Photo: Kenneth Surillo/Pexels Food sources and access shape how Filipinos eat, according to findings from the 2023 National Nutrition Survey conducted by the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI). For the first time, the survey examined the country’s food environment, offering a clearer ...
March 12, 2026 | 3 mins read
The Iloilo Radar Facility situated at the PAGASA Iloilo Complex Station, WESVIARC, Brgy. Buntatala, Iloilo City. (Photo: DOST-STII) On March 6, 2026, the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) led the inauguration of its Iloilo Radar Facility and broke ground for the new Iloilo Synoptic Station. ...
March 11, 2026 | 3 mins read
A 2023 photo of Loboc Church post-restoration, following the Bohol earthquake ten years earlier. (Photo: Patrickroque01/Wikimedia Commons) The Department of Science and Technology-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) and Bohol Island State University (BISU) have become partners for science-based heritage conservation in Bohol. The initiative seeks to protect and ...
March 10, 2026 | 2 mins read
This year, thousands of aspiring young Filipino learners took a crucial step toward their futures by participating in the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute’s (DOST-SEI) Undergraduate Scholarship Examinations. (Photo via DOST-STII) Thousands of young Filipino learners took a bold step toward their dreams as they took this ...
March 9, 2026 | 3 mins read
Among the featured technologies during the launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Center for Research and Innovation was Museo, an AI-powered heritage digitization initiative that uses advanced 3D reconstruction to create high-precision digital twins of artifacts. (Photo by Rachel M. Rieza, DOST-STII) More than 80% of the establishments in the country ...
March 8, 2026 | 3 mins read
Photo: Antoni Shkraba Studio/Pexels Nutrition gaps that weaken immunity, threaten eyesight, and affect brain development remain a concern among Filipinos, particularly young children and pregnant women, according to the latest findings of the 2023 National Nutrition Survey (NNS) conducted by the Department of Science and Technology - Food and Nutrition ...
March 7, 2026 | 2 mins read
At the Second Ateneo Breakthroughs lecture held on 26 February 2026 at Escaler Hall, Ateneo de Manila University, Dr Pai Abu (R) tells host Dr Inez Ponce De Leon how the ALIVE laboratory is looking to partner with topic experts from various fields to develop practical applications for their machine learning systems. (...
March 7, 2026 | 2 mins read
UP Geological Society, the oldest organization of the National Institute of Geological Sciences (NIGS) in the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD), will be hosting the National Geology Congress (NGC) 2026 on March 13 and 14, 2026. In its 13th installment, the NGC aims to continue to fulfill its advocacy of making the geosciences ...
March 6, 2026 | 2 mins read
Massively parallel sequencing (MPS) is transforming the way humans are identified. (Photo: Christian Estrella) Massively parallel sequencing (MPS) has transformed forensic DNA analysis by allowing scientists to examine multiple DNA markers at the same time and in much greater detail than older methods. Even so, MPS is still not widely ...
March 5, 2026 | 2 mins read
Speaking to a packed auditorium of students and professionals from various schools and institutions, Dr. Benjamin B. Dingel discussed the Ateneo ROSES Laboratory’s commitment to build the Philippines’ optical sciences and photonics engineering capabilities. (Photo: ROSES Lab) Photonics—the next generation of electronics technology, which uses light instead of ...
March 4, 2026 | 2 mins read
Clerodendrum kelli—a newly described, Critically Endangered species found only in Nueva Ecija, Philippines— shown in photographs highlighting its overall habit (a), distinctive leaves (b), and flowers with immature fruits (c-d). (Photo credit: Tobias et al., 2025) The indigenous Bugkalot people of Nueva Ecija call it kelli: a plant with white, ...
March 2, 2026 | 2 mins read
A sea turtle swims by corals at the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. (Photo credit: Steve De Neef via Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and World Heritage Site) The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) formalized strategic partnerships with the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) and the Tubbataha Management Office (TMO) to enhance ...
March 1, 2026 | 2 mins read
Photo: Davao Crocodile Park & Zoo After more than seven years of healing and treatment under the care of Davao Crocodile Park & Zoo (DCPZ), four rescued black palm cockatoos (Probosciger aterrimus) have now fully recovered. The birds were rescued during a major operation in 2018, led by the Department of ...
February 21, 2026 | 2 mins read
Photo: Pexels One tracks heartbeats through algorithms, while the other catches them with a steady hand. Artificial intelligence (AI) may master the waves of a beat, but only a nurse understands the rhythm of one. In a world where innovations rise and are marked by AI in every corner, individual ...
February 21, 2026 | 3 mins read
Photo: Bantay BUKID Tawan-Tawan Panigan Cluster Climate change is real, and it cannot be solved by mere tree-planting activities that end up only as photo documentation. It demands real solutions, not ghost projects. When development is framed solely for the benefit of the economy at the expense of the environment, ...
