Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) officially handed over three (3) Hyundai Staria commuter units to the Department of Science and Technology – Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII). The fleet shall be utilized particularly for the said office’s pioneering project, the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated KioskS (STARBOOKS), and its award-winning broadcast platform, DOSTv: Science for the People.
Developed back in 2011, STARBOOKS is a stand-alone pod which serves as an interactive information hub with resources related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). It provides educational institutions, local government units (LGUs) and even non-government organizations (NGOs), a comprehensive digital library in various formats from text, video to audio. System installation and support, content updates and trainings are part of the availment.
On the other hand, DOSTv which started airing in 2016 as an online-only weather and SciTech channel, is now also a television program at PTV-4 and CNN Philippines. Apart from programs, such as ExperTalk, Lakas ng Siyensya, and Balitang RapiDOST, it features public service bulletins from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) and Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHILVOLCS) as well.
Despite STARBOOKS being designed to be transportable though, deployment poses some challenges. This is due to the different types of terrain and unpredictable road conditions across the country. Similarly, for the DOSTv production team who travels vast distances visiting and covering far-flung cities.
HMPH President, Mr. Dong Wook Lee noted, “We are glad to have been given the opportunity to contribute towards the causes of STARBOOKS and DOSTv. Their missions closely resonate with ours. As we too constantly find ways on becoming more present in the lives of our customers and communities which we are a part of. Rest assured that our Hyundai Staria shall be a reliable steed on your journeys.”
The Hyundai Staria puts forward the future of van mobility when it comes to seat amenities and differentiated design. Space and comfort are prioritized with rear safety and flexibility being present across all its variants.
An official turnover ceremony was held at the DOST Compound last December 14, 2023. Wherein Mr. Lee, together with HMPH Managing Director, Mr. Cecil Capacete, were welcomed by DOST Secretary, Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., DOST Undersecretary, Ms. Maridon Sahagun as well as DOST-STII Director, Mr. Richard Burgos.
“We, at DOST acknowledge Hyundai not just as a provider of mobility solutions but also as a global technology company. There is a shared desire to delve into broader collaboration avenues that can positively impact the Filipino population. DOST is keen on exploring additional areas where the partnership can yield further benefits. The intention is to forge a multifaceted collaboration that extends beyond mobility solutions, aiming for a comprehensive partnership that aligns with the evolving needs and aspirations of Filipino society,” according to DOST Secretary, Dr. Solidum.
His Excellency Sang-hwa Lee Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines, was in attendance as well. He shared a special message, “I commend the Hyundai Motor team’s Environmental, Social, and Governance initiatives in the Philippines. It is encouraging that the DOST enjoys the strong support of national government. This awareness aligns well with our government’s focus on science, technology, and innovation. I am confident that such alignment will be a driving force in deepening our countries’ relationship as we approach the anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2024”.
Next year marks the 75th Anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and South Korea. Hyundai Motor Philippines has initiatives lined up in commemoration of the momentous occasion and shall be utilizing it as a channel to connect even further with its Filipino customers.
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