In an unprecedented collaboration, the Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII), Converge ICT Solutions, Inc. (Converge), and Pacific Kabelnet (PKN) Group have announced a strategic partnership aimed at making DOSTv programs widely accessible. These programs will be available through Converge’s upcoming free streaming service and will also be accessible via PKN Group’s prominent services, Vision and Fiber TV, not only in Metro Manila but across various regions in the Philippines.
DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. expressed his confidence in this collaboration, viewing it as a significant milestone in the department’s efforts to promote science, technology, and innovation within the country. He conveyed his gratitude to Converge and PKN Group for joining forces in a shared mission to foster a culture of science, technology, and innovation, emphasizing its vital role in promoting socio-economic development for the benefit of the Filipino people and the nation.
Director Richard P. Burgos of DOST-STII shared his excitement about this newfound partnership with Converge and PKN. He emphasized his belief in the potential for science communication to benefit immensely from digital technology, with the ultimate goal of empowering Filipinos with valuable knowledge about science and technology.
Director Burgos stated, “We hope that every day it’s the Filipino people who will benefit, as they learn more from science and technology. With Converge and the PKN Group, we are poised to further our commitment to bring science closer to the people.”
DOST-STII will launch four of its programs targeted at a diverse viewership to cultivate a culture of science among the Philippine population. The department aims to educate and raise awareness about science and technology (S&T) through its Video on Demand (VOD) streaming collaboration with Converge and the services provided by the PKN Group.
The programs to be offered to the public include:
- “Siyensikat: Pinoy Popular Science Para sa Lahat” – A 30-minute science telemagazine show that highlights the stories of ordinary people seeking science and technology solutions.
- “ExperTalk” – A 30-minute science program featuring interviews and discussions with Filipino scientists and S&T experts, sharing their personal experiences and contributions to the field.
- “Sinesiyensya” – A mini-documentary show showcasing real-life stories of Filipinos whose dreams were realized with the help of science, technology, and innovation.
- “Animagham” – Featuring short animated clips designed to make science engaging, educational, informative, and entertaining, catering to young and young-at-heart audiences.
Converge CEO and Co-Founder, Dennis Anthony H. Uy, expressed his enthusiasm for using technology as a catalyst for societal change. He noted that programs like DOSTv are instrumental in creating an ecosystem that fosters science-minded individuals, ultimately contributing to the development of the nation.
Converge has been actively promoting digital democracy in the Philippines through streaming and Video on Demand (VOD) services. In recent developments, the company launched BlastTV in collaboration with TapDMV, offering a complimentary streaming value-added service for its subscribers as part of the “Watch Now, Pay Zero” initiative, a first-of-its-kind offering in the market.
Atty. Frank Abalos, CEO of the PKN Group, added, “This collaboration enriches the offerings for our subscribers, especially in Luzon. With the addition of DOSTv, our audience will enjoy an even broader spectrum of on-demand content.”
The tripartite agreement between DOST-STII, Converge, and PKN was officially sealed at a signing event held at Converge’s headquarters in Pasig City. Among the distinguished attendees were DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., DOST Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services Ms. Maridon O. Sahagun, DOST-STII Director Richard P. Burgos, Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy, and PKN CEO Atty. Frank Abalos.
Witnesses to the agreements included Converge Integrated Marketing Senior Manager Vianca Carla Remorozo, Converge Marketing Services Manager Ricardo De Jesus, PKN General Manager Jonathan Ruby, PKN Marketing Manager Adriane Faye San Jose, DOST-STII OIC-CRPD Rodolfo P. De Guzman, and DOST-STII FAD Chief Arlene Centeno.
