issn01126-7766 A publication of the Department of Science and Technology SCIENCE andand TECHNOLOGY VOL. XXIX No. 4 FOURTH QUARTER 2011

With PST, Filipino time is Juan time!

www.stii.dost.gov.ph EDITORIAL

SCIENCEand TECHNOLOGY Science, technology, and innovation in VOL. XXIX No. 4 the expanding Filipino society Editorial Board cience, technology, and innovation are a triumvirate known as the engines of growth. However, these engines only work their maximum when revved RAYMUND E. LIBORO S Publication Director up by people who seriously want to see this country running neck-to-neck with its neighbors in the economic highway. ARISTOTLE P. CARANDANG Executive Editor For this reason, the Department of Science and Technology has been exerting FRAMELIA V. ANONAS a great deal of effort to make Filipinos aware of and appreciate the role of Editor-in-Chief science in their daily life. Such may be an uphill battle but the visionary Science JAMES B. INTIA Secretary Mario G. Montejo ensures that no stone is left unturned in DOST’s Layout & Graphics staunch promotion and advocacy of initiatives that will bring about maximum socio-economic benefit to the expanding Filipino society. DOST MEDIA CORE Contributing Writers

Noticeably, the Department’s priority programs, projects, and activities, and JOY M. LAZCANO the Secretary himself, have been prominent in all media: print, broadcast, and Editorial Assistant cyber. AUDIO-VISUAL UNIT Photography In its own small yet tangible way, the S&T Post finds it befitting to close the year by showcasing in this issue the DOST’s accomplishments in 2011 and its plans MARIA JUDITH L. SABLAN Proofreader and programs until 2016. VALIANT P. ROSALES This issue highlights DOST’s programs underpinned by Sec. Montejo’s five-point Circulation agenda that are anchored on the social contract of the President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III. Such agenda include: DOST Solutions to Pressing National Problems; Developing Appropriate Technologies that Create Growth in the Countryside; Improving Industry Competitiveness; Use S&T to Enhance Government and Social Services; and Building Capacity in Emerging Technologies

Leveraging on collective action using mutlisectoral approach to solve multifaceted The S&T Post is published situation, the DOST underscores the value of oneness, of working together as quarterly by the Science and a family with a common vision. Gladly, the Department is a Lone Ranger no Technology Information Institute- Department of Science and more in its drive to achieve national progress through S&T. It has strengthened Technology (STII-DOST) with its alliances and now works closely with other government offices, academic editorial office at DOST Compound, Gen. Santos Avenue, Bicutan, institutions, private organizations, and even some people’s and non-government Taguig City. organizations. Telefax: (02) 837-7520

Tel No.: (02) 837-2071 to 80 Moreover, the strength of this administration can be measured in its internal local 2148 effort to let everyone in the DOST system work cohesively towards a common Email: [email protected]; goal. With a solid core, the energy radiates to all its partners especially to the [email protected] general population where it has a social contract to fulfill – that is making science, technology, and innovation help in nation building. This is science working for the Like us on Facebook Filipinos.

And we call this Filipinnovation! Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST) Science and Technology Information Institute-DOST (Library) Aristotle P. Carandang Ignite the Mind Expo Science 2011 DOST Starbooks what’s inside? OCT • NOV • DEC Fourth Quarter 2011

what’s new? 3 Research on emerging science now mapped out till 2018 3 4 DOST genomics program to focus on health,agriculture, and biodiversity Enriched juice helps improve kids’ nutrition what’s cool? 06 5 DOST-PTRI team gets 2011 PAGASA award 6 DOST-NRCP prez goes on air for int’l science confab 5 7 DOST to partner closely with health industry management sector 8 TRC, NABCOR to set up rice post-harvest facility in NE Technology differences do not hinder unified problem-solving, says science chief 9 NAST Academician gets top Southeast Asian 9 Scientist Award 10 IPO Phil boss urges more Davao inventions DOST news 11 DOST experts iron out tech transfer, intellectual property guidelines 12 One-stop shop of assistance to MSMEs eyed 14

S&T POST 1 3QTR.2011 what’swhat’s inside?inside?

12 DOST experts iron out tech transfer, intellectual property guidelines 13 High cost in knowledge and technology hinders 23 innovation PCHRD GC approves new set of R&D projects

feature 14 Natural dye industry in PH in living color

special report 24 16 DOST 2011 and beyond: Science for the Filipinos

agri news 23 Agri-econ experts eye opportunities amid challenges in PH agriculture 24 Panama disease can be managed – DOST 25 from the regions 25 Novel creations shine in Davao invention contest 26 Link up with businessmen, Ilonggo inventor tells colleagues 27 DOST awards winners in 2011 Bicol invention contest 27 28 DOST-Marinduque program, trainings, consultancy yield proud results 29 Romblon State U hosts DOST-PAGASA-ASTI Automated Weather Station 30 Bicol Consortium for Health R&D has new chair, CamSur projects

30 setup 31 Lolo Natomo’s metal touch is DOST’s touch

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S&T POST 4QTR.2011 2 what’s new? Research on emerging science now mapped out till 2018 cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Also set in the pipeline are function- al and designer foods that can treat ailments, molecular marker studiers, deoxyribonucleic acid or DNA finger- printing, novel enzymes development, sustainable drug discovery, and bio- energy production, among others.

Another important activity in the country will be the Human Genome Project which will provide important information on the Filipino identity.

Stakeholders also cited the impor- tance of resource-sharing among DOST- assisted research institutions and hu- Sec. Mario Montejo addresses the stakeholders before the setting of the man resource development to achieve roadmaps on emerging science. the goals of genomics research in the next seven years. By Framelia V. Anonas In nanotechnology, research ac- S&T Media Service tivities will center on addressing the Researchers in the country can now ing of living organisms and how they top ten problems of the world in the program their research activities in can be improved. In the country, ge- next 50 years, including energy, water, emerging science with the setting up of nomics R&D are commonly done in the food, environment, and poverty, among the sector’s research and development areas of agriculture, health, nutrition, others. roadmaps. Filipino ethnicity, nutrigenomics, bio- technology, biodiversity, and forensic. In the field of ICT and semicon- Led by the Department of Science ductors, nanotechnology research will and Technology’s Philippine Council for Meanwhile, nanotechnology, also be geared toward building core facili- Industry, Energy and Emerging Technol- called the “science of small,” involves ties for nanometrology, solar cell test- ogy (DOST-PCIEERD) last October, the the study of things at the atomic level. ing, and failure analysis. Also set in crafting of the R&D roadmaps involved At this level, there are properties and the pipeline are nanomaterial samples stakeholders in the fields of genomics functions not present in larger dimen- preparation, chemical analysis and im- and nanotechnology. sions but can be designed and con- aging, advanced materials, and high trolled at the nano level. Nanotechnol- resolution characterization. “One important thing that you ogy researches in the country are in should consider in crafting the roadmaps the areas of biotechnology, materials Nanotechnology studies with en- is the final outcome of the research ac- science, and information and communi- ergy applications will focus on device tivity,” Sec. Mario Montejo advised the cations technology. structures, bulk heterojunction type stakeholders during the workshop. “In solar cells, water-splitting photovoltaic the end, the final product that comes In the field of health genomics, system, and hydrogen fuel cells. from research should uplift the lives of R&D will focus more on the develop- the Filipino people.” ment of diagnostic kits for commonly- The stakeholders in this field encountered diseases. This effort leads also laid out plans to develop human Genomics refers to the study of ge- to a “Filipinized personal medicine” resources, linkages, and marketing nomes, or the complete set of genetic that addresses unique conditions of schemes of potential technologies to material of organisms. Getting down to Filipinos in infectious, lifestyle, and the industry. gene level leads to a better understand-

S&T POST 3 4QTR.2011 what’swhat’s new?COOL?

DOST genomics program to focus on health, agriculture, and biodiversity By Luisa Lumioan S&T Media Service, STII

Department of Science and Technology searches on diseases such as dengue, nomics initiative in a developing coun- Secretary Mario G. Montejo, in his TB, AH1N1, cancer, cardiovascular dis- try, however, is no easy task. It requires address during the launching of the eases and diabetes and genomic studies a critical mass of scientists and experts Philippine Genomics Center in Shangri- on endemic crops, staples, bio-products to develop a sustainable program, and la Hotel Makati City, last November fisheries and livestock to significantly appropriate resources to support the 28, 2011, said that DOST will focus enhance agricultural production. operational and infrastructure demands its genomics program on health, of research and development,“ he said. agriculture, livestock, fisheries and Current initiatives in genomics in- biodiversity. clude improving the brood stock for the To achieve critical mass of sci- cultured bangus and tilapia, fighting entists and experts, DOST embarks on Genomics, a flagship program of bunchy top virus affecting abaca, and Balik Scientist Program that will bring DOST, can be a “game-changing tool that addressing the dreaded Panama disease home top Filipino scientists, informat- could offer enormous rewards to our peo- now affecting banana growers in Mind- ics experts and engineers now working ple,” according to Secretary Montejo. anao, Montejo said. outside the Philippines to mentor do- mestic scholars and supervise genome- Genomics is a science concerned Montejo emphasized in his speech related projects. DOST will also sup- with the study of the genomes or the that translating genome-based research port genomics research projects aligned complete set of genes in an organism. into practical solution is trans-disci- with development priorities through A goal in genomics is the sequencing plinary and multi-sectoral responsibil- grants from its councils such as Phil- of the genome of the whole organ- ity. It involves intricate collaboration ippine Council for Industry, Energy and ism which may lead to applications in across scientific disciplines and link- Emerging Technology Research and medicine, agriculture, ecology, and bio- ages between public research and de- Development, Philippine Council on processing. velopment institutions, policy makers, Health Research and Development, academe and industry sectors. and Philippine Council on Agriculture Sec. Montejo said that DOST will Aquatic and Natural Resources Research provide funding support on health re- “Putting together a cohesive ge- and Development. Enriched juice helps improve kids’ nutrition By Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa S & T Media Service, FNRI

The latest National Nutrition Survey of the Fortifying or enriching ready-to-drink Food and Nutrition Research Institute of (RTD) commonly-consumed beverages of- the Department of Science and Technology fers a great opportunity in addressing the (FNRI-DOST) revealed that 2 out of 10 six gap between consumption and require- to 12 year-old children in the Philippines ment of the body for certain nutrients. have iron-deficiency anemia. Filling-up the nutrient gap experienced by children improves their nutritional status. Iron-deficiency anemia or IDA is a condition where an individual has hemo- Beverage as a vehicle for fortification globin level below the acceptable normal is easy to administer, more consistent and level of 120 grams/liter because of pro- least obstructive because it is consumed longed low intake of iron-rich foods. without further processing or cooking. Nutrijuice is an orange-based juice drink As reported in the same survey, enriched with iron, vitamins A and C, zinc households who get adequate amounts and lysine. body including the brain. Vitamins A and of iron from their diet is only 1 out of 10 C and zinc help in improving the immune households while households getting ad- Iron is the main component of the response to fight against infections while equate vitamin A is only 2 out of 10. Only red blood cells for the development of zinc promotes growth and lysine helps im- 3 out of 10 households have adequate hemoglobin that delivers oxygen from proves appetite. amounts of vitamin C and calories. the lungs to the different parts of the

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 4 what’s COOL?

DOST-PTRI team gets 2011 PAGASA award By George Robert E. Valencia III S&T Media Service, STII

The team led by Ms. Nora Mangalindan, in DOST-PTRI early in 2012, and garment Through the Team’s efforts, the Research and Development (R&D) Division prototypes are being created from these country’s textile technology remains at Chief of DOST Philippine Textile Research sources. par with foreign counterparts, and prof- Institute (PTRI), was given this year’s its from some of its abundant natural PAGASA Award by the Philippine Civil When asked about the Team’s dy- resources. Service Commission (CSC). This honor is namics, Ms. Mangalindan said that theirs bestowed yearly to outstanding public is not so different from most government The DOST-PTRI R&D Team was for- officials and employees on the basis of groups. She said what is important is that mally bestowed the PAGASA Award at the their work performance and its impacts each member contributes his or her best Malacañang Palace last November 9, 2011, to society. effort to achieve the goal of the Institute by Philippine Executive Secretary Paquito being served, and do this with utmost Ochoa Jr.. The event was followed by a The Team earned this laurel by its transparency or integrity. Testimonial Dinner held at the Philippine active development of Philippine tropi- International Convention Center. cal fibers in its aim to help the country’s textile industry. Pineapple, abaca and banana, among other tropical fibers, are the team’s current priority. Blended with other textile fibers, these three are com- mercially recognized materials for appar- els, home linens and upholstery.

The team was able to establish tech- nologies that improve the rate of produc- tion and overall quality of the finished textiles from these sources. This accom- plishment even led to DOST-PTRI’s active participation in the authoring of Republic Act 9242 that prescribes all government officials and employees to use Philippine tropical fabrics as office uniforms back in 2004.

