Bakit may MRF sa Sacred Heart Village, Bgy Pasong Putik Proper

Pakinggan natin ang panayam natin kay Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte oara sa kaalaman ng lahat na nais mag-apply ng Zero Waste Technology ir Advocacy sa kanilang pamayanan.

QC MAYOR JOY BELMONTE ON SHV COMMUNITY CENTER, MRF AND ZERO WASTE TECHNOLOGY

A New Chapter for Philippine Scientists: The 2025 Scientific Career System Oath Taking

On Friday, 17 October 2025, the SCS formally conferred and upgraded a new cohort of government-career scientists during the oath taking ceremony held at the Luxent Hotel in Quezon City. The event was attended by government leaders, representatives of the scientific community, the new honorees and their families — a moment of celebration, acknowledgement and renewed commitment to science and public service.

NAST-DOST-SCS 2025 on 17 October at the Luxent Hotel, Quezon City | Moments of pride and gratitude filled the SCS press conference as Filipino scientists shared stories of perseverance, passion, and purpose in advancing science for national growth.| Inspire Life Global TV – Pinoy Vision Blog by Juliet Zapanta Cruz

In this blog, I’ll highlight what was said by key officials, what the scientists themselves reflected on, and what these messages tell us about the broader purpose and promise of the SCS.

Key Messages from Officials

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. shares how he never dreamed of becoming a scientist—but was destined to serve the nation through science. From geologist to PHIVOLCS chief to Secretary, his story embodies “Agham na Ramdam”—science that truly serves the Filipino people. | Inspire Life Global TV- Pinoy Vision Blog by Juliet Zapanta Cruz

• Secretary Solidum recognized that the new cohort of career scientists were drawn “from across key fields of science and technology.”
• One of his direct quotes: “Science-based information is one of the most important information that you should have.”
• On discipline and integrity: “Discipline is needed so that you can get the right information and not fake news.”
• He asserted: “We have many problems. But as scientists, if we can do it, let’s do it ourselves.”
• He emphasized that scientists are not just researchers, but communicators: “First and foremost they are scientists, and they need the help of science communicators so that they can livestream so that everybody will understand.”
• He also spoke of his own journey in government service (nearly 40 years) and how he could have chosen a more “popular” path but opted for service through science.
• He reiterated his commitment: “I really wanted to help our country. Hence, I promote the four pillars of DOST.”
• Taken together, his messages emphasize service, integrity, communication, and applied science.

NAST PHL / SCS Executive Secretary Director Luningning E. Samarita-Domingo

• Director Samarita-Domingo highlighted that the SCS is chaired by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) and co-chaired by the DOST.
• She noted that the SCS began in 1994 (as she said at the ceremony) and since then more than 200 Filipino scientists have been conferred or upgraded under the system.
• Her message underscores the institutional history of the SCS, the value of continuity, and the cumulative impact of recognizing career scientists.

Other Officials

• The CSC Chairperson (Atty. Marilyn B. Yap) was present and offered congratulations to the honorees.
• Former officials and academicians such as Fortunato T. Dela Pena (who conferred certain ranks) were also present, highlighting the link between past and present in the SCS.
• The structure of the ceremony also included recognition for “dedicated service” of previous members of the Scientific Career Council and Special Technical Committees.

Reflections from the Scientists

During the post-ceremony press conference (as reported), several of the newly conferred and upgraded career scientists shared meaningful reflections.

 
Key take-aways include:

• Many emphasized science-based adaptations for policy-making — that their research is linked to actual government decisions or societal needs (food security, climate change, etc.).
• A deep sense of gratitude: to their institutions, mentors, families.
• One scientist noted: “Scientific career is not a race. It is a journey.”
• Some scientists made personal choices of staying in the Philippines despite offers abroad, out of patriotism and desire for national service.
• They highlighted that their respective works link to pressing national issues: e.g., banana export vulnerability to disease; curriculum development that is research-based; three strategic pillars of DOST-PAGASA (sustainability, human being, protection).
• A note about rewards: one retiree said: “Being a career scientist is very rewarding and challenging. You can be a millionaire upon retirement because of the benefit of one rank higher upon retirement.” This was an inspiring remark that draws attention to the material incentives tied to the system.