February 20, 2026 | 3 mins read
Colloidal silver nanoparticles produced using gamma irradiation at different doses, showing a visible color change from colorless to yellow to brown as silver ions are converted into antibacterial silver nanoparticles. Darker colors indicate higher nanoparticle concentrations. (Photo credit: Gili et. al., 2025) Scientists from the University of the Philippines–Diliman College ...
February 16, 2026 | 2 mins read
From left: Engr. Albert G. Mariño, Deputy Director of DOST-SEI, Dr. Maria Asuncion A. Silvestre, President of Kalusugan ng Mag-ina, Inc., Ms. Ermelita V. Valdeavilla, Chairperson of the Philippine Commission on Women, DOST Assistant Secretary and DOST GAD Focal Person Diana L. Ignacio, Dr. Catherine Judith Challen, Senior Lecturer ...
February 16, 2026 | 4 mins read
Photo: Farhad Ibrahimzade/Pexels People often believe that consuming traditional or natural foods means it is automatically a safe option to keep the heart healthy. For instance, some people use Himalayan salt instead of table salt, while others prefer low-fat foods as a healthier option. However, an expert from the ...
February 16, 2026 | 3 mins read
By Mikael Angelo Francisco with Johanna Son* Originally published on Reporting ASEAN MANILA -- Every weekday afternoon, Rolando gets into his e-trike to pick up his two teenage children from school, less than half a kilometre away from their home. He also takes his electric three-wheeler to buy groceries a ...
December 17, 2025 | 8 mins read
Photo: Animal Empathy Philippines For decades, farmed animals were viewed primarily through the lens of production efficiency. But a growing body of scientific research is revealing that chickens, pigs, cattle, and other agricultural species possess remarkable cognitive abilities, complex social structures, and rich emotional lives that rival those of animals ...
October 2, 2025 | 4 mins read
Photo: Ralff Nestor Nacor Scientists from the University of the Philippines – Diliman College of Science’s Institute of Chemistry (UPD-CS IC) have published a comprehensive analysis of existing techniques for detecting methanol -- an industrial chemical highly toxic to humans -- in lambanog, a popular traditional alcoholic beverage in the ...
June 6, 2025 | 2 mins read
A map of Island Southeast Asia (ISEA) and the Sunda region as it appeared roughly 25,000 years ago at the height of the last Ice Age, with locations of archaeological sites surveyed by the Mindoro Archaeology Project. The sites yielded artifacts with remarkably similar characteristics despite separation by thousands of kilometers ...
June 6, 2025 | 3 mins read
Photo: DOST-STII Disasters in the Philippines present a complex and interconnected challenge. Each solution reveals new difficulties, and there is no single answer to the country's multifaceted risks. Constant exposure to natural hazards has shaped the vulnerabilities, resilience, and expertise of the Philippines. This was shared by the Department of ...
June 4, 2025 | 3 mins read
Photo: DOST-SEI After its successful 8th edition, Indie-Siyensya now calls for submissions for its new season that focuses on the theme "Halik sa Lupa." This year’s competition invites students, filmmakers, and film enthusiasts to expand the conversation on the interesting relationship of soil, life, and humanity. "There’s so ...
June 4, 2025 | 2 mins read
Photo: Luis Gomes/Pexels Choosing the right track may be the hardest decision for some Senior High School (SHS) graduates. Most of them are unsure of the course they may take at the tertiary level; although they are on a specific track already, there is still a lot to consider. ...
May 6, 2025 | 4 mins read
Hosted by Pinoy science journalist Mikael Angelo Francisco, the Ask Theory Podcast shines the spotlight on science in and for the Philippines. From fascinating stories of Filipino scientists to urgent science-related issues that require serious attention, Ask Theory emphasizes the undeniable connections between science and society - and the importance ...
May 5, 2025 | 24 mins read
Participants identify concerns in their areas during the mapping workshop. Photo: PhilSA The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) conducted a three-day PINAS Workshop and Training on Space Science and Technology Applications (SSTA) for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) from April 23 to 25, 2025 in Malolos City, Bulacan. Representatives from the Bulacan Provincial ...
May 1, 2025 | 3 mins read
Photo: DOST-STII The Department of Science and Technology–MIMAROPA (DOST-MIMAROPA) is set to hold the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) on May 28– 30, 2025, at Occidental Mindoro State College (OMSC) in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. With the theme “Siyensya, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan,” ...
May 1, 2025 | 2 mins read
Water droplets maintain their spherical shape and optical properties when placed on a hydrophobic surface made by coating a glass slide with electrospun PVC fibers. The optical properties can be changed by simply adjusting the volume of water in the droplet. (SOURCE: Budlayan et al., 2025) Filipino scientists have discovered a ...