At present, the R&D Team also works The R&D team from the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Textile Research Institute bagged this year’s Pagasa Award of the Civil Service on the development of three other tropi- Commission. Awarded were (from left to right) Agustin Bordallo, Jr., Eduardo cal sources of fibers; namely, water hya- Marin, Nora Mangalindan, Rita Delfin, Marites de Leon, Ernesto Dangaran, Jr. cinth, jute plant or saluyot and maguey. and Ronald Pechera with their medals of honor from Civil Service Commission According to Ms. Mangalindan, this batch Chair Francisco Duque and Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr. at the of natural fibers will be formally launched Malacañang Palace.

Nutri-juice is a product of a public- of anemia decreased significantly from tritional status of children and could best private partnership that started when 100 percent at start of the feeding to 13 be sold in school canteens at an afford- Coca-Cola engaged in more nutritious percent at end of the feeding period. able cost to encourage consumption by products and tapped the FNRI to conduct children. a study on Nutrijuice and provide scientific In another study in Quirino province, evidences on its benefits. Nutrijuice was given to 5,000 school kids. For more information on food and nu- Similar results were revealed where anemia trition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, In the FNRI study, two 200 milliliter prevalence decreased from 100 percent to Director, Food and Nutrition Research Insti- pouches of Nutrijuice were given daily to 60 percent at end of the feeding period. tute, Department of Science and Technolo- school kids in Pinaglabanan Elementary Last year, Nutrijuice was given to about gy, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig School in San Juan Metro Manila for 100 30,000 kids nationwide. City; Tel/Fax Num: 8372934 and 8373164; days. email: [email protected], mar_v_c@ Based on the scientific evidences yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http:// Results showed that the percentage obtained, Nutrijuice can improve the nu- www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.

S&T POST 5 4QTR.2011 what’s COOL?

DOST-NRCP prez goes on air for int’l science confab By Joselito Alonte Carteciano S&T Media Service, NRCP – RIDD/IDS

building healthy public policy; creating The live interviewed was wrapped- supportive environments; developing up with Dr. Culaba’s message of grati- personal skills; strengthening com- tude to Lubao for the opportunity of munity action; and reorienting health disseminating the information regard- services. ing NRCP’s activity.

Meanwhile, Prof. Sootttiporn Chitt- The International Council for Sci- mittrapap, secretary general of the Na- ence Regional Office for Asia and the tional Research Council of Thailand will Pacific (ROAP) was established in Kuala present important issues about health Lumpur, Malaysia in September 2006 and well-being in a changing urban en- primarily to promote the development vironment. These will include relevant of science in the developing countries concerns on water, nutrients, food and Asia and strengthen their influence on health; housing, indoor environment international research. Since its foun- and health; transport, land use, out- dation, various countries hosted its an- door air quality, physical activity and nual committee meetings, Dr. Culaba health; urban waste (management) and said. health; energy and urban metabolism; as well as integrated system analysis. In 2010, during 11th committee meeting in Singapore, the previous Further, Prof. Hong-Kum Lee, NRCP President and DOST Philippine president of the Korea Polar Research Council for Health Research and Devel- Institute, Republic of Korea will dis- opment Executive Directtor Dr. Jaime C. cuss the advantages of the applica- Montoya represented the country. In In a live interview with ABS-CBN DZMM’s tion of “green productivity strategy” in February last year, Dr. Ester B. Ogena, Bago Yah, Ah! host Nelson Lubao last enhancing a nation’s productivity and chairperson of the NRCP Division for Sunday, October 23, 2011, National environmental performance to achieve governmental, educational, and inter- Research Council of the Philippines socio-economic development. Green national policies and president of the President Alvin B. Culaba announced productivity basically employs the ap- Philippine Normal University, repre- NRCP’s forthcoming major activity, the propriate techniques, technologies, sented the country through DOST-NRCP 12th International Council for Science and management system to produce at the ICSU Ad Hoc Review Panel on (ICSU) Regional Committee Meeting for environmentally compatible goods and Science Education in Paris, France. Asia and the Pacific. The conference services, Dr. Culaba informed. Bago Yan, Ah! produced by the will be held on 11 – 12 November 2011 On Lubao’s inquiry on the com- ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc., is an edu- at Marriott Hotel Cebu in Cebu City. position of participants, Dr. Culaba said cational radio program that airs ev- According to Dr. Culaba, the con- that the conference will have partici- ery Sunday, 4:30-6:00 PM, over DZMM ference will feature the sharing best pants from other member-nations in- (630kHz) and telecast via ANC Channel. practices and lessons in science and cluding China, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, For years now, the program has been an health education promotion, green pro- India, Iran, and Sri Lanka. On the local effective medium in developing science ductivity strategy, and other issues in a front, over a hundred NRCP members and technology culture among Filipinos, changing urban environment. from Mindanao and Visayas will con- especially the youth. It features topics vene at the Central Mindanao Univer- and discussions that will increase the Prof. Bruce H. John McKellar, chair sity and the University of the Philip- comprehension and appreciation of of the School of Physics in the Univer- pines Tacloban, respectively, for their Filipinos for science and technology. It sity of Melbourne, Australia will talk annual general assembly that coincides also provides Filipino listeners access about Australia’s experience in promot- with the ICSU activity. Meanwhile, in- to valuable information that educate ing science and health education, and vited NRCP members from Luzon will and empower them to make the right in enhancing public awareness on gov- converge at the NRCP conference hall choices and decisions, as well as to im- ernment science policies. Prof. McKel- at its office in Taguig City for panel dis- prove the quality of their lives. Con- lar’s discussion will also touch on Aus- cussions via web-video conference with gressman Angelo B. Palmones hosted tralia’s strategies in carrying out the their colleagues in the Vis-Min areas, the program for 12 years until his re- five health promotion areas namely: Dr. Culaba added. tirement on 2009.

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 6 what’s COOL?

DOST to partner closely with health industry management sector By Alan Taule S&T Media Service, STII

DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo (seated, center right) with the officers of the Healthcare Information Management OutsourcingAssociation of the Philippines (HIMOAP). Seated from the left are ICTO Commissioner Monchito Ibrahim, ICTO Executive Director Louis Casambre, HIMOAP president Myla Rose Reyes (2nd from right), and eData Services CEO Fred Kumetz.

DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo Information and Communications Tech- opment since HIM is basically about expressed full support to the healthcare nology Office (ICTO), the DOST shall people helping people. information management sector, adding work closely with the Healthcare In- that the Department of Science and formation Management Outsourcing As- “We believe that one of govern- Technology is committed to engender sociation of the Philippines (HIMOAP) ment’s primary roles is to be an enabler, the right business environment for the to “zoom in and nurture the basic el- to create possibilities for the industry. industry to grow for years to come. ements needed for HIMOAP to achieve We can do this through our broad net- success and sustainability in a highly- work of experts across a wide range of The Science Secretary made this competitive global environment.” Spe- disciplines… We hope that HIMOAP can assurance at the opening ceremonies cifically, one of HIMOAP’s medium-term work with us to tap into this rich and of the 2nd Healthcare Information goals is to achieve an annual average extensive brainpower network,” Mon- Management Outsourcing Services Con- growth rate of 25 percent, hit revenues tejo said. gress, which brought together compa- of P43 billion, and generate 80,000 As an agency under the DOST wing, nies, regulators, and trade associations jobs by 2016. engaged in this field to discuss the lat- the ICTO shall be tasked with the ac- est developments and trends as well as “The government will focus on celerated development of a wired gov- the latest opportunities in healthcare the elements that can help sustain the ernment and integration of government information management (HIM). growth of the industry, such as educa- IT systems under a unified platform. tion and training support, customiza- Likewise, ICTO will concentrate on the In his keynote message, he paid tion of curricula, infrastructure buildup, areas of human resource development tribute to the contributions of the sec- and forward-looking investment incen- through education in order to produce tor to the domestic economy, with more tives,” explained Secretary Montejo. He globally competitive ICT manpower and than P4.323 billion in revenues and also added that government understood promoting a climate conducive for fur- 14,000 jobs generated in 2010. Monte- the fundamental importance of a holis- ther growth. jo said that through the newly-created tic human resource and industry devel-

S&T POST 7 4QTR.2011 what’sHITS COOL?UPDATE

TRC, NABCOR to set up rice Technology post-harvest facility in NE differences By Joseph U. Vizcarra do not hinder S&T Media Service, TRC

The Technology Resource Center Meanwhile, TRC has recently moved unified (TRC) and the National Agribusiness to its new location at Jacinta II Build- Corporation (NABCOR) have jointly ing, EDSA, Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati problem- committed to pool their resources to City (beside MMDA office) to be more help augment the country’s supply of accessible to Filipinos on the lookout solving, rice by setting up a rice post-harvest for feasible self-employment and entre- facility in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija. preneurship opportunities. says science TRC Director General Dennis Cu- TRC Director General Dennis L. Cu- chief nanan and NABCOR President Honesto nanan is optimistic that the relocation Baniqued said the joint project falls un- would translate into more and better By Alan Taule der the food sufficiency program of the public service opportunities for the 34- S&T Media Service, STII Aquino administration. Under the plan, year old government institution. ‘‘With Cunanan said the project would capital- increased public access to TRC’s more “Technology peculiarities must not ize on the post-harvest facility previ- popular services, such as our livelihood prevent nor detract us from a unified ously acquired by the TRC in the prov- trainings, library services and self- problem-solving approach to our shared ince. “With the strength of NABCOR’s learning technology manuals,” Cunanan but currently endangered fate and operational and technical expertise in noted, “we trust that more and more inheritance.” the industry, the project is indeed very entrepreneurs would get to take full promising,” Cunanan noted, “and we advantage of other opportunities the This was the central message of hope it is but the start of a long and government offers through the TRC’” DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo in enduring partnership between the two his keynote speech during the opening TRC is a government-owned and institutions.” ceremonies of the 2011-2012 Inter- controlled corporation (GOCC) under Sessional Panel of the United Nations TRC and NABCOR are both govern- the administrative supervision of DOST. Commission on Science and Technology ment-owned and controlled corpora- The agency is mandated to transform for Development (UNCSTD) at the New tions (GOCC’s). They are, respectively, the country’s technology assets into under the administrative supervision business success stories that redound World Hotel, Makati City of the Department of Science and Tech- to better life for the Filipinos. In his talk, Secretary Montejo rec- nology (DOST) and the Department of ognized the importance of science and Agriculture (DA). technology for development, particu- larly the role of information technology in shaping and reconfiguring today’s economic environment.

Yet he also acknowledged the pres- ence of a knowledge divide among de- veloped and developing countries, and that this gap is creating a tension of opposites in their hierarchy of needs.

As such, he said, it is urgent for UNCSTD Member States to identify im- mediate and pressing issues that com- monly affect them such as health and food security, as well as environment management and protection, among ERRATUM: many others. These issues, he said, are This should be the photo of Merl’s Suman sa Lihiya featured in the Third Quarter issue of S&T Post. We apologize for the error. to page 12

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 8 what’s COOL? NAST Academician gets top Southeast Asian Scientist Award By Alan C. Taule S&T Media Service, STII

NAST Academician Ramon C. Barba, this technology, he opted to forego mentary by the World Intellectual Prop- widely acknowledged as the country’s royalty payments so that Filipino man- erty Office as one of the role models for leading mango researcher, received the go farmers will be able to use it without creativity and innovation. 2011 Dioscoro L. Umali Achievement additional cost. Award in Agricultural Development in SEARCA Director Gil C. Saguiguit, ceremonies coinciding with the 45th Dr. Barba is also known for research Jr., UP Los Banos Chancellor Rex Victor founding anniversary of the Southeast breakthroughs in banana micropropa- O. Cruz, Dioscoro L. Umali Foundation Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study gation and tissue culture of sugarcane (DLUF) Nelia T. Gonzales, and National and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA). and calamansi that left lasting impacts Scientist Dolores A. Ramirez presented on the agribusiness potentials of such the Dioscoro L. Umali Award to Dr. Dr. Barba was cited for his many commodities in the global market. Barba. The Award is a collaboration be- groundbreaking contributions in agri- tween the National Academy of Science culture, especially on the mango fruit— Throughout his productive ca- and Technology, SEARCA, and DLUF. foremost of which is his 1974 discovery reer, Dr. Barba has been cited for his of mango flower induction by potassi- research achievements, including the The Award was named in honor of um nitrate. His discovery, which led to NAST Academician in 2004, IBM/DOST the late National Scientist and first Di- a significant increase in flower produc- Science and Technology Award in 1989, rector of SEARCA. It is conferred to an tion which allowed growers to program Rizal Pro Patria Presidential Award for outstanding Southeast Asian national mango production according to market Tissue Culture in 1980, and as among whose work has positively impacted on demands, facilitated the development the Ten Outstanding Young Men in 1974 the development of agriculture and the of agribusiness ventures throughout for agriculture. quality of rural community life in the the country. region. It comes with a cash award of He also appeared in a 2008 docu- US$10,000 and a plaque of citation. Yet despite holding a patent for

Dr. Ramon C. Barba receives the Dioscoro L. Umali Achievement Award at SEARCA, UP Los Banos. From left are SEARCA Director Gil C. Saguigit, Jr., former FNRI Director Corazon V.C. Barba (spouse of the awardee), Dr. Barba, DLUF President Nelia T. Gonzales, and National Scientist Dolores A. Ramirez.

