Redefining Tech Trends with NORDIC Innovation Forum 2023

Redefining technology trends involves identifying new and evolving technologies that have the potential to disrupt existing industries and markets. This involves staying up to date on advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things, 5G, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and many more. Companies must assess the potential benefits and drawbacks of each trend and determine how they can incorporate them into their businesses in a way that provides a competitive advantage. Additionally, they must be prepared to adapt to changes in the technology landscape as new trends emerge and old ones become obsolete.

The Philippines has the potential to be a leader in technology and to take advantage of the latest trends. Here are some steps that the Philippines can take to get ahead in technology:

💡 Invest in education and training: Encouraging technology education and providing training programs to develop a skilled workforce will be key to the Philippines staying competitive in the technology sector.

💡 Promote entrepreneurship and innovation: Supporting startups and small businesses in the tech sector can drive innovation and create new opportunities for growth.

💡 Foster a supportive business environment: Creating a favorable business environment through favorable tax policies, streamlined regulations, and access to capital can help attract foreign investment and stimulate technological development.

💡 Develop infrastructure: Investing in modern and reliable infrastructure, such as broadband networks and data centers, can help create the foundation for technological innovation and growth.

💡 Collaborate with international partners: Building partnerships with technology leaders from around the world can bring new ideas, knowledge, and investment to the Philippines and help it stay at the forefront of technological development.

By taking these steps and staying informed about the latest technology trends, the Philippines can position itself to take advantage of the opportunities and benefits offered by technology in the coming years.

The Nordic Innovation Forum organized by NordCham Philippines is a valuable platform for sharing knowledge and inspiring collaboration between the public and private sectors in the Philippines. By bringing together experts and leaders from the Nordic countries and the Philippines, the Forum has the potential to drive innovation, promote technological development, and help both countries stay ahead of the curve in technology trends.

Through presentations, breakout sessions, exchange of ideas, and networking opportunities, attendees of the Nordic Innovation Forum can gain insights into the latest technology trends, exchange ideas and best practices, and forge partnerships that can help drive growth and innovation in the Philippines.

By leveraging the experience and expertise companies developing these technologies, the Philippines can tap into new ideas, knowledge, and best practices that can help it stay ahead in technology trends and achieve its goals for economic growth and development.

We invite you to sign up for this event happening on 22 March 2023 from 1:30 PM to 6:00 PM at the Glass Pavilion of Dusit Thani Manila.

DOST invites future innovators in Metro Manila and South Luzon to avail research funding

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) holds the second leg of its Call for Proposals 2025 campaign at Acacia Hotel in Alabang today to encourage researchers in availing research and development (R&D) funding. The event converged members from industry, the academe, government agencies, communities, and associations to share their ideas and support the country’s innovation environment.