April 30, 2025 | 2 mins read
G.R.R. Martin/TIME/Colossal Biosciences/The New Yorker •U.S.-based Colossal Biosciences claimed that it resurrected the dire wolf, a canid that went extinct over 10,000 years ago, through de-extinction technology. •Many scientists criticized the company's announcement, noting that it produced gray wolves with edited genes, not true ...
April 22, 2025 | 9 mins read
Screen capture of the iHeatMap for Taguig City. Photo: DOST-PAGASA With the onset of the dry season and the rising occurrence of extreme heat events due to the changing climate, accurate and timely heat hazard information is necessary for effective execution. The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and ...
April 16, 2025 | 3 mins read
The Impact-Based Flood Forecasting System determines specific areas in the Philippines that are most likely to be affected by severe flooding. Photo: Dr. Alfredo Mahar Lagmay Considered one of the most devastating natural hazards globally, floods pose critical threats to both human life and economic stability. The Philippines is no ...
April 15, 2025 | 3 mins read
Photo: Pexels The idea that there is a connection between one’s diet and their risk of death from a noncommunicable disease (NCD) is neither new nor shocking to the general public. Time and again, medical and nutrition experts worldwide have underscored the need to make better food choices for ...
February 25, 2025 | 6 mins read
The UPLB Chemical Society, a duly recognized academic organization, has spent years promoting enthusiasm and awareness in the field of Chemistry. This year, the society proudly hosts the 17th National Chemistry Fair—Kapnayan 2025. After being conducted virtually in its last iteration in 2022, the triennial event returns in a face-to-face setting ...
January 26, 2025 | 1 min read
FlipScience.ph EIC Mikael Angelo S. Francisco discusses creating engaging science content using digital platforms at DOST-ITDI’s STICA KM Platform. Photo: Xyrus Ivan B. De Gracia, DOST-STII In line with the mandate to effectively disseminate science and technology (S&T) information to the general public, the Department of ...
November 3, 2024 | 2 mins read
Podontia rustiai. (Photo: Orlando Calcetas & Charles Staines) Announced in July 2024, the description of a new species of leaf beetle (or flea beetle) from the Philippines was published in the Philippine Journal of Science. Podontia rustiai 𝘗. 𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘢𝘪 is similar in appearance to 𝘗. 𝘧𝘭𝘢𝘷𝘢 from Borneo, but with key differences in the structures ...
November 2, 2024 | 1 min read
From left: Florencia Librizzi of Earth Insight, John Amos of Sky Truth, and Gerry Arances of the Center of Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED) launch a new report and propose solutions to address the threats facing the Coral Triangle during COP16. Photo: Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (Cali, Colombia) ...
November 1, 2024 | 2 mins read
Alloscopus arborealis. (Photo: Alviola, et al via Zootaxa) In January 2024, the description of a new species of springtail from the Philippines was published in Zootaxa. 𝘼𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙪𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙨 Distribution/habitat: Mt. Makiling (Luzon, Philippines) About the species: As entomologist Dr. Aimee Lynn Barrion-Dupo wrote in a Facebook post: “Springtails are soft-bodied arthropods with ...
October 29, 2024 | 1 min read
Nepenthes kampalili. (Photo: Noel E. Lagunday) In April 2024, the description of a new species of pitcher plant from the Philippines (based on a specimen collected in August 2021) was published in Phytotaxa. 𝙉𝙚𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙠𝙖𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙡𝙞 Distribution/habitat: Mt. Kampalili (Mindanao, Philippines) About the species: Named after the place where it was discovered, 𝘕. 𝘬𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘭𝘪 grows solely ...
October 28, 2024 | 1 min read
The 8th Indie-Siyensya premiered at Cinematheque Centres Davao and Nabunturan with a program attended by members of the board of judges. Photo: DOST-SEI In an era saturated with misinformation, the creation of science documentary films stays alive with Indie-Siyensya standing at the forefront, ensuring this vital medium continues to thrive. ...
October 27, 2024 | 3 mins read
Dr. Trisha Thadhani, the medical doctor for the Doctors Without Borders Tondo tuberculosis (TB) project, assesses the health condition of a child in the Aroma neighborhood, Barangay 105, Tondo, Manila. Photo: Ria Cristina Torrente (Geneva, Switzerland) A new report released by Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) shows ...
October 18, 2024 | 3 mins read
Little research has been done on the impact of traditional cooking methods in Philippine households on the survivability of the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). Photo: Julia Filirovska/Pexels.com Not much is known about the extent of Hepatitis A virus (HAV) contamination among Philippine communities, according to researchers, prompting an ...