S&T POST 9 4QTR.2011 what’sHITS COOL?UPDATE

IPO Phil boss urges more Davao inventions By Joy M. Lazcano S&T Media Service, STII

“There is money in invention and gao” in third. innovation,” Intellectual Property Philippines Director General Ricardo While winners in the Undergradu- Blancaflor pointed out even as he urged ate Creative Poster Exhibit are Mr. Mel- Southern Mindanao inventors to invent vin S. Pasaporte, MitchellRey M. Toleco, and innovate more technologies to help and Dulce M. Flores, Ph.D. of the Uni- in the country’s development. versity of the Philippines Mindanao for the research “Lutein Content of During the closing ceremony of the Selected Local Fruit and Vegetables”; Regional Invention Contests and Exhib- Maureen Betty A. Braga, Alexis Nico S. its 2011(RICE) Nov. 20 hosted by the De Manuel, Charmae A. De Paz, Chris- Department of Science and Technology tina A. Jamora, Rucill Margarett Q. Pe- Region 11 at the NCCC Mall, Davao City, ñaloga, Romwil Jasan M. Sedano, and DG Blancaflor said that inventions and Crystal Joy L. Seloterio of the San Pedro innovations generate patents, trade- College for the “Determination of Total marks, and copy rights which in turn Mercury in Yellow fin Tuna (Thunnus are translated to economic progress albacores) Sold in Bankerohan Public and development. Market, Davao City”; Dulce M. Flores, Ph.D. (Adviser), Ms. Kristine Mae Y. Intellectual Property Philippines Direc- Blancaflor cited a popular fast Abao, and MitchellRey M. Toleco of UP tor General Ricardo Blancaflor urged food chain in the country specializing Mindanao for the “Inhibition of Angio- Southern Mindanao inventors to in- in roasted chicken which was sold a tensin I-Converting Enzyme (ACE) by vent and innovate more technologies few years back to another fast food gi- Indigenous Fermented Foods”. to help in the country’s development. ant for a whopping Php 3 billion. “The (Photo by Framelia V. Anonas, S&T price tag for the company’s trademark In the Graduate Creative Health Media Service) alone is estimated at Php 2 billion,” he Product Exhibit category, winners are revealed. Michael A. Casas of Philippine Science Highschool-Southern Mindanao Campus lococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Meanwhile, Dr. Warlito Vicente, for his “Optimization of Pectin Extrac- Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmo- Chairperson for the Regional Health tion from the Peels of Citrus microcarpa nella enteriditis”; Mary Therese Docoy, Research and Development Council (Kalamansi) and Proximate Analysis of Kent Raven Olario, with Mrs. Lorena B. (RHRDC) was overwhelmed at the warm the Residue for Selected Parameters”; Alcanzar (Adviser) for the Antibacterial response of the local inventors in the Florie C. Casalan of University of Im- Property of Atis (Annona squamosa L.) first Health Research and Development maculate Concepcion for her “Liquid Leaves and Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Expo held simultaneously during the Dishwashing Soap” and “Passion Fruit Extracts against Salmonella enter- RICE 2011. Soap”. itidis, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Winners for the Graduate Creative In the Highschool Oral Health Re- Poster Exhibit include Herman L. So- search Competition all winners came While in the Undergraduate Oral rongon, Jr., MD, FPUA, Glinard L. Queza- from the University of Immaculate Health Research Competition winners da, MD,Katrina Jo. T. Caballero, MD. of Concepcion - High School Department are Dawn Emeral delos Santos, Ian Oli- Davao Doctors Hospital for their “Lap- and they are Jannah Razel P. Barluado, ver Caluag, Stephanie Hannah Dapanas, aroscopic Management for Left Ovarian and Mrs. Lorena Alcanzar (Adviser) of Kirby Kate Devaras, Jean Dianne Son Vein Syndrome: A Case Report” in first for the “Saba Banana (Musa acumina- with Prof. Fatima May R. Tesoro, MSP- place; Glinard L. Quezada, MD, Anthony ta x balbisiana colla (ABB Group) cv. harm, RPh (Adviser) of the San Pedro D. Araral, MD for the “Comparison of Saba) Peelings as Potential Calcium College for the “Cholesterol Lowering Gastrointestinal Symptoms Before and and Potassium Supplement”; Marie Activity of Flavonoids from Persea amer- After Surgery in Patients who Under- Xandria Kintanar and Aldrick Oropa icana (Avocado) Leaf Tea”; Rogelio L. went Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy” in with Mrs. Lorena B. Rivera, Jr., Irene Vie G. Itable, Chrismy second and Ofelia C. Lariego, RN, MAN Alcanzar (Adviser) for their “Antiseptic Shane M. Daquiado with Ms. Judee N. of the University of Mindanao for her Properties of Jackfruit (Artocarpus het- Nogodula (Adviser) of the University of research on “Development of Dengue erophyllus) Leaves, Stem, Bark, Roots, Elimination and Control Program for Se- Ripe and Unripe Peelings Extracts continued next page lected Areas of Catigan Toril and Binu- Against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphy-

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 10 DOST NEWS

DOST experts iron out tech transfer, intellectual property guidelines

“The most important thing is for of 2009 and its Implementing Rules and the need to protect intellectual prop- researchers to understand the full Regulations. The workshop also aimed erty to preserve the integrity of the impact of why government is awarding to draw their vital inputs and sugges- creative process, and the societal ob- them money from the Filipino people.” tions that will lay the beginnings for ligation to bring these research results a new, more relevant and appropriate to benefit humankind in general, like This was the central message by policy on intellectual property under in the ongoing race to stop the spread DOST Planning and Evaluation Service the new legislative environment. of dengue. Director Bernie S. Justimbaste when he welcomed the participants of the Dr. Albert P. Aquino, director of Moreover, Undersecretary de la DOST-Wide Consultative Workshop on the Socio-Economic Research Division Peña emphasized that because of their the Proposed Guidelines on Intellectual of the Philippine Council for Agricul- general tone of openness and transpar- Property (IP) Valuation, Commercializa- ture, Aquatic and Marine, Forestry, and ency, these guidelines call for RDIs to tion, and Information Sharing, and the Natural Resources Research and Devel- establish technology transfer protocols DOST IP Policy. opment (PCAARRD), hosted the event to determine, among others, the most and discussed the highlights of the efficient modes of transfer or commer- Hinged on the idea that scientif- tech transfer law. cialization of their research outputs. ic discovery is a human achievement, Justimbaste said that people who re- Particularly, Aquino idenified the At the end of the workshop, a ceived government grants to advance rights and responsibilities of govern- number of valuable inputs were derived the frontiers of scientific knowledge ment funding agencies (GFAs), research from the workshop proper. Among the and understanding must be obligated and development institutions (RDIs), most notable is the need for greater to take the next step. This means that and researchers. The primary purpose of legal guidance in the standing prohibi- they should now put such discoveries the law is to ensure that the results of tion of copyright ownership by govern- to benefit the most number of people publicly-funded research projects reach ment researchers and the legal means in the form of new products, processes, the Filipino people in the form of new to circumvent it, and on being properly and services. products, know-how, and services, he advised when researchers opt to estab- said. lish spin-off firms. Such is the overarching goal of RA 10055 or the Philippine Technol- Meanwhile, DOST Undersecretary Likewise, it was agreed by the ogy Transfer Act of 2009, Justimbaste for S&T Services Fortunato T. de la Peña participants for the creation of a DOST- added. discussed the salient features of the Wide Committee to craft a new IP Pol- proposed guidelines, highlighting their icy for the Department that will serve Held at the DOST Executive Lounge key purpose as a general framework for as template for non-DOST GFAs , and on 11 October 2011, this Consultative all parties involved in the research ef- to set a series of “appreciation discus- Workshop was conducted for the pur- fort. sions” with GFAs and RDIs to hammer pose of introducing to the DOST system home the fundamental value of these said guidelines, which were the result These guidelines, he said, should new law, regulations, and guidelines. of the passing of Republic Act 10055 or aim for a balanced equation between (Alan C. Taule, S&T Media Service) the Philippine Technology Transfer Act

IPO PHIL . . from p12

Immaculate Concepcion for their “Phy- Finally, in the Graduate Oral Health viser) for their “Pediatric Nutritional tochemical and Antimicrobial Screen- Research Competition all winners came Screening Tool to Identify Children at ings of Five Medicinal Plants used ad from the davao Doctors Hospital with Risk of Malnutrition in a Tertiary Hospi- Folkloric Medicine by Mindanaoan Heather C. De Vera, MD,and Rizalina K. tal in Davao City”; and Janice M. Cezar, Lumads”; while Grace Chen L. Lauza, Mata, MD (Adviser) placed first for their MD, and Ninfa J. Villanueva, MD (Ad- Jeanie C. Majarucon, and Sarah Kay P. “A Randomized Controlled Study on the viser) for the “Mitral Valve Regurgita- Pudpud placed third for the “Safety and Use of Guava Leaves Extract (Psidium tion and its Correlation with the CPKMB Efficacy of Formulated Syrup from Pas- guajava) Ointment Compared to Mupi- Level and Clinical Findings in Childern sion Fruit (Passiflora edulis flavicarpa) rocin Ointment for Treatment of Impe- with Dengue Fever and Dengue Hemor- Peel Extract as an Anti-inflammatory tigo in Children”; second place winners rhagic Fever Admitted at the Pediatric Agent against Carrageenan-induced were Christine Angeline Taneng, MD, Intensive Care Unit (PICU) in a Tertiary Paw Edema of Albino Rats”. and Ameleen B. Bangayan, MD (Ad- Hospital in Davao City”.

S&T POST 11 4QTR.2011 DOST FEATNEWSURES One-stop shop of assistance to MSMEs eyed By Joy M. Lazcano S&T Media Service, STII

Various regional service offices of on the first quarter of next year,” DOST reflect the names of the agencies in- the government plan on creating a one- Regional Director Alexander Madrigal volved,’ Madrigal explained. -stop shop of government assistance revealed. to the micro, small, and medium “Imagine DOST could provide sci- enterprises (MSMEs) in Region 4-A. The plan will create a pool of gov- ence based technologies that will suite ernment assistance ready for discharge a product, DA could provide the entre- The move is dubbed as the conver- according to the need of a particular preneur with links on where to get raw gence of support to MSMEs and jump- MSME. This will complement and opti- materials while DTI could help in the started a One Fair, One Exhibit that mize the various assistances given by marketing of these products through lo- featured MSMEs that were recipients the government. cal and national trade fairs ”, Madrigal of various government assistance that elaborated. supported their growth in the market. According to Madrigal, government line agencies have various programs Madrigal also said that the Region- and expertise that offer to support the al Development Council in Region 4-A The initiative has received the nod growth of MSMEs especially in the rural could lead all the agencies involved. from various government line agencies areas. “It would be great if the gov- such as the Department of Science and ernment could offer a one-stop shop of Moreover, Sta. Rosa Mayor Arlene Technology (DOST), Department of Ag- assistance to our small enterprises to Arcillas has pledge her support over the riculture (DA), Department of Agrarian complement the limited government planned support convergence in the re- Reform (DAR), Department of Trade and resources,” explained Madrigal. gion. “This is the city’s way of support- Industry (DTI) and Bureau of Fisheries ing our local MSMEs,” Arcillas said. and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). Madrigal added that the harmony between government agencies is a vi- And as an expression of support “We plan to launch this initiative tal component of the firm’s success. and solidarity, representatives of vari- and come up with the terms of reference “Through this initiative, you will only ous agencies have signed the commit- on how we can harmonize the various see the line ‘Government-assisted prod- ment board during the launching cer- government assistances to our MSMEs uct” in the labels and will no longer emonies.

TECHNOLOGY . . from p8

prompted by rapid population growth “The power of ICT becomes a criti- Nations system. and increased domestic and cross-bor- cal enabling tool,” Montejo said. “I am der mobility. hopeful we can try and reach a mutual- At the 14th UNCSTD Session in ly-acceptable working agreement on in- Geneva, DOST Undersecretary Fortunato “These pervasive concerns should formation and technology exchanges.” T. de la Pena was elected Chair for the lead us to agree on a joint strategy or 15th Session of the Commission. strategies to cut down and manage the The United Nations Commission risks, [since] shared risks can be best on Science and Technology for Devel- The 2011-2012 Inter-Sessional managed through shared resources,” opment was established in 1992 to Panel addresses two priority themes: (1) Montejo pointed out. “In this way, we serve as a forum for the following ob- innovation, research, technology trans- raise our chances to overcome any out- jectives: (1) the examination of science fer for mutual advantage, entrepreneur- sized and compelling threat.” and technology questions and their ship and collaborative development in implications for development; (2) the the information society; (2) open ac- The solution, he suggested, lies in advancement of understanding on S&T cess, virtual science libraries, geospa- creating more clearly-defined informa- policies, particularly in respect to de- tial analysis and other complementary tion sharing arrangements to deepen veloping countries; and (3) the formu- ICT, S&T, engineering, and mathematics the knowledge base of individual coun- lation of recommendations and guide- assets to address development issues, tries, step up technology development, lines on S&T matters within the United with particular attention to education. and optimize benefits.

