DOST-NRCP is GRAND as it celebrates its 91st founding anniversary

The Department of Science and Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP) marked 91 years of sustained public service through basic research, revitalizing its vision on the path to a century of scientific excellence. Through its GRAND plan, which stands for Governance Excellence and Efficiency, Reimagined Research Development, Management, and Communication, Active Membership Engagement, Nurturing Internal and External Stakeholders, and Digital Transformation of Systems and Processes, the Council envisions itself to be the government entity that creates knowledge, formulates policy, and the prime advisory and consultative body towards sustainable and people-centered development for the nation and the world.

Established on 8 December 1933, under Republic Act 4120, DOST-NRCP has been steadfast in supporting research in science, technology, and the humanities for over nine decades. The Council promotes science and technology to the general public, improves cooperation and the sharing of scientific information, and establishes connections and collaboration within local and global organizations. It also provides expert advice on pressing national issues, cementing its role as a cornerstone of Philippine basic research.

The GRAND plan lays the foundation for DOST-NRCP’s collective aspirations to be the premier national government entity. With relentless efforts, the Council has achieved numerous research and development milestones, advancing sustainability, health, environment, human welfare, and food security, among others. Key focus areas include research development, evaluation, and monitoring, membership and capacity building, research communication and dissemination, governance, support, and services.

Over the years, DOST-NRCP has expanded its membership to over 7000 researchers, scientists, engineers and technologists from all fields of science, including the social sciences and humanities. This network fosters interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex societal issues.

The 91st anniversary celebration brought together esteemed guests from national and international linkages, showcasing the Council’s impact on the scientific community and beyond.

In photo (left to right): Prof. Fortunato T. de la Peña, Former DOST Secretary; Dr. Aimee Lynn Barrion-Dupo, NRCP President; Amb. Lolita B. Capco, representative from the Department of Foreign Affairs; Hon. Aniela Bianca D. Tolentino, Vice Chairperson, House of Committee for Science and Technology; Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., DOST Secretary, H.E. Lai Thai Binh, Ambassador to the Philippines, Socialist Republic of Vietnam; Dr. Leah J. Buendia, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development, Dr. Bernardo N. Sepeda, NRCP Executive Director, Mr. Zhe Su, First Secretary of China; and Mr. Huajie Li, Attache of China.

Distinguished guests underscored DOST-NRCP’s pivotal role in nation building and sustainable development.

“Thank you to the men and women of DOST-NRCP for your hard work and dedication to public service.”

  • Lolita B. Capco, Department of Foreign Affairs

“In our collective journey toward nation building, the DOST-NRCP through the National Integrated Basic Research Agenda (NIBRA) continued to support research that is directed towards the development of new and fuller scientific knowledge to support the Philippine Development Plan.”

  • Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., Department of Science and Technology

“I look forward to seeing the continued growth of DOST-NRCP to impact national and global sustainable development.”

  • E. Lai Thai Binh, Ambassador to the Philippines, Socialist Republic of Vietnam

“Your findings, discoveries, innovations bring us policies, programs, and initiatives that uplift our people and strengthen our republic.”

  • Aniela Bianca D. Tolentino, Vice Chairperson of the House of Committee for Science and Technology

As DOST-NRCP approaches its centennial, the GRAND plan ensures the realization of its vision for the nation and beyond. (Venus Abigail D. Gutierrez, S&T Media Service)