“Anticipating future changes and laying out strategic investments for innovation are key factors to national progress,” says DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. “We believe R&D output creates the foundation for our country’s continuous development.  The proposals submitted today may be the next inspiring initiative towards a better future for the Philippines.”
For years, DOST invested in high-impact and sustainable programs that are significant in addressing national concerns.   This is aligned to the research priorities along four major areas, namely: human well-being promotion, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability.
One of the funded R&D projects in support of the country’s fight against the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the study led by Dr. Benedict Maralit of the Philippine Genome Center (PGC) related to biosurveillance or the monitoring of COVID-19 cases through whole genome sequencing of the virus from patients. This project aims to use genomic epidemiology perspective to track the virus and develop a deeper understanding of its characteristics. 
As early as 2012, the DOST through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) invested more than 900 million pesos in Omics research for health.  This funding was used for programs in human multi-omics research which identified possible genetic markers among Filipinos associated with non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, stroke, diabetes and heart attack. This investment also gave way to the establishment of the PGC not only in Luzon but also its satellite facilities in Visayas and Mindanao, and the launch of the Clinical Genomics Laboratory, the services of which were in the forefront of the response and genomic biosurveillance during the height of the pandemic.
With the rising oil prices and the negative impact of global warming, DOST poured funds into the E-mobility program which supported the electrification of the transportation system.  It brought about the development of e-trikes, e-boats, and the conversion of tricycles in the country.
With the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development, an entire ecosystem of an electric transport was developed which also included chargers for the electric vehicles, researches on storage, as well as parts that can be locally fabricated for the maintenance of these new vehicles.
The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) of DOST pursued its Industry Strategic S&T Programs (ISPs) in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) Sector. The council brands its initiatives and outputs as GALING, an acronym for Good Agri-aqua Livelihood Initiatives towards National Goals.  In 2016-2022, the council funded programs and projects that led to significant findings in genomics, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and smart farming. Moreover, PCAARRD also noted important milestones in socioeconomics including impact assessment and policy, as well as in technology transfer and promotion.
In August 2015, the National Research Council of the Philippines initiated the country’s first comprehensive research program for Lake Lanao, the second largest lake in the country. Six projects were funded for a comprehensive study of the physical, chemical, biological, socioeconomic, and political impacts of the lake. The projects were conducted by NRCP members from Mindanao State University-Institute of Technology (MSU) and MSU-Marawi to save the lake from degradation caused by human activities. The results of the project provided valuable baseline data for future research and recommendations for the holistic conservation of the lake, which supplies 70% of the power requirements of Mindanao. This initiative is the Council’s call for SAKLAW (Sustainable Communities), a priority area under the National Integrated Basic Research Agenda (NIBRA), that supports the protection and sustainability of Philippine lakes.
Some of the priority areas for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology, include energy; construction; utilities; transportation; food; process; mining and minerals; metals and engineering; advanced materials and nanotechnology.   Some Health Research and Development, priority areas are Drug Discovery & Development (Tuklas Lunas®), functional foods, nutrition and safety, reemerging and emerging diseases, OMIC technologies for health, diagnostics, biomedical engineering for health, digital and frontier technologies for health. For agriculture, priority research areas in crops include mango, coffee, and sugarcane.  DOST is also looking for R&D projects in managing economically important emerging pests and animal feeds resource enhancement.   
“From health innovations, nutrition, agricultural and aquatic breakthroughs, to technologies that will support our industry, most specially the MSMEs, R&D promotes excellence and provides the potential to elevate our country’s status and encourage economic growth,” said DOST Undersecretary for R&D Leah J. Buendia.  “We hope that through this Call Conference, we may again fund the next big milestone in supporting our country’s socio-economic goals.
The period of submission is from March 1 to May 31, 2023.  Interested parties may visit the DOST Project Management Information System (DPMIS) at this website https://dpmis.dost.gov.ph/

Ridge-to-Reef approach: the needed integrated gov’t response to climate change, says environmental expert

“There have been many government initiatives over the years in response to climate change, but there’s still a lot to do in terms of integrating these plans and programs,” said Rex Victor O. Cruz, Professor Emeritus at the University of the Philippines Los Baños.

 

Although 1.5 °C is a global target, the temperature increase and associated impacts will vary locally, according to the 2019 Study on the Implications of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

There are significant risks associated with 1.5 °C warming, including impact on the poor and the most vulnerable, but risks associated with warming are substantially lower at 1.5 °C than 2 °C warming. Limiting warming to 1.5˚C, according to the IPCC, will however require prompt and immediate adaptation and mitigation actions. 

Cruz, in his presentation on “Unprecedented Climate Change: Unprecedented Response,” at the 2023 Annual Scientific Conference (ASC) cited that the government, especially at the level of local government units (LGUs) already made plans and have existing programs, but these are not fully integrated. He highlighted that the risks and vulnerabilities to climate change across a ridge to reef landscape are interconnected and hence requires integrated adaptation and mitigation measures within the ridge to reef/watershed ecosystem management (R2R/WEM) framework. The ASC is organized by the Department of Science and Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP). 

The R2R/WEM framework to promote resilience of human and natural systems entails an integrated land use and development planning process where climate adaptation, mitigation and disaster risk reduction (DRR) are framed in consideration of its interactions with ecosystem protection, soil, water and biodiversity conservation, socioeconomic development, and other sectoral goals within a landscape. The R2R/WEM-based planning process will also require the engagement of concerned NGAs and LGUs along with other stakeholders in formulating an integrated plan for the pursuit and achievement 

of climate change adaptation, mitigation, DRR, and other sectoral goals.   

