UNLOCKING THE FUTURE: NRCP EXPERT CLASS SEASON 3 GEARS THE BLUE AND GREEN ECONOMIES, and OPM'S SOCIAL IMPACT ON FILIPINOS' LIVES
By: GLENN FORD B. TOLENTINO
Science Research Specialist II
RIDD-IDS, DOST-NRCP
gftolentino.nrcp.09112023@gmail.com
DOST-NRCP, Philippines – In a resounding finale, the Department of Science and Technology- National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP) drew the curtains on a captivating season of the NRCP Expert Class Season 3. This illuminating event, which unfolded on September 12, 2023, at the Muralla, Bayleaf Hotel in Intramuros, Manila, brought together luminaries from the realms of research, economics, humanities, science, and policymaking.
Dr. Leslie Michelle M. Dalmacio, the esteemed President of DOST-NRCP, extended a warm welcome to a diverse audience that comprised expert researchers, scientists, and participants hailing from various sectors. Dr. Dalmacio set the tone by emphasizing that the NRCP Expert Class is more than just an educational platform; it is a socio-scientific beacon that leverages contentious, real-world issues to engage decision-makers and stakeholders in the pursuit of innovative policies.
“Everyone can be torchbearers of the journey to solve societal problems and economic issues. Through the latest research and innovations, we can balance economic prosperity and environmental conservation.” Dr. Leslie Michell M. Dalmacio said.
The resonance of this call to action was heightened by a special message from Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., the eminent Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, who underscored the unwavering commitment of the head agency and its attached agencies to four pillars that define their mission:
“It brings me pleasure to address you on a subject of utmost importance as we approach the end of season 3 of the National Research Council of the Philippines, Expert Class. I’m thrilled to highlight how this program epitomizes our dedication to our commitment to the four pillars that define our mission: promotion of human well-being; wealth creation; wealth protection; and sustainability, aligning perfectly with our vision for sustainable, resilient, and inclusive economic growth.” Secretary Solidum said.
Dr. Solidum also shed light on the fact that the NRCP Expert Class took deliberate steps to invite resource speakers who are experts, scientists, and researchers. These speakers would not just impart knowledge but would offer actionable solutions rooted in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). The forum was strategically crafted as a convergence of multi- sectoral initiatives—far more than a mere informative discussion.
“Our aim is clear: to provide valuable research insights that equip the new administration and policymakers with the tools they need to effectively address the pressing national issues that confront us,” Secretary Solidum remarked.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Bernardo N. Sepeda, Executive Director III of the National Research Council of the Philippines, Department of Science and Technology, expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm. He assured everyone that the Council’s unwavering support would persist, nurturing scholars, scientists, and researchers tirelessly working to advance social equity, improve the lives of the Filipino people, and enhance the welfare of the nation.
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Harmonizing Hearts and Minds: How Original Pilipino Music Shapes the Society
In Episode 6: Social Impacts of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), the socioeconomic condition of the Philippine music business was unveiled. Season 3 of NRCP’s Expert Class concluded on a hopeful note, with viewers gaining insights into how the blue and green economies can be harnessed for sustainable growth and the vital role OPM plays in shaping Filipino society.
Dr. Marie Paz E. Morales, NRCP Expert Class Consultant and Chair, Division I Governmental, Educational, and International Policies of the DOST-NRCP, gives some context on how the invited experts’ academics, researchers, and scientists and the Filipino people can contribute to addressing the most pressing issues of society and transforming the research outputs into societal advancement.
The panelists underscored OPM’s power to convey the essence of the Filipino identity, nurture national pride, and address critical social issues through its lyrics and melodies. They called for unwavering support for local artists and the preservation of Filipino musical heritage.
This episode featured a distinguished panel of economists, academics, and music experts, offering insights into how OPM has profoundly influenced Filipino culture and society.
Dr. Ma. Alexandra I. Chua, a regular member of Division XI, Humanities, at DOST-NRCP, a music professor at the University of Santo Tomas, and the Director of the Research Center for Culture, Arts, and Humanities at UST, shared findings from her recent study on the socioeconomic dynamics of the nation’s music industry.
Dr. Joel C. Malabanan, an artist-performer, songwriter, poet, and faculty member of the Philippine Normal University, discussed how OPM plays a pivotal role in teaching Araling Panlipunan, values education, and the Filipino language in elementary and high schools.
Dr. Lawrence B. Dacuycuy, an esteemed economist, professor at the School of Economics at De La Salle University-Manila, and Chair of Division VIII, Social Sciences, at DOST-NRCP, meticulously examined the availability of employment opportunities and the framework linking the creative sector to economic growth.
The event drew experts from various backgrounds, including experts from national government agencies, commercial institutions, non-governmental groups, academia, young scholars, and legislative staff from the House of Representatives. NRCP Expert Class Season 3 stood out as a platform that bridges the gap between research and policy, presenting the contributions of experts and scientists in a way that resonates with stakeholders and policymakers.
In a captivating conclusion to its third season, the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) Expert Class explored critical aspects of the nation’s future: the blue and green economies and the profound social impacts of Original Pilipino Music (OPM).
As the final episode unfolded, NRCP reaffirmed its dedication to advancing research and education in these crucial areas, with the hope of inspiring transformative change and innovation in the pursuit of a brighter, more sustainable future for the Philippines. The tantalizing hint of season 4 promises even more valuable insights and discussions on the pressing issues facing the nation.
Spanning Seasons 1 to 3, the NRCP Expert Class has proven to be a valuable resource for participants, offering knowledge that can drive positive change in addressing local and national concerns. Dr. Marian P. De Leon, Chair of the Division of Biological Sciences at DOST-NRCP, and Dr. Eriwell R. Hipolito, an associate member of Division I, Governmental, Educational, and International Policies at DOST-NRCP, hosted the recently concluded NRCP Expert Class Season 3.
In collaboration with partner schools and government organizations, the BRITER staff, RIDD- IDS, and DOST-NRCP organized the third season of the NRCP Expert Class with the invaluable technological support of Masaya Studio Inc. (MSI).
The two-part finale episodes of NRCP’s Expert Class Season 3, which concluded just days ago, have ignited significant discussions and left an indelible mark with their depth and relevance. These episodes have set the stage for crucial discussions that will undoubtedly shape the nation’s path in the years to come.
The finale episodes can be accessed at the following hyperlinks: https://www.facebook.com/nationalresearchcouncil/videos/207988782283804 https://www.facebook.com/nationalresearchcouncil/videos/126570130509982
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