October 17, 2024 | 2 mins read
Tarsomys orientalis. (Image: Velizar Simeonovski) In May 2024, the Philippine Eagle Foundation announced the description of a new rodent species from the Philippines (based on a specimen collected in May 2007), which was published in the Journal of Mammalogy. Tarsomys orientalis (Kampalili moss mouse) Distribution/habitat: Mt. Kampalili (Mindanao, Philippines) Endemic: Yes ...
October 16, 2024 | 2 mins read
Synthesis of two different architectures of copolymers of MMA and DEGMEMA using RAFT polymerization in [HPY][PF6]. Photo: Madrid et al., 2024 Thermoresponsive polymers are molecules that undergo significant changes in their properties in response to temperature changes and are widely used in biomedicine, such as drug delivery, tissue growth, and ...
October 15, 2024 | 2 mins read
Bulbophyllum bokodense. (Photo: Liezel M. Magtoto) In August 2024, the Philippine Taxonomic Initiative announced the description of a new species of orchid (based on a specimen collected in July 2021) from the Philippines, which was published in Phytotaxa. 𝘽𝙪𝙡𝙗𝙤𝙥𝙝𝙮𝙡𝙡𝙪𝙢 𝙗𝙤𝙠𝙤𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙚 Distribution/habitat: Mossy forest areas of Mt. Purgatory-Mangisi Traverse, Upper Agno River Basin Resource ...
October 14, 2024 | 2 mins read
The EYAA youth volunteers proudly present their WASH mural at Caloocan City Science High School. Photo: Caloocan Young Leaders Initiative From August 7 to 20, 2024, the ASEAN Foundation and Maybank Foundation-sponsored "eMpowering Youths Across ASEAN" (EYAA) program entrusted edtech social enterprise WASH-Ed to host youth volunteers from across ASEAN and implement the ...
October 13, 2024 | 2 mins read
Vaccinium fallax, V. gamay, and V. vomicum. (Photos: Peter W. Fritsch; John Rey Callado; Maverick N. Tamayo) In May 2024, the Asian Blueberry Project announced the description of 3 new blueberry (Vaccinium) species from the Philippines, which were published in Phytotaxa. 𝙑𝙖𝙘𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙪𝙢 𝙛𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙭 Distribution/habitat: Mt. Apo Natural Park (MANP), Mindanao Island Endemic: Yes ...
October 12, 2024 | 2 mins read
Poetic expressions resonate through this image, capturing the struggles of coastal households affected by environmental degradation. Photo: Save Gubat Bay Movement (Gubat, Sorsogon) In celebration of the Season of Creation—a time when Christians globally come together to reflect on and care for the environment—the Save Gubat Bay Movement (...
October 11, 2024 | 3 mins read
Vinpietri cahatianae and Vinpietri yapae. (Photos: Laurent Fauvre) In March 2024, descriptions of two new insect species from the Philippines, as well as the proposal of a new genus, were published in Annales Zoologici. New Genus - 𝙑𝙞𝙣𝙥𝙞𝙚𝙩𝙧𝙞 The newly named genus 𝘝𝘪𝘯𝘱𝘪𝘦𝘵𝘳𝘪 belongs to the hemipteran family Cercopidae, which includes the insects ...
October 10, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: Jhpiego The Philippine government officially kicked off its 2024 school-based immunization campaign, Bakuna Eskuwela, at Dr. Alejandro Albert Elementary School in Sampaloc, Manila, on October 7. Bakuna Eskuwela is a joint undertaking of the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Education (DepEd), which enjoins all local government units and ...
October 9, 2024 | 2 mins read
Psychotria pendens. (Photo: Raab Bustamante) In May 2024, the description of a new species of flowering plant from the Philippines was published in Phytotaxa. 𝙋𝙨𝙮𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙖 𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙨 Distribution/habitat: Mt. Victoria, Palawan (all samples collected January 2022) Endemic: Unspecified (but likely/possible) Distinctive traits: This evergreen shrub or small tree grows 1 to 4 m high, coexisting ...
October 8, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: Steve Johnson/Pexels Seeing—and tasting—is believing: a qualitative study of communities living along the Philippines’ bustling Marikina River underscores the importance of taking into account local peoples' everyday experiences, practices, and perceptions in establishing water quality. Anthropologists Gideon Lasco of the Ateneo de Manila University’s Development ...
October 7, 2024 | 2 mins read
Emmelichthys papillatus (Papillated redbait (English); Rebentador pula (Tagalog)). Photo: Kagoshima University Museum In March 2024, the description of a new species of fish from the Philippines was published in ZooKeys. 𝘽𝙚𝙜𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙖 𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙪𝙖𝙣𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙨 Distribution/habitat: Likely the Visayas region of the Philippines (holotype purchased in 2016 from Panay; paratypes purchased in 2013 from Cebu) Endemic: Unspecified; ...