Cruz emphasized the need for an S&T-based adaptation and mitigation response where policies, plans, and programs hinge on change mindsets, building up skills, policy reforms and practices, and multi-agency collaboration. He also suggested that there should be sustained efforts in building knowledge and understanding on the interactions of various ecosystems; impacts of climate change and land use on ecosystems; responses of human and natural systems to adaptation and mitigation; and assessment of risk associated with multiple hazards.

Further, Cruz underscored the crucial need for continuous monitoring of changes in watersheds and ecosystems in response to climate change, land use and other human activities to build empirical datasets, knowledge and tools for science-based land use and development planning.

The Global warming of 1.00C has been reached in 2017. At the current warming rate of 0.2 per decade, global warming of 1.50C could be reached and even surpassed between 2030 and 2052 unless proactive and drastic measures are implemented soon. Beyond 1.50C rise in average global temperature, Cruz said that we are looking at marked increase in the magnitude of impacts associated with extreme rainfall, floods, droughts, heatwaves, sea level rise, and intense tropical cyclones that will eventually put greater pressure to our lives, especially those living in highly vulnerable communities.  (Geraldine Bulaon-Ducusin, S&T Media Service)

DOST Balik Scientist Discovers Antimicrobial Compounds for New Antibiotics from Philippine Biodiversity

DOST Balik Scientist discovers antimicrobial compounds for new antibiotics from Philippine biodiversity

A Department of Science and Technology – Balik Scientist makes headway in drug discovery and development in the country by isolating antimicrobial compounds to be used in formulating new antibiotics. 

Dr. Julius Adam V. Lopez is a DOST Balik Scientist hosted by the University of San Agustin (USA) in Iloilo City. His work focused on capacity-building initiatives in handling the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) technology among Filipino researchers in the Visayas and Mindanao region. Through this initiative, he wasable to isolate and elucidate the structure of novel and/or bioactive compounds from cultured marine actinomycetes in the biobank of USA using the NMR.

Specifically, Dr. Lopez used the NMR to purify the marine samples and identify β-lactamase inhibitors which prevents antimicrobial resistance and improves efficacy of antimicrobial treatment. This study has been done under the Philippine marine (PHILMARINE) - beta-lactamase inhibitor (BLI) project also in USA.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. has expressed his excitement about the potential impact of Filipinos gaining knowledge on using the NMR, stating that “Advancing our efforts in drug discovery and development and building the NMR competency within the Visayas and Mindanao regions shall help us address perplexing health issues and opens avenues for locally available, accessible and practical solutions. The NMR is a powerful tool to study molecular structures and dynamics of complex systems and widen our understanding of the world we live in which includes discoveries of anti-cancer drugs and antibiotics.

DOST Undersecretary for R&D Leah J. Buendia added “We need to strengthen and optimize our country’s R&D portfolio in drug discovery and development. Through expertise engagement like the DOST Balik Scientist Program, we can be part of R&D milestones such as creating the first team of Filipino NMR spectroscopy experts who all have the capacity to discover and formulate new drugs. This engagement willalso create a big difference in the earning potential of local pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.”

 DOST Balik Scientist Dr. Julius Adam V. Lopez has extensive experience in natural products chemistry and NMR Spectroscopy. He took his doctor’s degree in Hokkaido University, Japan. By using advanced NMRtechniques, Dr. Lopez then led the discovery of new cytotoxic cyanobacteria termed as wewakazole B andnew   fatty   acids   amides,   columbamides   which   are   the   fundamental   blueprint   or   structures   for  severalmedicinal drugs.

In this engagement with USA, Dr. Lopez developed an NMR training module with both theoretical andpractical   aspects   of   the   NMR   spectroscopy.   He   served   as   trainer   on   theory   and   practical   skills   forresearchers from the academe and industries such as University of San Agustin, Mindanao State University– Iligan Institute of Technology, Central Mindanao University, University of Southern Mindanao and DOST Regional Office VI.

Widening the skillset among Filipino researchers especially for researchers outside the greater Manila inusing the NMR creates significant implications for the development of new antibiotics and other drugs. Thepresence of an NMR in the Visayas will fastrack isolation and identification of novel compounds as theseaddresses logistics requirements of spending cost to ship samples to Manila.

The Balik Scientist program is an initiative of the Department of Science and Technology and is part of thePhilippine government’s efforts to build a strong science and technology ecosystem in the country.

