SIBALOM, ANTIQUE – The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL), in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI and the University of Antique (UA), conducted the Dialogue with NAST Scientists (Lecture Series) and NAST Symposium for the Youth at the UA-Main Campus on September 24 and 25, 2019, respectively.
The resource speakers for both events were National Scientists (NS) Lourdes J. Cruz and Angel C. Alcala and Academicians (Acd.) Rhodora V. Azanza, Christopher C. Bernido, Aura C. Matias, and Eufemio T. Rasco, Jr.
The Lecture Series aims to promote science and technology, to bring our scientists closer to the grassroots, and to inspire and encourage the researchers and other professionals to conduct more research and to adapt science and technology for development. The activity was attended by 100 participants composed of faculty and officials from various institutions and universities in the area, representatives from the local government unit, and staff of Provincial Science and Technology Center (PSTC) of Antique.
University of Antique President Dr. Pablo S. Crespo Jr. welcomed the participants of the lecture followed by the message of the PSTC – Antique Director, Engr. Abraham R. Fabila, in behalf of Congresswoman Loren B. Legarda and the DOST VI Regional Director Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga.
The morning session of the lecture included NS Cruz’s discussion on “Sustainable Consumption and Our Future”, NS Angel C. Alcala’s presentation on “Apo Island Local Community: From Rags to Riches”, and Acd. Rhodora V. Azanza’s talk on “Algal Blooms and Red Tide Can Be Harmful”.
The afternoon session started with Acd. Christopher C. Bernido presenting “Physics from Planck Scale to Billion Plus Light-years”, followed by Acd. Aura C. Matias’ talk entitled “Environment and Social Safeguards for Sustainable Development”, and Acd. Eufemio T. Rasco Jr.’s discussion on “Reconnecting Agriculture with Nutrition, Health, and Environment”.
Each session was followed by an open forum to entertain questions from the participants. The participants also gave their impressions on the lecture.
The Symposium for the Youth was conducted on September 25. It aims to promote science and technology, to bring our scientists closer to the youth, and to inspire and encourage them to pursue a career in science.
This was participated by more than 180 students from different schools in Antique, namely: Pangpang National High School, Buhang National High School, Advance Central College Discovery High School, Belison National School, UA – Laboratory High School, Sibalom National High School, Saint Anthony’s College, San Pedro National High School, Antique National School, and UA Main Campus.
NAST PHL President, Acd. Rhodora V. Azanza gave the welcome remarks, while Eng. Abraham R. Fabila gave a message in behalf of the UA President and DOST Region VI Regional Director. This was followed by the presentation on “NAST PHL-In recognition of Excellence in Science and Technology” by Luningning E. Samarita-Domingo, NAST PHL Director.
The morning session of the symposium started with NS Angel C. Alcala’s discussion on “Philippine Environment & Biodiversity (Terrestrial &Marine): Present, Past, & Future Status”, while NS Lourdes J. Cruz and Acd. Rhodora V. Azanza talked about the same topic during the Lecture Series with an approach appropriate for students.
The afternoon session started with Acd. Christopher C. Bernido presenting his talk entitled “Physics from a Universe Smaller than an Atom to Billion Plus Light-years”, followed by Acd. Aura C.Matias who talked about “Environment and Society”, and Acd. Eufemio T. Rasco Jr. who discussed “Plant Breeding as a Career Choice”.
Each session was followed by an open forum to entertain questions from the students and for them to provide their impressions on the activity.
The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines is the country’s premiere advisory and recognition body on matters related to science and technology. (Dhan Michael L. dela Peña/NAST)