DOST-NRCP Features Biodiversity Research at 2024 NSTW Celebration

The Department of Science and Technology-National-Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP) highlighted the vital role of biodiversity research in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development during the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) celebration held in Cagayan de Oro City from November 27 to December 1, 2024.

Aligned with the theme “Siyensya, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan”  and the sub-theme “Providing Solutions and Opening Opportunities in the Green Economy,” the Council showcased key biodiversity research projects focused on conservation, integral to fostering a green economy that benefits both communities and the environment in the long term.

NRCP featured four (4) research studies on its exhibits under the sustainability cluster namely: 1) “Biodiversity Inventory, Assessment, and Conservation for Ecotourism Development in Mount Agad-agad, Lanao del Norte” by Dr. Victor Amoroso; 2) “Assessment, Inventory, and Biological Field Surveys of Flora and Fauna of Mangrove Forest in del Carmen, Siargao” by Dr. Cecilia Banag-Moran; 3) “Utilization of Marang Fruit (Artocarpus Odoratissimus Blanco) and Assessment of Fruit Production in Mindanao” by Mr. Roy Gacus; and, 4) “Pharmacognostic Studies on the Fruit of Artocarpus Odoratissimus Blanco (Moraceae)” by Mr. Joseph Mari Querequincia.

These research projects were translated into interactive formats, such as a ball game, workbook, and mind games of marang fruit, offline game applications, and science videos, making them accessible and impactful for diverse participants.  In addition, the Council showcased its knowledge products and services, including policy briefs, membership information, research grants, and library and expert services to further emphasize it contributions to environmental sustainability.

A forum on Mindanao’s land and water biodiversity was held on November 29, 2024 at the Luxe Hotel. The forum aimed to raise awareness of biodiversity, the threats its faces, and the importance of sustainable biodiversity practices.

Over 1,000 visitors engaged with the Council’s interactive exhibitions during the five-day celebration. Meanwhile, more than 150 elementary and high school students participated in the forum.

This NSTW celebration provided a significant platform for NRCP to share its research findings and engage with a diverse audience, promoting a broader understanding and appreciation of the vital role of basic research in protecting biodiversity. This aligns with one of DOST’s strategic pillars, on sustainability in national development. (Rose D. Dagupen, S&T Media Service)

DOST-NRCP staff and visitors pose with the NSTW mascots, Ino and Ina, at the NRCP booth during the second day of National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) Celebration at the Atrium, Limketkai Center, Cagayan de Oro City on November 28, 2024.
NRCP President Dr. Aimee Lynn Barrion-Dupo (left) and Executive Director Dr. Bernardo N. Sepeda (right) address attendee inquiries regarding Siargao species, basic research, and NRCP membership applications during the NSTW celebration.
A fruitful exchange! NRCP officials, members, and staff, together with elementary and high school students across Region X, take a photo after the forum on the biodiversity of land and waters of Mindanao held at the Luxe Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City on November 29, 2024.