DOST-NRCP 92nd Founding Anniversary Honors Researchers, Advances Science through Creative Expression
The Department of Science and Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP) celebrated its 92nd Founding Anniversary by honoring outstanding researchers and institutional partners whose work advances science and innovation while demonstrating how creative expression of research results can enhance public understanding and appreciation of research. The event was held at the Sheraton Manila Hotel in Pasay City on December 10, 2025.
Anchored on the theme “Recognizing the Champions of Progress: Merging Artistic Expression and Scientific Excellence,” the celebration highlighted the Council’s continuing role in capacitating researchers. It also emphasized the broader relevance and impact of research when findings are communicated in accessible and creative ways.
NRCP researchers from the Division of Humanities and the Division of Mathematical Sciences led artistic presentations that translated complex research ideas into music, poetry, photography, and multimedia performances. These included Dr. Renato B. Lucas’ musical piece “Music as the Soul of Science and the Sound of Unity,” Dr. Guillerma B. Mendoza’s photo essay “Designing with Empathy, Shaping with Purpose,” and a collaborative piano and vocal performance by Dr. Maria Alexandra I. Chua and Ms. Elisante Cortes that emphasized cultural and humanistic perspectives in research. A poetry reading titled “Bridging Numbers and Narratives,” delivered by John Patrick F. Solano, illustrated how quantitative research can be communicated through storytelling.
Cultural dances performed by the NRCP Secretariat complemented the program. These performances reflected the country’s regional diversity and reinforced the role of culture in strengthening national identity alongside research advancement. Dances representing Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao highlighted unity across regions in support of research-driven development.
The celebration also featured the Creative Arts Exhibit, Linya at Lunan, which presented nine research projects through visual arts, multimedia installations, and narrative forms. The exhibit covered studies on health and wellness, mental well-being, education, biodiversity, innovation, and climate change adaptation. By translating research findings into creative outputs, the exhibit demonstrated how science can be communicated more effectively to communities, policymakers, and the general public.
Another highlight of the event was the documentary teaser PAGSIBOL: Life Blooms Again, which showcased the NRCP-funded project “Greening Mined Areas of the Philippines” (GMAP). The documentary illustrated how research-based interventions help restore degraded mining areas, promote biodiversity recovery, and actively involve local communities in environmental rehabilitation.
In recognition of excellence in research, the Council conferred Gabay Awards to distinguished researchers for their significant contributions to their respective fields and to NRCP’s growth. The awardees were Dr. Harvy Joy Liwanag for Medical Sciences, Dr. Doralyn S. Dalisay for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Cecilia B. Moran for Biological Sciences, Rossian V. Perea for Engineering and Industrial Research, Dr. Connie B. Dacuycuy for Social Sciences, and Dr. Epiphania P. Magwilang for Chemical Sciences.
NRCP also recognized institutional partners for their sustained collaboration in advancing research and community engagement. These included the Municipal Government of Calubian in Leyte, the Department of Science and Technology–Regional Office XII, and the Quezon City Public Library. Their partnerships support the translation of research into public service and local development.
Basic Research Champions from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao were likewise featured through audio-visual presentations (AVPs). These presentations highlighted studies that position science as a practical tool for addressing societal concerns. Best Paper Awards were also conferred on research with strong development impact, including studies on terrestrial mammals in Siargao and on landslide risk communication in high-risk communities. In addition, exemplary NRCP employees and staff were recognized for their contributions to the Council’s work.
Messages from officials of DOST and NRCP emphasized the importance of sustaining research excellence, strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, and nurturing a thriving research community. (Rose Dagupen // S&T Media Services)
View the video highlights of the celebration, including performances by NRCP researchers, personnel, and the Secretariat, at https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BNB9p8ZNe/
