The Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) research study titled “Motility Characteristics of Ejaculated Bovine Spermatozoa in L-Carnitine Supplemented Tris Egg Yolk Extender” was adjudged the “best scientific poster” by the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) during its 36th Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City on July 9-10.
Dr. Danilda Hufana-Duran, scientist and researcher at the agency’s reproductive unit, led the team that conducted the study, which sought to examine the effect of L-Carnitine supplementation in Tris Egg Yolk extender in improving the motility characteristics of bovine spermatozoa.
The participating team members included Dr. Libertado C. Cruz and Dr. Peregrino G. Duran, both from PCC, as well as two scientists from abroad, Dr. Rick Monson and Dr. John Parish.
The 36th ASM focused on the theme: “Infrastructure, Information and Innovation (I3) for the National Development, Competitiveness and Resiliency of the Philippines.
Organized by the NAST, the event highlighted the three pillars of competitiveness as defined by the World Economic Forum (WEF).
Started in 1978, the annual activity of the NAST has earned the distinction of being the most prestigious Philippine scientific conference that serves as the leading forum for the presentation of scientific and policy researches. Policy recommendations on appropriate interventions arising from the ASM are then submitted to the Philippine government and the private sector.
The other highlights in the conference were the presentation of scientific papers and posters; handing of awards for the best scientific poster, outstanding scientific papers and books/monographs; and conferment of awards and recognition to the NAST Environmental Science awardee, NAST Talent Search for Young Scientists, The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) Prize for Young Scientists in the Philippines and Outstanding Young Scientists.
The installation and oath-taking of new academicians were also held during the awarding ceremonies. Department of Science and Technology DOST) Secretary Mario G. Montejo and Academician William G. Padolina, president of NAST Philippines, led the rites.
The 36th ASM also featured plenary sessions and a scientific exhibition participated by various government agencies and institutions implementing a biotechnology program and pharmaceutical companies and other private firms promoting their biotech products.
The PCC was one of the major sponsors and exhibitors. The agency highlighted in its display the role of research for development through livestock biotechnology in promoting its mandated program to the target clienteles.