What These Messages Tell Us

From the speeches and reflections, here are some themes worth noting:

1. Science as Service

The repeated theme is that these scientists are not doing “science for science’s sake” only, but doing science as service to country and fellow citizens. Secretary Solidum’s call that scientists “do it ourselves” speaks to ownership and responsibility.

2. The Importance of Communication

Science does not end at publication — one official highlighted the need for scientists to be supported by science communicators so the work reaches a broader public. This underscores the translation of research into awareness, policy, action.

3. Recognizing the Journey

The phrase “scientific career is not a race, it is a journey” captures the mindset of continuous growth, learning, and contribution rather than mere trophy-seeking or for recognition sake. The presence of long-serving officials and retirees reminds us of the long-term nature of scientific service.

4. Institutionalizing Science Careers

The SCS via the CSC-DOST mechanism, and the history noted by Director Samarita-Domingo, shows how the Philippines is building structures to reward, recognize and retain scientific talent in government service. This gives scientists a clearer career path and helps institutional memory.

5. Tying Research to Real-World Problems

The scientists’ reflections point to aligning research agendas with national priorities: food security, climate change adaptation, disease resilience, technology development, etc. This alignment is critical for science to be relevant and impactful.

6. Incentives and Motivation

While intrinsic motivation is strong (service, patriotism, public good), the remarks also acknowledge material benefits of being a career scientist. This shows a dual model of intrinsic + extrinsic motivation.

Congratulations to the 2025 SCS Awardees

Kudos to these newly Conferred Career Scientists!

Health Sciences Division – Presented by Academician Rody G.Sy

1.    Dr. Eva A. Goyena, Scientist I - DOST-FNRI

 

Engineering Sciences and Technology Division – Presented by Academician Fortunato T dela Pena

2.    Dr. Jayson P. Rogelio, Scientist II - DOST-MIRDC

3.    Dr. Persia Ada N. Yro, Scientist I – DOST-ITDI

4.    Dr. Ronaldo P. Parreno Jr., Scientist I – DOST-ITDI

 

Mathematical and Physical Sciences Division – Presented by Academician Fabian M Dayrit

5.    Dr. Hannah R. Bardolaza, Scientist I – DOST-NIP

6.    Dr. Joseph Q. Basconcillo, Scientist I – DOST-PAGASA

7.    Dr. Joel P. Rivadeneira, Scientist I – UPLB–IFST

8.    Dr. Erlina R. Ronda, Scientist I – UPD-NISMED

 

Agricultural Sciences Division – Presented by Academician Eufemio T. Rasco Jr.

9.    Dr. Emma L. Ballad, Scientist I – DA-BFAR RO2

10.  Dr. Orlando A. Calcetas, Scientist I – DA-RFO Calabarzon

11.  Engr. Edgar D. Flores, Scientist I – DA-Philmech

12.  Ms. Roanne R. Gardoce, Scientist I – UPLB-IPB

13.  Dr. Mary-Nia M. Santos, Scientist I – DA-NFRDI

14.  Dr. Lilian P. Villamor, Scientist I – DA-PCC

 

Amazing Level-up to Newly Upgraded!

15. Dr. Roel R.Suralta, Scientist IV – DA-PhilRice

16. Dr. Merdelyn T. Caasi-Lit, Scientist III - UPLB-IPB

17.  Dr.Fe M.dela Cueva, Scientist III – UPLB-IPB

18.  Ms. Marcela M. Navasero, Scientist III – UPLB-CAFS NCPC

19.  Mr. Dindo King M.Donayre, Scientist II – DA-PhilRice

20.  Mr. Edwin C. Martin, Scientist II – DA-PhilRice  

 

Closing Thoughts

The 17 October 2025 SCS Oath Taking was not merely a ceremonial event—it marked a reaffirmation of the role of science in national development, the commitment of scientists to public service, and the institutional mechanisms that support that role.

For the scientists who took their oath, the journey continues — with expectations of performance, communication, impact, and mentorship.  For the nation, it is a signal that science and technology remain central to our efforts in addressing the challenges of our time: climate change, food security, health, innovation and more.

If you are a budding scientist or someone interested in policy-science interplay, keep these messages in mind: your career is a journey of service, your research should aim for translation, and both passion and structure matter.

Comment below, what science and technology you are interested in or wanted to share.  Keep on engaging!

