The Department of Science and Technology urged the Filipino research community to commit to a cross-sectoral, ethical, and responsive approach to accelerate national progress during the Annual Scientific Conference and 93rd General Membership Assembly of the National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP) held at the Philippine International Convention Center, Pasay City, last March 13, 2026.
In his speech, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. highlighted that progress cannot be made if “remained confined within rigid boundaries, hence reinforcing transdisciplinary and ethical practices.
“[It] encourages us to cross […] between disciplines, institutions, and even scientific expertise and lived experience in communities. It allows us to combine perspectives, deepen understanding, and produce solutions that are practical and grounded,” said Solidum.
Solidum pointed out that knowledge, when visible, cited, and utilized, reflects the “true capacity” of Filipino scientists and institutions— but it must also be translated into tangible benefits for the people.
“It must move forward—toward application, innovation, and commercialization. But, development must never come at the cost of our rights, dignity, or integrity,” Solidum said while underscoring the DOST’s Three-Horizon Science, Technology, and Innovation Economic Strategy.
DOST-NRCP President Dr. Ma. Louise Antonette de las Peñas seconded “responsible research” is not only responsive to national needs and public welfare but also upholds truth, fairness, and accountability.
“Research that is not grounded in ethics and a genuine commitment to the common good is not progress, it is failure,” de las Penas emphasized.
The council president also reaffirmed that DOST-NRCP will help shape the ethical direction of research in the country, as well as dedicate efforts to “understand the world to improve it for the Filipino people.”
Former DOST secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña, on the other hand, stressed the need for inclusive collaboration in achieving the goals of the nation, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“If there is no collaboration, there will be difficulty in achieving the common aspirations. There is a need for inclusive collaboration, co-creation of solutions across disciplines, capacity building, and strategizing, as well as the ethical practices that are needed,” he stated in his keynote message.
Highlighting leverage on collective effort among various sectors, de la Pena also mentioned that transdisciplinary research hones the visibility, coherence, and sustainability of national initiatives through its programs.
“When we are able to follow this transformation, then we open doors to opportunities and solutions that truly matter for our people, our nation, and our shared future,” de la Peña added.
In addition, further tracing the event’s theme, “Transdisciplinary Capacity Building and Ethical Research towards a Progressive, Unified, and SDG-Driven Nation,” five experts took turns discussing research collaborations, policy-making, and inclusive development.
Among the speakers were DOST-NRCP regular members Dr. Fidel R. Nemenzo, Dr. Maria Lourdes G. Rebullida, Dr. Agnes C. Rola, and Dr. Marita V.T. Reyes, along with business luminary Dr. Rosalind L. Wee.
Meanwhile, DOST-NRCP welcomed 178 new regular members and 252 new associate members during this year’s ASC and GMA, and recognized 13 researchers for their contribution to research excellence in their respective fields and national development.
The National Research Council of the Philippines is one of the attached agencies of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All. For more information, visit www.nrcp.dost.gov.ph. (By Karl Jerome M. del Mundo, DOST-STII)