In 2011, the Department of Science and Technology-Science and Technology Information Institute developed the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk. Starbooks, as it is popularly known, is a stand-alone pod that serves as an interactive information hub with resources related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics or Stem.
It provides educational institutions, local government units and even non-government organizations, a comprehensive digital library in various formats like text, video and audio.
A few years later, the DoST-STII established the DoSTv — which started airing in 2016 — as an online-only weather and science and technology channel. Now a television program at PTV-4 and CNN Philippines, DoSTv added other programs like ExperTalk, Lakas ng Siyensya and Balitang RapiDoST. Even the public service bulletins from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration and Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology are now aired at DoSTv.
However, these two programs of the DoST-STII have been facing challenges in recent years. Despite Starbooks being designed to be transportable, deployment has become a problem due to the different terrain difficulties, distance, and unpredictable road conditions in the places it is supposed to be in. Incidentally, the DoSTv production team has the same predicament.
Learning about these challenges, Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. decided to hand over three Hyundai Staria commuter van units to the DoST-STII. The fleet shall be utilized in bringing Starbooks and its award-winning broadcast platform DoSTv: Science for the People, to their target communities.
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- HYUNDAI Motor Philippines Inc. president Dong Wook Lee.
Opportunity
“We are glad to have been given the opportunity to contribute towards the causes of Starbooks and DoSTv. Their missions closely resonate with ours. As we, too, constantly find ways on becoming more present in the lives of our customers and communities which we are a part of. Rest assured that our Hyundai Staria shall be a reliable steed in your journeys,” said Dong Wook Lee, president of Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. during the official turnover.
Lee added that the Hyundai Staria is a perfect ride as it puts forward the future of van mobility when it comes to seat amenities and different designs. Space and comfort are also prioritized with rear safety and flexibility present across all its variants.
The turnover ceremony was held at the DoST Compound last 14 December where Lee, together with HMPI managing director Cecil Capacete, were welcomed by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., DoST Undersecretary Maridon Sahagun as well as DoST-STII director Richard Burgos.
Shared desire
“We, at the DoST acknowledge Hyundai not just as a provider of mobility solutions but also as a global technology company. There is a shared desire to delve into broader collaboration avenues that can positively impact the Filipino population. DoST is keen on exploring additional areas where the partnership can yield further benefits. The intention is to forge a multifaceted collaboration that extends beyond mobility solutions, aiming for a comprehensive partnership that aligns with the evolving needs and aspirations of Filipino society,” according to Secretary Solidum.
South Korean Ambassador Sang-hwa Lee, one of the guests at the turnover, said: “I commend the Hyundai Motor team’s Environmental, Social and Governance initiatives in the Philippines. It is encouraging that the DoST enjoys the strong support of the national government. This awareness aligns well with our government’s focus on science, technology, and innovation. I am confident that such alignment will be a driving force in deepening our countries’ relationship as we approach the anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2024.”
The ambassador reminded that the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and South Korea will be marked next year and lauded HMPI’s several initiatives lined up in marking the momentous occasion.
“We shall be utilizing it as a channel to connect even further with its Filipino customers,” promised Dong Wook Lee, HMPI’s dynamic president.
