CVISNET Foundation, Inc., in partnership with the DOST Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO), conducted a training on the operation and maintenance of the Barangay e-System and Tools (BeST) on February 7-8, 2024, at AtZero Place in Brgy. Atipolo, Naval, Province of Biliran. The event was attended by Dr. Romeo L. Dignos, Provincial Director of DOST Biliran PSTO, DOST Region 8 Provincial Science and Technology Officers, and representatives from fourteen barangays in Region 8. The BeST training is a part of the DOST’s Computer Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Project, which aims to change local governance by utilizing digital platforms in barangays.

The two-day training included Starlink installation and troubleshooting, BeST system orientation and workshop, residents’ profiling and certification, and the presentation of the outputs per barangay. The event was concluded by the ceremonial turnover of the BeST Kiosk and Starlink and the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the STI-ISD (OSEC) CEST Project. Notable participants included Hon. Gretchen Stephanie Espina, Mayor of Naval, Province of Biliran, and other key officials from the DOST Region 8. Their attendance demonstrated the significance and support given to the BeST program and highlighted the commitment of local government and regional officials to promote the use of technology for community development.