October 6, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: Mali Maeder/Pexels Nonprofit organization Communities Organized for Resource Allocation (CORA) called for urgent actions towards advancing the circular economy through community-led actions, inclusive partnerships, and innovative solutions to plastic waste and marine litter. CORA Founder and Executive Director Antoinette Taus made the call during the recently concluded "SEA ...
October 5, 2024 | 2 mins read
Phantagma garciai and P. maarati. (Photos: Laurent Fauvre - P. garciai; Maxime Le Cesne - P. maarati) In March 2024, descriptions of two new insect species from the Philippines, as well as the proposal of a new genus, were published in Annales Zoologici. New Genus - 𝙋𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙜𝙢𝙖 The newly named genus 𝘗𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘮𝘢 belongs ...
October 4, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: Krizjohn Rosales/Pexels Five high schools in Paranaque City have been trained to promote and effectively manage solid waste and enhance environmental stewardship and resource recovery efforts under a program led by nonprofit organization Communities Organized for Resource Allocation (CORA) in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) Paranaque ...
October 3, 2024 | 2 mins read
Begonia tanauanensis. (Photo: Danilo N. Tandang) In March 2024, the description of a new species of flowering plant from the Philippines was published in Phytotaxa. 𝘽𝙚𝙜𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙖 𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙪𝙖𝙣𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙨 Distribution/habitat: Tanauan City, Batangas, southern Luzon, Philippines Endemic: Yes Distinctive traits: 𝘉. 𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘶𝘢𝘯𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘴 has a few similarities with a 𝘉𝘦𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘢 species from eastern Luzon, 𝘉. 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘪. Both plants have light ...
October 2, 2024 | 2 mins read
Researchers inspect blue vats containing Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings fed with varying levels of Arabic gum and lecithin to see what effect these have on the fishes' survivability in cold climates. Photo: OAVP-RCWI Two common ingredients in ordinary chewing gum–Arabic gum and lecithin–have been found to help ...
October 1, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: Luis Quintero/Pexels For Filipinos fortunate enough to have access to basic services, much of their daily existence depends on the consistency and reliability of such amenities. So when Typhoon Paeng hit Laguna in October 2022 and caused a nearly week-long water service interruption in Los Baños, it became "...
October 1, 2024 | 9 mins read
Metabacetus (Trogloabacetus) baltazarae and M. (T.) desideratus. (Photos: Milton Norman Medina & Alexander Anichtchenko) In March 2024, descriptions of two new cave beetle species from the Philippines and a new subgenus were published in Zootaxa. New Subgenus - 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙡𝙤𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙩𝙪𝙨 (under 𝘔𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘴) The researchers describe 𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘴 beetles as a “transitional form” of sorts between the ...
September 30, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: Official Gazette (X) Dr. Juan Salcedo, Jr. is celebrated for his pioneering work in nutrition and public health. Born on September 23, 1904, he exhibited a keen intellect and a passion for science from an early age. His educational journey was marked by excellence and a drive to address the pressing ...
September 29, 2024 | 2 mins read
Kweba magbabaya and Kweba diwata. (Photos: Milton Norman Medina & Alexander Anichtchenko) In March 2024, descriptions of two new cave beetle species from the Philippines, as well as the proposal of a new genus, were published in Zootaxa. New Genus - 𝙆𝙬𝙚𝙗𝙖 Beetles under the new genus 𝘒𝘸𝘦𝘣𝘢 are similar in appearance to ...
September 28, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: RODNAE Productions Unless you’re a comedian who specializes in self-deprecation, you probably don’t enjoy being the target of anyone’s jokes. Your mileage may vary, of course, depending on your personal threshold for ribbing. Some folks are able to laugh it off or even laugh along, perhaps ...
September 27, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: Marta Branco/Pexels Nearly half of all global pregnancies each year are unintended, tallying up to 121 million annually or 332,000 daily. Despite the Philippines' total fertility rate declining, the country still ranks 56th out of 160 countries in unintended pregnancies. This remains a cause for concern, particularly among girls aged 15 to 19 ...
September 26, 2024 | 6 mins read
Begonia matahom. (Photos: Freddie A. Blasco, Grecebio Jonathan D. Alejandro, Danilo N. Tandang, and Rosario R. Rubite) In March 2024, the description of a new species of flowering plant from the Philippines was published in Webbia: Journal of Plant Taxonomy and Geography. 𝘽𝙚𝙜𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙖 𝙖𝙗𝙝𝙖𝙠 Distribution/habitat: Lanuza, Surigao del Sur, Philippines Endemic: Yes ...
