ISAAA Announces New Dates and Venue for ASCA8: Event Relocates to Manila in September 2025

The International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA), Inc., announces a change in both the date and venue for the 8th Asian Short Course on Agribiotechnology, Biosafety Regulation, and Communication (ASCA8).

Originally scheduled for October in Hanoi, Vietnam, ASCA8 will now be held from September 8 to 12, 2025, in Manila, Philippines.

"After careful consideration and discussion regarding the evolving dynamics of our co-hosting arrangements for ASCA8, we have decided to relocate the event to Manila," stated Dr. Rhodora Romero-Aldemita, Executive Director of ISAAA, Inc. "Our priority remains to deliver a successful and engaging event for our community. We believe this change is in the best interest of all involved, ensuring the continuity of the high-quality training ASCA is known for. We thank our participants and partners for their continued support."

Since its inception in 2018, ASCA's intensive training program has empowered over 200 scientists, regulators, communication practitioners, and other key stakeholders from diverse government agencies, private companies, and non-profit organizations across Asia. The program provides an in-depth focus on three critical areas: agricultural biotechnology applications (including genetic engineering and gene editing), the evolving policy environment, and effective science communication.

ASCA consistently features leading international experts from these fields who serve as resource speakers and facilitate dynamic discussions. A unique feature of the short course is its inclusion of provincial day tours to biotech research facilities and farmers' fields, coupled with hands-on activities, all designed to enrich participants' knowledge and practical experience in these vital areas.

Participation in ASCA fosters a unique collaborative environment, cultivating invaluable networking opportunities among participants and experts. This synergy drives the convergence of scientific innovation and robust regulations, ultimately ensuring the responsible advancement of modern biotechnology for maximum societal benefit.

The short course is co-organized with the Malaysian Biotechnology Information Centre (MABIC).

Interested participants and partners are encouraged to sign up for ASCA8 e-mail updates.