The enactment of the Balik Scientist Act in June 2018 paved the way for DOST to grant returning Filipinoscientists with competitive benefits such as daily subsistence allowance, health insurance, and roundtripairfare.   For those interested to become a Balik Scientist,  you  may  contact   the  DOST   Balik   ScientistProgram Management Office thru email at bsp@dost.gov

DOST-I Head visits projects in Pangasinan

The visit in Pangasinan by OIC-RD Tabaog led to the meeting with former DOST-I Regional Director Armando Q. Ganal and a visit to the PSTO-Pangasinan field office located at PSU Urdaneta. Jennifer Fernandez, Science Research Specialist II exhibited some of the products of assisted-SETUP firms in Districts 4, 5, and 6 and shortly discussed how the program helped improve their products, production processes, and businesses. 

In PSU-Urdaneta, OIC-RD Tabaog and Dr. Ganal dropped by the soon-to-be-opened Solid Freeform Fabrication Research Laboratory (SoFFReL), a 3D printing facility. Also, they provided novel ideas and suggestions to improve the Sea Salt Center proposal research and development projects.

PSU President Elbert Galas welcomed DOST officials as a courtesy to the DOST-I OIC over lunch with representatives from PSU and DOST-I. The two passionate leaders exchanged fruitful ideas to further magnify the strong partnership of DOST-I and PSU to bring science closer to the youth and the people of Pangasinan. 

Thereafter, a tour of the PSTO-Pangasinan enabled OIC-RD Tabaog to meet and interact with the PSTO-Pangasinan staff where she expressed her gratitude for the good job they are doing in the province. 

On the other hand, the PSU Bayambang staff and Food Innovation Center (FIC) team, headed by Campus Executive Director Ian D. Evangelista, were pleased to welcome OIC-RD Tabaog. After a brief tour of the facility, Meryl A. Bernardino provided an outline of the center's activities for better appreciation of the DOST officials. 

OIC-RD Tabaog praised them for their efforts and continued support. She also pledged that DOST-I would, in turn, continue to directly support and collaborate with all of the university's research and development initiatives.

By Monique C. Esguerra

DOST-I empowers Pangasinan salt manufacturer with cGMP and Food Safety Training

The training aimed to give awareness on basic food hygiene and cGMP, to identify different food hazards and causes of food contamination, and to assess the sanitary condition and practices of each firm in conformity with GMP, basic food hygiene, and food safety requirements. 

Nine participants from B.S. Cuison Enterprises and Libring Salt Refinery attended the training. 

Hero D. Galamgam, Project Technical Specialist I, DOST-I Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory (RSTL), discussed the importance of food safety and cGMP. He highlighted that every food handler must undergo food safety training for them to produce clean and safe food products. Afterwards, Mr. Galamgam checked how effective each participant was, through simulation of hand washing. 

To ensure food safety in the region, DOST-I committed to continue to collaborate with micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and consumers by providing lectures and assessment to businesses as part of their application in obtaining a license to operate requirement and to raise awareness for the benefit of the general public.

By: Catherine L. Lictao  

RCEP Gains Traction

PASAY CITY—Trade and Industry Secretary Fred Pascual expressed optimism on the Senate’s concurrence to the ratification of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement, following the sponsorship of no less than the Senate President himself Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri and Senate President Pro Tempore Senator Loren Legarda. 

During the sponsorship speech of both Senators Zubiri and Legarda on 15 February 2023 at the Senate Plenary, the senators have delivered their respective statements on the benefits and support programs needed to ensure effective implementation of RCEP once the Philippines becomes a party.   

During the sponsorship, Senate President Zubiri presented the objective of RCEP, which is “establishing clear, stable and predictable rules in doing trade and investments in the region so that it will be more convenient and competitive for our businesses and investors.” 

He argued that the “Philippines cannot afford to isolate itself from the rest of the world or even send a signal to that effect.”  Further, he said, it has the support of various trade and industry associations in the country and that international bodies and organizations have recognized the value and importance of RCEP. 

“It provides a stable platform so that countries in the region (which account for 30 percent of global trade) can optimize their participation in the global economy or, more specifically, the global value chain,” he further said. As the only RCEP signatory state that has not yet ratified the Agreement, he called upon his colleagues to support RCEP. 

