Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato de la Peña on Tuesday, July 13, commended the completion of the Science-Technology-Innovation or “STI Foresight” document which seeks to ensure inclusive growth and sustainable development in the country.

During his opening message at the 43rd Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) of National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST PHL), de la Peña commended the Academy for standing up to his challenge.

“I am glad that the Academy stood up to my challenge to spearhead the formulation of said document which presents significant drivers of change and provides insights and reflections on plausible STI development paths that will impact on the aspirations of the Filipino people by 2050,” de la Peña.

De la Peña said that he was pleased after NAST PHL completed early this year STI Foresight document entitled “PAGTANAW 2050” which translates to “looking ahead.”

“In essence, this foresight is firmly grounded on a shared vision of a United and Inclusive, Prosperous, and Sustainable Maritime Archipelagic Nation,” de la Peña said.

“This nation’s aspirations are within the context of the country’s natural and physical endowments-- an archipelago with abundant marine resources-- as well as our shared Filipino values and skills, and other potentials as embodied in our Constitution and other national documents,” he added.

De la Peña expressed hope that the STI Foresight document will be a “valuable resource that will incite fruitful dialogues, debates, and collaboration towards achieving our desired future, anchored on science, technology and innovation.”

He added that the completion of the foresight study is also expected to “jumpstart the formulation of the successor plan” of the Science and Technology Master Plan 2000-2022.

Thus, he acknowledged the NAST Members who “tirelessly spent days and nights” to come up with a Philippine STI Foresight Project.

“It is indeed an undertaking with a big responsibility in furthering our aspirations,” de la Peña said. “This is a prime example that we are using science for the improvement of the lives of people,” he added.

De la Peña noted that the STI Foresight, along with other ongoing initiatives, will help answer the country’s sustainability concerns. “Also, hopefully, be sustainable in the long run as we invest in training our end users and eventually the communities they serve,” he said.

DOST, De la Peña noted, has had various initiatives to bring “science closer to the people and making it visible by uplifting the lives of Filipinos.”

Thus, he assured that the various agencies in the DOST will continue to work hard and hand-in-hand with various stakeholders and collaborators both in the government and private sector - as well as at the local and international level.