The tree-planting event to commemorate the 40th founding year of the National Academy of Science & Technology took place on on Nov. 15 at the grounds of the Science Heritage building at the Department of Science & Technology complex in Bicutan, Taguig City. It was attended by several members of NAST and their families, DOST Sec. Fortunato T. De La Pena, and officers and staff members of DOST and NAST.
The idea of tree planting was suggested by National Scientist Edgardo D. Gomez, who was the project leader, and was approved by academician Jaime C. Montoya, who served as master of ceremony.
Each National Scientist chose the tree species to plant. In cases of deceased members, National Scientist Gomez made the selection, in consultation with the family members of the National Scientists.
The species selected were either endemic to the Philippines, meaning occurring only in the country, or indigenous to the country, the species that are widespread in the Philippines but are also found in other nearby countries.
It is hoped that we Filipinos can learn lessons from the tree-planting event. One of these is the decision to focus on native trees for reforestation, as these trees have been with us for a long geologic time, and have adapted to the local climate and soil conditions.
They also possess tap roots that are firmly anchored on the ground, hence, cannot be easily uprooted by strong winds brought about by climate change.
Finally, they have developed good and stable ecological relations with the rest of the biodiversity of the Philippines.
In this connection, it was suggested that in areas such as the grounds of the DOST Complex, all exotic tree species should be removed, and replaced by endemic or indigenous species.
It is also suggested that as much as possible, university campuses should plant only endemic and indigenous (not exotic) species of trees.
The NAST is the highest recognition and advisory body on science and technology, and serves to advise the President of the Philippines on matters relating to science and technology.
It is composed of more than 60 living Academicians and National Scientists serving as “a reservoir of competent scientific and technological manpower for the Philippines.”
The Order of National Scientist (at present 15 living members) is “the highest honor and recognition given by the President of the Republic of the Philippines to Filipino Academicians who have made significant contributions to one or more fields of science and technology”. Academicians and National Scientists are elected by their peers.
Our hope is that more students will be attracted to the sciences to increase the number of scientific specialists.
Scientists and technologists are needed to place the Philippines at a higher level comparable to those in more advanced countries.
Every year NAST awards recognition to outstanding university students and bright faculty members who could become outstanding scientists and researchers. But NAST needs more help from universities in the making of scientists and technologists.
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