𝘋𝘢𝘶𝘪𝘯, 𝘕𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘴 𝘖𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭 - Taking a significant leap toward digital transformation, the Department of Science and Technology – Negros Island Region (DOST NIR) convened barangay captains from all 23 barangays of the Municipality of Dauin on March 9, 2026, for a "𝗦𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿-𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺 𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲" at Dauin Municipal Hall Conference Room.

The forum centered on the Smart and Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP), a flagship DOST initiative that leverages Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) to transform local government units into resilient, livable, and future-ready hubs. By integrating Information and Communications Technology (ICT), the program aims to enhance public service delivery, boost local economic competitiveness, and ensure environmental sustainability.

A highlight is the presentation by CVISNET Foundation Inc., led by Executive Director Mr. Jeffrey "Beam" Llanto, who introduced two pivotal projects designed for grassroots digital integration: (1) 𝗜𝗦𝗟𝗘𝗧 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁, focused on improving local connectivity, and (2) 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮𝘆 𝗲-𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀 (BeST), a comprehensive digital platform designed to streamline administrative tasks and data management at the barangay level.

Atty. Gilbert Arbon, OIC-Assistant Regional Director of DOST-NIR, emphasized the long-term vision of the partnership. He noted that the SSCP is vital in strengthening the collaboration between the DOST and the Municipality of Dauin, improving its services for every constituent.

The initiative received a warm reception from local leaders. Hon. Mario Pascobello, President of the Liga ng mga Barangay, formally expressed the barangays' commitment to the partnership.

The officials from the identified barangays are scheduled to undergo intensive technical training on the BeST platform in April 2026, ensuring that the local government is fully equipped to manage its new digital infrastructure.