 

The media and influencers with the NAST PHL Executive Secretary Luningning Samarita-Domingo after the Scientific Career System on October 17, 2025 at Luxent Hotel, Quezon City | Inspire Life Global TV - PinoyVision Blog by Juliet Zapanta Cruz 

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#AghamNaRamdam #ScientificCareerSystem #DOST #NASTPhilippines #ScienceForThePeople #InspireLifeGlobal
#2025SCSOathTaking
#FilipinoCareerScientists
#PublicServiceThroughScience

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Smile and be happy! The media and influencers at SCS2025

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GTBA–ONEKLIK Travel Sale Expo 2025: Your Passport to Global Destinations

Manila, Philippines — The third edition of the Travel Sale Expo (TSE) 2025 wrapped up its highly anticipated run last September 26–28, 2025, at the SM Megamall Megatrade Hall, once again solidifying its place as the country’s premier travel fair.

L-R: United Airlines Country Manager for Sale Pam Navarro, Israel Ambassador Dana Kursh, India Ambassador Shri Harsh Kumar Jain, District Rep, Maguindanao del Norte Bai Dimple Mastura, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, TSE Chairperson Michelle G. Taylan, Indonesia Ambassador Agus Widjojo, DFA Asst. Secretary Rhenita B. Rodriguez, DTI Director Aleem Guiapal, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines Representative Wallace Minn-Gan Chow, Majority Whip of the 38th Guam Legislature Senator Shelley Calvo, SVP Metrobank Jocelyn Lim-Bata | INSPIRE LIFE GLOBAL TV

The landmark event was spearheaded by the Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA) and Oneklik Events, in partnership with the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), Boracay Malay LGU, Tourism Malaysia, and the Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB). It also received strong institutional support from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Tourism (DOT), and numerous embassies across Asia and beyond.

Over the course of three days, more than 200 exhibitors from airlines, hotels, resorts, cruises, and tour operators welcomed tens of thousands of eager travelers and tourism industry players, transforming the Megatrade Hall into a vibrant global gateway.

“Your Gateway to the World”

Carrying the theme “Your Gateway to the World,” TSE 2025 opened opportunities for Filipinos to explore both local treasures and international favorites.

On the domestic front, exhibitors showcased best-selling destinations such as Boracay, Bohol, Cebu, Palawan, Baguio, and Batangas—highlighting how the Philippines continues to evolve as a premier destination for both leisure and sustainable tourism.

Globally, the expo spotlighted Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia, Brunei, India, Cambodia, Japan, Guam, and Europe. Iconic sites such as Bali, Borobudur, Bogor, and Sukabumi drew attention, while long-time Filipino favorites like Tokyo, Osaka, Paris, Rome, and London offered irresistible packages.

Visitors enjoyed exclusive discounts, flexible payment options, and bundled travel packages, ensuring that dream vacations are now within reach for every Filipino household.

 

Democratizing Travel

GTBA Founding Chairman and TSE Chairperson Michelle Taylan emphasized the transformative vision of the expo:

“We are moving towards democratizing travel for the everyday Filipino. The Travel Sale Expo is designed to make dream trips accessible, affordable, and stress-free. It’s not just about YOLO or FOMO anymore—people want smarter, value-packed travel choices, and that’s what we deliver.”

This vision resonated strongly with participants, many of whom took advantage of never-before-seen deals on flights, cruises, and tours.

 

More Than Deals: A Tourism Hub

Beyond exclusive promos, TSE 2025 became a hub for networking and collaboration, connecting local suppliers, international operators, government agencies, and tourism investors.

Key discussions focused on:

• Halal and Muslim-friendly tourism
• Sustainable travel opportunities
• Emerging market trends in ASEAN

A standout highlight was the strengthened partnership between DTI and DOT, who jointly launched programs showcasing Philippine heritage products, artisanal crafts, and halal tourism opportunities. This initiative underscores the country’s commitment to becoming a welcoming and inclusive tourism hub in Southeast Asia and beyond.

 

An Immersive Experience for Attendees

The Travel Sale Expo 2025 was more than just a marketplace for discounts—it was a celebration of culture, innovation, and travel lifestyle. Attendees were treated to:

• Surprise cultural performances from partner destinations
• Interactive booths and travel games for families and young explorers
• Pop-up essentials from global brands, including travel gear and technology
• Culinary samplings of local and international flavors

GTBA further stressed that travel should no longer be seen as an occasional luxury but as a lifestyle choice that drives economic growth, supports livelihoods, and enriches everyday life.

