26 May 2023
The Luzon Regional Scientific Meeting (Luzon RSM) which was held in Baguio City on May 17-18, 2023 was attended by over 200 scientists, academicians, researchers, and private and public stakeholders.
The event, organized by DOST- National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (DOST-NAST PHL) and co-organized by DOST Regional Office- Luzon Cluster (NCR, CAR, Regions I, II, III, IV-A, IV-B, and V) with DOST-CAR as the host, highlighted the role of science and technology in catalyzing and advancing development empowerment in a democracy.
DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., in a press conference, said “gusto natin na ang ating pamumuhay sa ilalim ng isang demokrasya ay maging participative, collaborative, [at] open sa lahat para ang desisyon ay base sa siyensiya. Dito po natin ipinapakita na marami tayong mga ginagawang programa na puwedeng makatulong sa national and local government… all of these are geared towards applying science, technology, and innovation in a democratic governance system.”
He also shared that experts and stakeholders at the event were gathered to discuss critical issues and identify opportunities for collaboration in advancing science and technology for the benefit of the Filipino people.
Furthermore, DOST-NAST PHL President Acd. Jaime C. Montoya emphasized developmental empowerment in advancing democratic institutions and processes through science and technology. “Science and Technology should be able to distinguish between exploitative and developmental empowerment and advance the latter at all levels,” said Acd. Montoya.
The Luzon RSM was divided into five (5) plenary sessions where experts from the government, academe, and private sector discussed Universal Healthcare; Evidence-Based Democratic Governance and Democratic Citizenship; Strengthening Democratic Institutions; and Open Science Initiatives and the Role of Data in Governance.
Another highlight of the event was the Annual Scientific Poster Contest which featured 14 research outputs from participating academic institutions, research centers, and government agencies in Luzon.
The entry from the University of the Philippines Diliman - "Using Genomics to Profile Anti-Microbial Resistance and Virulence Genes of Salmonella enterica in Poultry and Swine Food Chains in Metro, Manila, Philippines” garnered the 1st spot in the overall ranking. Meanwhile, entries from Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) and Pangasinan State University (PSU) placed 2nd and 3rd, respectively.
The two-day event likewise featured DOST Programs and Projects implemented in Luzon which was presented by DOST-CAR Regional Director Dr. Nancy A. Bantog.
To cap off the event, RD Bantog turned over the responsibility of hosting next year's Luzon RSM to Dr. Virginia G. Bilgera, Regional Director of DOST II.
DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum, Jr. (right; front row) and NAST President Academician Jaime C. Montoya (left; fron row) lead the ribbon-cutting to formally open the viewing of scientific posters and exhibits. Together with them are (2nd row from left) National Scientist Raul V. Fabella, NAST Director Luningning Samarita-Domingo, DOST-CAR regional Director Dr. Nancy A. Bantog; DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, (3rd row from left) DOST-NCR OIC RD Engr. Romelen T. Tresvalles, DOST-CALABARZON RD Emelita P. Bagsit, and DOST III RD Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat.
