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Pimentel to DOST: Be prepared for the possible debate on nuclear energy revival
Pimentel to DOST: Be prepared for the possible debate on nuclear energy revival
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said there is a need for the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to be prepared for a possible debate on nuclear energy revival.
During the deliberation on the proposed 2023 budget of the DOST by the Finance Subcommittee ‘’L’’ on Monday, Oct. 17, Pimentel asked the DOST if there were Filipino nuclear scientists abroad who could be persuaded to avail of the Balik Scientist Program of the agency.
“Maybe the Balik Scientist Program can also be tweaked in such a way that we can entice even theoretical nuclear physicists or scientists to be involved in the national debate which will follow soon,” Pimentel added.
DOST Secretary Renato Umali Solidum Jr. told the committee that apart from having “balik (returning) scientists” who are very knowledgeable in nuclear science, the agency also has capacity building for Filipinos, including bilateral engagement with select countries with nuclear power plants offering doctoral programs in nuclear engineering.
Solidum said that between 2023 and 2028, the department aims to refocus its major programs to align with the economic agenda of the President and address the socio-economic agenda through the use of science, technology, and innovation.
Senator Francis “Tol” Tolentino, while listening to the budget presentation of the DOST and its attached agencies, as well as that of the Philippine Space Agency (PSA) Monday, was surprised to learn that a number of young Filipino scientists had won awards for their innovative projects.
He asked the DOST to come up with a banner program to encourage more promising high school and college students to join science competitions.
Tolentino also expressed his support for the proposal of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services (PAGASA) to establish nine new stations, including flood forecasting and learning centers to ensure a more accurate prediction of weather.
“Can you provide us with the nine areas where you intend to have the additional stations? PAGASA needs this. We need local forecasting and sometimes the agency has to rely on CNN reports. I even have resorted to police reports to know if there is strong winds or rain,” Tolentino said.