NSTW to tackle S&T’s role in economy

An austere yet meaningful celebration will mark the National Science Technology Week, according to Science and Technology Secretary Estrella Alabastro.

The organizers have invited President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as guest of honor and keynote speaker of the opening ceremonies on July 16, at the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) bldg., C.P. Garcia Avenue, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City.

This year’s NSTW theme is "S&T: Key to Economic Development." Highlighting the week-long affair is an S&T exhibit that will feature DOST accomplishments, activities, products and services.

Scientists, researchers and other experts will hold scientific meetings on different clusters or fields of specialization. Relevant topics on agriculture, forestry, natural resources and fishery will be held on July 17. Scientific papers and posters on health and basic R&D researches will be presented on July 18. A symposium on industry, energy and advanced science will commence on July 19.

Controversial issues on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and intellectual property rights (IPR) will be discussed in an effort to come up with a national policy on GMOs and IPR.

Topics for genetically modified organisms are "International Overview of Biotechnology Utilization" and the "Regulatory Framework of GMOs" which includes "Environmental Risk Assessment," Human Health and Food Safety" and "Labeling Issues."

An IPR policy forum will discuss the advantages or disadvantages of International Property Protection in Relation to GMOs and ICT, and International Perspective on IPR in Relation to GMOs and ICT.

There will also be regional celebrations sponsored by the DOST’s regional offices. For more information, call or write the 2001 NSTW Secretariat, TAPI bldg., DOST compound, Bicutan, Taguig, tel. nos. 837-2936 or 837-6188, or visit the NSTW website at www.stii.dost.gov.ph.