the lowest in science education globally. About 77% of Filipino students scored below the basic proficiency level. One of the contributing factors for this is the lack of well-equipped science laboratories in many schools in the country. Without proper and high-end facilities, students miss out on hands-on experiments and real-world science experiences that could spur their interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM.)   

Traditional learning, often confined to textbooks and lectures, creates a gap between theory and practice or application. Many Filipino students find science and technology hard and tedious due to limited hands-on learning, leading to low STEM enrollment.   

The ISEC-SAS Laboratory is a proactive response to these challenges and gaps as the facility offers a space for students to explore, experiment, and excel. This hub also enables students to connect classroom learning with real-world applications. In addition, the laboratory serves as a collaborative space for educators, researchers, and industry professionals, fostering innovation.   

Investing in projects like this aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 of Quality Education, which is essential in closing the educational gap and ensuring that our learners are equipped to face the challenges of a rapidly changing world. By empowering students with advanced knowledge, practical skills, and innovative thinking, we are shaping a future-ready workforce that can help drive the country’s progress and ability to compete globally.   

The ISEC-SAS Laboratory will serve as a shared facility for all students, educators, and community members in the City of Taguig. It will operate as a collaborative and interactive learning hub to inspire innovation and foster a culture of scientific curiosity within the academic community and other stakeholders in Taguig. The ISEC-SAS Lab also aims to increase interest in STEM while addressing educational gaps among students in the Taguig Probinsyudad, better preparing them for the demands of today’s innovative world.   

By: Anthony Dula, MUNTAPARLAS CASTO