Fresh from graduating magna cum laude from the University of the Philippines, Glenmar Montaño is back in Palawan. This time, not just as a scholar but as a mentor for the next generation of young Palaweños.
Project PsP was initiated by Palawan DOST scholars after the DOST-SEI Student Leadership Camp in Batangas as part of their post-camp commitment encouraged by the agency.
The project included a book donation drive for the SK Mini Library, distribution of school supplies, and engaging learning activities in collaboration with the Sangguniang Kabataan of Barangay Liwanag and the MIMAROPA Integrated Network of DOST Scholars.
Montaño shared on his social media how he and fellow scholars from the Science Education Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) held a citizen science and reading session for children in Barangay Liwanag on Saturday under Project PsP (Palakasan sa Pahina): Strengthening Minds by Turning Pages.
The community session combined storytelling with hands-on science experiments. Volunteers shared the story “Si Sally at ang Sari-saring Buhay” from Saribuhay PH to teach children about biodiversity and the importance of caring for the environment.
The DOST scholars also demonstrated simple experiments such as Kinetic Man and Volcanic Eruption using household items like vinegar and baking soda, making science learning fun and accessible for kids in the barangay.
Project PsP builds on Montaño’s ongoing work through his youth-led NGO, Basa Batuta, which promotes reading and science engagement in underserved areas of Palawan. Basa Batuta has previously organized literacy drives and community workshops to foster a love of learning and environmental stewardship particularly among Indigenous youth.
“Lubos na pasasalamat po sa lahat ng mga sponsors at volunteers na naging kabahagi natin sa proyektong ito,” Montaño said.
The young educator, who will soon enter UP College of Law, has long advocated for access to quality education for youth in rural Palawan.
Through this initiative, Montaño hopes to spark curiosity, build confidence, and show young Palaweños that big dreams can start in small communities and come home, too.
EDITOR’S NOTE: We updated this article to reflect the clarification that Project PsP was initiated by Palawan DOST scholars after a leadership camp in Batangas as part of their post-camp commitment. It included a book donation drive and school supply distribution in Barangay Liwanag and was done in partnership with SK officials and the MIMAROPA Integrated Network of DOST Scholars.