September 26, 2024 | 1 min read
Photos: DOST-STII Exclusive breastfeeding is the most effective method for enhancing the nutritional health of children under five years of age. Inadequate nutrition during this period can have long-term effects on health, some of which may persist into adulthood. Furthermore, according to data from the Department of Science and Technology-Food ...
September 25, 2024 | 2 mins read
Argostemma mirae. (Photos: Freddie Blasco, Grecebio Jonathan Alejandro, and Danilo Tandang) In March 2024, the description of a new species of flowering plant from the Philippines was published in Phytotaxa. 𝘼𝙧𝙜𝙤𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙢𝙖 𝙢𝙞𝙧𝙖𝙚 Distribution/habitat: Mindanao (Tago, Surigao del Sur) Endemic: Yes Distinctive traits: 𝘈. 𝘮𝘪𝘳𝘢𝘦 resembles 𝘈. 𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘧𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘶𝘮 in having branching and pubescent stems, oblanceolate leaves, pubescent ...
September 24, 2024 | 1 min read
Saurauia decolorata. Photos: Darin Penneys (L), Shiella Mae Olimpos (R) In July 2024, the description of a new species of tropical kiwi from the Philippines was published in Phytotaxa. 𝙎𝙖𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙪𝙞𝙖 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙖 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗯𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻/𝗵𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁: Mt. Pantaron Range, Bukidnon, and Mt. Balatukan Natural Park, Misamis Oriental 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘁𝘀: 𝘚. 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘢 shares certain characteristics with two other endemic 𝘚𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘶𝘪𝘢 species. Like 𝘚. 𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘢 and 𝘚. 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴, the ...
September 23, 2024 | 2 mins read
Begonia matahom. (Photos: Freddie A. Blasco, Grecebio Jonathan D. Alejandro, Danilo N. Tandang, and Rosario R. Rubite via Taiwania) In March 2024, the description of a new species of flowering plant from the Philippines was published in Taiwania: International Journal of Biodiversity. 𝘽𝙚𝙜𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙖 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙖𝙝𝙤𝙢 Distribution/habitat: Mt. Tingtingan, Sitio Tingtingan, Badong, Tago, Surigao ...
September 22, 2024 | 1 min read
Bityle oriens. (Photos: Milton Norman Medina, Amy Ponce, and Jhonnel Villegas) In February 2024, the description of a new longhorn beetle species from the Philippines was published in the Philippine Journal of Science. 𝘽𝙞𝙩𝙮𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙨 Distribution/habitat: Mindanao (Municipality of Boston, Davao Oriental) Endemic: Possible/likely, as Philippine Cerambycidae (long-horned) species are “mostly ...
September 21, 2024 | 1 min read
Students participate in an interactive game held during the DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute’s metrology basics forum. Photo: Henry A. De Leon via DOST-STII At the beginning of the tech forum organized by the Department of Science and Technology-Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI) titled "BEYOND MEASURE: The Basics of Metrology", ...
September 20, 2024 | 2 mins read
Syzygium crystalliferum. (Photos: Leonardo C. Udasco Jr. - leaves, flowers, tree; Jayson Mansibang - fruit) In February 2024, the description of a new tree species from the Philippines was published in the Nordic Journal of Botany. 𝙎𝙮𝙯𝙮𝙜𝙞𝙪𝙢 𝙘𝙧𝙮𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙪𝙢 Distribution/habitat: Carranglan, Nueva Ecija, Luzon (specimens collected in 2021) Endemic: Unknown/unconfirmed; known only from ...
September 19, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: DOSTv Filipino experts from various fields have been leaving the Philippines for decades in pursuit of greater opportunities abroad. To address the impact of this brain drain on national development, the Philippine government established the Balik Scientist Program (BSP). This initiative promotes the return of Filipino experts to share ...
September 18, 2024 | 2 mins read
Coeleumenes rusticanus. (Photo: Marco Selis via Museo Civico di Storia Naturale, Venezia, Italy) In February 2024, the description of a new potter wasp species from the Philippines was published in Zootaxa. 𝘾𝙤𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙪𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙨 𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙣𝙪𝙨 Distribution/habitat: Mindanao (Davao, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur) Endemic: Possible Distinctive traits: 𝘊. 𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘶𝘴 sports a black and ochre pattern ...
September 17, 2024 | 1 min read
Grade 10 students from Dr. Arcadio Santos National High School pose alongside organizers of DOST-STII's SCALEUP, a capacity-building program focusing on video production aspects such as script writing, basic video shooting, and video editing. (Photo: S&T Media Service, DOST-STII) The Science and Technology Information Institute (STII) of the Department ...
