The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) presented on Wednesday, Nov. 27 five exceptional Filipino scientists and innovators during the 2024 National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) for their contributions to research, technology, and science administration.
The awards, presented by the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL), recognize individuals and institutions that have made significant contributions to the generation of knowledge and technologies, utilization of research results, and promotion of science and technology in the country.
The recipients of this year’s prestigious awards are as follows:
Breast cancer research
Dr. Pia D. Bagamasbad of the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) received the Outstanding Research and Development Award (Eduardo A. Quisumbing Medal for Basic Research) for her research titled “Krüppel-like factor 9 (KLF9) links hormone dysregulation and circadian disruption to breast cancer pathogenesis.”
Her study helps to understand the role of KLF9 in influencing the hormone responses of the core cellular clock and clock output genes, ultimately leading to tumorigenesis.
It also bridges a critical gap in knowledge of the key factors involved in hormone-associated circadian disruption in breast cancer development.
Contraceptive innovation
Dr. Aurelio A. de los Reyes V, also from UPD, was awarded the Outstanding Research and Development Award (Eduardo A. Quisumbing Medal for Basic Research) for his research titled “Toward an optimal contraception dosing strategy.”
His study provides insights into developing optimal treatments to induce anovulation with a mathematical model that accurately predicts daily hormone levels, enabling the optimization of dosage and administration schedules of exogenous estrogen and progesterone for effective contraception.
Oil spill solution
Meanwhile, Dr. Mary Donnabelle L. Balela, also of UPD, received the Outstanding Research and Development Award (Julian A. Banzon Medal for Applied Research) for her work titled “Modular Kapok Booms for Marine Oil Spills with Low Secondary Waste Generation.”
Her research developed biodegradable and reusable oil sorbent materials from locally sourced “kapok” fibers, demonstrating a sorption capacity of up to 4000 percent of its weight (depending on the type of oil), offering a sustainable solution for managing oil spills while minimizing environmental impact.
Science leadership
Dr. Jonel P. Saludes of the University of San Agustin (USA) was recognized with the Outstanding Science Administrator Award (Dioscoro L. Umali Medal) for his exemplary leadership as Vice President for Research and Global Relations.
His leadership was instrumental in transforming the USA into a research-intensive university.
Innovative food product
Dr. Dana G. Vera Cruz of the Central Luzon State University received the Outstanding Technology Commercialization Award (Gregorio Y. Zara Medal) for the successful commercialization of Daerry's Tilapia Ice Cream, made with protein sourced from tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).
The innovative product offers a new way for Filipinos to enjoy fish in a healthy and delicious form.