DOST, NCR LGUs Partner for Adoption of R&D Projects and Innovative Services in the 2023 Science Fair

To ensure that all the research and development (R&D) outputs made or supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) reach their intended beneficiaries and sectors, several Memoranda of Understanding have been signed by the country’s Science Department with several local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila.

On 30 August 2023, the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) in the National Capital Region (NCR) kicked off at the SM Aura Premier Mall in Taguig City. The event was spearheaded by the DOST-National Capital Region, the Local Government of Taguig, and SM Prime Holdings Inc. The highlight was the commitment of cities in Metro Manila to adopt various technologies and R&D outputs from the DOST-attached agencies and partner institutions and use them for their intended purposes.

“Our battle cry in the DOST, especially in regional operations, is to mainstream science, technology, and innovation (STI) in local development to help address environmental problems, augment economic needs, and improve social status, thereby improving lives," said DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang.

Meanwhile, DOST-NCR Regional Director Engr. Romelen T. Tresvalles stated that with the launch of several partnerships with various local government units, the DOST-NCR looks forward to enhancing its STI plans and implementations in their respective areas.

“We look forward to deploying various technologies through our Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program as we seek STI for social development anchored in our collective agenda of enhancing our social fabric. Our work includes developing and transferring technologies not only to the industry sector but also to our micro-small and medium enterprises and communities, ensuring an even playing field among all sectors in society," shared Reg. Dir. Tresvalles.

DOST technologies in Metro Manila cities

Several DOST-developed technologies under different projects were showcased during the science fair that addresses various problems in the urban areas in the National Capital Region. The first DOST project is the Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MOCCOV) Technology in Taguig City. The MOCCOV will help intensify and strengthen LGUs' readiness to act on and respond quickly to the possible effects of calamities or tragedies. It is equipped with various capabilities for emergency situations, exercising contingency and response plans. It also has its own weather station system, drone, satellite phone, and other communication and surveillance equipment.

The next project is the Interactive Science Education Complex and State-of-the-Art Science Laboratory (ISEC-SAS Lab) to be established at the Taguig National High School. The ISEC-SAS Lab aims to support the teaching of a science-based curriculum for students and teachers in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) track. This interactive science laboratory will serve as a hub for collaborative learning in innovation, offering access to advanced technologies, hands-on experimental learning, and research opportunities. Additionally, it fosters curiosity and awareness about space technology among students and teachers.

“Ang kahalagahan ng Agham at Teknolohiya sa ikauunlad ng lipunan ay nasa sentro ng pagiging transformative, lively, and caring city ng Taguig. Walang duda na makikinabang talaga ang ating mga estudyante sa partnership ng DOST, Department of Education, at Local Government ng Taguig dito sa pagpapalawak ng scientific learning sa ating lungsod," said Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano.

Also featured in the event was the ceremonial launching of the Improvement of the Pasay City Transport Group Operations Through the Integration of Fast Charging System.

In 2023, the DOST-NCR presented the Charging in Minutes (CharM) Technology of CHRG Electric Vehicle Technologies, Incorporated to the Local Government Unit of Pasay through its Tricycle and Pedicab Franchising and Regulatory Office (TPFRO) and Cooperative Development Office.

CharM (Charging in Minutes) is a DOST-funded technology developed by the University of the Philippines Diliman, which significantly reduces charging time, generates more income, and supports greener mass transit, thereby maximizing the usage of EV technologies. The researchers formed CHRG EV Inc. as a spin-off company to produce and market CharM

“Kadalasan, tumatagal lamang ng apat hanggang limang biyahe sa isang full charge. Tapos, kailangan pa nilang mag-charge ng tatlo hanggang apat na oras bago muling ma-fully charge. Iyan ang pangkaraniwang problema sa mga electric na sasakyan. Ngunit siyempre, dumating ang Department of Science and Technology (DOST), nakipag-ugnayan sa aming lungsod, at plano nilang bigyan kami ng tinatawag na fast charging system," sabi ni Ismael O. Sevilla, ang pinuno ng Tricycle and Franchising Regulatory Office ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Pasay.

(Usually, it only lasts for about four to five round trips on a single full charge. Then they need to charge for three to four hours before being fully charged again. That's the issue often encountered with electric vehicles. Of course, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) came in, coordinated with our city, and they are planning to provide us with what they call a fast-charging system)

Meanwhile, to further equip our STEM teachers not only in Earth Sciences but also in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM), the DOST-NCR partnered with the Philippine Normal University for the project titled: Capability Enhancement of STEM Teachers in NCR through the Development of Learning Activities on Earth Science.

This project aims to capacitate teachers, specifically those teaching in senior high school, who handle Earth and Life Science and DRRM subjects. Its goal is to enhance their competencies in teaching topics related to geological hazards, hydrometeorological hazards, and others.

Another featured project was the implementation of the iSTART project with the local governments of Quezon City and Muntinlupa City.

The iSTART program is a platform for the strategic alignment of the department's programs and projects with local development plans. It aims to support balanced geographical development by accelerating regional growth through STI. Among its specific objectives is to assist LGUs in developing technology-based development plans for agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors by engaging researchers, scientists, and engineers in the planning process.

Another program of DOST-NCR is CEST (Community Empowerment through Science and Technology), and among its pillars is the upgrading of technology-based enterprises. 

According to Engr. Oscar B. Sevilla, Jr., head of DOST-NCR PAMAMARISAN CASTO, through their community assessment, they discovered an opportunity for enterprise development through the utilization of technologies developed by the DOST-Philippine Textile Research Institute, such as handloom weaving and natural dyeing.

Included in this inclusive program are partner-beneficiaries from KAMAO (Kababaihang Maabilidad at Organisado) of Barangay Fortune in Marikina City, the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City, and the BJMP San Juan City Female Dormitory. Also involved are "Bags in the City Manila," "Weavers of Tomorrow Incorporated," and "Binigyan ng Laya ni Hesus Jail Ministry."

Engr. Sevilla further stated that the goal of this project is to utilize DOST technologies and create valuable products that can be sold by the community beneficiaries. Through this approach, it is possible to develop enterprises and assist people in the community in having an alternative source of income or livelihood.

On the other hand, DOST-PTRI Director Julius Leaño Jr. mentioned that with the use of these technologies, various designs and colors can be created on fabrics. In fact, the textile industry provides employment and opportunities across different sectors of society. However, many communities lack access to technology and need to be more actively involved in this industry.

Also held during the opening program of the 2023 RSTW NCR was the ceremonial MoA signing of DOST-NCR with Valenzuela City for the project called “Enhancing the Productivity and Profitability of Catfish through Scientific Farming in an Urban Setting in Barangay Balangkas.

The 2023 RSTW celebration in the National Capital Region (NCR), held at SM Aura Premier in BGC, Taguig City, ran from 30 August to 01 September 2023

With the theme, 'Siyensya, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan,' the DOST, together with its attached agencies and partner organizations, showcased the latest innovative products, services, and research studies that address the pressing concerns of different industries in Metro Manila through interactive exhibits and fora. Thereafter, separate RSTWs will be conducted in different regions across the country that boasts of various innovations in agriculture, health, education, enterprise development, DRRM, and many more. (30)

To guarantee that the outcomes of research and development (R&D) conducted or supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) effectively reach their intended recipients and sectors, the Science Department organized a sequence of Memoranda of Understanding with various local government units in the National Capital Region.

By Allan Mauro V. Marfal, DOST-STII

Panasonic Opens the Doors to its First Showroom for System Solutions Products

Taytay Rizal, Philippines - Panasonic Manufacturing Philippines Corporation proudly announces the successful launch of its Panasonic Systems Solutions Group Showroom, titled "Glimpse into the Future." The highly anticipated event took place on June 30, 2023, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the second floor of the Panasonic HDC Building, located within the Panasonic Compound in Taytay Rizal, Philippines.

The event was attended by prominent industry professionals, valued partners, and media representatives. Also, this event served as a platform to showcase the diverse range of cutting-edge products designed specifically for the thriving business-to-business (B2B) markets in the digitalized era. 

The event featured an array of groundbreaking products and solutions, providing attendees with a firsthand experience of Panasonic's extensive capabilities. The showroom presented an immersive journey into the future of business technologies.

Panasonic's commitment to delivering exceptional solutions is not limited to home appliances alone. With the Showroom Launch, Panasonic demonstrated its unwavering dedication to revolutionizing the business industry. With the impressive display of advanced solutions, the audience was captivated as it meets the evolving needs of the businesses. From intelligent automation systems to smart surveillance technologies, Panasonic exhibited its expertise in leveraging innovation to enhance productivity, efficiency, and overall performance across industries.

This milestone event reaffirms Panasonic's position as a pioneering force in the business solutions market. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies and industry expertise, Panasonic continues to provide forward-thinking organizations with the tools they need to thrive in globalization.

For More information about Panasonic System Solutions Group Products contact us with the information below

Heherson B. Bala

Marketing Manager

System Solutions Group

0917 549-3602 / (02) 8635-2260 loc. 6230

heherson.bala@ph.panasonic.com

Ang Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino ay Lalahok sa MIBF 2023!