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 12 DOST NEWS? High cost in knowledge and technology hinders innovation By Joy M. Lazcano S&T Media Service, STII

The high cost for knowledge and Activities (SIA) studied 500 establish- micro-establishments and about a half technology is regarded as one of the ments from four study areas of Quezon for small firms. barriers for firms in the country to make City, Metro-Cebu, Davao City, and the bold steps in innovating products and Philippine Economic Zone Authority in About two in five firms are prod- services. Cavite and Laguna. uct innovators and 44 percent are pro- cess innovators. This was revealed in a survey The survey is a joint activity by conducted by the Department of Sci- DOST, International Development Re- According to DOST Undersecretary ence and Technology (DOST) aimed at search Centre, National Statistics Office and Chairman of the Filipinnovation generating baseline information on in- and with assistance from the Philip- Fortunato T. De la Peña, “The 2009 SIA novative behavior of establishments as pine Institute for Development Studies is a government initiative that aims to a basis for government policies in the (PIDS). give us a better understanding of the future. present situation of our local firms and Other barriers that hinder com- also to provide us with indicators for Experts describe innovation as the panies to make necessary innovations, benchmarking our national performance major economic driver on productiv- the survey showed, include the limited in relation to innovation.” ity and competitiveness of companies. government support to medium sized According to Dr. Jose Ramon Albert, firms and the lack of knowledge link- However, the 2009 SIA recom- Senior Research Fellow of PIDS, “In- ages from the government and research mends further strengthening of the novation need not be purely technol- institutions. policy framework for innovation. It ogy based, it could be in the form of suggests that government should be organizational innovation or marketing The survey also revealed that aggressive in promoting its various innovations.” about two-thirds of medium and large programs supporting small to medium establishments are involved in innova- enterprises in developing innovations The 2009 Survey of Innovation tion activities compared to a third for in products and services. PCHRD GC OKs new set of R&D projects By Edmon B. Agron S&T Media Service, PCHRD

The Philippine Council for Health toes in Cebu City; ratory in the Philippines is expected to Research and Development (PCHRD) • Nutritional, therapeutic and prophylac- produce a rapid, low cost and accurate Governing Council in its 125th Meeting tic properties of Malunggay (Moringa diagnostic method in detecting tubercu- held 5 October 2011 approved several olifera); and losis. Through this project, the conven- projects, bringing a total of 29 new R&D • Development, technical and clinical tional 6-8 week period of TB detection projects approved for the year. testing of Philippine-made volume- will hopefully be reduced to approximate- cycled mechanical ventilator. ly 1-2 weeks. This will improve disease PCHRD Executive Director Dr. Jaime management through early detection and Montoya said that as of September 2011, application of appropriate treatment and “we have 12 completed and 65 on-going PCHRD priorities for 2011-2016 in- will prevent or minimize the development projects.” clude discovery of new drugs from natural of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR- substances, development of diagnostic TB) in the country. The approved projects are the fol- kits for priority diseases, genome and lowing: molecular technology applications, ICT Meanwhile, the study on the natural applications for health, development of transovarial transmission of dengue virus • Study on the usefulness of microscopic hospital equipments and biomedical de- in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes will validate observation drug-susceptibility (MODS) vices and functional foods research, Mon- whether the acquired virus of an adult fe- assay in a level II mycobacteriology toya revealed. male mosquito can be transferred to its laboratory in the Philippine setting; succeeding generations through “vertical • Natural transovarial transmission of The study on the usefulness of MODS route” transmission. dengue virus in Aedes egypti mosqui- Assay in a level II mycobacteriology labo-

S&T POST 13 4QTR.2011 FEATURE

Natural dye industry in PH in living color By Joy Camille A. Baldo S&T Media Service, PTRI

he DOST’s Philippine Textile Under PTRI’s leadership, the commercialized the technology in Research Institute (PTRI) is project steadily realized its goals for response to the growing demand in Tat full blast to empower the the past two years of implementation. the local market, resulting in a five country’s natural dye industry through In partnership with Aklan State percent increase in his income as a holistic approach to revive an University (ASU), the Institute led commercial producer of the indigo existing Natural Dye Common Service the set-up and maintenance of a powder. Facility (CSF) in Aklan. This endeavor, demonstration plantation of indigo “To date, we have transferred the resulting from the collaboration and marigold inside the Banga Campus technology to ASU in order to sustain between PTRI and the Rural of ASU to provide ample raw materials the increasing demand for Philippine Development Administration (RDA) of for research and production purposes. indigo dye powder,” she added. In Korea, strives to reinforce and enhance The indigo and marigold plants were addition to the marigold, three more the capabilities of the Natural Dye eventually propagated in large scale. Korean dye sources, safflower, bamboo, CSF in Aklan through the intervention “Currently, there is a huge and sappan, are also currently of Korean natural dye technologies, and urgent demand for Philippine propagated. The technology involved products, and marketing approaches. indigo dye, thus we have opted in the use and application of these Fueled by a grant from the RDA of to focus on the development of a three Korean dye sources are being Korea worth US$15,000 and US$2,500 post-harvest technology for its dye adopted at the Aklan CSF. Researches from DOST, the three-year project powder processing,” said Cariño. In conducted by PTRI confirmed the entails a bottom-up approach towards fact, Philippine exporting companies quality of dye sources propagated a sustainable natural dye industry for Soumak Collections and Eairth, whose in Aklan as comparable to other dye the province. “The project aims to indigo powders were initially sourced sources from other locations, as well establish a small scale demonstration from China, are now buying their as that obtained from PTRI. plantation of selected dye sources, indigo dye powders from Aklan CSF. The project is also well on its way improve manpower and natural dyeing Their product line ranges from linens, in creating a team of experts on the facilities of the Aklan CSF, and adopt, bags, shawls, apparels and accessories development, upgrading, improvement, transfer and verify Korean natural dye inspired by traditional designs in the and application of natural dye technologies for local use,” explained country, which are all being marketed technologies in the province. As a Ms. Argentina Cariño of PTRI’s internationally in the Asia-Pacific, start, PTRI acquired and fabricated Research and Development Division Europe, and North America. additional dyeing equipment, auxiliary (RDD). “It will also determine the “The indigo dye powder chemicals and other materials growth, yield and economic rotation production technology is also being needed for the Aklan CSF. Through of a managed natural dyes plantation adopted in Aurora and Negros the International Symposium and as well as its production cost and Occidental,” shares Ms. Cariño. Exhibition on Natural Dyes held in investment returns,” she added. Ruben Teh of Baler, Aurora has Korea, PTRI natural dye experts,

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 14 FEATURE

Small scale natural dye farm; Makato, Aklan, Philippines

Julius Leaño and Rudy Fenoy, learned Handicraft of Aklan Multi-purpose and 2011 New York Fashion Week. techniques in the extraction, dye Cooperative (HAMPCO). Ms. Cariño On its third year (2012), the application and processing of natural recalled the gratitude expressed by project assures a significant leap dyes, as well as farm management and the trainees, especially the dyers who in the natural dye industry through post harvest technologies from Korean have been exposed to high toxicity a series of activities and outputs experts as well as other nationals. levels from the use of synthetic dyes including a natural dye technology The learnings were echoed by PTRI for years. symposium and conference; to the Aklan CSF dyers. “The piña Impact assessment on the development of a website dedicated weaving industry of Aklan has greatly weaving industries in Aklan which for the Aklan CSF and natural dye benefitted from the training courses received training on the extraction and technology development efforts in conducted by PTRI on natural dyeing application of natural dyes on piña, the country as a whole; publication of handwoven piña, piña-seda and piña-silk and abaca fabrics revealed of technical papers and journals on abaca fabrics,” shared Ms. Cariño. very positive feedback. The training the researches conducted at the CSF; The Aklan CSF now caters to recipients reported a very promising and production of natural dyeing the weavers, entrepreneurs and 5 to 10 percent increase in their sales instructional videos and materials to manufacturers who outsource dyeing after only three months from the aide trainings. services. It provides natural dyeing conduct of training. With the heightened global services to Aklan-based weaving To complete the package of clamor for eco-friendly products, the companies and PTRI’s SME partners services for the industry, PTRI shall use of natural dyes is sure to add a like the Dela Cruz House of Piña, be assisting the enterprises on the premium value to the high-quality La Herminia Piña Weaving Industry, proper labeling of their naturally- products of the weaving industries Soumak Collections and Eairth. All of dyed products. Labels shall include in Aklan. “Establishing a natural dye these enterprises capitalize on the the colorfastness rating of the dyed industry in Aklan has great potential manufacture and trade of naturally- fabrics as well as the proper handling to become one of the province’s major dyed products. which includes washing, ironing, and industries to complement its growing Encouraged by the weaving others. The naturally-dyed fabrics and lucrative industry of handweaving industries’ clamor for eco-friendly apparels are also being promoted in piña, piña-seda and abaca fibers,” products, PTRI expanded the scope collaboration with various weavers and said PTRI Director Carlos Tomboc. of natural dyeing application thru fashion designers. A New York-based “With continued efforts to boost the intensive trainings for textiles Filipino Fashion Designer, Anthony Cruz natural dye industry in the province, and crafts businesses as well as Legarda featured naturally-dyed piña, we can guarantee that the natural dye independent enterprises in Aklan piña-seda and other indigenous fibers industry in the country is headed for such as the Dela Cruz House of Piña, in his collection showcased at the 2010 better days,” he added. the Heritage Arts and Crafts, and the

S&T POST 15 4QTR.2011 special report

DOST 2011 and beyond

By Aristotle P. Carandang and Framelia V. Anonas Science for the Filipinos

“One time, one goal, one direc- outcomes that lead the nation closer 2011. Its increased visibility in all tion, one thinking.” This is how Sec- to development goals embodied in media – print, broadcast (television retary Mario G. Montejo sees the the President’s social contract with and radio), and cyber – has led to a Department of Science and Technol- the Filipino people.” more promising reality in terms of ogy running during his term. He be- letting the people know of DOST’s Science and technology cover lieves Nasa Siyensiya ang Pag-asa programs and activities that help such a broad range, making it both a (In science, there is hope) – a battle alleviate their lot. Among the most challenge and an opportunity to the cry that became the theme of the notable technologies and services DOST family. 2011 National Science and Technol- the Department launched and pur- ogy Week. “The DOST is blessed by the fact sued in 2011 include the following: that we are given the opportunity to Trying to solidify the core – the Ovicidal-Larvicidal (OL) Trap. serve our people in almost every as- diverse DOST system composed of Composed of a black canister, la- pect of their lives – from health to 20 agencies and 16 regional offices, wanit strip and organic pellets to food to energy to education to trans- Secretary Montejo underscored the be mixed into a water solution, this portation, clothing, and entrepre- goals of the Department: 1) Use kit attracts female mosquitoes to lay neurship,” DOST Undersecretary S&T to attain maximum socio-eco- eggs on the solution-drenched la- Fortunato T. Dela Peña explained. nomic benefit for the Filipino Peo- wanit strip then kills the eggs and ple; 2) Use S&T to find solutions; 3) “I believe DOST is also blessed larvae. Develop appropriate technology for because we have good people, good countryside development; 4) Use S& Drug Development. Continu- managers and good co-operators. We T to make our industries competi- ing its research successes in the now are also fortunate that the national tive; 5) Develop emerging technolo- well-known medicines that were leadership and many people from gies; and 5) Use S&T to deliver gov- developed from endemic local me- the legislative and other branches of ernment services. dicinal plants, DOST gets deeper government have faith in DOST,” he in developing drug solutions to fight added. Resources are limited as they dengue, cancer, and emerging and always are in government offices, Accomplishments in 2011 neglected tropical diseases. but Secretary Montejo assured, “The DOST continues to reorient and re- Undeniably, the Department Nanoclay Water Filter. Using direct its efforts towards achieving became very visible in the year nanotechnology, this water filter

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 16 special report

Science for the Filipinos

uses a special kind of clay to filter and 3) proper nutrition training of the two emerging sciences have very water and make it clean, potable, health workers, barangay nutrition good potential applications in the and safe. scholars, and mothers. country that promise to have signifi- cant economic and social returns; Automated Guideway Transit. SETUP. The Small Enterprise thus, researches and activities along This is a mass transport system that Technology Upgrading Program these areas are highly encouraged. uses a single rail as its guideway. provides a package of intervention DOST has high hopes that the AGT to micro, small and medium entre- Scholarships and Human Re- will help bring people to their des- preneurs to help them make a crack source Development. DOST pro- tinations faster and safer at a less in the market. vides scholarship from secondary to cost. tertiary to graduate and post-gradu- Technology-related policies. ate, and also provides and supports Automatic Weather Stations (RA 10055, IP Valuation, assistance training to develop and strengthen a and other equipment. These facili- to researchers and inventors, etc.) critical mass of experts in the S&T ties, using models, detect weather These policies lay down the ground sector. conditions and can be used to predict to enable the DOST to extend more up to a seven-day weather outlook. support to its clientele, such as re- Juan Time. In a country that searchers, entrepreneurs, technol- has cultural and geographical di- Flood Sensors. These equipment ogy adoptors, inventors, etc. versity, the best common factor that have special sensors that measure can unite all people in its 7,100 is- rainfall and predict possible floods. Laboratory Services. The labo- lands is time. Through the Philip- ratories in the DOST research insti- pine Standard Time (PST) set by PINOY Foods. In its constant tutions and regional offices are con- DOST as the official timekeeper of fight against malnutrition, DOST tinuously upgraded to ensure that the country, Philippine residents developed the Package for the Im- accurate and quality analytical, cali- can synchronize time pieces to have provement of Nutrition of Young bration, and metrological testings only one (“Juan”) time. Children with three components, continue to be benchmarks in stan- namely 1) the development of com- dard and accuracy in the country. STARBOOKS. The S&T Aca- plementary food mixes for children demic and Research-Based Openly- 6-35 months old, 2) a 120-day feed- Biotechnology, Genomics, and Operated KioskS are stand-alone ing of food mixes to local children, Nanotechnology. Biotechnology and digital libraries that can be installed

S&T POST 17 4QTR.2011 spSePcECiaIAlL reRporEPORtT

their productivity, profitability and ability to employ more Filipinos. We will be able to achieve these – our targets, our consensus, coherence, collaboration and commitment on all initiatives that you have presented,” Sec. Montejo assured to all those present during the planning activ- ity.

