The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) was well-represented at the 2023 Search for Outstanding Government Workers ceremony, with its scientists, researchers, and experts after bagging prestigious awards from the Civil Service Commission (CSC).

The ceremony for the 2023 Search for Outstanding Government Workers took place at the Malacañang Palace on Feb. 14, graced by the presence of President "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.
Making a difference across sectors
Awarded for their notable contributions and significant achievements that had great impact to different sectors and communities in the country, the DOST said in a statement on Friday, Feb. 16, the Core Team from DOST Region VI received the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award, for developing the Safe, Swift, and Smart Passage (S-PaSS) system.

S-PaSS, launched on Mar. 26, 2021, is an online system primarily intended to efficiently manage the travels of Filipino local workers, Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFS), local tourists, and others who need to go on business from one province to the other, eventually being adopted nationwide by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
The innovative platform served as a crucial travel management tool during the pandemic, simplifying and streamlining mobility in Western Visayas.
CSC Pagasa awardees
Other DOST awardees were also recognized with the CSC Pagasa Award for their outstanding contributions to multiple government departments.
Director Ronnalee Orteza of the DOST Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System was lauded for her transformative approach to education, which fosters partnerships and critical thinking skills in students.
The DOST-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute's (DOST-PNRI) Honey Team, led by Dr. Angel Bautista VII and Norman Mendoza, however, were recognized for developing a standard test for “honey authenticity,” that ensures consumer protection and informed choices.

Lastly, the Food Processing and Innovation Center Davao (FPIC-Davao) team, composed of Mirasol Domingo, Sheryl Napoco, Dorothy Candilas, and Fred Liza, received recognition for their efforts in establishing 17 Food Innovation Centers nationwide.

These centers, DOST said, have provided support and resources to local food processors, helping them improve their products and expand their businesses that have contributed to the advancement of food processing and innovation in the country.
Love for public service
CSC Chairperson Karlos Nograles said the significance of the ceremony's timing, coinciding with Valentine's Day and Ash Wednesday.
He emphasized the connection between love and public service that draw parallels between the awardees' dedication and the spirit of these days.
“We will do this today by honoring the outstanding public servants who have shown their love for our country through selfless service, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of others,” Nohrales said.
The CSC, furthermore, reminded government agencies and individuals that nominations for the 2024 Search for Outstanding Government Workers are ongoing.
The deadline for online submissions is until Mar. 31.