By Perfecto T. Raymundo, Jr.
MAKATI CITY — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) on Wednesday (Feb. 5) unveiled eight priority research and development programs to power the Philippines with science, technology and innovation at the Dusit Thani Manila.
“ELEV8PH: Pushing S&T Frontiers for National Development”, an initiative of the DOST, brought together key stakeholders from industry, academe, diplomatic corps, and the DOST research community to celebrate the groundbreaking advancements in science, technology, and innovation.
Dr. Lea J. Buendia, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development, said “it’s inspiring to have the brilliant minds gathered today for the transformation and innovation through ‘Elev8ph Pushing S&T Frontier for National Development’ driving the future of the Philippines.”
“Let us work together for the advancement and development of science, technology and innovation for the development of the country,” Buendia said.
DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. said “We are showcasing eight transformative R&D areas of the DOST, designed to elevate S&T frontiers for national development.”
“Through these priority areas, DOST is able to address strategic areas for national interest, to foster innovation and advancements,” Solidum added.
“Scientists and researchers should love the problems more than the solutions,” he said.
“Today is not only a gathering. It’s a call to action,” Solidum said.
“Together let us elevate the nation through science, technology and innovation,” he added.
The future of science and technology was presented to the participants and attendees.
The eight R&D priority areas are Artificial Intelligence (AI) Virtual Hubs, Quantum Computing Technologies, Smart Technologies, Smart Agriculture, Geospatial Analysis Research Hub, Industry 4.0, Biologics in Pharma, and Circular Economy.
Dr. Franz A. De Leon, Director of DOST-ASTI, fielded the question: “Can the Philippines genuinely become a key player in the AI-driven economy?”
Dr. De Leon said that the Philippines improved from 65th place in 2023 to 56th place in the Government AI Readiness Index 2024.
“Seamless connectivity and collaboration have been established for scientists, researchers and other stakeholders,” Dr. De Leon added.
The DOST is supporting the program through collaborative R&D in advancing AI Research and Adoption, attract Global R&D firms, consultancy, build upon existing AI initiatives and relevant S&T programs.
In 2016, the Philippines launched its first satellite “Diwata 1”, which is a spirit of innovation and a full potential which may define the country’s future.
The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology where quantum circuit laboratory was launched in 2022 that conducted lectures and workshops.
Quantum Innovation Laboratory where there is Quantum Computing Simulation which is setting the stage for the Philippines to the Quantum Computing Community.
The DOST-PCAARRD has supported 210 projects with a funding of P1.78 billion under the Smart Agriculture.
“Sa Smart Agrisenso, Buhay ng Pilipino ay Aasenso,” is the program’s battlecry under the Smart Agriculture.
Dr. Jaime C. Montoya, Executive Director of DOST-PCHRD, said “We affirm our commitment to provide research, development, and innovation in Pharma, which is now the future in the country’s health industry.”
“We have been launching several initiatives in the Pharma industry through R&D and more industries that are more revolutionized for a better, longer and quality life,” Dr. Montoya said.
Also present were the directors of the DOST Research and Development Institutions such as the DOST-PNRI, DOST-PNTRI, DOST-ITDI, DOST-PCIEERD, DOST-PCAARRD, DOST-STII, DOST-PCHRD, DOST-ASTI, DOST-FNRI, DOST-FPNRI, among others.
Dr. Carlo Arcilla, Executive Director of DOST-PNRI, said “Nuclear power is a 60-year old industry.”
Dr. Julius Leano, Jr., Executive Director of DOST-PNTRI, said “We make sure that the textile industry is sustainable, competitive and resilient.”
According to the DOST-FNRI, they are utilizing the AI in enhancing the data on food and nutrition and with the development of AI, they are now in the process of developing an app on food and nutrition data.
The stakeholders pledged their shared commitment to advance S&T for National Development.
Solidum stressed the importance of the R&D Programs and expressed his profound gratitude to everyone for their commitment.