DOST management also em- phasized the importance of several activities that have to be practiced in every DOST office and agency to keep things running well. Among these are creating or creativity, planning, communicating, organiz- ing, motivating, and controlling. in public libraries and other estab- Emphasizing the importance “The other things that we need lishments to make S&T informa- of said planning activity in DOST’s to look at are embodied in our Filipin- tion more accessible to people in the directions in 2012, Sec. Montejo novation strategies such as investing countryside. said, “We are a unique agency of in human capital development; ex- government because our role is de- Information Dissemination. panding our technology business in- velopmental in an area which has S&T information is itself a commod- cubation and acceleration programs; shown stability to contribute signifi- ity that is marketed to various sec- regenerating the policy environment cantly to a nation’s development and tors. Thus DOST is on the offensive for innovations; and influencing the growth in science and technology.” when it comes to information dis- Filipino mindset regarding the role of innovations, science and technolo- semination to meet the information With an average of 10 pro- gy in the improvement of the quality needs of its various clientele. It has grams per agency, DOST, according of lives of Filipinos,” Secretary Mon- also joined the social media band- to Usec. dela Peña, looks forward to tejo disclosed. He added that amid wagon to make the Department around 200 breakthroughs next year all the efforts of the entire Depart- more accessible to the masses, as “which will show to our people that ment, the DOST family always has well as to generate feedback from its local technology works. various audiences. to be scientific, innovative, relevant, The DOST Secretary was opti- humane and upright. Plans and programs in mistic that by December 2012, the 2012 and beyond Department can announce to the The Councils Filipinos and to the world that there To integrate all activities for the The year 2011 witnessed major would be accomplishments in drug coming year, DOST held recently in changes in the organizational struc- discovery, services to the electronics Subic, Zambales a planning activ- ture of Department when some of its and semiconductors industry, solar ity that gathered the Department’s sectoral planning councils merged. desalination, forensic science, probi- executive and management commit- From the original five councils, there otics, disaster risk 3D mapping, pro- tees. The planning activity had the are now three—less in number but viding access to high quality seeds, following objectives: 1) To achieve a fortified in strength. coral restoration, thin client comput- better understanding and apprecia- ing, water treatment technologies, There emerged during the year tion of the programs being initiated nanoprocessed textiles, prepara- the Philippine Council for Agricul- by different DOST agencies; 2) To tion of radiopharmaceuticals, AGT ture, Aquatic, and Forestry Research attain greater 4 Cs – consensus, co- transport systems, and addressing and Development or PCAARRD herence, collaboration and commit- malnutrition, among others. from the merging of the Philippine ment – on said program initiatives; Council for Agriculture, Forestry and 3) To lay down organizational “Imagine also the impact of ex- and Natural Resources Research strategies to facilitate their 2012 isting 559 small and medium enter- and Development (PCARRD) and implementation. prises (SMEs) that have improved the Philippine Council for Aquatic

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 18 special report cies, knowledge and information, practices, and innovations. In the and Marine Research and Develop- Network (NARRDN), will support next five years, PCAARRD hopes ment (PCAMRD). In the pre- 29 priority commodities, in which that its efforts will prove beneficial vious year, the Philippine Council nine are of national priority. Among not just for the AFNR sector but also for Industry, Energy, and Emerging the priorities include rice, climate to the quality of life of the people. Research and Technology Develop- change, vegetables, soil and water ment (PCIEERD) was created when resources, water management, crops For PCHRD, it has aligned it- the former Philippine Council for like mango and banana, goat, biofu- self to the Department’s thrusts and Industry and Energy Research and els, and watershed management. focuses on world-class and transfor- Development (PCIERD) was com- mational programs. The seven pro- NARRDN is composed of vari- bined with the Philippine Council grams for year 2012 and beyond are ous R&D partners, state universi- for Advanced Research and Develop- the following: ment (PCASTRD). Meanwhile, the ties and colleges (SUCs), research Philippine Council for Health Re- and development institutions (RDIs) Drug discovery. PCHRD is search and Development remains. and stakeholders. PCAARRD also studying tawa-tawa or euphorbia networks with other government hirta, to determine not only its sup- For PCAARRD, the next five agencies such as the Department of posed anti-viral and anti-inflamma- years will make S&T the driving Agrarian Reform (DAR) on commod- tory properties, but also its supposed force for the agriculture, fisher- ities such as cacao and coffee; the ability to help increase platelets in ies and natural resources (AFNR) Department of Agriculture (DA) on dengue patients. It is also looking sectors and as well as PCAARRD’s organic vegetables and pineapple; into immunoliposomes as vehicles latest addition, the marine sector, and the Department of Environment for drug delivery in cancer treat- through food production and nutri- and Natural Resources (DENR) on ment to specifically target cancer tional security; viable rural liveli- Giant Bamboo and vetiver cells thereby maximizing the dose of hood and increased farmers income; the drugs and minimizing their side PCAARRD’s HITS program is increased economic sustainability effects. and global competitiveness; and re- anchored on the goal of rolling out silient environment rehabilitation of mature technologies for farmers, Diagnostics. The Council is de- natural resources. entrepreneurs, and the industry. veloping rapid diagnostic confirma- PCAARRD employ three strategies tory test for dengue and MOD assay PCAARRD’s strategy is to trans- to boost increase productivity and for detection of multi-drug resistant form these agenda into concrete ac- improve the quality of S&T products: tuberculosis which will shorten the tion projects through the High Im- anchoring S&T products and servic- period in determining if the culture pact Technology Solutions or HITS. es; linking the stakeholders with the is positive for multi-drug resistant The Council, working together with industry; and providing major S&T tuberculosis. the National Agriculture and Re- interventions. sources Research and Development Hospital equipment and bio- Meanwhile, the Techno- medical devices. It will redevelop Mart Program, and redesign locally engineered PCAARRD has equipment and biomedical devices pushed agri-based that will be cheaper and more avail- products from the able to the Philippines. farms and communi- ties to the appropri- Genomics. A “Filipinized medi- ate markets. These cine” based on genetic make-up of greatly help our lo- the Filipinos wll be one important cal farmers and en- research in this field. trepreneurs get that Information and Communica- needed exposure on tion Technology in health. PCHRD their products and is pursuing the development of the the needed linkage Rx Box which is the heart of the tele- with key industry health program to enable Filipino players in the mar- patients from the far flung areas to ket. PCAARRD con- access best medical care. It is also tinuously strives to developing the Philippine National advance S&T poli-

S&T POST 19 4QTR.2011 spSePcECiaIAlL reRporEPORtT

Health Registry which will contain transport such as high-performance In 2011, some of the researches all the researches in the health sec- electric jeepney and customized lo- that were rolled out, commercial- tor and the Natural Products Re- cal road vehicle; renewable energy ized, and/or adapted were the OL search Database which will provide such as biogas systems, wind, solar Trap, iron-fortified rice, complemen- the possible candidates for the herb- thermal, micro hydro, and biofuels; tary foods, and nano water filter. al medicine program. and disaster risk reduction. This year, researches in the PCIEERD has likewise planned RDIs will concentrate on providing out its emerging technology sector. solutions to malnutrition through Functional Foods. The Council In genomics, PCIEERD will con- the development of mutiple micro- is looking at the nutritional health centrate on its health, agriculture, nutrient-based mix and extend- benefits of malunggay in terms of and biodiversity applications. In ing the shelf-life of brown rice and dietary fiber, composition, and bio- nanotechnology, focus of R&D will developing brown rice-based food availability of micronutrients such as be nanosensors and nanodiagnos- products, and nutrigenomics. For iron zinc and calcium, the efficacy of tics, nanostructures, nano-based transport sector applications, R&D malunggay in improving the health technologies, and nanometrology. will focus on the fabrication of elec- of children 8-10 years old, as well as In biotechnology, PCEERD will zero tric hybrid road train prototype; its lactogenic effects, anti-oxidant in on sago resource utilization, en- machine building and on machinery properties, glucose-lowering ability hancement of biotechnology prod- parts and accessories manufacture; and its effect on lipid profiles. ucts and services for food, feed and surface finishing technologies; and other agro-industrial applications, value adding of Philippine mineral Chronobiology. The agency and bio-energy. and metal resources. is consolidating the published re- searches about the health problems The RDIs R&D on nuclear S & T inter- of workers in the Business Process ventions will also zero in on solving Outsource industry. The immediate Pushing for more research and national problems such as portable goal is to develop research priorities development, the DOST has con- detection system for harmful algal and research strategies in address- tinued to strengthen its Research bloom toxin, new polymer products, ing the problems of the BPO indus- and Development Institutes (RDIs) and others; on enhancing national try. such as the Advanced Science and competitiveness such as the pro- Technology Institute (ASTI), Food duction and distribution of Tc-99m Meanwhile, PCIEERD will con- and Nutrition Research Institute generators, full automation of the centrate in implementing R&D solu- (FNRI), Forest Products Research Multipurpose Irradiation Facil- tions to high-impact industries, such and Development Institute (FPRDI), ity, radiation studies on Brontispa as mine and and minerals where it Industrial Technology Development longissima, and others; and nuclear will implement a better mine pro- Institute (ITDI), Metals Industry safety such as the formulation and gram through the development of Research and Development Center amendment of PNRI nuclear/ra- simple and adaptable technologies, (MIRDC), Philippine Nuclear Re- diation safety standards and regula- and technologies that will add value search Institute (PNRI), and Phil- tions. to the metals and mineral products. ippine Textile Research Institute In the semicon and electronics indus- (PTRI). In regard to forest products tries, the main activities will be as- R&D, DOST will concentrate on de- sembly and packaging of integrated Collectively, these RDIs have veloping appropriate technologies circuits. In the furniture Industry, extensively worked on various re- to create growth in the countryside PCIEERD is set to establish One- search and development activities which will be incorporated in FPR- Stop Shop Furniture Testing Center covering a wide range of works. DI’s Bamboo Enhancement S&T and Satellite Structural Furniture These include, among others, nano- Program, as well as the continu- Testing Center. Moreover, in the technology, genomics, biotechnolo- ous development and improvement Food Industry, PCIEERD will en- gy, information and communications of kilns and various dryers, and hance testing laboratories at RDIs technology, drugs development, in- of portable preservative treatment & DOST ROs. digenous fabrics and natural dyes, plant for bamboo and other wood metals, nuclear technology, and food products. FPRDI is also set to har- In its energy program, and nutrition – all with expected ap- ness technology to improve industry PCIEERD will focus on energy ef- plications to benefit individual Fili- competitiveness which it will imple- ficient technologies for office and pinos and the country in general. ment through the establishment of commercial buildings, sustainable

