ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- Research and development endeavors anchored on the pillars of science, technology and innovation are top priorities under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.
In his recent State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Marcos underscored the critical role of science and technology, particularly research and development in the country’s socio-economic growth.
“A culture of innovation, working hand-in-glove with a culture of entrepreneurship, must be fostered. This is “FILIPINNOVATION”. Science and technology, especially R&D, will be at its foundation,” President Marcos said.
The president cited the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) as the lead agency in pursuing the development of the country’s capabilities in science, technology, and innovation.
“Science, technology and innovation will drive the quality and competitiveness of our workforce, as well as our manufacturing, export, creative, and service industries, in existing markets and in new ones waiting to be explored,” President Marcos said.
Meanwhile, DOST 6 regional director Rowen Gelonga lauded the recent SONA of President Marcos, Jr. which recognized the science department as being the top enabler and provider of science-based solutions supporting the development agenda of the current administration.
“In almost all areas that the President mentioned such as economic recovery, job creation, boosting agricultural production, and enhancing healthcare, it is science, technology and innovation that provides the solid foundation,” according to Gelonga.
Gelonga also shared that the DOST, under the leadership of Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., currently focuses on the four pillars - wealth creation, wealth protection, human well-being, and sustainability.
Under these pillars are the holistic programs and projects that the President mentioned in the SONA such as the DOST Balik Scientist Program, space and satellite technology and the science scholarship programs, among others.
Gelonga likewise conveyed the valuable scientific strides in Western Visayas.
To note, the region hosted 9 out of the 44 Balik Scientists in the country. These scientists are engaged in several pioneering work here particularly in drug discovery and development.
The Balik Scientist program refers to Filipino scientists, technologists, and experts encouraged to return to the country and share their expertise to promote scientific, agro-industrial, and economic development, including the development of the country’s human capital in science, technology and innovation.
DOST-6 also formed a partnership with the University of San Agustin for the launching of additional cutting-edge research facilities such as the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) laboratory and nanotechnology center.
These are vital in advancing the capabilities of laboratories and human resources in the countryside.
In terms of biotechnology and tissue engineering, DOST 6 and private company Pharma GalenX Innovations, Inc. recently unveiled the 3D bioprinting laboratory in Iloilo City.
The bioprinting laboratory is a product of DOST’s Business Innovation through S&T for Industry (BIST) Program, a sub-component of the Science for Change Program for Pharma GalenX’s research study entitled, “Three-Dimensional Bioprinted Human Skin Equivalent for In Vitro Biocompatibility Studies of Topical Formulations.”
On the other hand, the full operation of the ground receiving station in Dumangas, Iloilo maximized the agency’s capacity to download captured images and upload commands to orbiting Philippine satellites like the Diwata-2 and other relevant satellites.
This generated opportunities for scientists to spur projects in agricultural management and make use of technologies for maritime territory awareness and environmental concerns.
Western Visayas likewise has about 600 new college S&T scholars who will pursue various science and engineering courses. Eventually, they are expected to join the scientific workforce upon graduation.
With these significant milestones, DOST 6 is bullish on achieving more science, technology and innovation accomplishments in the region, contributing to the country’s overall progress. (AAL/LMLE/PIA Iloilo)