As Taylan added:

“Events like TSE are not only about promoting destinations, but also about creating jobs and strengthening the entire tourism value chain. We are proud to provide a platform that uplifts both the industry and the traveling public.”

 

A Growing Tradition

Since its inaugural edition in 2023, the Travel Sale Expo has experienced exponential growth. From its first run, which drew a strong crowd, TSE has quickly evolved into a must-attend event in the Philippine tourism calendar.

The 2025 edition exceeded expectations, generating record inquiries and bookings while elevating its reputation as a bridge between global tourism leaders and the Filipino travel market.

Organizers already promise an even bigger celebration in 2026, one that will continue to open doors for Filipinos to see the world—one affordable trip at a time.

 

Distinguished Guests & Partners

The grand opening ceremony of TSE 2025 was graced by top government and diplomatic leaders, including:

• DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco
• DTI Director Aleem Guiapal
• DFA Assistant Secretary Rhenita B. Rodriguez
• Mayor Frolibar Bautista (Boracay Malay, Aklan)
• Hon. Shelley Calvo, Senator of Guam

Ambassadors from Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Cambodia, Israel, Taiwan, and other dignitaries also lent their presence, reflecting the event’s global significance.

Key sponsors and partners included:

• Metrobank
• GCash Philippines
• San Augustine
• Mixcaricature
• AirAsia Philippines
• United Airlines

Media partners such as the Daily Tribune, Manila Times, Malaya Business Insight, Daily Chronicles, and Manila Standard amplified the event’s reach, ensuring that the expo’s success reverberated across the nation.

 

About the Organizers

Global Tourism Business Association (GTBA) is a premier tourism body dedicated to advancing industry growth, fostering global partnerships, and promoting the Philippines as a world-class tourism hub.

Oneklik Events is a leading Philippine events company known for staging world-class exhibitions and expositions that empower industries, businesses, and consumers alike.

ENJOY WATCHING OUR VIDEOS :)

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The Travel Sale Expo 2025 that runs from September 26 to 28 at 5th Level of Megatrade Hall B SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila | Inspire Life Global TV 

Bagong Simula: Community Center ng Sacred Heart Village, Pormal nang Binuksan

Quezon City, Pilipinas — Agosto 2, 2025

Ni Juliet Zapanta Cruz

Isang bagong yugto ng pag-unlad at pagkakaisa ang isinilang sa komunidad ng Sacred Heart Village, Barangay Pasong Putik, matapos ang pormal na inagurasyon ng kanilang bagong dalawang-palapag na Community Center noong Sabado, sa pangunguna ni Mayor Joy Belmonte.

Ang proyekto ay bunga ng pagtutulungan ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Quezon, Barangay Pasong Putik sa pamumuno ni Kapitan Mike Jamin, at ng Sacred Heart Village Homeowners Association Inc. na pinamumunuan ni Engr. Mackie Yoro.

“Ito ay handog ng lungsod sa mga QCitizens,” ayon kay Mayor Belmonte sa kanyang talumpati.

 

“Layunin nating mapakinabangan ito ng komunidad—para sa mga adhikain gaya ng zero-waste at plastic-free community, livelihood trainings, aktibidad para sa senior citizens, at paghubog ng kakayahan ng kabataan.”

📌 Mga Pasilidad ng Bagong Gusali

Ang bagong community center ay dinisenyong tumugon sa pangangailangan ng iba’t ibang sektor sa SHV. Kabilang sa mga pasilidad nito ay:

Opisina para sa homeowners association at barangay security

Material Recovery Facility (MRF) para sa waste segregation

Conference room at multi-purpose rooms para sa mga pagpupulong at programa

Kwarto para sa mga kooperatiba at livelihood projects

All-gender comfort rooms

Learning and activity spaces para sa mga kabataan at matatanda

Ayon kay Kapitan Mike Jamin, ang gusaling ito ay matagal nang pangarap ng komunidad.

“Hindi lamang ito pasilidad. Isa itong sagisag ng pagkakaisa at kooperasyon ng aming barangay, HOA, at pamahalaang lungsod.”

Samantala, si HOA President Engr. Mackie Yoro ay nagpahayag ng pasasalamat sa lahat ng bumuo ng proyekto.

