DOST Advances Peace in Mindanao Through Science and Technology Initiatives
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has significantly enhanced its peacebuilding efforts in Mindanao by implementing science- and technology-based interventions across six previously acknowledged Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) camps. This strategic move highlights the government's unwavering dedication to fostering inclusive development in areas historically affected by conflict, aiming to transform these regions into hubs of progress and stability.
Formalizing Partnerships for Community Empowerment
Under the leadership of DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., the initiative was officially launched through a ceremonial turnover of technologies and the signing of a memorandum of agreement. The project, titled "Empowering the Six Previously Acknowledged MILF Camps in Mindanao through the Provision of Science and Technology Interventions," saw key activities held at Camp Bushra in Butig, Lanao del Sur, and Camp Bilal in Tangcal, Lanao del Norte. This collaborative effort involves partnerships with Member of Parliament Basit "Jannati Mimbatas" Abbas, who serves as the MILF chairman of Camp Bushra and representative of the Joint Task Forces on Camps Transformation, as well as the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (Opapru).
Opapru, headed by Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., was represented during the event by Presidential Assistant David B. Diciano, underscoring the multi-agency support for this peace-oriented endeavor. Abbas noted that beneficiaries have expressed immense joy and warmly welcomed the initiative, describing it as unique due to its strong grassroots approach and the personal involvement of DOST leadership, which has helped build trust and strengthen partnerships within these communities.
Comprehensive Interventions for Sustainable Development
The program covers Camp Bushra, Camp Bilal, Camp Badre, Camp Omar, Camp Abubakar, and Camp Rajahmuda, with interventions carefully developed in coordination with local leaders and community members to ensure cultural sensitivity, sustainability, and alignment with local priorities. Key focus areas include:
- Health and Water: Installation of six solar-powered Level II water systems serving over 300 households, deployment of SAFEWATRS water treatment technologies, and training on food safety, Halal compliance, and basic nutrition.
- Education: Establishment of six Starbooks Learning Hubs equipped with Starlink connectivity, benefiting more than 600 learners and educators by providing access to digital educational resources.
- Livelihoods: Implementation of science-based technologies in food processing, dressmaking, weaving, abaca production, and aquaculture, directly supporting over 300 community members and enhancing local economic self-reliance.
All technologies and facilities incorporate disaster risk reduction and climate resilience features, utilizing solar-powered and energy-efficient systems to promote environmental sustainability. Capacity-building activities conducted from July to October 2025 covered various skills, including food processing, aquaculture, livestock production, vegetable farming, and enterprise development. Follow-up mentoring and enterprise strengthening activities are scheduled for 2026 to ensure long-term impact and sustainability.
Unified Support and Future Outlook
The initiative reflects DOST's unified commitment, with attendance from key officials such as Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, Undersecretary for Special Concerns Dr. Teodoro M. Gatchalian, and DOST Soccsksargen Director and Project Leader Engr. Sammy P. Malawan. Secretary Solidum emphasized that "science is for peace and development," highlighting how science equips communities with the tools needed for sustainable and productive lives.
Implemented in close coordination with Opapru, the Government of the Philippines Peace Implementing Panel, the Joint Task Force for Camps Transformation, local government units, and community leaders, this program reaffirms DOST's dedication to advancing peace through science and technology. By building stronger, more resilient communities, DOST contributes significantly to a peaceful and progressive Mindanao, paving the way for lasting positive change in the region.