September 16, 2024 | 2 mins read
Tricondyla johnsoni. (Photo: Alexander Anichtchenko & Jürgen Wiesner) In January 2024, the description of a new tiger beetle species from the Philippines was published in Zootaxa. 𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙮𝙡𝙖 𝙟𝙤𝙝𝙣𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙞 Distribution/habitat: Mindanao (Davao, Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, and Misamis Oriental); specimens obtained in 2019 Endemic: Possible Distinctive traits: 𝘛. 𝘫𝘰𝘩𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘪 resembles another tiger beetle species found ...
September 15, 2024 | 1 min read
Photo: Thirdman/Pexels The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) published its Science Advisory No. 2024-01 titled "Towards Reducing the Prevalence of Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease: Predictors of Hypertension among Filipinos from the Lifecare Philippine Cohort." Academician Dr. Rody Sy, a renowned cardiologist and member of the ...
September 14, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: National Academy of Science and Technology via Presidential Museum and Library (Flickr) As a country whose roots run deep within the agricultural sector, the Philippines highly values the staple crops that sustain the tables of the Filipinos. For instance, based on 2023 projections from the United States Department of Agriculture (...
September 13, 2024 | 4 mins read
From left: Mikael Angelo S. Francisco of FlipScience.ph, Lilian B. Tiburcio of GMA Integrated News, Raphael Bosano of ABS-CBN News, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., John Maico M. Hernandez of DOST-Batangas, Cel Ocampo (on behalf of Junephrey M. Ocampo of Manila Bulletin Agriculture Monthly), and Ramon M. Bernardo ...
September 12, 2024 | 3 mins read
Photo: DA Biotech Program (Facebook) A leading expert in plant genetics, agronomy, seed production, and the management of tropical grasses and legumes, Dr. Emil Q. Javier has made significant advancements in tropical agriculture. His work has helped improve food security and production not only in the Philippines, but in other ...
September 11, 2024 | 3 mins read
Photo: yi yan/Pexels In our daily lives, we often find ourselves irresistibly drawn to things that are considered off-limits. This phenomenon, where forbidden items or behaviors appear more attractive simply because they are prohibited, is a well-documented aspect of human psychology. From sneaking out past curfew to indulging in ...
September 10, 2024 | 3 mins read
Photo: Anastasiya Badun/Pexels De La Salle University garnered a new patent from the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) for its latest invention, which presents an enabling framework for more ways to recycle paper cups. Developed by Department of Biology faculty member Dr. Jose Isagani Janairo and Department ...
September 9, 2024 | 1 min read
Churaumiastra hoshi. (Photos: Oliver Gomez and Christopher Mah) In January 2024, the description of a new sea star species from the Philippines was published in Zootaxa. 𝘾𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙪𝙢𝙞𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖 𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙝𝙞 Distribution/habitat: Philippines (Balut Island and Aliguay Island, Mindanao); Japan (Okinawa Island); Australia (Ashmore Reef) Endemic: No Distinctive traits: 𝘊. 𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘩𝘪 is an “extremely rare” species of ...
September 8, 2024 | 2 mins read
Gov. Bonifacio Lacwasan (center) was joined by Engr. Winston Beyden (2nd from left), head of the Office of the Provincial Agricultural and Biosystems Engineer (OPABE), and Mr. Winston Calde (left), the governor’s executive assistant, in presenting the plan to DA-BAFE Director Ariodear Rico (2nd from right) and DA-BAFE Asst. ...
September 7, 2024 | 2 mins read
Ophiorrhiza ravifolia. (Photos: Mark Arcebal K. Naive) In January 2024, the description of a new plant species from the Philippines was published in the Nordic Journal of Botany. 𝙊𝙥𝙝𝙞𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙝𝙞𝙯𝙖 𝙧𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙛𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙖 Distribution/habitat: Naga-Kabasalan Protected Landscape, Zamboanga Sibugay (discovered in June 2023) Endemic: Yes Distinctive traits: 𝘖. 𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘢 has strong physical similarities to two other 𝘖𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘩𝘪𝘻𝘢 species, 𝘖. 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘴 and 𝘖. 𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘢 (...
September 6, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: Pixabay The concept of "bad" foods often stems from misconceptions and outdated information. Many foods labeled as unhealthy actually offer numerous health benefits when consumed in moderation. Nuts Nuts are often criticized for being high in fat and calories, leading many to avoid them in their diets. However, nuts ...
September 5, 2024 | 3 mins read
Eumacrocyrtus robertfoxi and Enoplocyrtus angelalcalai. (Photos: Analyn A. Cabras) In February 2024, descriptions of two new weevil species from the Philippines were published in ZooKeys. 𝙀𝙪𝙢𝙖𝙘𝙧𝙤𝙘𝙮𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙨 𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙛𝙤𝙭𝙞 Distribution/habitat: Zambales, Luzon Island (holotype discovered in 1947) Endemic: Yes Distinctive traits: With a body length of 13.5 mm (close to the average size of a fingernail), 𝘌. 𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘧𝘰𝘹𝘪 ...