“While various countries, such as Thailand, Cambodia and Malaysia, have reported gains in RCEP, the Philippines is put at a disadvantage and missing out on a lot of opportunities,” Senator Zubiri added. 

On the other hand, Senator Legarda reported that RCEP underwent thorough consultations and lengthy discussions entailing 28 full rounds of negotiations, eight (8) regular and 10 intercessional Ministerial Meetings covering eight years.  This resulted in a negotiating outcome that would provide numerous economic opportunities for the Philippines while protecting the country’s interests. For instance, while RCEP offers better market access for key Philippine agricultural products, sensitive agricultural products were excluded from further liberalization.  

To fully utilize the opportunities provided by the RCEP Agreement, Senator Legarda emphasized the “need to create comparative advantages for our economic sectors. It all boils down to finding our niche and seizing opportunities, and defining our role in the regional and global marketplace.” 

“It binds us with the other participating countries -- will help us achieve the right conditions to expand our markets for goods and services, create more jobs, build opportunities to strengthen the various economic sectors in ways that will make them more competitive, and more importantly, assist our MSMEs in participating in cross-border trade, as well as in regional value chains,” Senator Legarda said. 

Secretary Pascual, on the other hand, recognized the call of the agricultural sector for enhanced support to help them become more competitive in international markets and allow them to fully reap the benefits that RCEP provides. On this note, Secretary Pascual said that "I welcome the proposal of Senators Zubiri and Legarda to set up an Oversight Committee on RCEP implementation to ensure that appropriate assistance programs for local stakeholders, especially the agriculture sector, are provided." 

He further added that "RCEP will greatly complement the country's national policies and programs in agriculture, MSMEs, services, e-commerce, intellectual property, competition, and sustainable development. These, in turn, will facilitate the entry of more foreign investments that will aid in employment generation." 

Various business and industry organizations have recently expressed support toward the ratification of RCEP, taking note that the Agreement will bring in more business and employment opportunities in the Philippines.

LGU-Tampilisan Converts Solid Wastes into Useful Products through Technology

The four-day training activity was organized by the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office IX through its Provincial Science and Technology Office in Zamboanga del Norte (PSTO-ZDN), and in cooperation with DOST’s Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI). Experts from DOST-ITDI namely Engr. Pierre Jordan Mendoza, Engr. Benjamin Santos, and Joannalene Tuazon served as resource persons and trainers.

Al Rey M. Catubig, MENRO-designate of LGU-Tampilisan, said they are very happy that DOST has prioritized their municipality in the deployment of these technologies. “Now, we can properly and efficiently manage our collected solid wastes and convert them into compost and bricks,” he said.

He added that the implementation of these technologies will greatly improve their solid waste management program and brings about significant changes in Tampilisan through the support of its local officials. He further stated that the municipality will now be able to reduce the volume of solid waste and turn it into useful products.

The training activity is part of a package of interventions provided by DOST-IX to LGU-Tampilisan through the initiative titled “Upgrading the Solid Waste Management Program of LGU Tampilisan through Adoption of Bioreactor and Plastic Densifier Technologies.” The project was funded through DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) with total funding assistance amounting to P2,005,000.00.

SETUP is a flagship program of the DOST that provides innovation funds and technical support to small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to improve productivity, reduce production costs, and enable MSMEs to level up their operations.

The project funded the acquisition of key equipment such as a 1-ton capacity bioreactor and plastic densifier. Both technologies were developed by DOST-ITDI.

The bioreactor converts biodegradable waste into organic compost, which can be used as a soil conditioner for urban gardening or farming. It uses an inoculant to break down organic matter in solid wastes and hasten the decomposition process.

Plastic densifier, on the other hand, processes non-biodegradable waste such as plastic cellophane and Styrofoam into usable flowerpots and decorative blocks.

Tampilisan is a 4th class municipality located in the province of Zamboanga del Norte. Like most municipalities in the country, Tampilisan also faces serious concerns on solid waste management. In the past, the municipality struggled to properly dispose its solid waste collected from the different communities. This led to the accumulation of collected garbage, which poses serious environmental and health hazards. With the technology introduced by DOST, the environmental problems of the communities will now be addressed appropriately.

