NAST PHL convenes 47th Annual Scientific Meeting, spotlights bioscience as catalyst for inclusive growth

GMA Network

29-07-2025

National scientists, academicians, and corresponding members of the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) join DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr. and keynote speaker Professor Ivan Marusic for an official photo during the 47th Annual Scientific Meeting. Photo: NAST PHL
The National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (NAST PHL), the highest recognition and advisory body on science and technology in the country, successfully held its 47th Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) with the theme 'Bioscience Innovations: Transforming Enterprise Ecosystems for Wealth Creation' on July 9-10, 2025, at The Manila Hotel.
In his welcome message, NAST PHL President Academician Jaime Montoya emphasized the urgent need to harness bioscience innovations to address national challenges and uplift communities, particularly through science-informed policies and inclusive enterprise models. He also called on all sectors to work collaboratively in transforming research breakthroughs into real-world impact.
Following this, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., in his opening remarks, reiterated the department's commitment to translating research into sustainable solutions.
He highlighted flagship programs and projects such as CRADLE (Collaborative Research and Development to Leverage Philippine Economy), which links industry needs with academic research; SETUP (Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program), which helps MSMEs adopt technological innovations; and the newly launched Program PROPEL (Promoting Research and Outstanding Progress through Partnerships and Engagement in Localities), a game-changing initiative for accelerating technology transfer and commercialization in the country.
A major highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Professor Ivan Marusic, vice president of the Australian Academy of Science. Prof. Marusic emphasized that the transformative power of bioscience lies in its ability to drive regional development, sustainability, and public health, provided that sectors work together across borders.
'Bioscience offers extraordinary opportunities for our region to drive innovation, build sustainable communities, and improve health and well-being. Realizing this potential depends on our ability to collaborate across borders and sectors, invest in education, technology, and infrastructure, and strengthen the links between science, policy, and society,' said Prof. Marusic.
He highlighted collaborative initiatives between Australia and the Philippines, including joint research on coral reef restoration, crop disease resistance, and biotech support for smallholder farmers. He also introduced Australia's Science 2035 strategy, which advocates investments in research infrastructure, science communication, and international partnerships.
The event featured six plenary sessions covering priority areas. Presentations demonstrated how bioscience can serve as a driver of innovation and economic opportunity across sectors.
Plenary Session 1: Empowering Communities through Bioscience: Innovations for Progress and Growth, highlighted grassroots bioscience initiatives that drive local development.
Plenary Session 2: Bioscience Innovations: Advancing Agriculture for Wealth Creation, explored breakthroughs in agricultural biotechnology and their impact on food security and agribusiness.
Plenary Session 3: Engineering Bioscience: Innovating for Thriving Enterprise Ecosystems and Community Growth, focused on the integration of bioscience and engineering to strengthen enterprises and local communities.
Plenary Session 4: Bioscience for Better Health: Innovations Empowering Communities and Enhancing Well-Being, presented health-related bioscience innovations improving public health outcomes.
Plenary Session 5: Math and Physical Sciences in Bioscience: Pioneering Solutions for Innovation and Thriving Enterprise Ecosystems, examined the critical role of mathematical and physical sciences in enhancing bioscience-based innovations.
Plenary Session 6: Social Dimensions of Bioscience: Empowering Communities for Inclusive and Sustainable Development, discussed how social science perspectives can guide the equitable application of bioscience in community development.
In the closing program, Academician Rhodora Azanza, chair of the 47th ASM Resolutions Committee, presented the 47th ASM resolutions, which include policy recommendations to mainstream bioscience in national programs, invest in critical R&D infrastructure, and empower local innovation ecosystems.
The resolutions were formally received by DOST Secretary Solidum and Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Undersecretary Dr. Joseph Capuno, both of whom affirmed alignment with the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028.
The event also featured the presentation of the NAST PHL Awards, which recognized outstanding achievements in research and public service. The investiture of new NAST members was likewise held to honor exceptional Filipino scientists for their enduring contributions to science and national development.
This year, three distinguished scientists were conferred as new Academicians: Dr. Leocadio Sebastian, Dr. Charles Yu, and Dr. Wilfredo Roehl Licuanan. The investiture and oath-taking were facilitated by Secretary Solidum.
In his closing remarks, NAST PHL vice president Academician Alvin Culaba expressed gratitude to all speakers, participants, and partners for their commitment to advancing bioscience and innovation in the country.
He called on the scientific community to transform knowledge into action and to continue championing the vision of PAGTANAW 2050 for a science-driven, inclusive, and resilient Philippines.