Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña inspired the generation of more productive technologies and dynamic technology transfer activities during the opening ceremonies of the 2017 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
Adopting the theme “Science for the People,” this year’s NSTW is being held from July 11 to 15 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City for the various exhibits and at the Philippine Trade and Training Center for eleven research and development fora.
NSTW gathers the country’ scientists, researchers, technology generators, industry representatives, entrepreneurs, professionals, and educators, among other stakeholders, towards strengthening a common resolve of uplifting the state of science and technology in the country.
The ambassadors of the People’s Republic of China, Myanmar, Laos, Iran, and representatives from the embassies of Singapore, United States, and France also attended the event to show their support to the efforts of the Philippine government’ in making science and technology work for the common good, especially in improving the lives of the poor.
In his message, de la Peña underscored the need to bring back to the people the fruit of their investment in research and development initiatives through effective technology transfer activities. For this purpose, the DOST, according to him, has devoted ten percent of its budget.
De la Peña said that the different regions in the country should have equal access to science and technology through the provision of research and development investment, especially in terms of human resource.
Along this goal, de la Pena said that the DOST’s Niche Centers in the Regions for R&D
(NICER) program is ready to accept R&D proposals from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) on basic research, health, agriculture, aquatic and natural resources, disaster risk reduction and climate change reduction and adaptation.
NICER will capacitate HEIs in the regions, through an institutional grant for R&D activities that will make significant improvement in regional research and S&T infrastructure. Through NICER, HEIs will be able to integrate regional development needs with R&D and local resources.
De la Pena also said that during these extra ordinary times brought about by climate change, government’s research and development efforts should contribute in ensuring food sustainability through worthwhile agri-aqua activities. On this note, he mentioned ongoing R&D efforts on improving the performance of the country’s native animals, particularly native chicken, native pig, and Itik Pinas. The projects are led by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD).