n the battle against the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, heroes emerged from unexpected places, showcasing the power of innovation and resilience. Among them stands the core team of the Department of Science and Technology Western Visayas (DOST 6), whose ingenuity and dedication led to the development of the Safe, Swift, and Smart Passage (S-PaSS) system—a game-changer in the fight against the spread of the virus.
Recently, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. bestowed upon the team the prestigious Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award, the highest recognition accorded by the Civil Service Commission to outstanding government workers. This honor not only acknowledges their remarkable achievements but also underscores the critical role of science and technology in addressing complex societal challenges.
Led by DOST 6 Regional Director Engineer Rowen R. Gelonga, along with Science Research Specialists II Garry Tayona Balinon and Ryan Vilmor Joseph Dumpit, the team's groundbreaking work paved the way for a more efficient and coordinated approach to managing travel amidst the pandemic. The S-PaSS system, born out of necessity, emerged as a beacon of hope, providing a streamlined platform for travelers while ensuring adherence to health protocols and containment measures.
Initially piloted in Western Visayas, the S-PaSS system garnered recognition from the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Infectious Diseases, eventually becoming a nationwide initiative adopted by the Department of Transportation. Its success is evident in the staggering numbers: over 93 percent of local government units across the country embraced the system, with approximately eight million Filipinos utilizing it to facilitate their journeys safely and responsibly.
Director Gelonga's vision extends beyond crisis response; it embodies a commitment to innovation-driven solutions that transcend boundaries. The team's ongoing efforts to develop a tourism management system underscore their dedication to leveraging technology for the greater good. Their initiative not only addresses immediate challenges but also lays the groundwork for long-term resilience and sustainability.
Beyond the accolades and recognition, the Lingkod Bayan Award serves as a testament to the invaluable contributions of regional talents in shaping the nation's trajectory. It challenges prevailing notions and celebrates the spirit of collaboration and ingenuity that permeates every corner of our archipelago.
As we celebrate their achievements, let us also recognize Prof. Julie Ann Salido of the Aklan State University, another luminary from Western Visayas, whose research projects supported by the DOST have contributed significantly to marine transportation. Their collective endeavors exemplify the transformative power of research, innovation, and public service.
In honoring the achievements of the DOST 6 team and Prof. Salido, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. Their stories serve as inspiration for future generations of scientists, researchers, and public servants, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit perseveres.
As we navigate the complexities of the post-pandemic world, let us continue to harness the power of science and technology as catalysts for positive change. Together, we can build a future where innovation thrives, communities flourish, and hope prevails.
Congratulations to the DOST 6 team and Prof. Julie Ann Salido for their exemplary achievements. May their journey inspire us all to reach greater heights and make a difference in the lives of others. (Opinyon Panay News Team)
Caption: DOST 6 Team Honored by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for Developing Crucial Pandemic Travel Management System. Led by DOST6 Regional Director Engineer Rowen R. Gelonga (fifth from left), the team's Safe, Swift, and Smart Passage (S-PaSS) system aided approximately eight million Filipinos during the pandemic. Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award presented at Malacañang ceremony on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. (Photo screenshot from RTVM)
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #OpinYonLaguna #Covid19 #Pandemic #DOST #CSC #IATF