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 20 special report

Furniture Testing Centers, and the formation, human resource develop- municipality and 10 scholars per development of biomass pelletizer ment through scholarship programs, congressional district with no mu- and wood preservatives from indig- scientific-technological and popular nicipalities. Other programs such as enous materials. information and databases, inven- capacity building, Science Explorer, tions and inventors assistance in- and Science Camp will be revitalized For R&D on industrial technol- cluding intellectual property and in- in 2012. ogy, DOST through ITDI will con- tellectual property rights protection, tinue its initiatives in the design and livelihood assistance, among DOST scholars have shown and development of process equip- others. excellent achievements in national ment for food processing firms, and and international competitions, and of technologies with applications in The year 2011 witnessed the in- in 2012, SEI aims to continue to “Go food processing, water, industrial tense collective information dissemi- for the Gold” including other areas chemicals, and nanotechnology. nation initiatives of the institutes, apart from Physics and Math. It will as well as the enhancement of their also continue to support research In textile R&D, PTRI will focus core services. in curriculum, pedagogy, and sci- on the development of next genera- ence and mathematics learning and tion textiles through the applica- In hazard mitigation, several teaching. DOST will also strengthen tion of advance processing technolo- programs have been put in place efforts in improving the performance gies on indigenous fibers such as of and continue to be taken into higher in low performing schools in munici- pineapple and banana. Nanofiber levels, such as the mainstreaming palities without scholars so that stu- applications will also be developed of disaster risk reduction into local dents in these schools may qualify for various uses such as gas mask development process thru the use in the undergraduate scholarship filter, vacuum cleaners filter, filter of REDAS software, establishment examination. media for water purification, and of tsunami early warning system, protective clothing. Moreover, PTRI deployment of landslide sensors Alongside, PSHS will also con- will also focus on the development of in high risk areas, flood forecast, duct curriculum review in 2012 for composite materials from non-wo- astronomy, and improvement of development of new PSHS curricu- ven fabrics for industrial uses such weather, earthquake and volcano lum in a K-12 framework. Also set as needle punching, lamination, and monitoring systems. in 2012 is the establishment of two hand-laying. new PSHS campuses in Regions The Philippine The Service Institutes Standard Time, set by PAGASA, was also Unknown to many, the DOST widely promoted for delivers a wide array of services compliance among gov- that ranges from the most techni- ernment agencies and cal to the most ordinary. Among its other partner academic service institutes are the Philippine and private institu- Atmospheric, Geophysical and As- tions through the “Juan tronomical Services Administration Time” movement initi- (PAGASA), Philippine Institute of ated by DOST. Volcanology and Seismology (Phiv- olcs), Philippine Science High School In the field of infor- System (PSHS), Science Education mation and communica- Institute (SEI), Science and Tech- tions technology, DOST nology Information Institute (STII), through ICTO will pur- Technology Application and Promo- sue in 2012 the Nation- tion Institute (TAPI), Technology al ICT Governance Pro- Resource Center (TRC), and Infor- gram, eGovernment Program, ICT 1VA and 1X. PSHS is also looking mation and Communications Tech- Industry Development Program, at the full integration of an E-based nology Office (ICTO) – the latest ad- and Internet For All Program. curriculum in teaching and the de- dition to the growing DOST family. The scholarship program for velopment of an E-learning Hub (E- The services offered by these undergraduates in 2012 will also Library), among others. institutes range from weather and broaden in scope through the ac- In the area of technology infor- climate information, geological in- commodation on two scholars per

S&T POST 21 4QTR.2011 special report

mation dissemination, TRC in 2012 will be busy on several programs set to provide incubation support for countryside agri-aqua tech startups, promote popular utilization of tech- nologies through training, assist LGUs implement livelihood inter- vention, promote commercial use of validated DOST-assisted technolo- gies, and generate revenues. In tech- nology commercialization, DOST through TRC will promote commer- make the researches in printed for- cial use of validated DOST-assisted The Collegial Bodies. mat in searchable and down-loadable technologies, contribute tech-based There are two collegial bodies form, its availability to students will support to food sufficiency program, that provide advise to the science further increase. With membership provide support for open-source tech community – the National Academy from all known disciplines in both startups, and generate and utilize of Science and Technology Philip- hard and soft science, the Council revenues. pines (NAST Phl) and the National has been and being continuously Research Council of the Philippines In science information and pro- tapped to provide policy advise in (NRCP). motion, STII continues to implement a multidisciplinary, integrative and holistic manner and perspective; it its “Changing the Mindset” program The NAST Philippines or the has contributed to significant na- which is anchored on the principle Academy, on the other hand, con- tional laws and policies. The NRCP that S&T information generates tinues to recognize outstanding through its grant-in-aid to R&D, has knowledge that will evolve into solu- achievements in S&T as promote supported research capacity-build- tions to pressing national problems. meaningful incentives to those en- ing of the academe and encouraged To achieve this, STII will continue gaged in scientific and technological the production of research-based in- its strong involvement on program incentives. In 2011, it has awarded formation and knowledge, and helps launches, support in campaign part- the rank and title of National Scien- promote the scientific culture of the nerships with stakeholders, initiate tist to two distinguished individuals country. capacity building activities in S&T – Bienvenido F. Nebres, SJ and Dr. information and promotion; develop Raul V. Fabella; including awards In the next five years, NRCP in- innovative IEC campaigns such as for various scientific achievements tends to make science more people- the Push the Good News and other of outstanding Filipino scientists. centered and socially relevant. frontline services; and harness so- cial networking, marketing, and mo- Meanwhile, the NRCP has en- The Regional Offices. bilization. abled greater participation in push- ing for sense of ownership with the DOST’s regional offices are In making S&T information community, increased funding and implementors of all programs insti- more accessible and available in income generation through land use tuted in the Central Office and ser- communities that need it most, STII projects and linkages, improved com- vice institutes. These are the front- developed STARBOOKS which will petencies of NRCP researchers and liners in providing DOST services to be promoted more extensively na- project management staff, improved the communities. For 2012, regional tionwide in 2012. quality of advisory and consultancy offices are expected to implement services, and more recipients of re- more revitalized and broadened ser- In the coming years, it is ex- search grants in Visayas and Min- vices as they share the commitment pected that a more unified action of danao. As one of its highlights for of the DOST central offices and ser- disseminating information on the 2011, NRCP is now ISO 9001: 2008 vice institutes. services offered by the Department certified. including research results together (With reports from Joy Lazcano, with the latest developments within Researches produced by the Ma. Lourdes Torno, Ma. Luisa Lu- shall be made known to all its pub- NRCP have brought immense in- mioan, George Valencia, Allan Mau- lics; all of which contribute to na- crease of scientific literature that ro Marfal, Allan Ace Aclan, Ceejay tional development. are needed and used by our universi- Valerio, and Arjay Escondo) ties and colleges, and with policy to

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 22 AGRI NEWS

Agri-econ experts eye opportunities amid challenges in PH agriculture By Aristotle P. Carandang S&T Media Service, STII Batac City, Ilocos Norte – The ness in the country which is affected agriculture sector in the country still by the poor quality of institutions and finds opportunities in the rapidly infrastructure; and corruption. changing food markets in Asia and the fast urbanization and transformation “Development is hampered by of the supply chain, agricultural policy and governance constraints,” economist Dr. Arsenio M. Balisacan Balisacan said, pointing out that the said during the 48th Convention of the country’s economic growth does not al- Philippine Agricultural Economics and ways translate to reducing poverty and Development (PAEDA) held in this city. hunger.

The convention hosted by the In the 2011-2012 Global Competi- Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) tiveness Report, out of 139 countries gathered agricultural economic experts the Philippines ranked 125 and 104 in and development practitioners from terms of Institutions (governance) and all over the Philippines to discuss the Infrastructure, respectively. Other Asian challenges of enhancing the competi- countries fared much better: Indonesia In a written message, Ilocos Norte tiveness of Philippine agriculture. (61, 82), Thailand (64 and 35), Viet- Governor Imee R. Marcos underscored nam (74, 83), China (49, 50), and India the importance of the agricultural sec- Such opportunities were found (58, 86). tor in economic development. “In Ilo- amid the current challenges affecting cos Norte, apart from tourism, the agri- the agriculture sector, such as the eco- Such sad reality tells that ag- culture and fisheries sectors remain to nomic aspect. riculture is no longer the engine to be the province’s engine of growth as poverty reduction. However, experts they continue employ farm workers and “It will take us 44 years to double expect that agriculture will continue to fisher folks that supports the popula- our income,” Dr. Balisacan revealed. provide solutions for poverty reduction tion,” she said. “Other countries such as Thailand, In- despite non-farm economy being eyed donesia, and Vietnam are far more ad- as engine to poverty reduction. But in The PAEDA was established in vanced and will be able to double their many provinces in the country, non-ag- 1954 by pioneer Filipino professionals incomes in much shorter period.” ricultural income growth has been the in agricultural and development eco- main engine for poverty reduction, not nomics from the University of the Phil- Yet another opportunity is the rap- only in urban but also in rural areas. Dr. ippines Los Baños and various govern- idly-diversifying trend in food consump- Balisacan said that relative response of ment offices. Its primary objective is to tion, which leads to income growth and poverty to sectoral growth varies sig- promote small-farmer productivity and urbanization, Balisacan added. nificantly across rural and urban areas. profitability in the Philippines.

In changing food consumption Dr. Albert P. Aquino, convention The 48th Biennial Convention trend, the share of rice consumption chair and PAEDA vice president said of PAEDA on 20-21 October 2011 was declines in favor of rapid diversification that this year’s convention is a “mile- brought to Ilocos Norte through the into non-rice, high value food products. stone for this foremost is a gathering cooperation of the Department of Sci- These include processed food and fresh of agricultural and applied economics ence and Technology-Philippine Council fruits and vegetables. For Balisacan, professionals and practitioners, and it for Agriculture, Aquaculture and Natu- changing food consumption offers a big is the first time in many years that we ral Resources Research and Develop- opportunity for farmers to diversify to held the convention outside Manila.” ment (DOST-PCAARRD), WorldFish Cen- high value, more profitable crops. He stressed that the strategic shift ter, SEARCA, DA-Bureau of Agricultural underlined the association’s relevance Research, National Economic Develop- On the other hand, the sector is and commitment to rural development ment Authority, Millennium Develop- currently facing some key policy and and signalled it engagement not only in ment Goal Fund, Central Luzon State governance constraints. According to the national arena, but more so, at the University, and MMSU. Balisacan, some of the barriers include grassroots level. the extremely high cost in doing busi-

S&TS&T POST POST 23234QTR.20114QTR.2011 SPAEGRCIAIL RNEWSEPORT Panama disease can be managed – DOST By Aristotle P. Carandang S&T Media Service, STII

The dreaded “Panama disease” caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense which is now affecting hectares of banana plantations in Mindanao can be managed, according to experts from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

“Dialogues with the stakeholders and careful studies on banana in the country revealed positive results in curbing the menace brought about by Fusarium wilt, more popularly known as Panama disease,” said Dr. Patricio S. Faylon, executive director of DOST’s Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD).

Panama disease affects the roots of banana plants. It is resistant to fungicide and cannot be controlled chemically. Based on its impact on ex- port production, Panama disease is one of the most destructive plant diseases in modern times.

To manage said disease, experts laid out short and long term solutions, The host banana plant has internal discoloration of its vascular system, a classic most urgent of which were early detec- symptom of Panama disease. (Photo from http://www.plantmanagementnetwork. tion and eradication. Experts said that org) plants attacked by Fusarium wilt should be immediately uprooted and burned along with the soil on which it was sible spread of the disease, Faylon said day Foods Corporation in Davao City planted. that farmers will be trained to recog- will produce 1,000 planting materials nize symptoms early. “A protocol for through tissue culture to be distributed This is the basic way of arresting management of the disease should also to the members of the Philippine Ba- the spread of infection in both plant be shared as widely as possible,” Faylon nana Growers and Exporters Association and soil, experts added. added. or PBGEA.

Caution was mentioned, however, With regard to long term solu- The mother plants for the tissue since Fusarium is a fungus that thrives tions, the science department said that culture will come from the National on soil and burning of the soil may de- an important initiative has been con- Germplasm Collection housed at the stroy the fungi on the topsoil but not sidered such as the Fusarium-resistant Bureau of Plant Industry – Davao Na- those beneath it. Here, use of micro- variety of Cavendish called GCTCV 119 tional Crops Research and Development orgranisms such as Trichoderma may for replanting in infected areas. Also, Center (BPI-DNCRDC). Bioversity Inter- prove beneficial to counter the effect partners will be piloting fertilization national and DOST-PCAARRD will devel- of the disease-causing fungus. methods to include the use of organic op the protocol for crop management fertilizer. Toward this initiative, Bio- with the latter leading the monitoring For continuous monitoring of pos- versity International through Lapan- and evaluation.

