Women scientists championing Philippine sustainability

There are not many women scientists in the country, and even rarer are those who genuinely champion sustainability – a crucial yet often overlooked aspect in mainstream development discourses.

I am privileged to have met and worked with two distinguished advocates who have also inspired me with my grassroots initiatives. They are Dr. Lourdes J. Cruz and Dr. Rhodora V. Azanza, both celebrated scientists.

The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST Phl), the country’s premier agency that advises the President and Cabinet members on science and technological concerns, has recognized Cruz and Azanza as National Scientist and National Academician, respectively.

Now, let us get to know more about them and how they are shaping a sustainable future for every Filipino.

In 2018, National Scientist Cruz launched the Future Earth Philippines (FEP) program, which aims to increase the country’s sustainability and resilience through the creation of Philippine Knowledge-Action Programs for Sustainability (PKAPS). It also seeks to link the country with regional and global initiatives on sustainability.

To realize this, FEP has been engaging with experts on sustainability issues adversely affecting the country, including the deterioration of watersheds, marine and terrestrial ecosystems and the worsening impacts of climate change. This engagement seeks to unpack each issue and co-create concrete solutions and recommendations.

This is important because the solutions from these engagements can then be transmitted to the government for implementation, ensuring that science-based sustainability inputs take centerstage in development programs and policies.

For example, local government units (LGUs) can refer to the PKAPS as a reference for creating science-backed ordinances to strengthen their efforts in mitigating and adapting to climate change. Private organizations or advocacy groups can also use these as a baseline for their campaigns.

Today, FEP has evolved into a learning platform by organizing weekly webinars with sustainability experts.

As FEP strengthens both its offline and online engagements, the country sees more hope for resilience and sustainability, largely thanks to Cruz’s uncompromising dedication. Complementing this is a growing collaboration among educational institutions joining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Action Network for a transdisciplinary, inclusive and systems approach to solutions to complex problems.

Cruz has also engaged with indigenous peoples (IPs) to ensure that their perspectives on sustainability and their lived experiences are considered. She recognizes that IPs have long championed sustainability with a way of life harmonized with the natural world.

Proof of this is the fact that more than 75 percent of the country’s remaining forests are within IPs’ ancestral domains, according to the International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs (IWGIA).

Given her blend of scientific and grassroots experience, Cruz continues to be a voice for sustainability, reaching various audiences – from policymakers to LGUs and the youth.

Supporting the FEP program from its inception is National Academician Azanza.

Dubbed the “Red Tide Lady,” Azanza is renowned for her pioneering research on seaweeds, harmful microalgal biology, coastal environment management and seafood safety.

Her research has contributed to responsive solutions to the country’s frequent red tide occurrences, which not only cause health problems but also impact the livelihood of small-scale fisherfolk.

One of her recent projects focused on studying the harmful toxins and bacteria produced by algal blooms. She worked on creating guidelines and tools to help protect food safety and the environment. This demonstrates how scientific innovations can ensure a safe food supply chain.

Thanks to her, more Filipinos can now enjoy sustainable seafood, while more attention is being given to addressing coastal-related issues.

As part of FEP’s roster of experts, Azanza provides important input on marine resource conservation.

Cruz and Azanza are indeed eco-heroes deserving recognition. They are not just accomplished women in their fields; they represent a growing number of Filipino women scientists committed to ensuring a more sustainable and resilient Philippines.

Truly, they are the embodiment of Gabriela Silang in our modern times.

*      *      *

Daniel Maches is the co-founder of Banolmi, a social enterprise championing community-based development and environmental stewardship through agro-ecological farm development. He is an Ambassador of One Young World and frequently represents the Philippines in global sustainability summits.