For more information about DOST programs, please call PSTO-ZDN at (065) 908-0117 or email us at psto-zdn@ro9.dost.gov.ph or visit our FB page at DOSTRegion9 

by MVJBaliña/ DOST IX 

SuperMoms Club x theAsianparent invites all Preggy Supermoms to a Maternity MeetUp

Did you know that the FIRST 50 PREGGY SUPERMOMS to register on-ground at the SuperMoms Club x theAsianparent MATERNITY MEETUP will instantly get P500 SM GCs? 

Come to the SuperMoms Club x theAsianparent MATERNITY MEETUP this Saturday, February 11 at 12:30 PM at SM Mall of Asia Cinema 2 and enjoy:

☑️ Insightful discussions on mental and emotional support for expectant mothers

☑️ Practical advice on preparing for childbirth and what to do once your little one arrives

☑️ Goody bags from Watsons, ULSSI, GynePro, Fortima, Celeteque, and GCs from Cinnabon and SM Supermalls

☑️ Exclusive prizes and giveaways

#ExperienceFAMtimeAtSM and discover #AWorldOfExperienceAtSM as you await the arrival of your loved one! 👶🍼

✔️ SEATS are on a first come, first served basis. STRICTLY NO RESERVATION.

✔️ We shall prioritize pregnant SuperMoms, as the venue can only accommodate 100 pax.

✔️ First 50 on-ground registrants will receive P500 SM GCs. 

Visit here: SM Super Malls

Watch here: Supermoms meeup

#EverythingsHereAtSM

DOST funds studies on treatment of addiction and depression in newly renovated UP NIH Animal Laboratory Facility

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) funded two behavioral studies for treating addiction and depression in the newly renovated animal laboratory facility at the National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines (UP) Manila.  The facility was presented to DOST after a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 27, 2023.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., Undersecretary for R&D Leah J. Buendia, and UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Carmencita Padilla led the brief ceremony and quick tour inside the facility. It will house the project entitled, “Cessation of Toluene (Rugby) Addiction in Adolescents: Using a Rodent Model” to test novel pharmacological and behavioral treatments for overcoming toluene craving.

“Research and Development (R&D) provides an avenue for our country to develop better policies and programs to address pressing issues like drug addiction,” says DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. “With the data gathered from these projects, we can develop treatment and support the health and well-being of Filipinos. “

This project aims to assess the effects of toluene withdrawal and craving on rats’, anxiety, and social interaction. It could also gauge the effectiveness of three treatments (two pharmacological and one behavioral) in reducing the behavioral and neurological effects of toluene withdrawal. 

The newly reconstructed facility will also host the project entitled, “Assessment Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Interactions of Selected Psychobiotic and Antidepressant Drugs in Depression-like Rat Model” which will provide documented data in preventing adverse drug events and achieving therapeutic success when psychobiotics are co-administered with antidepressant drugs, sertraline, and fluoxetine in depression-like rat models. The project also includes measurement of behavioral responses, biochemical levels, and drug concentrations.

These two projects are under the program entitled, “Novel Approaches to Treatment of Addiction and Depression using Animal Models,” which is monitored by DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD). (30

PNRI-PHIVOLCS collaboration to boost R&D initiatives on seismology and volcanology thru nuclear science

The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), both attached agencies of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen research collaboration on the applications of nuclear science and technology in the fields of volcanology and seismology.

The ceremonial signing, held on January 25, 2023, at the DOST-PHIVOLCS Auditorium in Quezon City, signals the joint initiatives of the two DOST agencies to harmonize their efforts to address disaster risk reduction and management. This is aligned with the current administration’s thrust to pursue the OneDOST4U advocacy to better improve delivery of public service.

Under the MoU, the DOST-PNRI and DOST-PHIVOLCS will focus and venture together on projects related to the fields of geochemistry, isotopic techniques, volcanism, active faults, geothermal, and volcano-hydrothermal.

Both institutions agreed to share its respective pool of experts, resources, equipment, facilities, and other information relevant to the project.

