The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) proudly launched three new book publications during the 39th Annual Scientific Meeting at the Manila Hotel last July 12, 2017.
Launched were two books written by National Scientist Ricardo M. Lantican, entitled: “Science Nuggets 1 From Aristotle to Stem Cells” and “Science Nuggets 2 From the Universe to Energy, Food, and Agriculture”, and one book by Academician Evelyn Mae Tecson-Mendoza entitled: “Biosketches: Filipino Trailblazers in Science and Technology, Defining the Contribution of NAST Academicians to S&T and Its Development in the Philippines”.
The book launch was hosted by Academician Asuncion K. Raymundo. As described by Academician Fabian M. Dayrit, Science Nuggets Volume 1 treats the readers to numerous stories about famous scientists, not to tell us how great they are, but how human they are. It takes the readers on a journey through the history of science, from Aristotle’s theory that Earth is the center of the universe to the advances in stem cell research.
Volume 2, on the other hand, focuses on the critical issues of our time: from the universe to energy, food, and agriculture. Science is a dynamic forum of theories and ideas, and readers will encounter differences in opinion among scientists. The scientific process should guide us in our decision on which theory or idea is best. This process is crucial as we navigate to find sustainable solutions to our problems.
“Biosketches” focuses on the contributions of the NAST members to science and technology and its development in the country. From 1976 to 2016, a total of 128 Filipino scientists have been elected to the Academy. These scientists are in various fields of sciences, engineering sciences and technology, health sciences, biological sciences, mathematical and physical sciences, and agricultural sciences. This book shows that these contributions cover outstanding S & T research outputs, strategic S & T planning, policy making and implementation, institution building, research administration, science education (discipline building and strengthening, mentoring, policy making, curricular program development, etc.), promotion of science culture, and improving professional standards.
Both National Scientist Ricardo M. Lantican and Academician Evelyn Mae Tecson-Mendoza were presented with the first copy of their books.