Science and Technology Secretary Estrella Alabastro said Sunday at the 109th founding anniversary of the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) of the Department of Science and Technology (DoST) that the next department secretary must focus on information and communication technology (ICT), biotechnology and nanotechnology because these cut across many areas like health, agriculture, and environment.

Biotechnology involves the use of natural resources in creating innovations and applications. Nanotechnology, on the other hand, involves physics.

It pertains to the study or process of manipulating matter to create new materials and devices.

Meanwhile, the public gets easy access to various technologies through ICT tools.

There has not been any announcement as to who will replace Alabastro. “We have not heard anything yet,” she noted.

Alabastro commended former President Arroyo for her contributions to the DoST. “There has been a huge development in science and technology in the last four to five years because of the President. In her previous speech, she said that “technology shall be the foundation of the development of the country. I have to commend her for giving us the resources and manpower that were the key to the progress of science and technology,” said Alabastro.

In the past years, facilities have been upgraded and manpower has increased. She said that DoST researchers and staff members must continue to strive for the better. Alabastro noted that many of the ITDI personnel are masteral and doctorate degree holders.

“We should look for alliances in foreign partners. Send our researchers and scientists abroad so they can learn more and upgrade the department’s facilities in order to provide science and technology services,” she added.

Alabastro said she hopes that people will be more aware of the benefits we can get from science and technology. She recounted that when she first came in as a secretary, she realized that people will not appreciate science and technology unless they see how S&T can create an impact in their lives.

But for the people to see the benefits of technology, projects must be developed. However, budget is one of the major factors essential to the development and implementation of any project. “No department secretary will say that their fund from the government is sufficient. We, in the DoST use our money to draw in more funds from outside. Foreign partners and investors have contributed a lot in our endeavors,” she said.

Japan has contributed around P4 billion in the past years. Korea and Taiwan gave funds as well. “You have to be very resourceful in using the funds from the government. If foreign investors see that they can also benefit from the project, they will engage and extend their assistance,” disclosed Alabastro.