“Through this MoU, we will be able to freely use each other’s resources to continue to answer scientific questions that both DOST-PHIVOLCS and DOST-PNRI are facing. We hope to gain knowledge, data and information from the works that will be implemented within the scope of the MoU. Likewise, DOST-PNRI researchers are encouraged to build the capacity of DOST-PHIVOLCS researchers through shared research activities such as sample preparation, analytical works, and training,” said DOST-PHIVOLCS Director Teresito C. Bacolcol.

He added that it is a good opportunity for the returning PhD and MSc graduates of DOST-PHIVOLCS to continue their research using the same analytical equipment they’ve used during their stay in the universities. At the same time, DOST-PNRI will also benefit from the volcanologists and seismologists through the sharing of ideas they have on certain projects that DOST-PNRI researchers are working on.

Meanwhile, after the ceremonial program and signing, scientists and experts from the DOST-PNRI visited the Geochemical Laboratory located at the DOST-PHIVOLCS office in Quezon City.

By Allan Mauro V. Marfal, DOST-STII

2023 Philippine Innovation Forum set on 20 February

The Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation (BCYF) will be leading the conduct of the 2023 Philippine Innovation Forum on 20 February 2023, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Villarosa Convention Hall, Angelo King Medical Research Center, De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute (DLSMHSI), Dasmariñas City, Cavite.

With the theme “Innovation and Pandemic Recovery: Ideas and Suggestions”, the forum will feature talks from the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health, Research, and Development (DOST-PCHRD), Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) Foundation, DLSMHSI, and De La Salle University – Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Technologies; small group discussions, and open fora.

The Philippine Innovation Forum is a signature event organized by the BCYF and since 2014 in celebration of the Philippine Innovation Month (PIM) which aims to highlight the role of innovation in social development and the aspect of innovation deemed relevant at the time.

The basic tenets that guide the selection of topics and partners for the Philippine Innovation Forum are current, commitment to innovation, and potential for follow-through project and activity.

This event is in partnership with the DOST-PCHRD, PCP Foundation, DLSMHSI, and the Saint Mutien College.

For conversation, questions, and activities concerning innovation, please visit bcyf.innovation on Facebook or send an email to bcyf.innovation@gmail.com.

Meanwhile, submission of nominations for the 2023 BCYF Innovation Award is still open until 15 February 2023.

Nominations with complete requirements must be emailed to bcyf.innovationawards2023@gmail.com while original copies of the requirements must be mailed to BCYF-SABRE, Saint Mutien College, Don Cornelio Subd., McArthur Highway Dau, Mabalacat City, Pampanga 2010.

Nominations may be submitted under the five categories: government service, small-medium enterprises (SMEs), education, technology, and industry. Anyone is invited to submit an entry with no cost involved and self-nomination is also encouraged. 

No To Mining In Sibuyan, Protect The Environment and the People

Sibuyan Island, called the “Galápagos of Asia” is now in danger of environmental destruction because of the current push to mine the area. It was called the “Galápagos of Asia” because it is isolated from the Philippine archipelago. The volcanic islands of Galápagos, which lie 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, are famous for a wealth of unique plants and animals found nowhere else in the world.

The unique biodiversity in Sibuyan Island is impacted enough to declare the island as a protected area and uphold the Rights of Nature and stop the current nickel mining operation in the area. It is sad that despite of this during the past few days we are seeing an escalation of tensions and the victims are the people of Sibuyan who are opposing the mining operation and the beautiful environment of the island, both of whom the government should be protecting in the first place.

We, the Green Party of the Philippines is opposing the mining operation in Sibuyan Island and are hereby stating the following:

Sibuyan Island should be declared a permanent protected area.

Mining operations on the island should immediately be stopped.

The company that is conducting the mining operation should be penalized and asked for damages.

Any public official found guilty of connivance with the mining operation should be immediately dismissed and held accountable and liable.

Revoke the Exploration Permit of Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC) and cancel their Mineral Production Agreement (MPSA).

Vox Populi, Vox Dei.

We demand the government to listen to the voice of the people standing against the mining operation. We are now experiencing a climate crisis and destroying the natural and beautiful biodiversity of Sibuyan Island is not in anyway helping us prepare for this crisis.

Let us protect and sustain our environment, it’s now or never.

This is an OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF THE GREEN PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES, written by David D’Angelo, National President. Endorsed by the National Executive Committee of the Green Party of the Philippines (GPP-KALIKASAN MUNA) on February 4, 2023. 

