DOST scholarships await Marawi students thru new DOST-SEI, MSU MoA

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REHABILITATION THROUGH SCIENCE EDUCATION. DOST-SEI and MSU formalize their partnership to provide more S&T scholarships for MSU students under the Bangon Marawi Program. Photo courtesy of MSU.



Marawi’s rehabilitation continues with strengthened science education.

On January 31, 2023, the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) and the Mindanao State University (MSU) System renewed their memorandum of agreement (MoA) for the Bangon Marawi Program in Science and Technology Human Resource Development.

Through the program, more students from Marawi City and nearby towns can pursue their degrees as DOST scholars. “Education is a powerful tool for development, and a fundamental right for all young people, especially those affected by the conflict,” DOST-SEI Director Dr. Josette Biyo said.

In Bangon Marawi, the DOST-SEI prioritizes applicants who were directly affected by the siege.

The DOST-SEI and MSU first inked a partnership in 2018. In its five-year run, over 500 scholarship slots have been awarded to MSU students and faculty taking up science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Almost 400 have finished their studies, with around 70 scholars marching with high honors.

Right after the MoA signing, 73 new scholars signed their scholarship agreement, becoming the first batch of qualifiers for the approved 200 slots for the year. The remaining slots will be awarded to qualifiers of the March 2023 examination.

FROM MARAWI SIEGE TO OPPORTUNITY SIEZED. DOST-SEI Director Josette Biyo welcomes new Bangon Marawi scholars at the scholars’ orientation and contract signing held on January 31, 2023, at the Mindanao State University (MSU)-Marawi Main Campus.

MSU System President Atty. Basari Mapupuno reiterated the University’s support to the program. “Bangon Marawi is a blessing not only to MSU but to numerous individuals who have been aided by this endeavor.”

Bangon Marawi scholars enjoy the same privileges accorded to DOST scholars, such as book and thesis allowance; accident insurance; and a monthly stipend of P7,000 for undergraduate students and P25,000 and P33,000 for MS and Ph.D. students. The DOST-SEI also covers graduate students’ tuition fees and provide research grants of up to P475,000.

New undergraduate scholars Soraya Al-Obinay and Aiman Cayongcat, who lived in Marawi’s “ground zero” during the siege, were overjoyed at the opportunity. For Soraya, the Bangon Marawi scholarship is an answered prayer. Her family had been struggling financially after losing their business. Aiman added that the siege wasn’t the only challenge his family faced as the pandemic also hit them hard. He vowed to make the most of his scholarship. Both scholars intend to help their families, pursue graduate studies, and give back to their communities.

DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. ensured the program’s continuity, emphasizing the significance of human and social infrastructures in Marawi’s rehabilitation. “By restoring people’s confidence in their abilities and assuring them that nothing, not even poverty, war, or a pandemic, can stop them from pursuing their dreams, we rebuild Marawi from within,” he said.

A Package of Hope: DOST’s Bangon Marawi Scholarship Program

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The Department of Science and Technology-Science Education institute (DOST-SEI) dedicates a special scholarship program for Marawi students, ensuring a stronger science culture in the region and strengthening S&T’s role in the city’s rehabilitation.


MARAWI RISES WITH MORE S&T SCHOLARS. DOST-SEI Director Dr. Josette Biyo (2nd from left, front) welcomes new Bangon Marawi scholars at the orientation and scholarship agreement signing held on January 31, 2023, at MSU.


THE ROAD TO MARAWI isn’t filled with product advertisements or political posters, but with an unusual number of banners congratulating graduates and board passers. Even first-time travelers get the message loud and clear – the Maranaos highly value education. It’s not surprising that after the 2017 Marawi siege, one of the most disheartening realizations for many residents is that it would be more challenging to finish education.

Jafar Lomantong knew this all too well. He was in senior high school when the armed conflict broke out. Losing their family’s small business meant he had to live with his relatives to continue schooling. While the effects of war only amplified his desire to finish school, he was aware the journey would be more difficult, especially with ten siblings in the family. In 2019, while taking his BS in Biology at Mindanao State University (MSU), he learned about the DOST-SEI Bangon Marawi Program in Science and Technology Human Resource Development. He immediately applied and qualified.



