The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) conducted the Scienteach: Symposium for the Youth (Davao City) on April 11, 2023, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Mapúa Malayan Colleges-Mindanao, Davao City.
The event was in hybrid format wherein 220 participants (124 male and 96 female) attended personally at the venue, 21 attendees participated via zoom, and 1,000 viewers via Facebook live streamed at the NAST PHL official Facebook page.
The day’s event began with the welcome remarks from Academician Jaime C. Montoya, President of NAST PHL, followed by the message of Engr. Alejandro H. Ballado Jr, Vice President for Academic Affairs of Mapúa Malayan Colleges-Mindanao. Dr. Anthony C. Sales, Regional Director of DOST Region XI discussed their plans and programs for Region XI.
In photo: Staff members of the DOST-Region XI and the NAST Secretariat shared a photo with (first row from left) Academician Benito M. Pacheco, NAST PHL Director Luningning E. Samarita-Domingo, National Scientist Lourdes J. Cruz, Academician Fernando P. Siringan, Academician Maribel G. Nonato, Academician Cristina J. Montiel, Academician Arnel A. Salvador, Academician Guillermo Q. Tabios III, and DOST Region XI Regional Director Anthony C. Sales.
The program proceeded with the presentation of the six (6) resource speakers. National Scientist Lourdes J. Cruz shared her journey as a biochemist specializing in toxic peptides from the venom of fish-hunting Conus marine snails. Academician Benito M. Pacheco discussed the various engineering degrees that incoming college students can take and the prospect of a rewarding engineering profession. The third presenter, Academician Fernando P. Siringan, shared his in-depth knowledge in geological oceanography and actual field work experiences.
In the afternoon session, Academician Arnel A. Salvador encouraged the student participants to pursue college degrees related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics by sharing his personal and professional experiences as a professor of Physics. Academician Guillermo Q. Tabios III further stimulated the audience to think about the exciting field of science by sharing his expertise in water resources system. Academician Maribel G. Nonato capped off the presentations by sharing her life journey in the field of chemistry.
During the open forum, participants were given a chance to ask questions to the esteemed resource speakers. Questions ranged from technical clarifications of the various fields of expertise to life lessons and inspirational messages from the resource speakers. Furthermore, the resource speakers gladly accommodated questions and interacted with the student participants throughout the program. Some students sought advice on what field to take even after the event.
Afterward, student representatives from participating schools shared their impressions and learnings from the Symposium. They also shared their insights from each resource speaker’s presentation, expressed appreciation to the motivation and inspiration they got in pursuing their studies, and gave high regards to the importance of science and technology that as the future generation, they must pursue to further contribute to our nation and the world’s betterment.
Academician Alvin B. Culaba, Vice-President of NAST PHL delivered the closing remarks.
This activity was moderated by Mr. Liege Francis Montejo, Project Technical Aide I of DOST-Region XI.
For more details, you may visit the NAST PHL official Facebook page, @nastphl.