DOST invites future innovators in Metro Manila and South Luzon to avail research funding

February 1, 2023 – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) holds the second leg of its Call for Proposals 2025 campaign at Acacia Hotel in Alabang today to encourage researchers in availing research and development (R&D) funding. The event converged members from industry, the academe, government agencies, communities, and associations to share their ideas and support the country’s innovation environment. 

“Anticipating future changes and laying out strategic investments for innovation are key factors to national progress,” says DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. “We believe R&D output creates the foundation for our country’s continuous development.  The proposals submitted today may be the next inspiring initiative towards a better future for the Philippines.”

For years, DOST invested in high-impact and sustainable programs that are significant in addressing national concerns.   This is aligned to the research priorities along four major areas, namely: human well-being promotion, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability.

One of the funded R&D projects in support of the country’s fight against the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the study led by Dr. Benedict Maralit of the Philippine Genome Center (PGC) related to biosurveillance or the monitoring of COVID-19 cases through whole genome sequencing of the virus from patients. This project aims to use genomic epidemiology perspective to track the virus and develop a deeper understanding of its characteristics.  

As early as 2012, the DOST through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) invested more than 900 million pesos in Omics research for health.  This funding was used for programs in human multi-omics research which identified possible genetic markers among Filipinos associated with non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, stroke, diabetes and heart attack. This investment also gave way to the establishment of the PGC not only in Luzon but also its satellite facilities in Visayas and Mindanao, and the launch of the Clinical Genomics Laboratory, the services of which were in the forefront of the response and genomic biosurveillance during the height of the pandemic.

With the rising oil prices and the negative impact of global warming, DOST poured funds into the E-mobility program which supported the electrification of the transportation system.  It brought about the development of e-trikes, e-boats, and the conversion of tricycles in the country. 

With the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development, an entire ecosystem of an electric transport was developed which also included chargers for the electric vehicles, researches on storage, as well as parts that can be locally fabricated for the maintenance of these new vehicles. 

The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) of DOST pursued its Industry Strategic S&T Programs (ISPs) in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) Sector. The council brands its initiatives and outputs as GALING, an acronym for Good Agri-aqua Livelihood Initiatives towards National Goals.  In 2016-2022, the council funded programs and projects that led to significant findings in genomics, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and smart farming. Moreover, PCAARRD also noted important milestones in socioeconomics including impact assessment and policy, as well as in technology transfer and promotion.

In August 2015, the National Research Council of the Philippines initiated the country’s first comprehensive research program for Lake Lanao, the second largest lake in the country. Six projects were funded for a comprehensive study of the physical, chemical, biological, socioeconomic, and political impacts of the lake. The projects were conducted by NRCP members from Mindanao State University-Institute of Technology (MSU) and MSU-Marawi to save the lake from degradation caused by human activities. The results of the project provided valuable baseline data for future research and recommendations for the holistic conservation of the lake, which supplies 70% of the power requirements of Mindanao. This initiative is the Council’s call for SAKLAW (Sustainable Communities), a priority area under the National Integrated Basic Research Agenda (NIBRA), that supports the protection and sustainability of Philippine lakes.

Some of the priority areas for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology, include energy; construction; utilities; transportation; food; process; mining and minerals; metals and engineering; advanced materials and nanotechnology.   Some Health Research and Development, priority areas are Drug Discovery & Development (Tuklas Lunas®), functional foods, nutrition and safety, reemerging and emerging diseases, OMIC technologies for health, diagnostics, biomedical engineering for health, digital and frontier technologies for health. For agriculture, priority research areas in crops include mango, coffee, and sugarcane.  DOST is also looking for R&D projects in managing economically important emerging pests and animal feeds resource enhancement.    

“From health innovations, nutrition, agricultural and aquatic breakthroughs, to technologies that will support our industry, most specially the MSMEs, R&D promotes excellence and provides the potential to elevate our country’s status and encourage economic growth,” said DOST Undersecretary for R&D Leah J. Buendia.  “We hope that through this Call Conference, we may again fund the next big milestone in supporting our country’s socio-economic goals. 

The period of submission is from March 1 to May 31, 2023.  Interested parties may visit the DOST Project Management Information System (DPMIS) at this website https://dpmis.dost.gov.ph/