ISAAA Inc. Highlights the Role of NGOs in Advancing Biotech in the Philippines

ISAAA Inc. participated in the results promotion of the Horizon Scan on the Biotechnology Path of the Philippines organized by the National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP). Anchored by the foundations of PAGTANAW 2050 of the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), the horizon scan presents significant results to see the future of biotechnology in the Philippines.

“We hope that our results will inspire you to use biotechnology, to develop our economy, to develop our people, and to advance the Filipino agenda. We believe that biotech is the future, biotech is the way to go. May our results inspire you to be more productive for the Filipino people. Make lives easier for the Filipino people,” said Mr. Leocris S. Batucan, Jr., Project Leader of the Horizon Scan Project.

According to Mr. Batucan, a critical aspect of a successful horizon scan is empowering stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), who share different perspectives in contributing to biotechnology. According to Dr. Rhodora Romero-Aldemita, Executive Director of ISAAA Inc., NGOs serve as additional help to the government in influencing policies and shaping public discourse. By partnering with both the government and private sector, NGOs are looking into in-depth activities and engagement to reach wider audiences and facilitate effective information dissemination about biotechnology.

The results of the horizon scan were presented by emerging leaders namely Dr. Aimee Yvonne Criselle L. Aman and Dr. Sarah Jane A. Jimenez for Health Systems, Dr. Mia Camila Urbano-Africa for Energy and Water, Mr. Elfritzon M. Peralta for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Sittie Aisha B. Macabago and Mr. Enrykie B. Fortajada for Science Education and Talent Retention, Engr. Eduardo D. Piedad Jr. for ICT, Engr. Ian Dominic F. Tabañag for Materials, Mr. Von Kevin B. Alag and Mr. Reimond S. Corona for Food Security and Nutrition, and Mr. Joseph Carlo V. Vergel for Blue Economy. Mr. Batucan said that the results of the horizon scan will be available to the public soon.

For more information, watch the recorded live stream on the Facebook page of the National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines.