High school students from around Metro Manila and Laguna took part in the Likhang SIPAG On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest of the Department of Science and Technology- Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) during the last day celebration of the 2015 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW).

Now on its second year, the contest aims to dramatize the linkage between the science and technology (S&T) sector and education sector in achieving a strong S&T-based agri-economy as the country continually innovates for global competitiveness.

Using only water-based paints as medium, the artworks revolved around the theme Strategic Industry Program for Agri-Aqua Growth, focusing on PCAARRD’s role to provide science-based know-how and tools that enable the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources sectors to raise productivity to world-class standards.

“DOST, through PCAARRD, commits to devote its resources to the development of valuable and productive technologies for the interest of our agri-aqua beneficiaries. DOST also commits to bring the fruits of its R&D efforts closer to them using the most feasible approach and strategies,” said DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo in a previous PCAARRD event, in reference to the Council’s blueprint for alleviating poverty in the agriculture and aquatic sectors.

Participants were given one and a half hour to work on their entries in the presence of the judges.

Jestoni Albarillo Rubantes of Pasay City West High School won first place with his painting depicting PCAARRD’s commitment to raise the productivity of agri-aqua- natural resources sectors.

Second and third place went to Yanicko Sydbourne Covar of Southbay Montessori School in Sta. Cruz, Laguna and Princess Dianne D. Sabino of St. Louis College of Valenzuela respectively.

Covar’s work depicts the value of cooperation in achieving science-based knowledge and making it work for economic development while Sabino’s presents S&T’s role as an important ingredient in the country’s success in the field of agriculture and fisheries as it allows the country to double food production and provide farmers and fisherfolk with additional income.

The entries were evaluated according to originality, relevance to the theme, creativity, and execution.

Winners received cash prizes and certificates of recognition.

The entries of all participants were put on display after the competition at the NSTW exhibit area at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. (S&T Media Service)

Jestoni Albarillo Rubantes of Pasay City West High School works on his winning entry.

Winners of the Likhang SIPAG On-the-Spot Painting Contest: (From left) first place winning entry by Jestoni Albarillo Rubantes, second place winner by Yanicko Sydbourne Covar, and third place winner by Princess Dianne D. Sabino.