19th National Biotechnology Week Celebrated at SM Seaside City in Cebu
19th National Biotechnology Week Celebrated at SM Seaside City in Cebu
Guided by the theme “Empowering Innovation for Sustainable Future with Biotechnology,” the 19th National Biotechnology Week (NBW) celebration, was held from November 20-24, 2023, at the SM Seaside City in Cebu.
Being the chair of this year’s celebration, the Department of Agriculture (DA), aims to highlight the significant contributions of biotechnology in various sectors and promote its role in achieving a more sustainable future.
The opening ceremony of the 19th NBW Celebration kicked off with the Entrance of Colors, Doxology, and National Anthem, which were performed by Cebu Technological University. Atty. Kristoffer Lambert Lance P. Cuizon delivered the welcome remarks on behalf of Hon. Eduardo R. Rama, Jr., 2nd District Representative of Cebu City.
“We must remain committed not only to addressing food security through traditional means, but we must also do so with a focus on innovation. We must change the way we sustainably produce food and invest in improving the competencies of our farmers to adopt modern farming practices. As our President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. says, solving this problem requires a whole-of-government approach. One that is open to fostering innovation. That is why we, in the City of Cebu and the Congressional Office of Congressman Rama, are open to being your partners in development as we face these challenges head-on,” said by Atty. Cuizon.
After Atty. Cuizon’s remarks, Dr. Claro N. Mingala, the Director of the DA Biotechnology Program Office, introduced the keynote speaker for this year’s celebration, Undersecretary Mercedita A. Sombilla.
“The Department of Agriculture has always been at the forefront of promoting and harnessing the potential in our agricultural system. This is achieved through remarkable studies in genetically modifying crops, which have resulted in the creation of resilient varieties that can withstand the onslaught of pests and diseases, guaranteeing food security for our rapidly growing population. The DA’s commitment to biotechnology is rooted in our overall vision of a sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive agricultural sector that can meet the evolving needs of our nation,” said Undersecretary Sombilla in her opening remarks.
Further, she emphasized the vital role of biotechnology in promoting and harnessing our agricultural system. She also mentioned the importance of research and development in biotechnology, as well as the need for collaboration between the government, private sector, and academic institutions to ensure holistic transformation in our economy. A video message of support from Hon. Sara Z. Duterte, the Vice President of the Philippines, was also shown during the ceremony. Hon. Serafin P. Barretto, Jr., the Undersecretary for Public Safety, and Mr. Adriel Dave Alvarez, a respected farmer from Camotes Island, Cebu, also expressed their support for the celebration.
“Biotechnology can increase plant yields and improve pest management. It is always easy to eat, but farming is different. It is always easy to discuss agriculture, but when there is no farmer in the room, it becomes difficult. There is an advantage to having a farmer present during the discussion because they bring passion, energy, and emotion when explaining why we need biotechnology,” he shared during his speech. He also highlighted the challenges faced by farmers and the need for their input in discussions about agriculture. Mr. Alvarez’s statement resonated with many attendees, as they recognized the crucial role farmers play in the success of biotechnology in agriculture.
Following these speeches, Dr. Rhodora Romero-Aldemita, the Executive Director of ISAAA, Inc., launched publication materials aimed at disseminating information and raising awareness about the benefits and applications of biotechnology. These materials will serve as valuable resources for the public. Finally, Undersecretary Sombilla officially declared the opening of the 2023 NBW Celebration, marking the beginning of a week-long event dedicated to showcasing the advancements and potential of biotechnology in the Philippines.
Furthermore, a technical panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Jerome Cayton C. Barradas, was conducted to highlight the significance of biotechnology in addressing current global challenges, such as food and nutrition security, climate change, and healthcare, among others. Three esteemed panelists were invited to speak on the topics of biotechnology in agriculture, biotechnology in healthcare, and the country’s shift towards a bio-based economy. The set of panelists discussed the challenges and opportunities in adopting biotechnology in those sectors, as well as the importance of public awareness and acceptance of biotech products.
Topic 1: Biotechnology in Philippine Food and Agriculture
Dr. Rhodora Romero-Aldemita, the Executive Director of the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA), discussed how biotechnology can improve food security and agricultural productivity in the Philippines. She emphasized the significance of biosafety regulations and public-private partnerships in guaranteeing the secure and responsible application of biotechnology in agriculture, while also showcasing inventive solutions that can boost crop yields, enhance nutritional value, and enhance resistance to pests and diseases.
Topic 2: The Philippine Bio-based Economy
Mr. Roberto F. Batungbacal, Senior Adviser of the Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (SPIK), explored the potential of biotechnology in driving sustainable economic growth and development in the country. One area of biotechnology that Mr. Batungbacal highlighted is the production of bioplastics. He emphasized that the demand for bioplastics is increasing globally, as more and more consumers and businesses are becoming aware of the environmental impact of traditional plastics. This presents an opportunity for the Philippines to tap into the growing market for sustainable packaging materials.
Topic 3: Medical Biotechnology in the Philippines
Dr. Paul Mark B. Medina, Principal Investigator at the Biological Models Laboratory, emphasized in his discussion the progress and achievements in medical biotechnology and how they are transforming healthcare in the Philippines. He also discussed the use of biotechnology in the production of pharmaceuticals, such as vaccines and biologics. He explained to the participants how these products are made using living organisms, which have proven to be more effective and safer than traditional pharmaceuticals.
After engaging in discussions with the experts, Mr. Barradas posed a question to the three regarding the main obstacles and challenges in realizing the full potential of biotechnology for achieving a sustainable future that benefits all. Dr. Romero-Aldemita acknowledged that the Philippines is at the forefront of biotechnology in Asia and has a supportive policy environment, as evidenced by the issuance of DA Administrative Order No 8, series of 2002. This order outlines the regulations for importing and commercializing modern biotechnology products, as well as policies on gene editing and science-based practices. However, she observed that these advancements are limited to Asia and expressed her desire to expand the country’s biotechnology potential globally. She also highlighted the challenges of political will, funding, and manpower that need to be addressed in order to achieve this goal. According to Mr. Batungbacal, it is important for researchers, academics, and the government to regain confidence in developing their own solutions. He pointed out that due to globalization, there is a prevailing belief that solutions should come from the global north. However, he emphasized the need to find solutions that are specific to the Philippines. He stated that nationalistic policies are necessary and called for a reassessment of our industry policy. Finally, Dr. Medina emphasized the importance of educating both business-minded and scientific-minded individuals in order to shape public perception. He used the COVID-19 vaccine as an example, noting that many people are still fearful of it due to a lack of understanding. Therefore, it is crucial to increase efforts in effectively communicating the benefits of biotechnology for the public to understand what the products can really offer.
Mr. Barradas concluded the discussion by emphasizing the significance of establishing a conducive environment that promotes research and development, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the field of biotechnology. After the technical panel discussion, participants were called to the ground floor of the mall for the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Undersecretary Sombilla, along with the members of the Inter Agency Steering Committee (IASC), led the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Various exhibits showcasing the latest advancements in biotechnology were also set up for participants to explore. These exhibits included demonstrations of biotech products and technologies, as well as interactive displays that allowed visitors to learn more about the science behind biotechnology.
Government officials, scientists, farmers, and representatives from various sectors participated to this year’s NBW. The ceremonies drew a total of 469 attendees during the opening and 149 attendees during the closing, emphasizing the significance of biotechnology in addressing global challenges and fostering innovation for a sustainable future.
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