The Philippines and Hungary are currently exploring possible collaborations in science, technology, and innovation.
Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Secretary Fortunato de la Peña said DOST,
together with the Philippine Space Agency and the University of the Philippines (UP) Visayas, had a recent productive dialogue with their respective Hungarian colleagues, with lead representation from the Embassy of Hungary in Manila.
De la Peña said they discussed possible collaborations focusing on aquaculture genetics and breeding; sustainable aquaculture; upstream applications of space technologies; spectrum monitoring; and tropical aquaculture.
The visit of Hungarian scholars to UP Visayas and a foreign scholarship program were also tackled, he added.
“I believe this activity is a good platform to present the current programs of both countries in the fields of aquaculture, space technology, and S&T human resource development,” he said in a Viber message.
De la Pena also noted that Hungary, particularly its research and development arm, has a huge potential in enriching and leveraging S&T and innovation, sharing that Hungarian Ambassador to the Philippines Titanilla Tóth has shared her positive feedback towards the enthusiasm and interest of both countries to begin and offer limitless opportunities to their citizens.
“The ambassador is likewise confident that the dialogue boosted the communication between the Philippine and Hungarian stakeholders, which will possibly lead to partnerships on common projects and initiatives,” De la Pena said, adding that both parties agreed to prepare a memorandum of understanding for their potential collaborations.