WMSU Hosts “Balik Scientist” Forum on Science Education and Research

Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) hosted the Balik Scientist Forum, an event focused on science education and research, at the College of Teacher Education (CTE) Social Hall on August 11, 2025. The forum was a collaborative effort, made possible with strong support from University President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena and key officials from the Office of the Vice President for Research and Extension (OVPRE), and the Research Development and Evaluation Center (RDEC). The Department of Science and Technology Region IX (DOST IX) also played a crucial role as a co-organizer under the leadership of OIC-Regional Director Rosemarie S. Salazar and Mr. Ricardo J. Apolinario III, DOST IX City Director.

The forum started with the Opening Remarks given by Dr. Dulce-Amor P. Matondo, Special Assistant to the VPRE, who represented Dr. Joel G. Fernando, Vice President for RE; inspirational message given by the University President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, represented by Dr. Berhana I. Flores, Chief of Staff; and introduction of speaker given by Dr. Reynante E. Autida, Director of RDEC. The forum was also attended by other research officials, namely Dr. Analyn A. Saavedra, Director of Research Ethics Office (REO); Dr. Marvin A. Maulion, Director of Research Centers for Operations Office (RCOO); Dr. Najeeb S. Abdulla II, Acting Associate Director of RDEC; and Ms. Emirose C. Empas, technical staff of DOST IX.

The event drew a crowd of 150 participants from various institutions, including several Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and high schools in Zamboanga City. Attendees included WMSU officials, faculty members, department heads, and students from various colleges.

𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐤 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐭 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

The forum’s guest speaker was Dr. Elmer-Rico E. Mojica, a “Balik Scientist” from the University of the Philippines Los Baños through the DOST–PCIEERD. He currently serves as a Professor of Analytical Chemistry at Pace University in New York City, USA.

In his presentation, Dr. Mojica emphasized the critical role of science and technology in driving sustainable development and innovation. He argued that research and technological advancements are not just academic pursuits but essential tools for solving urgent global and local challenges. Drawing on his extensive experience, he provided concrete examples, focusing on the pressing issues of climate change and microplastic pollution.

• Climate Change: Dr. Mojica highlighted the far-reaching impacts of climate change on ecosystems and livelihoods, stressing the need for evidence-based policies and community-driven initiatives supported by rigorous scientific research.

• Microplastic Pollution: He explained the alarming presence of microplastics in our oceans and food chains and warned of their long-term risks to human health and biodiversity.

According to Dr. Mojica, addressing these issues requires a multi-sectoral approach that integrates education, innovative research, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced analytical methods. He further discussed how AI and other digital tools can revolutionize data collection and analysis, leading to faster and more precise decision-making in areas such as climate monitoring and pollution control. He stressed that by integrating these technologies into academic curricula, institutions can better prepare the next generation of scientists and policymakers to create effective solutions for a sustainable future.

𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐬

The forum concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Julius T. Fojas, Senior Science Research Specialist of DOST IX, who recognized the invaluable contributions of Filipino scientists both locally and abroad. He urged the younger generation to pursue careers in science and technology, participate in research, and contribute their expertise to nation-building and sustainable development. (Izar U. Laput, ERA II, DPCMU)