The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office IX has announced its plans to establish a planetarium in Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte, aiming to foster scientific education and ignite interest in space and astronomy. The initiative comes after a successful benchmarking visit to the DOST Planetarium in El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental, on October 11, 2024.
The visit was organized by the Provincial Science and Technology Office-Zamboanga del Norte (PSTO-ZDN) and attended by key representatives from several local agencies. The delegation included members from the Department of Education (DEPED) Zamboanga del Norte Division, the Municipal Tourism Office of Liloy, and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 3rd Engineering District. The group was welcomed by Mr. Anthony Joseph R. Lucero, Weather Services Chief of the Mindanao PAGASA Regional Services Division (MPRSD).
During the visit, the team observed the operations of the El Salvador Planetarium, which has become a flagship facility in Mindanao. The planetarium offers educational programs and interactive exhibits that showcase astronomical phenomena, theories, and discoveries, sparking curiosity among students and encouraging them to explore careers in science and technology.
Notable participants in the benchmarking activity included Mr. Marc G. Cachin, Supervising Science Research Specialist of DOST IX; Dr. Zyhrine P. Mayormita, Chief Education Supervisor of the Curriculum Implementation Division (CID); and Dr. Daisyflor J. Romaguera, Science Program Supervisor from DEPED-ZDN Division. They were joined by Mr. Edwin B. Octiza, the Municipal Tourism Officer of Liloy, along with representatives from DPWH.
The forthcoming planetarium in Liloy is expected to serve as a cornerstone for enhancing educational opportunities, promoting scientific literacy, and nurturing a culture of innovation among students in the region. This project reflects the commitment of DOST IX and its partners to advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education across Zamboanga del Norte.
The establishment of the planetarium will not only benefit local schools but also attract tourists and science enthusiasts, further boosting Liloy’s profile as a growing hub for scientific learning and exploration in Mindanao.