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 24 FROM THE REGIONS Novel creations shine in Davao invention contest By Framelia V. Anonas S&T Media Service, STII

Novel products from Southern Mindanao’s machine will help address the problem of companies,” the abstract of the University creative minds dominated the awards in proper disposal of used cooking oil, con- of Mindanao student researchers said. To the first Regional Invention Contest and verting it from a menace that clogs the address this problem, the team developed Exhibit (RICE) held 17-20 November at waterways into an efficient bio-fuel. the line disconnection system that, when Davao City’s NCCC Mall. embedded into current systems, will en- Meanwhile, squash seeds, normally able power distribution companies to eas- For Likha Award, named as the processed into snack items, can be a good ily disconnect and reconnect electric lines Outstanding Utility Model is Manolo sunblock lotion, as found out by Baluado. of their subscribers. Tamparong’s Compressed Air Thermal Fuel “Squash seeds are natural rich source of Oil Dryer. zinc, an active ingredient in sunblocks that Further, the study of the CNHS stu- protects cells, heals wounds, and prevents Meanwhile, the Sibol Award, or the skin inflammation,” Baluado explained. continued next page Outstanding Creative Research for in- The vitamin E-enriched product was tried dependent inventor, went to Mary Jane by nine volunteers Barluado’s Squash Seeds Sunblock Lotion who all reported that – Vitamin E Enriched. the squash seed sun- block works similarly For the award’s college category, with or even better University of Mindanao’s Development of than expensive com- a Line Disconnection System by Kris Logie mercial brands. Mallorca, John Mark Coloma, Rae Reyes, and Edezon Virtudazo bagged the out- “Disconnec- standing student creative research. For the tion of power lines high school category, Compostela National due to theft and High School pocketed the award through tampering of electric The Leaves of Snake Plant (Sansevieria tri- meters and power fasciata) as Natural Fiber by Lovely Asur lines have always and Angelou Angway. Advisers are Engr. been big problems Maria Christina Condez and Debbie Teruel of power distribution for the high school category. Snake plant fibers, according to the winning creative research in the high The inventiveness and resourceful- school category are comparable with ness of the awardees and contest partici- commercial fibers. pants caught the interest of Intellectual Property Office Philippines Director Gen- eral Ricardo Blancaflor.

“The gold mine of Davao is not only its natural resources,” said Dr. Blancaflor, keynote speaker of the RICE awarding cer- emony. “What will make Davao rich are the creative minds of Davaoeños.”

Winning invention and researches Tamparong’s thermal fuel oil dryer con- verts used cooking oil into quality bio-fuel for internal combustion engines and other industrial applications. Since the facility is locally made, it can be easily and quickly The line disconnection system devel- Squash seeds are no longer just snacks mass-produced as cheaper alternative to oped by this student’s team got the nods items—they can now be developed into imported brands. The availability of this of the judges for the outstanding creative beauty products too. research in the college category.

S&T POST 254QTR.2011 FROM THE REGIONS

Link up with businessmen, Ilonggo inventor tells colleagues Iloilo City --- Drawing on his ventions “because they think differ- opment award,” he said. “Other partici- own experience in making a crack ently from us.” When he was preparing pants had entries on alternative energy in competitions and in the market, his tea products to market, he wanted while I had something about bangus. Philip Cruz, president of Herbanext them fully packed in small but sturdy (milkfish)” Incorporated, told Ilonggo inventors containers, he said. But when his wife to improve their craft and learn from saw his concept, she said it would not But he won, and that started his business people. Cruz is one of the sell. It was then he realized that there long and successful career in creat- breed of inventors who successfully are many things that he should learn ing products that he later successfully crossed over from mind to market with about consumer behavior and practical marketed. His awarded technology, the his practical inventions, including the considerations like supermarket shelf kinetic fish feeder, has been out in the awarded kinetic fish feeder. space and product competition. market, helping aqua-farmers simplify their feeding management. “Invent and re-invent,” the Ne- “We should now change our way gros-based Cruz told to an audience of thinking, including the old-time Cruz also developed an all-weath- of established and budding inventors concept of ‘publish or perish’,” he said. er sea cage for farming fish which used from the Western Visayas during open- “Now, it should be ‘patent or perish’.” less expensive raw materials but same ing of the Regional Invention Contest quality and sold it at a fraction of the and Exhibit at the Amigo Plaza Mall in Cruz was referring to patenting, cost of its imported counterpart. His Iloilo City. a form of intellectual property rights success in creating innovative products granted to an inventor for a limited that had high market potentials earned “Creating a product is not the end. period. Many inventors even today con- him the recognition of DOST as one of Don’t stop there,” he said. tinue to create products but fail to have the 50 Men and Women in Science in them patented. This is quite risky as 2008. He also advised the inventors to their products can be copied by unscru- tap business people to bring their prod- pulous people and make profits by sell- According to DOST 6 Regional Di- uct to the market. “When I was just ing the copied products in the market. rector Rowen Gellonga, winners in said starting, I was like most inventors—I categories will qualify for the National did not trust business people because Cruz likewise encouraged par- Invention Contest and Exhibit in 2012. you have to disclose many things to ticipants, saying that joining contests DOST’s Technology Application and Pro- them,” he admitted. “But then I mar- such as the RICE is very important. “My motion Institute also provides techni- ried a business person and my perspec- career (as an inventor) started after I cal and funding support to winners who tive changed.” won in the Department of Science and will compete in both national and in- Technology’s Philippine Council for In- ternational invention contests (Frame- He realized business people could dustry and Energy Research and Devel- lia V. Anonas, S&T Media Service) actually help in finding market to in-

NOVEL CREATIONS . . from p25

dents revealed that snake plant fiber is 92 other participants, including contend- by other parties. comparable with commercial fibers in four ers to the regionwide health research con- parameters of sensory evaluation test by test held simultaneously with the RICE. Filings from the region compose 12 the group. Thus, the plant which is en- The health research contest, funded by percent of the national figure, revealed demic to the region is found to be a pos- the DOST’s Philippine Council for Health Blancaflor. Outside of Metro Manila, Re- sible source of natural fiber that has the Research and Development, had its own gion 11 ranks third in the number of pat- potential to make a crack in the local and set of winners. ent applications filed. international fiber industry. Region 11 inventors have apparently “The increase in patent applications Inventors in Davao increased awareness of the importance of suggests that creativity and innovation According to Department of Science and securing patent rights. Records of IPO are likewise intensifying in the region,” Technology (DOST) Region 11 Director An- Philippines showed that from January to observed Blancaflor. thony Sales, the RICE 11 is the first ever October this year, Region 11 had 126 pat- RICE, which started this year, will be regionwide invention contest. “The four ent applications, a 38 percent jump from held every other year to give local inven- outstanding inventions will qualify for the the same period last year. Patents protect tors enough time to develop their works, National Invention Contest and Exhibit inventors from the illegal use of their said Dr. Edgar Garcia, director of DOST’s to be held in Manila next year,” Dr. Sales products by other profit-oriented parties. Technology Application and Promotion In- said. At the same time, patents give inventors stitute, DOST 11’s main partner in organiz- rights to collect royalties should their ing RICE events nationwide. The four winning inventions bested products be legally and commercially used

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 26 FROM THE REGIONS DOST awards winners in 2011 Bicol invention contest By P.O.Lucena/D.A. Peña S&T Media Service, DOST V

The Department of Science and given to the work “Small-Scale Multi- Said first prize winners will repre- Technology (DOST) Region V in Commodity Dryer” by Denmark M. Con- sent Bicol Region in the 2012 National cooperation with the Technology dino of the Don Emilio B. Espinosa State Invention Contest and Exhibits (NICE). Application and Promotion Institute College for Agricultural Technology in (DOST-TAPI) announced the winners Masbate City. The Sibol Award - Student The three-day activity also fea- of the 2011 Bicol Regional Invention Creative Research for High School went tured Invent School Program (ISP) for Contest and Exhibits (BRICE) held 18- to the research “Abaca Wastes Profile: selected secondary students, Trivia 20 October 2011 at the Entertainment Basis for Innovating Technologies” Contest and S&T Video Presentations. Plaza, Pacific Mall, Legazpi City. by Alfred John M. Malinis of Polangui “Filipinos are believed to be the General Comprehensive High School in most creative yet skillful imitators in The Likha Award - Utility Model Albay. category went to Legazpi City-based the world. Nonetheless, I would say Nicanor Balbin of the Bicol University The regional winners received cash that many Filipinos have contributed College of Industrial Technology for the prizes and certificates of recognition much in enhancing the living condition model “Automative Charging System of from Engr. Manuel Sn. B. Lucena, Jr., of our people”, Dir. Briňas told an audi- Safety Device.” The Industrial Design assistant regional director for technical ence consisting of hundreds of profes- category, meanwhile, was bagged by operations at DOST V, Engr. Arnulfo P. sional and would-be inventors, makers, Bicol University College of Industrial Malinis, a multi-awarded Bicolano in- designers and researchers. Technology’s Dr. Erlinda C. Relucio and ventor, and Dr. Colorado of TAPI. “There should be more Steve Jobs Danilo L. Relucio’s “Charcoal Stove Or- in the country whose ingenuity and cre- ganizer.” For the Creative Research cat- The entries were judged based on ativity led to the creation and develop- egory, Drs. Cesar and Alex Bermundo the criteria set by DOST-TAPI for each ment of innovative and commerciable and Rex C. Ballester, all of Naga City, category. Engr. Victor Ramon B. Goye- products. Even without obtaining a col- pocketed the first prize for their work na, Civil Engineer-Entrepreneur and Dr. lege diploma, he has served as an inspi- “The Item Bank and Test Formulator.” Ma. Josefina P. Abilay, Regional Direc- tor, chaired separate board of judges ration to all of us”, he added. Moreover, the Sibol Award - Stu- for the Likha Award and Sibol Award dent Creative Research for College was respectively.

Participants and advisers of the three-day DOST-TAPI were actively involved in the Invent School Program (ISP) held 18-20 October 2011 at the Pacific Mall, Legazpi City.

S&T POST 27 4QTR.2011 FROM THE REset-GIONSup

DOST-Marinduque program, trainings, consultancy yield proud results By Bernardo T. Caringal Juvilyn Driza, Marinduque State Col- DO S T- M a r i n duqu e - orga n i z e d Wrought iron forming technology lege student and beneficiary of DOST- program and trainings have shown very training outputs DATBED, is proud of the outputs of good results, basing on the outputs and her project “Utilization of Squash into outcomes of participants. These include DOST-PSTC Marinduque, in coordi- Cup Cakes and Bread.” With her is DOST-TAPI’s Rodemarie Olaer. the DOST-Academe Technology-Based nation with the Provincial Government Enterprise Development (DATBED) of Marinduque thru the Technology and program, wrought iron forming Livelihood Development Center (TLDC) technology training, and Consultancy for and the TESDA-Marinduque, held re- Agricultural Productivity Enhancement cently a two-day training on Wrought (CAPE). Iron Forming Technology.

Opportunities offered by DATBED The 30 individuals from different DOST-Technology Application and Pro- government agencies and shops, includ- motion Institute’s DATBED Program ing hobbyists, received training from assisted Marinduque State College the DOST Metals Industry Development students in applying their science and Council’s (MIRDC) Engr. Edilbert dela Engr. Alfredo Anchores demonstrates technology-based entrepreneurial proj- Peña and Alfredo Anchores. the metal bender, twister and curler. ects in real life. During the hands on activity, An- After being granted a total of chores showed how to use the metal P180,610.00, for three (3) projects bender, twister and curler, which, ac- entitled: 1) “Utilization of Squash into cording to participants, were “easy to Cup cakes and Bread”; 2) “Utilization use” and that “they produce quality of Papaya and Coconut Milk into Cup products in less time.” Cakes”; and 3) “Utilization of Sweet Sample products from the train- Potato into Camote Sticks and Camote ing include tables, flower vase holder Tops Juice”, the student-beneficiaries and twisted metals that may be used were able to implement their projects as accent for grills, gates and similar for at least four months. products. The Provincial Government In the evaluation and impact as- allotted budget for the acquisition of sessment conducted by DOST-TAPI’s wrought iron equipment that can be Rosemarie L. Olaer , she noted that the borrowed by interested individuals and project “Utilization of Squash into Cup institutions such as TESDA and MSC for Cakes and Bread” by Juvilyn Driza is their specific projects. ongoing in her own household and is Fish pond operators enhance produc- Outputs of the training include (LR) set to have its own separate area of tivity through DOST-CAPE Coffee table, vase stand, center table production. Driza believed that through Five fish ponds operators, namely Sta. the DOST DATBED program, the prob- Cruz-based Mayor Percival Morales, Nor- lem on unemployment can be reduced berto Billones, and Jose Rocero Sr.; and and there will be a brighter future for Torrijos-based Mamerto Pilar, and Petra students who will venture on their own Pilar reported good turn out during an chosen S & T based business activities. evaluation visit by DOST-PSTD Marin- Four more new projects are in duque, Venchito R. Murillo of FOMMCOm the offing, namely “Fish Processing and MSC School of Fisheries staff. Said Project” of the MSC-School of Fisher- farm beneficiaries were very excited ies; and “Utilization of San Fernando with their implementation of bangus into Cookies”, “Veggie Crackers” and and prawn production/cropping cycle Evaluation visit to DOST-CAPE “Smoked Fish Production” of the MSC last August 2011. beneficiaries in Sta. Cruz and Torrijos, Main Campus. both in Marinduque, yielded good results.

