The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) opened its 48th Annual Scientific Meeting on Wednesday, July 8, at the Manila Hotel, with discussions centered on how science, technology, and innovation can help the country meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This year’s meeting carries the theme “UN SDGs: Science, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainable Development” and is examining the Philippines’ progress toward the global targets, as well as policy and research interventions that could help address gaps.
The two-day event brings together scientists, researchers, government officials, industry representatives, and development partners. It follows a series of 2026 regional scientific meetings in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao that produced recommendations from local stakeholders for discussion at the national gathering.
Speaking at a press conference, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said the agency’s “Agham Ramdam” initiative is aimed at connecting science and technology programs with community needs.
“Through the LGUs and government offices, the needs of communities are identified and addressed through science and technology interventions, including technology transfer for small and medium enterprises,” Solidum said.
In his keynote address, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development secretary Arsenio Balisacan discussed the country’s progress on the SDGs and pointed to the role of science and innovation in economic growth and public service delivery.
“Strong institutions transform policies into outcomes,” Balisacan said.
NAST said the meeting includes six plenary sessions led by its scientific divisions, each focusing on areas where science and technology can help accelerate progress on the SDGs.
The event also features a scientific poster session with more than 320 research entries from scientists and researchers across the country.
Awards for scientific papers, books and monographs, tropical medicine research, environmental science, and young scientists will also be presented during the meeting. New NAST members will likewise be formally inducted.
NAST, an attached agency of the DOST, serves as the government’s advisory body on science and technology concerns. Its annual scientific meeting is one of the main venues for presenting research findings and generating policy recommendations tied to national development.
