Kooha captures Intramuros’ rich heritage in Pamana Agham 2023
Intramuros, Manila – The Kooha mobile app, developed by the DOST-Advanced Science and Technology Institute, captured the intricate beauty of the historical walled city of Intramuros during the first-ever Pamana Agham: Celebrating Filipino Heritage through Science, held from 14 to 16 October 2023 at the Plaza Moriones, Fort Santiago, Intramuros, Manila City.
Pamana Agham 2023, a collaborative effort between the DOST-National Capital Region, the Department of Tourism, the Local Government of Manila, and the Intramuros Administration, sought to harmonize the worlds of history and science through a variety of activities, including guided tours, forums, film showings, and workshops.
Pamana Agham attendees, including students and tourists, visit the DOST-ASTI booth featuring Kooha at the Plaza Moriones, Fort Santiago, Intramuros, Manila.
(Photo courtesy of DOST-NCR)
One of the highlights of the event was the mobile photography contest, where participants used the Kooha app, a real-time participatory photography and sensor application, to explore and capture the timeless beauty of Intramuros’ rich historical landmarks.
Mr. Kevin Abonita of the Computer Software Division giving a presentation about the Kooha app
On the event’s second day, Mr. John Kevin Abonita of DOST-ASTI’s Computer Software Division (CSD), kicked off the photography challenge by introducing the Kooha app and its data-sensing features.
Out of 40 participants, four were chosen as winners along with a People’s Choice Awardee. The announcement of winners took place on the final day, with Ms. Michelle Neverida from CSD, serving as one of the judges. The winners are as follows:
1st Place: "Ate, picturan mo kami sa may kanyon" by Rosie Macalintal
2nd Place: "Timeless Encounter" by Angelo Altares
3rd Place: "Agos ng Kasaysayan" by Carlos Aragon
4th Place: "Capturing the Essence of the Boundless Legacy of Filipino Heritage" by Thea Antonio
People's Choice Award: "Halina't Lakbayin ang Perlas ng Silanganan" by Ren Avrielle Telebrico
Winners of the KOOHA ko: Capturing History in a Lens Photography Challenge
(Photo courtesy of DOST-NCR)
The Kooha app has achieved yet another remarkable milestone, witnessing a surge of new users with a total of 226 downloads as well as 121 image contributions uploaded to the Kooha Community during the two-day photography challenge.
DOST-ASTI was also able to expand Kooha’s reach during the Pamana Agham, drawing in individuals who were equally enthusiastic about culture, history, and science.
As we inspire more citizen scientists to explore and contribute through Kooha, photos shared with the Kooha Community won’t just remain as mere images; they are photos that go beyond moments as they are filled with knowledge and stories that show the richness of Filipino culture and heritage.
DOST-ASTI Director Dr. Franz de Leon, along with TLO Head Maria Irene Amatorio and Kooha Project Leader Roxanne Aviñante, attend the Pamana Agham Opening Program.
Ms. Michelle Neverida from the CSD served as one of the judges during the KOOHA ko: Capturing History in a Lens Photography Challenge.
Top 4 winners and People’s Choice Awardee of the KOOHA ko: Capturing History in a Lens Photography Challenge (Photo courtesy of DOST-NCR)