“Ang community center na ito ay magiging tahanan ng pag-asa at oportunidad para sa lahat ng residente ng SHV.”

Dumalo rin sa seremonya sina City Architect Red Avelino, City Engineer Atty. Dale Peral, District 5 Action Officer William Bawag, at Internal Audit Service Head Atty. Noel Gascon, na pawang nagpahayag ng suporta sa inisyatibo.

Ang pagbubukas ng Sacred Heart Village Community Center ay bahagi ng mas malawak na programa ng Quezon City na naglalayong magpatayo ng matitibay at inklusibong pasilidad sa bawat komunidad.

Sa pagtatapos ng seremonya, iniwan ni Mayor Belmonte ang mga mamamayan ng SHV ng isang mensahe ng pag-asa:

“Mabuhay po tayong lahat. Sama-sama nating pagandahin at palakasin ang ating komunidad.”

FOOD | High-end Korean restaurant Chung Dam's third branch opens at Parqal Mall

PARANAQUE CITY – The taste of the best Korean cuisine is now here, on its third branch - Chung Dam Restaurant. We witnessed the grand opening on October 19 at Parqal Mall Aseana City, Macapagal Boulevard.

CHUNG DAM PARQAL | ALASKAN KING CRAB | Photo courtesy of Chung Dam PH

Kurimi Milk Tea Bar unveils its Yogurt Series

KURIMI YOGURT PREMIUM & FRUIT SERIES (Image by BBerces)

The Kurimi Milk Tea Bar クリーミー, the brand behind the Japanese-inspired milk tea and fruit tea, has launched its premium and fruit Yogurt series to serve their more than 60 stores nationwide.

CopPhil, first in Asia Copernicus Philippines-EU Program

(L-R) Mr. Peteris Ustubs, Director General for Middle East, Asia and Pacific, Renato Solidum, Jr., Secretary – Department of Science and Technology (DOST), EU H.E. Amb. Luc Véron, Dr. Benjamin Koetz, Head of Sustainable Initiatives Office – European Space Agency (ESA), Dr. Joel Joseph Marciano, Director General – Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA).

(Manila, 25 April 2023) The first in Asia, Copernicus, Philippines and European Union unify forces to better respond to natural disasters and climate change Manila.  Officials from the Philippine Space Agency, the Department of Science and Technology and the European Union launched on April 24 the Copernicus Capacity Support Action Programme for the Philippines (CopPhil) worth approximately Php 610 million or €10 million.

EVENT: PHILIPPINE TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE FESTIVAL 2019

THIS IS IT - the travel and tour event at the center of Metro Manila is here!  The Philippine Travel and Lifestyle Festival 2019 is a three-day extravaganza travel event on July 26 to 28 at the Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall at the building C, and Fashion Hall extensions.

The Philippine Travel and Lifestyle Festival 2019, SM MEGAMALL (July 26 -28)

NSTW 2019: A Showcase of Innovation for Progressive Philippines

The modern style of the Innovation Park in the 2019 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) conveys a positive outlook of a brighter future of the Philippines, held at World Trade Center, Pasay City.  NSTW will run from July 17 to 21.

INNOVATION PARK AT 2019 NATIONAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY WEEK, WORLD TRADE CENTER, PASAY CITY, PHILIPPINES

The modern style of the Innovation Park in the 2019 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) conveys a positive outlook of a brighter future of the Philippines, held at World Trade Center, Pasay City.  NSTW will run from July 17 to 21.

DOST Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña said in his message that the NSTW celebration "has the noble intention of harnessing the power of innovative technological ideas and concepts to power the Philippines toward new, boundless opportunities to solve longstanding societal problems."

PAGASA: Tropical Depression Falcon

PAGASA WEATHER UPDATE AS SHOWN IN THE SATELLITE IMAGES DURING THE PRESS CONFERENCE ON JULY 15, 2019  11:00 AM. 

Falcon, yan ang pangalan ng ika-anim na bagyo sa Pilipinas ngayong 2019.

Ayon sa mga namumuno ng PAGASA, kailangan natin ang mga pag-ulan, dahil magiging maganda ang mga benepisyo nito sa ating bansa. Dahil nga sa mga nakalipas na linggo, narananasan ang kakulangan natin sa tubig. Ito ay dahil mas mababa na sa standard na dami ng tubig sa Angat Dam.