Science, Innovation, and Human Capital in Focus at the 2025 NRCP Annual Scientific Conference
The Department of Science and Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP) will showcase transformative research on science, innovation, and human capital during the 2025 Annual Scientific Conference (ASC) and the 92nd General Membership Assembly (GMA). The event will be held on March 13, 2025, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City.
With the theme “Empowering a Sustainable Future: Science, Technology, Social Innovation, and Human Capital in Global Challenges,” the discussions will highlight human capital’s crucial role in fostering sustainability and driving social change for national development.
Meet the Discussants
Four distinguished experts will lead discussions on how human capital development contributes to sustainability and national progress.
The Social Innovation–Human Capital Nexus
Speaker: Mr. Illac A. Diaz, 2005 Fulbright-Humphrey Fellow and Founder of Liter of Light
This session will explore how social innovation and human capital development work together to drive sustainable and inclusive growth. Mr. Diaz, a globally recognized social innovator, will share real-world examples of how empowering communities through co-created and people-driven solutions can foster development.
Ensuring a Balance between Ecological Well-being and Human Capital Development
Speaker: Dr. Maria Victoria O. Espaldon, NRCP Member, Division of Earth and Space Sciences Professor, University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB)
Dr. Espaldon will discuss the crucial connection between ecosystems and human communities. She will highlight the importance of policies, education, and stakeholder collaboration in promoting environmental sustainability while advancing human capital development.
Health Sciences and the Human Capital Index – The Philippine and Global Setting
Speaker: Dr. Michael L. Tee, Chancellor, University of the Philippines Manila
Dr. Tee will discuss how health directly influences human capital and national productivity. His presentation will cover strategies for improving healthcare access and outcomes, with a provide a comparative analysis of the Philippine and global contexts.
Promoting Transformative Agriculture and Forestry through STI and Human Capital Development
Speaker: National Scientist Romulo G. Davide, NRCP Member, Division of Biological Sciences
Professor Emeritus of Plant Pathology, University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB)
National Scientist Davide will share best practices for enhancing human capital in agriculture and forestry. He will emphasize how science, technology, and innovation (STI) foster sustainability and resilience in these sectors amid global challenges.
The research discussions align with NRCP’s mandate to advance knowledge and innovation in science and technology to address national concerns. These sessions also align with DOST’s pillars of Inclusive Innovation, Sustainable Development, and Science for Change, underscoring the role of human capital in driving scientific and technological progress.
Join us for these insightful sessions and be part of the effort to harness science and innovation for sustainability. Full videos of the discussions will be available on March 13, 2025, via NRCP’s dedicated webpage for this event. (Rose D. Dagupen, S&T Media Service)
