46th Annual Scientific Meeting of NAST Ph

Manila City- From Farm to Dine: NAST PHL’s Strategies for a Healthier Philippine Food System. The National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (NAST PHL) held its 46th Annual Scientific Meeting on July 10 and 11, 2024, at the Fiesta Pavilion, The Manila Hotel, with the theme “Beyond Farm Productivity:

Transforming the Philippine Food System to Address Equity, Consumer Health, and Environmental Issues.” NAST PHL, an attached agency of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), recognizes developments in scientific research and serves as an adviser to the President, Cabinet, Legislators ,other policy-making bodies of government and National and Local Government Units on matters related to Science and Technology.

The 2-day event was spearheaded by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., along with New members Academicians and partnered agencies. The event included discussions on topics such as food processing, food services, waste management, and consumption.

They also held exhibits, scientific posters, and the awarding ceremony for the 2024 NAST awardees on the ribbon cutting witness Along with Science Chief Solidum,NAST PHL President Jaime Montoya, His Excellency Amb. Tull Traisorat, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of the Phillippines and Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon Asec Ana Carmela Remigio.

The DOST emphasized the importance of transforming the food supply and ensuring food security in the country. They envision in providing the resources and proper environment for Filipinos to acquire knowledge on how to obtain quality produce and reduce the consumption of processed food. During the discussion, it was mentioned that diabetes is the number one killer disease in the country. In response, the DOST aims to educate Filipinos on finding alternatives and reducing the consumption of white rice, which contains a large amount of sugar compare to brown rice which low glycemic level compared to white rice.

NAST PHL highlighted the need for transforming the Philippine food system to address issues of consumer health and environmental sustainability. With discussions led by leading scientists and policymakers, they emphasized the importance of advancing scientific research and policy in food processing, services, and waste management.

The emphasis on reducing processed food consumption and promoting healthier alternatives, like reducing white rice intake, reflects a commitment to tackling latest health issues such as diabetes. The event not only showcased the latest scientific advancements but also reinforced the vital role of science and technology in creating a healthier and more sustainable holistic approach in the future for the Philippines.

Presenting During the Press Conferences on the First day of ASM are the New NAST Members are the following Academicians: Academician Joseph S. Magsakay, PhD agriculture; Dr of Veterinary Medicine eaning the title of Father of Veterinary Pathology in the Philippines, Academician Cleofas R. Cervancia, Phd Entomology her contributions extend to the establishment of standard for bee products, best beekeeping practices, and guidelines for bees quarantine regulations, Academician Fortunato T. Dela Pena LLD( honoris causa),DTech(honoris causa) former DOST Secretary he is pivotal in DOST programs such as manufacturing productivity extension program, played leadership role in establishment of UP National Engineering Center, DOST Technology Business Incubation Program, Philippine e-library program. Co authored book ” Science for the People”.

Short Dialogue with His Excellency Tull Traisorat, Ambassador of Thailand and National Scientist Lourdes Cruz during 46th Annual Scientific Meeting