True to its mission of bringing science and technology to the people, the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office XI (DOST XI) through its Department of Science and Technology-Davao de Oro (DOST-DDO) conducted a community validation with Brgy. Manurigao in Davao De Oro for the implementation of the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program last October 29, 2021 at Tribal Council Office, Brgy. Cabinuangan, New Bataan, Davao de Oro. 

It was attended by representatives from Davao De Oro State College, Provincial Local Government Unit of Davao de Oro (PLGU DdO), Ancestral Domain Management Office (ADMO), Council Elders, Indigenous People from Brgy. Manurigao, and DOST-DDO personnel.

Ms. Grace A. Ricardo of DOST-DDO presented the brief description of the project titled "Community Empowerment through the Science and Technology for the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas, Indigenous People, and Marginalized Communities in Davao de Oro."

She presented the S&T interventions of CEST Program for the five components on Livelihood/Economic Development, Health and Nutrition, Human Resource Development, Environmental Protection and Conservation, and Disaster Risk and Management and Climate Change Adaptation.

Likewise, Engr. Eric John Miones of DOST-DDO, presented the Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND) program illustrating the other forms of assistance provided by DOST XI especially in the grassroots level.

Representatives from Brgy. Manurigao composed of its chieftain and 29 members agreed to accept and seal the partnership with DOST XI in the implementation of the CEST Program.

Brgy. Manurigao is categorized as a geographically isolated and disadvantaged area (GIDA), is the farthest community in the Province of Davao de Oro. DOST XI continues to reach out to GIDA communities such as Brgy. Manurigao to provide inclusive development and improvement of the communities through various S&T-based interventions. DOST XI S&T Information and Promotion