September 4, 2024 | 2 mins read
"Horridus," a Triceratops skeleton on display at Australia's Melbourne Museum. Photo: Mikael Angelo Francisco Mass extinction is an extremely rare yet profound event characterized by the loss of a significant portion of the Earth's species—bacteria, fungi, plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, invertebrates—across a wide geographic area. While ...
September 3, 2024 | 3 mins read
Bulbophyllum barcelonae and B. pelseri. (Photos: Jayson Mansibang, John Paul Collantes, Raab Bustamante, and Leonardo Udasco) In January 2024, the Philippine Taxonomic Initiative announced the publication of two new species descriptions from the Philippines in the Nordic Journal of Botany. 𝘽𝙪𝙡𝙗𝙤𝙥𝙝𝙮𝙡𝙡𝙪𝙢 𝙗𝙖𝙧𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙚 Distribution/habitat: Mossy forest areas of the Pantabangan–Carranglan Watershed Forest ...
September 2, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: National Academy of Science and Technology via Presidential Museum and Library (Flickr) Recognized as the "Father of Nuclear Medicine in the Philippines," Dr. Paulo C. Campos made groundbreaking contributions to medical science in the Philippines, particularly nuclear medicine. Born on July 27, 1921, in Dasmariñas, Cavite, Dr. Campos showed off ...
September 1, 2024 | 3 mins read
UPIS students with their principal (Prof. Anthony Joseph C. Ocampo, MA), PhilSA officials (led by Director General Joel Joseph Marciano, Jr., Ph.D.), and UK Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Laure Beaufils. Photo: PhilSA The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), in collaboration with Embassy of the United Kingdom (UK) of ...
August 30, 2024 | 2 mins read
Researchers gather samples of mustasa, or mustard greens (Brassica juncea), at New Greenland Farm in Bagong Silangan, Quezon City. Photo: UPD-CS research team A type of bacterium called Escherichia coli (E. coli), found in the feces of humans and animals, is often released into bodies of water such as streams. ...
August 29, 2024 | 3 mins read
Agustina with her grandsons Clark and Ion during a medical evaluation at one of Doctors Without Borders active case finding sites for tuberculosis in Tondo, Manila. Photo: Ezra Acayan Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has started providing tuberculosis (TB) medications for 141 patients in Tondo, Manila -- ...
August 28, 2024 | 3 mins read
Photo: DOST-PCHRD The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and China's Ministry of Science and Technology have jointly funded the development of a rapid and precise diagnostic technology that can be used for the early screening of autoimmune diseases such as lupus and arthritis. Filipino researchers, led by DOST Balik ...
August 27, 2024 | 2 mins read
Photo: DOST-STII Building on its successful debut last year, the National Youth Science, Technology, and Innovation Festival (NYSTIF) organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is set to return for its second edition on September 18 to 21, 2024, at The Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Forum Tent in Pasay City. ...
August 26, 2024 | 1 min read
[1] From left: War on Waste Negros Oriental and GAIA Philippines Board Member Merci Ferrer and Zero Waste Baguio founder and president Victoria Tenefrancia listen as Dr. Jorge Emmanuel's presentation during the "Unmasking Waste to Energy (WTE), Advocating for Zero Waste" forum at the University of Cordilleras. [2] At the event, Baguio ...
August 24, 2024 | 4 mins read
Photo: CHD4 Calabarzon Research and Innovation Development Unit (Facebook) Following the launch of the updated National Unified Health Research Agenda (NUHRA) in 2023, the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) and the University of the Philippines - Manila launched the national research agenda ...
August 23, 2024 | 3 mins read
Photo: National Science,Technology, and Innovation Week (Facebook) In 2023, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) brought the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) to Iloilo City, marking the first time the Philippines held its biggest annual S&T event outside Metro Manila. This year, Cagayan de Oro ...
August 22, 2024 | 2 mins read
The gold medalists of the 1st International Nuclear Science Olympiad, DOST Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services Maridon Sahagun, DOST-PNRI Director Dr. Carlo Arcilla, and DOST-PNRI Deputy Director Dr. Vallerie Samson. (Photo: DOST-PNRI) The term "nuclear" often brings to mind negative connotations such as disasters, wars, weapons of mass destruction, ...
August 21, 2024 | 3 mins read
DOST-FPRDI experts are digitizing the wood samples to better preserve the wood collection. Information and photos are uploaded and a QR code is assigned to each specimen for indexing and easy access. Photo: DOST-FPRDI The Department of Science and Technology-Forest Product Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) is taking significant strides ...
August 20, 2024 | 3 mins read
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