MUNTINLUPA CITY – The 2026 Luzon Regional Scientific Meeting officially kicked off on April 7 at the Acacia Hotel Alabang, bringing together science, policy and industry leaders to push for sustainable development aligned with global goals.

The opening ceremony commenced with the rendition of the National Anthem, Invocation, and DOST Hymn, performed by the Colegio De Muntinlupa ROTC and Chorale. Ms. Sophia Therese Can of the DOST National Capital Region (NCR) served as the Master of Ceremonies.

Delivering the welcome remarks was National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (NAST Phl) President Academician Jaime C. Montoya, followed by official opening remarks from Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr.

Held under the theme “UN SDGs: Science, Technology and Innovation for Sustainable Development”, the two-day gathering featured technical presentations and updates from key officials:

– Engr. Sancho A. Maborrang, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, discussed the alignment of S&T development frameworks with Luzon-wide regional initiatives

– Dr. Napoleon K. Juanillo Jr., Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communication and Commercialization, presented DOST’s STI4SDGs program

– NAST Phl Director Luningning Samarita-Domingo laid out the academy’s priority programs and activities

– Academician Alvin Culaba, NAST Phl Vice President, gave an overview of the regional meeting’s objectives and schedule

– Dr. Michael O. Sinocruz, Director of the Energy Policy and Planning Bureau, Department of Energy, delivered the keynote address

– Department of Economy Planning and Development (DEPDev) Region IV-A Regional Director Carmel P. Matabang shared the latest status of SDG implementation across Luzon

The program also highlighted the official launching and opening of the scientific poster session, showcasing various research and innovation projects from the region.

Key regional officials in attendance included DOST NCR Regional Director Engr. Romelen T. Tresvalles and DOST Central Luzon Regional Director Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat, alongside representatives from government agencies, academe, and research institutions.