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 28 FROM THE REGIONS

Romblon State U hosts DOST-PAGASA- ASTI Automated Weather Station By Bilshan F. Servañez

Realizing the need for agro- cells. It has a data logger and a data lation of the unit on June 22, 2011 just meteorological data for agricultural transmitter that sends weather data when Tropical Depression Falcon was research and production, the Romblon every 15 minutes. The data could be in the Philippine Area of Responsibil- State University headed by Dr. Jeter accessed through the internet in the ity. Falcon provided enough rainfall and S. Sespeñe immediately said “yes” website http//:202.90.149.66/predict/ gustiness to test the unit. when asked to host the Department of station.php/. Science and Technology – Philippine The unit has the station name RSU Atmospheric, Geophysical and DOST’s Advanced Science and Odiongan, Romblon. Moreover, two Astronomical Services Administration’s Technology Institute (ASTI) designed more stations will be established later (DOST-PAGASA) Automated Weather and developed the data logger and at the RSU Sibuyan and Sta Fe campus- Station (AWS). transmitter that made the weather sta- es. Earlier, Dr. Sespeñe requested PA- tion fully automated and internet ac- GASA to put up an agro-meteorological The first to be installed in the MI- cessible. The AWS website, through station at the Agpudlos campus. MAROPA region, the AWS is a compact ASTI, provides users with options on equipment that records daily rainfall what data to gather and the duration With the AWS installed in these amount, average daily temperature, or interval of the data to be gathered. places and in several other places in relative humidity, air pressure, and It also provides graphs of data on de- the country, PAGASA could get a clearer wind speed and direction. Aside from mand. picture of the weather across the na- gathering the minimum and maximum tion and could make accurate weather values for each parameter, the AWS also Prof. Edgar Fadallan is project- forecasts. RSU and the rest of Romblo- gathers data for rainfall intensity and in-charge at RSU’s end while Esdras manons would also be benefited by the rainfall duration. Fajutagana handled the building of project as the agro-meteorological data foundation and perimeter fencing need- gathered from the AWS may be used in The P0.3M worth AWS is a self- ed by the AWS. Romeo Paras Jr. and agricultural researches and in produc- contained equipment that generates Alejandro Patilla supervised the instal- tion planning. its own power from an array of solar

DOST PSTC, PAGASA, and ASTI personnel turn over the Automated Weather Sstation to Romblon State University President Jeter Sespeñe (5th from left) and staff’

S&T POST 294QTR.2011 DOST V inks MOA LGUs in Camarines Sur FROM THE REGIONS

DOST V inks MOA LGUs in Camarines Sur

“Collaboration between and among ing assistance of Php 771,880 for provision Pulantuna Planters Federation, Inc. government agencies, local government of stalk dehydration, drying cabinet, blower, During the open forum, it was empha- units (LGUs), communities and the people, biomass furnace, hydraulic swing arm cutter, sized that project-beneficiaries are enjoined particularly those engaged in business is one spray gun, compressor, stainless vat, grind- to constitute a “Business Health Board” as effective way to trigger regional development. ing machine, handloom, heavy duty sewing This partnership is an innovative approach machine, twinning machine and spot welding and strategy to develop communities through machine. Training on Natural Dye Extraction projects that will establish future industries. and Utilization was earlier provided by Philip- Kaya dapat natin itong alagaan at palaguin.” pine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI).

So said Dir. Tomas B. Briñas, Regional For “Pilot Project for the Establishment Director, Department of Science and Technolo- of Common Service Facility for Bamboo Pro- gy (DOST) Region V to an audience consisting cessing”, LGU-Bula through the Office of Hon. of 50 project beneficiaries and representatives Benjamin S. Decena, Bula municipal mayor, from the academe and media during the sign- and the Bula-Bambuza Producers Coopera- ing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) tive (BBPC) is allocated a funding support with three (3) LGUs in the Province of Cama- of Php 1,241,280. S&T intervention includes rines Sur last 15 November 2011 at Regent the acquisition of universal circular saw, joint Mayor Rogelio A. Flores , LGU-Milaor Hotel, Naga City. planer, automatic planer, laminating table, and DOST RD Briñas for the “Commu- twin rip saw, treatment vat and kiln dryer. nity Based Project: Improvement of Processing and Production of Footwear Meanwhile, “Production of Crab Paste” Using Agas” with funding assistance of in Gainza was granted a funding assistance P 781, 880.00 amounting to Php 614,155 for the acquisi- tion of mechanical crab meat extractor, stipulated in the MOA. The board shall re- stainless working table, cabinet dryer, heavy view and assess the level/status of business duty burner, pressure retort cooker, digital operation that could serve also as advisory weighing scale and hammer mill. Hon. Wil- council/body. Its members may come from liam A. Abilay, Municipal Mayor, representing multi-sectoral representatives from LGU, De- LGU-Gainza and president of the Cagbunga partment of Trade and Industry (DTI V), DOST V, MNDC and business community. Another MOA signing between DOST V and LGU- important aspect is the Gainza represented by Mayor William A. formulation/adoption of Abilay for “Community Based Project: operating policies to en- Establishment of Food Processing Cen- sure sustainability of the ter for Production of Crab Paste with an Common Service Facilities approved budget of P 614,155.00 (CSFs) and develop a fa- vorable condition for busi- The Department of Science and Tech- ness activities. nology (DOST) Region V thru the MOA will soon implement Community-Based Projects Dir. Briñas also in- together with the Metro Naga Development timated the possibility Council (MNDC). The three LGU-beneficiaries MOA signing between DOST V and LGU- of these CSFs eventually are Milaor, Bula and Gainza, Camarines Sur. Bula Pilot represented by Dir. Tomas evolving into business incubators and after B. Briñas and Hon. Benjamin S. Decena DOST V’s assistance to these LGUs consists of three (3) to five (5) years transferred and ef- [Project for the Establishment of Com- appropriate and relevant technological inno- mon Service Facility (CSF) for Bamboo ficiently managed by the beneficiaries them- vations and interventions. Processing” by with a total project cost selves. of P 1,241,280.00] LGU-Milaor represented by Hon. Rogelio The MOAs ensure that DOST V and other A. Flores, Milaor municipal mayor, and the government agencies will extend support and Agas Producers Federation (APF) inked MOA Crab-Paste Producers Association of Gainza sustain relevant projects for countryside de- for the project “Community-Based Project: (CCPPAG) led the signing of MOA for this proj- velopment. Successful projects of LGUs and Improvement of Processing and Production of ect. This project is a major component of a NGOs could serve as exemplary models to oth- Footwear Using Agas”. This involves a fund- comprehensive industry jointly undertaken by er LGUs and stakeholders for their livelihood other government agencies and the Libmanan and development projects in the region.

S&T POST 4QTR.201130 SETUP Lolo Natomo’s metal touch is DOST’s touch By DOST I

“Malaki ang nagbago sa buhay. Dati, mahirap ang trabaho dahil mano-mano. Ngayon, maganda na ang takbo ng negosyo at tinanggap na rin sa market ang produkto. Kung hindi sa tulong ng DOST, wala lahat ito.”

hat could make a 33 year-old thresher business in a distant barangay boom through generations? Is Midas’ Wtouch alive in the metal crafts of a family of artisans? Natomo is the firm’s name and being foreign-sounding, it naturally flickers in one’s mind. It is Renato and Mosuela combined, the their money to build additional units. The little business was name of the son of the Natomo Manufacturing, Inc. going well until gasoline prices soared and production was patriarch who is an award-winning lolo inventor stopped. who did not even finish high school but would embarrass any engineer with the ingenu- Superkalan ity of his creations. He is Lolo Narciso But the ingenious mind of Lolo Ciso did not Mosuela, the mind and hands behind stop. It was working all the while. “Simple the esteemed thresher and Superka- lang naman akong tao eh. May kanya- lan in Luzon. kanya tayong hilig, pangarap. Ako eh nasuot sa iisang hilig: Born into a family of farmers, Lolo ang pagtuklas ng mga Ciso had to put up with the ways of di pangkarinawang the field. Long years of tough work gamit na kinakailan- gave rise to a business that would gan sa buhay,” said earn his name great esteem in the the Lolo inventor. metal world. The oil price hike offered an opportunity as it resulted in two It wasn’t an easy start for Natomo as a business, especially in an things: manufacture of metal threshers and the creation of the off-town place where farming was the main livelihood. The prob- Superkalan. The latter is a stove that uses anything for fuel. It lem was always capital, facilities and equipment to start. does not emit smoke or carbon which causes stains in pots, and this feature became it biggest come-on to customers. It was in 1978 when his first invention came about, a rice thresher. Motorized, it consumed about 1.5 gallons of gasoline for a hectare He initially sold it for P80 and had to compete with the five- of palay they needed to thresh in one day. This opened an entirely peso clay stoves in the market. He and his sons went as far new horizon for Lolo Ciso and his family. His neighbors started to as holding demos of the stove in barangays and schools. Kids take notice and patronize Natomo’s newly-discovered machine. called it “super,” Lolo Ciso said, after witnessing his demo. It was the answer to the farmers’ prayer of a faster way to thresh Then teachers started branding it Superkalan. their harvests. When his stoves began to show rust, his Superkalan was And so a business was born. It started as Natomo Light Metal jokingly called Superkalawang. This set the Natomo team Craft with the thresher as main product. He and a friend pooled working. Aluminum alloy replaced iron as raw material. A

S&T POST 31 4QTR.2011 NUTRITION

“Malaki ang nagbago sa buhay,” Lolo Ciso said. “Dati, mahirap ang trabaho dahil mano-mano. Ngayon, maganda na ang takbo ng negosyo at tinanggap na rin sa market ang produkto. Kung hindi sa tulong ng DOST, wala lahat ito.”

Lolo Ciso also expressed gratefulness over DOST’s support to make their business stable through the years, as it did not stop in the financial grants. In addition, it offered shop-based trainings and seminars and consultancy services that provided important knowledge and skills to sustain Natomo. The staff all went through Manufacturing for Productivity Extension; Cleaner Production Technology Assessment; Industrious, Systematic, Time-bound, Innovative, Value for Work; Electroplating Technol- ogy, and the 5S (Sort, Sweep, Systematize, Sanitize, and Self- Discipline) seminars and trainings.

heat regulator, a chimney for the smoke, and a hollowed bottom to contain ashes for easy disposal were all added to enhance the DOST-touched Superkalan. Soon people began to recognize its practicality and Although sale of the thresher and the Superkalan is seasonal, orders for the stove overwhelmed Natomo Manufacturing. Produc- the entire business is now selling millions after DOST’s “touch.” tion was costly and they knew that accommodating all orders Its annual gross sales have reached P8 million compared with would mean a huge capital. the P3.5 million minus DOST’s interventions. The business was also able to create more jobs starting with 17 employees to as Now comes DOST many as 55 now. For this, Natomo became a household name With the impending abeyance of the thresher and Superkalan’s in award-giving bodies. Among the most prominent recogni- production, Lolo Ciso knocked on the doors of the Department tions he received were the Globe Masigasig Award, National of Science and Technology (DOST) through La Union Provincial Outstanding MSME, and Outstanding MSME for Luzon. Director Dr. Ismael Gurtiza. With DOST beside Natomo Manufacturing Inc.’s enterprise, it

When it rains, it pours; so they say. For DOST’s hand in the has expanded its market from Luzon to as far as the National business signaled the start of a full-blast business for Natomo Capital Region (NCR), and even abroad. Some 24 units of Manufacturing. DOST, through the Grants-in-Aid (GIA) program, the Natomo Superkalan were exported to East Timor through provided Natomo a total of P232,000 which was used to acquire the Philippine Rice, Food and Agricultural Organization of the tools and equipment such as aluminum forging machine, spot United Nations in 2006. The product was evaluated in Japan welding machine, air compressor, bar cutter, hand drills, disk along with other brands and was chosen the most durable and sander, and others. efficient.

The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) also lent an His shop has also become a training ground for Science and amount of P1.2 million, for the construction of Natomo’s manufac- Technology students, some of whom even won in the Inter- turing plant at Barangay Ubbog, Bangar, La Union, all payable in national Exhibit for Young Inventors at the Japan Institute of three years without interest. Invention and Innovation in 2004.

Also, Lolo Ciso was able to avail of P 497,000 through DOST’s Lolo Ciso’s brains plus DOST’s hand have resulted in immea- Small Enterprise Upgrading Program (SET-UP) that provides up- surable gains for the Natomo family and for the community. grading assistance to Small and Medium Enterprises for increased What else could this multi-awarded Superlolo ask for? productivity. Lolo Ciso used the amount to acquire sheet metal roller, table lathe machine, box bender, low pressure high density “Gusto ko lang tapusin ang lahat ng mga nasa isip kong gusto spray gun, and construction of painting booth. ko pang gawin… tulad ng Rotary Palay Dryer…,” beamed Lolo Natomo further availed a P 490,020 raw material assistance Ciso. from the Venture Financing Program of the Technology Applica- tion and Promotion Institute of DOST for the production of the With DOST always behind Natomo Manufacturing, Inc., there Thresher and Superkalan payable in three years without interest. is no doubt that whatever creation is lurking in the inventor’s Not long, Natomo Light Metal Craft became Natomo Manufactur- mind, it is sure to spawn bigger profits and more employment ing, Inc. opportunities for the community.

S&T POST 4QTR.2011 32 news in photo

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