S&T-based solutions on showcase at DOST's Expo Science 2013

By:Rodolfo P. De Guzman

Every year, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) celebrates the National Science and Technology Week to showcase the latest innovations, interventions and inventions of Filipino scientists, engineers and various works by the entire scientific community. 

This year, the weeklong event focuses more on the pressing needs of various sectors like agriculture, transportation, industry, services and climate change.

Dubbed as ExpoScience 2013, it carries the theme, “Science, Technology and Innovation: The Road to a Smarter Philippines.” As the theme connotes, DOST gives emphasis on the role of science and technology in making a better future for Filipinos through its projects and services that spur socio-economic development,leading to a “smarter” Philippines.  

TheExpoScience 2013will be held on July 23-27, 2013 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City.

To be showcased during the event are some of the DOST technologies that include the Advanced Materials Testing Laboratory or ADMATEL, a testing facility for the semiconductor industry; the Automated Guideway Transit (AGT) system aimed at providing alternative transportation in Metro Manila to ease traffic congestion; the Project NOAH and its components asa vital tool to address climate change; DOST’s Certified Seed Production program for improved agricultural productivity; and the other ICT-driven tools to makethe business process outsourcing(BPO) industry more competitive.

Prior to Expo Science 2013, DOST hasforums and conferences to set the stage in celebrating the main event and fully jumpstart its advocacy to promote science, technology and innovation as viable solutions in improving the lives of Filipinos.

Last July 4 and 5, the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) conducted its 39th FNRI Seminar Series with forums, book launching, mini fair, and exhibits. Some of the relevant topics discussed were the 2012 Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos, brown rice, FNRI-developed complementary foods for babies, the DOST Pinoy model, production of fortified multi-nutrient growth mix and FNRI’s partnerships with private companies like Del Monte Philippines and Robinsons Supermarket to promote proper nutrition to a larger audience.

The 8th Outstanding Young Scientists Inc (OYSI) Annual Meeting and Scientific hel July 9, 2013 at the Manila Hotel had eminent speakers including Dr. Felino P. Lansigan, OYSI president; Dr. Nicomedes P. Eleazar, director of the Bureau of Agricultural Research; Jesus M. Tanchanco Jr., chairman of Food Entrepreneurs and Exporters Organization of the Philippines; Dr. Vicente Y. Belizario Jr., vice chancellor for research and executive director of the National Institute of Health; Dr. Irene M. Villasenor, professor at the University of the Philippines Diliman; Atty. Jose Maria A. Ochave, senior vice president of United Laboratories Inc.; and Dr. Rainier B. Villanueva, founding president of Chamber of Health Industries in the Philippines.

On July 10 and 11, the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) held its 35th Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) at the Manila Hotel with this year’s theme, “Harnessing Science and Technology: Reversing the Decline of the Manufacturing Sector in the Philippines.” Among the guests were Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and Secretary Gregory L. Domingo of the Department of Trade and Industry. Some of the topics discussed include development progeria, processed food and wood products, high value product aquatic biofactories, integrative approach for developing sustainable manufacturing industry, occupational safety and health, and stem cell therapy.