Lalahok ang Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) sa Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) sa 14–17 Setyembre 2023, 10:00 nu–8:00 ng, SMX Convention Center, Lungsod Pasay. 

Itatampok ng KWF ang mga aklat pangwika at pangkultura na kinabibilangan ng Nananalamin: Tatlong Dulang Sumasalamin sa Kontemporaryong Pamilya ni Luciano Sonny Valencia; Pananalig sa Batà: Kasaysayan at Panunuri sa Muling Pagsasalaysay at Pagsasaling Pambatà sa Filipino ni  Wennielyn F. Fajilan; Mga Kuwentong-bayan ng Timog Cordillera: Ortograpiyang Ibaloy at Kankanaey ni Komisyoner Jimmy B. Fong; Mga Dula ni Njel De Mesa ni Njel De Mesa; Jonas: Nobela sa Wikang Sebwano ni Hannah A. Leceña, at marami pang iba.

Tampok din ang mga aklat ni Tagapangulong Arthur P. Casanova na Mga Drama para sa Dulaang Pambata, Mga Dula para sa Teatrong Pambata, at Batang Mandirigma at Lima pang Dula.

Ang KWF ay naniniwala na ang paglalathala ng mga publikasyon ay isang paraan ng pagtatanghal sa kapasidad ng wikang Filipino bílang wika ng malikhain at intelektuwal na gawain. Isang paraan ito ng pag-iimbak ng karunungan sa iba’t ibang disiplina na Filipino ang wika sa pagsulat at saliksik.

2 Senators Reiterate Promotion of Filipino Language, Dialects

MANILA – Two lawmakers on Friday reiterated their commitment to promoting the use of the Filipino and indigenous languages.

Senator Loren Legarda, chair of the Senate Committee on Culture and the Arts, emphasized the importance of Republic Act No. 11961 or “An Act Strengthening the Conservation and Protection of Philippine Cultural Heritage Through Cultural Mapping and Enhanced Cultural Heritage Education Program, amending for the Purpose Republic Act No. 10066, Otherwise Known as the “National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009", during the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino’s (KWF) Gabi ng Parangal (Night of Recognition) at Hotel Lucky Chinatown.

In a video message played during the event, Legarda commended the KWF for its continuous efforts in strengthening, expanding, and promoting various languages and dialects in the Philippines, particularly indigenous languages.

She said the law which was recently signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signified a milestone in safeguarding cultural diversity amid the challenges of globalization.

“The reservation, preservation and protection of our arts, culture and language have been among my most valued and consistently upheld advocacies. In my fourth term as senator, we have proposed the cultural mapping bill, a legislative measure that seeks to amend the National Cultural Heritage Act,” Legarda said.

“Under this law, all local governments across the Philippines will conduct cultural mapping of their respective localities, including their languages," she added.

Meanwhile, Senator Lito Lapid expressed concern over the potential loss and neglect of Filipino languages due to modernization and globalization.

Lapid cited the impact of social media on language evolution and challenged language advocates to maintain proper language use on these platforms.

“In today's time, our young people don't just learn languages in schools, on the radio, television or in films. We can't ignore the significant role of social media in the advancement of languages. Many trending words spread regularly across various Internet platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, causing a continuous evolution of our language,” Lapid said in his message delivered by his chief legislative officer, lawyer Abelardo Manlanque.

Lapid added these posed a challenge to language advocates to be present in these platforms and encouraged everyone, including the KWF, to defend the Filipino languages.

"I encourage each of us, led by the Commission on the Filipino Languages, to be defenders and advocates of our languages. This is not just valuing our culture and integrity, but also fulfilling our duty to keep our language alive and meaningful amid constant change)," he said.

The senator also urged those in power to use the Filipino language to spread proper education, technology and economic progress.

Meanwhile, the KWF awarded the prestigious Dangal ng Wikang Filipino 2023 honor to the Philippine Federation of the Deaf, Inc. and individuals Felipe M. de Leon, Rolando B. Tolentino, Pilar “Pilita" G. Corrales, filmmaker Elwood Perez and Carol B. Dagani.

The Seal of Excellence in Language and Culture or the Selyo ng Kahusayan sa Wika at Kultura 2023 award was given to Catanduanes State University, Sorsogon State University, Aurora State University, Quirino State University and the University of San Carlos.

West Mindanao State University received the Dangal ng Wika at Kultura 2023 award.

The KWF also recognized essayists of the year (Sanaysay ng Taon 2023): Mark Anthony S. Angeles (1st Place); Ariel U. Bosque (2nd place); and Joanah Pauline L. Macatangay (3rd place). (By Noemi Reyes, PNA)

DOST OneLab’s poster presentation in Vietnam highlights the role in ensuring food safety

To further promote the importance of the network in ensuring food safety, the Department of Science and Technology’s OneLab project management team joined the Association of Analytical Communities (AOAC) SEA Section 2nd Annual Conference held on August 1-2, 2023, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

The team composed of the project leader and DOST IX Assistant Regional Director for Finance, Administrative Support and Technical Services, Ms. Rosemarie S. Salazar; Dr. Annabelle V. Briones, co-project leader and Director of Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI); and Mr. Admer C. Dablio, Project Coordinator and Quality and CPD Manager of ITDI led the poster presentation detailing the initiatives of the OneLab Network.

Titled “A Networking Success: The Role of the Philippines’ DOST OneLab Network in Ensuring Food Safety for Both the National and International Markets,” the poster presentation posited that many of the member laboratories under the OneLab Network come from testing laboratories which are being utilized to address the increasing needs from various stakeholders for testing of foods and food products to ensure safety and quality, meeting national and international requirements and standards.

Through the network, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in remote areas of the Philippines, they said, can now have access to testing services to check if their food and food products are complying to quality requirements and are safe for consumption.

This innovative solution has, in turn, enabled MSMEs produce globally competitive food and food products that can penetrate the international market through the economies’ Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs), since the products are tested by accredited laboratories based on PNS ISO/IEC 17025:2017.

For years, the network has helped various sectors: (a) the regulatory bodies in the performance of their function to regulate foods and food products for the strict implementation of Republic Act (RA) 10611 or the Food Safety Act of 2013; (b) the big companies and MSMEs which don’t have internal quality assurance laboratories for their food quality and safety assessments, meeting requirements of their own customers; and (c) the policy makers for the development of food safety national and international standards from scientific data of the local settings in the Philippines.

They said that the DOST OneLab has been influential not only in the monitoring of food safety and quality in the country, but as well as in the contribution to the development of food national standards through the technical expertise provided by DOST.

Pesticide residue as food safety issue in SEA countries

Aside from the poster presentation, Dr. Briones served as one of the panelists in a panel discussion on the “Needs of Pesticide Analysis in the Southeast Asia Region.”

The discussion focused on pesticide residue being one of the major food safety issues in the Southeast Asian countries and on the discussion on the needs of pesticide analysis in the Southeast Asian region with the intention to support international trade.

Ms. Edna Callejas-Mijares, RCh., MSc., CEO of Jefcor Laboratories, Inc., for the Philippines, presented “Pesticides Residues in Food and Food Products: Analysis and CODEX Standards for Maximum Residue Limits” which called for the harmonization of standards by adoption of CODEX Standards as provided for in the Food Safety Act of 2013 and she also served as one of the panelists.

Meanwhile, Abigail Grace H. Bion, RCh, MSc, and Science Research Specialist I from the National Metrology Division of DOST-ITDI, is one of the three (3) graduate and undergraduate students who won the Best Student Poster Awards conducted in the annual conference.

Ms. Bion won together with contestants from Indonesia and Vietnam, besting 12 students from seven countries in Southeast Asia which were granted student travel awards by the AOAC SEA.

In June 2021, the formation of a new Southeast Asia section of AOAC International was approved by the AOAC Board of Directors. The new section, AOAC Southeast Asia Section, encompasses 10 countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.

Want to be a DOST OneLab Network member? Contact us at our email address, itdi.onelab@gmail.com.    

By Rosemarie C. Señora, S&T Media Service

#OneLabforTED
#OneDOST4U

DOST establishes vibrant partnership with US private companies through the US-ASEAN Business Council

DOST officials, US-ABC executives, and member companies posed for a photo op at the close of the 2023 Philippine Business Mission

Development of Smart Cities, Quantum Technology, Digital Transformation, Advanced Weather Forecasting, and the facilitation of Health Technology Assessment (HTA) initiatives are among the points of interest of the companies during the annual US-ASEAN Business Council 2023 Philippine Business Mission meeting held at the Manila Marriott Hotel. 

The US-ASEAN Business Council represents over 175 U.S. companies, including many of the world’s largest global firms, with operations in Southeast Asia. In this Business Mission, senior representatives from member companies went to the Philippines to engage with priority stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of U.S.-Philippines business relations.

Led by Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., the DOST welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with the private sector in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI). This strategic alignment is expected to bring benefits, such as knowledge exchanges, technological breakthroughs and finding innovative solutions that can improve the STI efforts of the country.

