FOR actively using and taking care of the water level monitoring system and automated rain gauge turned over to them, the town of Catarman in Camiguin was named best DRRM community this year by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
The award was received by Mayor Kiterio Antonio Palarca October 1 during the first day of the 2025 Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) held in Oroquieta City.
The award is held annually as part of the community empowerment of science and technology (CEST) program of DOST.
(CEST) is DOST’s flagship initiative that brings technology interventions to communities in the areas of livelihood, health, education, disaster risk reduction, and environment.
It is designed to empower grassroots communities by providing practical solutions that improve quality of life and promote sustainable development.
Along this line during the same ceremony, Catarman also won as third best CEST community of the year and grabbed P50,000 worth of projects from DOST.
Criteria for judging, among others, include demonstrating successful implementation of the interventions which contributed to the long term resilience and empowerment of the community as evidenced through measurable improvements both in safety and quality of life of the residents there.
Palarca is grateful that his administration’s efforts have been recognized by DOST.
“This milestone is more than an award—it is a reminder of the LGU’s commitment to lead with vision, inspire progress, and empower every Catarmanon toward a brighter future,” Palarca said.
