THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) Rizal entered into a strategic partnership with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to deploy the first STARBOOKS (Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated KioskS) unit tailored specifically for a female dormitory through ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing, on May 6, 2026.
Jail Chief Inspector Atty. Jessela L. Tariman of Antipolo City Jail Female Dormitory welcomed the DOST personnel and highlighted how the digital library will serve as a vital tool for personal development and rehabilitation within the facility. On the othe hand, Engr. Mhark Ellgine A. Libao, Officer-in-Charge of DOST PSTO Rizal, presented a briefer on the STARBOOKS system, highlighting the various science and technology modules and instructional livelihood videos that expand educational opportunities as part of the holistic rehabilitation process for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).
To properly introduce the platform, a short audiovisual presentation on the history of STARBOOKS was played, followed by a presentation on the next steps for installation and user capacity development training, delivered by Ms. Arthea Marie M. Genova, STARBOOKS focal of PSTO Rizal. She also mentioned that even jail officers may use this technology for their advanced studies, and that the livelihood technology and instructional videos may be used for PDLs' activities. The initial deployment is set to benefit 72 female PDLs and 26 jail officers.
OIC Libao further highlighted the specific groups that will benefit from the deployment, noting that the kiosk will serve as a valuable educational resource for individuals studying under the Alternative Learning System (ALS), the children of PDLs, and those looking to develop new livelihood skills for their families.
Speaking on the broader vision of the initiative, former OIC Ms. Una Grace M. Dollete noted, "We want to remove the stigma of interacting with PDLs and be engaged with science and technology while undergoing their rehabilitation program." Through these digital resources, DOST aims to provide inclusive interventions for the marginalized sector, empowering institutionalized individuals to continue their personal growth.