For DOST, research and development projects on OneLab Network, SETUP and CEST, alongside the areas of cooperation outlined in the MOU are envisioned to be continued. These are R&D programs focused on upgrading and supporting countryside development and empowering the poorest communities in the country, through S&T interventions in health and nutrition, water and sanitation, basic education and literacy, livelihood/economic enterprise development, and disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation.

Notably, it is important to highlight that the DOST and the US-ASEAN Business Council formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2019. This MOU stands as a testament to the joint efforts in promoting the development and implementation of government-driven science, technology, and innovation initiatives within the private sector.

PH, US Consumer Protection and Privacy Agencies Hold a 5-day Workshop

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the National Privacy Commission (NPC), and the United States Federal Trade Commission (US FTC) successfully conducted a five (5)-day workshop on Emerging Technological Sector Issues in Consumer Protection and Privacy Investigations and Enforcement on 07-11 August 2023 at Ascott Hotel, Makati City. 

With support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Strengthening Private Enterprise to the Digital Economy (SPEED), this workshop brought together esteemed experts from the US FTC, DTI, and NPC. It served as a platform for in-depth discussions on various pressing topics, including the deceptive practices known as dark patterns, generative artificial intelligence, online investigation tools and techniques, and the prevalence of multilevel marketing/pyramiding schemes.

During the opening ceremony, DTI Consumer Protection Group (CPG) Undersecretary, Atty. Ruth B. Castelo, underscored “As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, it has become imperative to safeguard the consumers’ personal information and ensure their confidence in digital transactions and interactions. Throughout this 5-day workshop, we have the privilege of learning from a roster of experts and speakers in the field of consumer protection and data privacy, especially on the topics of tech development, pyramid schemes, dark patterns, and artificial intelligence.”

Meanwhile, USAID Philippines Acting Mission Director Jeff Goebel said, “In our efforts, we must not lose sight of the core participants who drive the digital ecosystem – the consumers themselves. For any digital economy to flourish and be sustainable, it is important that consumers have trust in the integrity and fairness of digital markets.  USAID is eager to contribute and support initiatives that would foster a safe and fair digital marketplace, empowering consumers while nurturing economic growth.” 

The NPC Chief of Policy Division, Atty. Ivy Grace T. Villasoto, emphasized that “Our ability to harness the potential of emerging technology must go hand in hand with our commitment to safeguarding and sustaining the trust of our data subjects. Personal data breaches, privacy violations, and unauthorized personal data processing activities can undermine the trust gained and progress we have made so far. Hence, it is paramount that we are equipped to effectively investigate and take the necessary enforcement actions against any violations that may happen.” 

Throughout the 5-day workshop, FTC experts shed light on the prevalence and impact of dark patterns, emerging trends in native advertising and influencer campaigns, and greenwashing. Speakers also discussed how they dealt with unfair and deceptive privacy and security practices by companies that share personal information with third-party providers. In addition, the workshop explored potential deceptive trade practices related to products and services using machine learning and similar technologies. During one of the sessions, the speaker provided an informative overview of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). This act empowers parents by granting them control over the type of information that websites collect from their children. Participants had the opportunity to engage with FTC experts who shared their extensive knowledge and expertise on these critical topics.

The presenters from the NPC and DTI emphasized their efforts and initiatives to ensure consumer protection and privacy in the country. The NPC provided updates on the draft guidelines regarding Deceptive Design Patterns, and discussed the complaints received against online lending applications. The DTI presented e-commerce policies, including the proposed Revision of the Republic Act No. 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, and the proposed Internet Transactions Act. The DTI also shared its technology-based consumer projects, such as e-Presyo, an online price monitoring system that allows consumers to check the prevailing prices of Basic Necessities and Prime Commodities (BNPCs), and the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) Verification Mobile Application, which enables the public to verify the authenticity of the ICC quality seal attached to imported products.

On the final day of the hybrid workshop, speakers from the US FTC discussed how to better protect consumers from the risks posed by new technologies through enhanced collaboration among regulators, the tech sector, and businesses. During the FTC panel discussions, industry representatives addressed the significance of transparency and the current challenges associated with online ratings and reviews. They also discussed the recommended principles for the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) concerning consumers.

Everyone is encouraged to follow DTI’s Consumer Care official social media accounts for more information. For consumer-related concerns and queries, send an email to ConsumerCare@dti.gov.ph or call the One-DTI (1-384) Hotline.  confidential and/or privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete immediately; do not use it for any purpose, nor disclose its contents to anyone. Views and opinions expressed herein are those of the sender and do not necessarily reflect the views of DTI.