A package of hope

DOST scholarships are often described as a package of opportunities. Aside from a monthly stipend, book and thesis allowances, and training opportunities, scholars enter the world of work with the advantage of a DOST stamp.

The Bangon Marawi Program, however, is more apt to be called a package of hope. Since its implementation in 2017, it has given hope to more than 500 science scholars.

“Some things are equally, if not more important than getting shelter and livelihood back after a catastrophe. For instance, people’s hopes and dreams. Bangon Marawi scholarships are meant to fuel these,” said DOST-SEI Director Josette Biyo.

Jonaimah Mangorangca, another Bangon Marawi scholar, narrated how COVID-19 made their situation worse. Still reeling from the effects of the siege, their family of eight had to endure more hardships as her parents lost their jobs at the height of the pandemic. Like Jafar and many other DOST scholars, she used her stipend to help her family.

The P7,000 monthly stipend for undergraduate scholars goes a long way especially in Marawi where cost of living is relatively low. Because of their stipend, Jafar and Jonaimah were able to catch up with synchronous learning, conduct experiments, buy tools for their theses, and even help friends who were also struggling that time.

“I appreciated DOST’s assistance the most during the pandemic,” Jafar recalled. “We received full stipend even when we couldn’t finish the semester. It did not only help in financing my education; it saved my family and friends.”


Tuition and Other School Fees

Covered by RA 10931 or the “Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act”


THE DOST SCHOLARSHIPS ADVANTAGE. Aside from increasing the number of scholarship slots, the DOST-SEI continues to beef up its scholarship benefits.



Science for the people

Rebuilding Marawi takes many forms, and the DOST deemed it crucial to first empower those who know and love the city best – its residents.

So, when former DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña joined the government’s Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) Bangon Marawi, he prioritized the creation of a sub-committee at the DOST and tapped the SEI to implement a scholarship program for the immediate members of families affected or displaced from their communities.

The program’s initial run was a challenge for both the DOST-SEI and the applicants. “We had to move fast because the students needed help immediately,” Dr. Biyo shared.

She quickly gathered a team of project staff and formed technical committees from DOST-SEI and its partner institution, the Mindanao State University (MSU) System.

The qualifying examinations were waived for the first few years and applicants only needed to submit documentary requirements. But even this had been difficult and costly for students because the city was still in ruins.

Despite all these, the DOST-SEI was able to award over 200 scholarships on its first year of implementation. Of this, 90% completed their studies on time.

SCIENCE FOR THE PEOPLE. In January 2018, former DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña signed DOST’s memorandum of agreement with MSU for the Bangon Marawi scholarship program. Three Mindanao State University (MSU) campuses agreed to deliver the scholarship programs: the MSU-Main Campus, the MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), and the MSU-Lanao National College of Arts and Trades (MSU-LNCAT).

LEARNING RESOURCE CENTER. A Learning Resource Center (LRC) was established at the MSU-Main Campus to help Bangon Marawi and other DOST scholars in their academic requirements. The LRC is equipped with computers and printers.


Inspiring patriotism

The Bangon Marawi Program is not just about providing scholarships or rebuilding the city’s human resource capabilities; it’s also about regaining people’s trust and confidence in the government. It’s about inculcating love of country. It’s about giving back to the community that nurtured the scholars.

This was especially true for Jonaimah who once blamed the government for her family’s predicament. Not only did the scholarship change her perspective, but it also sparked her desire to take part in the city’s recovery.

FINDING HOPE. DOST-SEI Bangon Marawi scholar Jonaimah Mangorangca (2nd from right, back row) proudly completes her BS Biology degree. Photo courtesy of Jonaimah Mangorangca.

To reinforce the core values of professional excellence, social responsibility, and servant leadership, the DOST-SEI integrated its Filipino Patriot Scholars Project (FPSP) in the program. Scholars participated in various activities, such as values formation, community resilience, and leadership trainings.

PATRIOT SCHOLARS. Bangon Marawi scholars decide which body part to use in solving a specific problem in their community during Humanizing the Scholar activity of the 2-Day Scholars’ Formation Program.

