Hyundai Motor PH turns over three units of Staria Commuter to DOST

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) of the Philippines will be rolling on some Hyundai Staria Commuters as Hyundai Motor Philippines, Inc. (HMPH) handed over to the Science and Technology Institute (DOST-STII) three units which will be used for their pioneer project, the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated KioskS (STARBOOKS), and its broadcast platform, DOSTv: Science for the People.

An official turnover ceremony was held at the DOST Compound last December 14, 2023 with the presence of executives from HMPH, represented by its president Mr. Dong Wook Lee, and officials from the DOST led by Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., as well as Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines His Excellency Sang-hwa Lee. 

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 training are part of the availment.

On the other hand, DOSTv which started airing in 2016 as an online weather and SciTech channel, is also a television program on PTV-4 and CNN Philippines. Apart from programs, such as ExperTalk, Lakas ng Siyensya, and Balitang RapiDOST, it also features public service bulletins from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHILVOLCS).

“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,” said HMPH President Mr. Dong Wook Lee

“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,” said DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr.

“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,” said Ambassador Sang-hwa Lee.