From November 23-29, the Philippines celebrated the 5th Annual National Biotechnology Week with the theme "Bioteknolohiya para sa Kalikasan, Kalusugan. Kagandahan, Kabuhayan, at Kaunlaran," (Biotechnology for the environment, health, beauty, livelihood and development). The weeklong activity included business forum on bio-enterprise, book launching, biotech for kids activities, teacher’s conference and scientific session on biotech for local development and environment and a public forum on healthcare and biotechnology. The timeline of modern biotechnology development in the country, Philippine and global biotech crops adoption and benefits, and biotechnology products commercially available and those in the pipeline were showcased in the Celebration’s inter-active and techno-mart exhibits.

National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) President, Dr. Emil Q. Javier, cited during the opening ceremony of the activity that biotechnology is not just for scientists or policy makers but rather it concerns every Filipino. NAST is the country's premiere advisory body on science and technology and have been an important advocate for biotech R&D and acceptance in the country.

Secretary of Agriculture Arthur C. Yap believes that “biotech is the way forward and the future of the Philippine agricultural growth, sustainable development, and is very important for national progress and survival”, according to his message which was read during the culmination of the celebration. The Department affirms to continue its investments and support for capacity building, public information campaign and funding to agricultural biotech research and innovations.

The event spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology and Department of Agriculture was attended by thousands of various stakeholders such as scientists, environmentalists, health enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, decision makers, development advocates, farmers and students. The activities of the celebration were also supported by several government and private sectors in the Philippines.

Presidential Proclamation No. 1414 declares every last week of November as National Biotechnology Week (NBW). The said Proclamation directs Secretaries of seven departments namely: Agriculture, Education, Environment and Natural Resources, Health, Science and Technology, and Trade and Industry, to formulate a program for the meaningful celebration of NBW.

For more updates on biotech developments in the Philippines, email bic@agri.searca.org or visit www.bic.agri.searca.org. (Jenny A. Panopio, SEARCA BIC)

For more information, please contact:

Ms. Jenny A. Panopio
Special Project Coordinator & Network Administrator
Biotechnology Information Center
SEAMEO SEARCA
College, Laguna 4031
Email: jap at agri.searca.org
Tel: (63-49)536-2290 loc 169 or 406
Tele/Fax: (63-49)536-4105
URL: www.bic.searca.org