It didn’t take long to see FPSP’s effect on the scholars. In March 2020, at the onset of the pandemic, several Bangon Marawi scholars organized a community outreach program, pooling funds from their scholarship benefits to buy relief packs, groceries, and other essentials that were distributed to families in Marawi.



One DOST for Marawi

In 2022, newly appointed DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. pushed for the continuity of Bangon Marawi Program. Recognizing its accomplishments and the scholars’ crucial role in the city’s recovery, he requested the approval of 200 slots to be awarded the following year. The DOST-SEI also started administering qualifying examinations.

The first batch of 73 scholars signed their scholarship agreement on January 31, 2023, the same day DOST-SEI and MSU inked a new memorandum of agreement (MoA). To award the remaining 125 slots, the DOST-SEI will hold another exam in March 2023.

“We envision a science-based future for Marawi, and that can only happen if we support our talented S&T students now,” Sec. Solidum said. On top of S&T scholarships, the DOST has initiated various programs and research projects and turned over technologies for Marawi residents.

DOST-SEI AND MSU RENEWS PACT. The first batch of 73 new Bangon Marawi scholars signed their scholarship agreement as DOST-SEI and MSU ink a new memorandum of agreement for the special scholarship program. Photo courtesy of MSU.

The Bangon Marawi Program is now on its 6th year. It has produced almost 400 graduates. Some are already employed while others are either pursuing graduate studies or looking for jobs. Over 70 marched with Latin honors.

Originally meant to help students after the siege, the program has developed into a “long-term and sustainable solution” to uplift the lives of Marawi residents.

Jonaimah graduated last year and is preparing to get into medical school. She hopes to become a doctor in their province, while Jafar gears up to become a scientist. He now attends MSU Naawan Campus for his master’s degree in Marine Biology, a course he pursues to better contribute to his advocacy, the conservation of Lake Lanao.

For Jafar, his role as Bangon Marawi scholar is to help rebuild not just Marawi but the entire province of Lanao del Sur. “I will dedicate my profession in advancing communities. Whenever MSU or DOST needs me, I will serve.”

BUDDING CHANGEMAKERS. DOST-SEI Bangon Marawi scholar Jafar Lomantong (2nd from left) joins his fellow student-leaders in organizing a donation drive for typhoon Odette victims. Photo courtesy of Jafar Lomantong.

Dusit Hotels and Resorts officially announces its grand debut in Japan

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Dusit Hotels and Resorts officially announces its grand debut in Japan with a special showcase of its hotels opening soon – including the luxurious Dusit Thani Kyoto and lifestyle oriented ASAI Kyoto Shijo Thai hospitality company’s exciting plans for Japan were introduced at a special event at the Royal Thai Embassy in Tokyo, where company executives revealed new details about Dusit’s upcoming hotels in Kyoto and shared their vision to expand to more key cities, including Fukuoka, Osaka, and Tokyo.

Among the highlights of the properties coming soon: a one-of-a-kind multi-sensory dining experience crafted by world-famous chefs, Bo Songvisava and Dylan Jones.

Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, officially marked the debut of Dusit Hotels and Resorts in Japan with an exclusive preview of its upcoming properties – ASAI Kyoto Shijo and Dusit Thani Kyoto – which are set to open in June and September, respectively, bringing Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the country for the first time.

Leveraging more than 70 years of experience in operating award-winning hotels and resorts in key destinations worldwide, Dusit Hotels and Resorts’ milestone entries in Japan promise to bring unique stay and dining experiences inspired the four key pillars of Dusit Graciousness, including Service (personalised and gracious), Well-Being (delivering wellness experiences beyond the spa), Locality (uniquely linking guests with the local community), and Sustainability (social, environmental, and environmental).

 

Operating under Dusit’s flagship Dusit Thani brand, Dusit Thani Kyoto will offer a luxurious stay experience in the city’s Hanganji Monzen-machi district, only 850 meters from Kyoto Station and close to Nishi Honganji Temple (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and other major attractions.

