By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI, together with Central Philippine University (CPU), Northern Iloilo State University-Affiliated Renewable Energy Center (NISU-AREC), and Concepcion, Iloilo local leaders, are gearing up to implement Project DAGAT (Driving Advancement, Generating Access, and Transforming Small Island Communities).
The project is set to deliver sustainable energy solutions to the archipelago’s isolated communities, a move poised to boost equitable progress and conservation efforts in the area.
The presentation to Mayor Millard S. Villanueva was led by DOST Iloilo’s Provincial S&T Director, Engr. Sheilo Oberio, and Research, Development, and Innovation Management Section Head, Keithlyn Sarah Bernardino.
They, alongside their team from CPU and NISU-AREC, introduced Project DAGAT, which has been granted funds by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) through the Innovation Grant Fund.
The endeavor includes the trial of a compact wind turbine on a small island within Concepcion to supply lighting and charging facilities, highlighting Concepcion’s selection as a project site due to its lack of connection to the power grid.
Moreover, the initiative will empower the community through Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) education, providing locals with essential skills for disaster preparedness and emergency response, thereby strengthening their capacity to withstand natural disasters.
Aligned with “AmBisyon Natin 2040” and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Project DAGAT targets to contribute to a safe, affluent, and peaceful existence for all, addressing key objectives like SDG 7 on clean energy, SDG 10 on inequality reduction, and SDG 13 on climate action.