Designed to be an urban sanctuary where Japanese tradition and gracious Thai hospitality are intrinsically interwoven and interpreted through a modern lens, the beautiful property takes its inspiration from the rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture of the ancient capitals of Kyoto, Japan, and Ayutthaya, Thailand. The idyllic combination of traditional elegance and contemporary comfort creates an inspiring environment for domestic and international travellers alike.

 

Alongside 150 elegantly appointed guest rooms set over four floors, the luxury hotel features large event spaces, a fitness centre, and a signature Devarana Wellness centre offering a unique fusion of ancient Thai massage therapies and traditional Japanese rituals, as well as personalised wellness treatments, activities, and journeys to meet the aspirational health needs of guests.

Dining and imbibing are also major highlights of Dusit Thani Kyoto. The hotel has everything in place to become a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts, with diverse options including a speciality Teppanyaki restaurant, a chic social club, a lavish tea shop, and, most notably, exquisite dining experiences crafted by award-winning chefs Duangporn "Bo" Songvisava and Dylan Jones from Thailand.

Known for their authentic Thai cuisine crafted from seasonal and sustainable ingredients, Bo and Dylan earned a Michelin Star and global recognition at their former restaurant, Bo.Ian, in Bangkok.

Their latest concept, Ayatana, at Dusit Thani Kyoto, translates their passion for ethical sourcing, innovative culinary flair, and a love for Thai cuisine into a multi-sensory, one-of-a-kind fine dining experience where authentic Thai flavours meet the finest Japanese traditions for memorable moments to savour. To complement this multi-sensory culinary voyage, a unique desert atelier, Kati, also designed by the couple, will feature Thai desserts presented in an exciting new way.

More excitement can be found across town at ASAI Kyoto Shijo, which will open ahead of Dusit Thani Kyoto in June.

 

Operating under Dusit’s distinctive lifestyle brand, ASAI Hotels, which promises to uniquely link millennial-minded travellers with authentic local experiences in the world’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, the new 114-key hotel is located in Shijo-Karasuma, near the famous Nishiki Market in the city’s renowned Downtown area.

Offering thoughtfully compact rooms that focus on the essentials – such as superior quality beds and powerful showers – the hotel is designed to foster meaningful interactions while celebrating the community’s artistic and cultural heritage, with some unique Thai touches.

Alongside a large communal hub serving as a comfortable venue for work, rest, and play, the hotel will offer a cosy dining room inspired by the rich street-food culture of Bangkok. Guests will find a scrumptious selection of authentic Thai curries and flavoursome grilled and fried snacks paired with original cocktail creations and premium Japanese whisky, sake, and beer. A signature dessert selection featuring favourites like mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream with a variety of toppings will further transport diners' senses to the bustling streets of Bangkok.

Regular collaborations with local restaurateurs and artisans, and sustainable sourcing of produce, will further set the distinctive lifestyle hotel apart.

"We are delighted to debut our unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality in the historic city of Kyoto and pay homage to the cherished bond between Thailand and Japan through our dynamic hotel offerings,” said Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International. “With a deep reverence for the best that both Japan and Thailand have to offer – from culinary arts to music and design – our goal is to not only provide luxury and lifestyle accommodation, but also to contribute to the local community in a meaningful and sustainable way – just as we have done at the luxury chalet rentals we manage under Elite Havens in Niseko.

"Dedicated to providing a comprehensive, 360-degree experience that goes above and beyond satisfying our guests and customers to deliver sustained value to all stakeholders, we will fully leverage the full range of Dusit's interconnected businesses, including Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, and Property Development. This approach will strengthen our presence and set a solid foundation for future growth in Japan. We are already exploring options to expand our hotel portfolio in vibrant cities like Fukuoka, Osaka, and Tokyo, and we will be seeking opportunities to introduce our other business units in adjacent industries too.

“Our journey in the hotel segment begins in June with the opening of the lifestyle oriented ASAI Kyoto Shijo, followed by the grand opening of the luxurious Dusit Thani Kyoto in September, and we eagerly await this exciting new chapter for our hotel business."

Dusit’s property portfolio currently spans 16 countries and comprises 48 hotels operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts (six distinct brands) and more than 300 luxury villas under Elite Havens. More than 60 Dusit Hotels and Resorts are in the pipeline worldwide.