Promoting Innovation and Industry Collaboration: A Key Workshop by UPD College of Science

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a world where scientific advancements are critical to solving global challenges, Filipino scientists are increasingly focusing on innovations that can address the pressing concerns of the Philippines. In line with this, the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS) Innovation Committee, under the Science and Society Program (SSP), recently hosted a groundbreaking workshop aimed at fostering innovation and collaboration with industry partners.

Held last year, the Objectives, Goals, Strategies, and Measures (OGSM) Workshop was a pivotal event designed to spark meaningful discussions and strategies on promoting innovation within the College of Science. The workshop's primary goal was to empower faculty members, researchers, and innovation leaders to advance scientific discoveries that can lead to real-world solutions while strengthening ties with industry stakeholders.

A Collaborative Effort for Innovation

The workshop brought together a diverse group of participants, including representatives from the Innovation Committee, Deputy Directors for Research and Extension from various institutes, and individuals with expertise in technology transfer. These attendees were all united by the shared mission of driving forward innovation within their respective fields and ensuring that research outputs are not just theoretical but applicable in real-world contexts.

Dr. Lerrie Ann Ipulan-Colet, the Director of SSP, kicked off the event by introducing the CAPE Innovation Program for 2023-2025. CAPE stands for Collate and Categorize theses, dissertations, and research publications, Build Awareness, Prepare researchers and students to develop products from their research, and Exposure and Immersion to Innovation Opportunities. This forward-thinking initiative reflects UPD-CS’s commitment to scientific advancement and nation-building. It encourages members of the academic community to pursue groundbreaking research and engage in collaborations with various institutions to protect and promote their discoveries.

Key Takeaways and Insights from the Workshop

The workshop’s facilitator, Innovation Committee Consultant Engr. Rolando Lazo, guided participants through a range of crucial topics, starting with the rationale behind the workshop and sharing statistical insights that underscore the importance of innovation in addressing both local and global challenges. Engr. Lazo also led a review of a pre-workshop meeting held on October 14, where key issues around UPD-CS’s innovation direction were identified.

One of the most valuable components of the workshop was the interactive group sessions, where participants shared their experiences—both successes and challenges—encountered in the innovation process. This peer exchange allowed for the identification of common obstacles and the development of practical strategies for overcoming them. Attendees discussed the resources, actions, and mindsets required to ensure the success of innovation initiatives within the College of Science.

“The workshop provided an in-depth discussion on the experiences of people who have gone through the innovation process,” remarked one participant. Another added, “I hope the fruits of the meeting will be materialized properly into the Innovation Committee.”

Looking Ahead: Societal Impact and Value Proposition

A follow-up session is planned for this year, where participants will delve deeper into the concept of societal impact—its definition and significance in the innovation process. This session will be crucial in helping attendees refine their approaches to developing research that does not just push scientific boundaries but also serves the greater good of society.

In addition to discussions on societal impact, the workshop will feature a value proposition exercise to sharpen participants’ understanding of how their research can provide tangible benefits to various sectors. These activities aim to equip UPD-CS researchers with the tools they need to not only conduct groundbreaking studies but also translate their work into products and services that benefit society as a whole.

A Vision for the Future

The OGSM workshop is just the beginning of a larger initiative at UPD-CS to create an innovation ecosystem that will drive the Philippines towards a brighter, more sustainable future. As the university continues to promote scientific research and collaboration, it remains steadfast in its mission to bridge the gap between academia and industry, making sure that innovative ideas lead to practical solutions for the nation’s most pressing challenges.

With efforts like these, UPD-CS is poised to continue its legacy of fostering not only academic excellence but also impactful innovations that will shape the future of science and technology in the Philippines and beyond. As Filipino scientists and researchers work hand-in-hand with industry partners, the possibilities for creating solutions that benefit society are limitless.

By: Eunice Jean C. Patron

Tourism Woes in Boracay: A Deep Dive into the Challenges and Solutions for Sustainable Development

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Boracay, one of the Philippines' most iconic tourist destinations, has long been hailed for its pristine white-sand beaches and vibrant nightlife. However, recent developments in Malay, Aklan, where Boracay is located, have sparked concern among both local and international visitors. The issue revolves around the increasing number of fees charged to tourists, the growing dissatisfaction with transport and accommodation standards, and a mounting frustration over the general tourist experience. Local government officials are beginning to speak out about these challenges, proposing potential solutions to preserve the island’s allure while improving the travel experience.

The Fees Conundrum: A Growing Burden on Tourists

The mayor of Malay town in Aklan has recently stated that the local government charges only a terminal fee and an environmental fee from tourists. While these fees are intended to support the maintenance of the island and its natural resources, they have become a point of contention for many visitors. Locals, it seems, view tourists as a source of revenue, with some businesses seeing this influx of visitors as an opportunity to rake in significant profits.

The situation is exacerbated by the numerous additional charges tourists face as they make their way through the various points of entry to Boracay. Transport fees, especially for the short tricycle ride from the Caticlan airport to the seaport, have risen to 150 pesos for a short distance, which many tourists find excessive. When considering the hefty terminal fees, environmental levies, and other hidden costs, the total price tag for a visit to Boracay can quickly escalate, leaving tourists feeling taken advantage of.

This accumulation of charges, especially when visitors are already paying a premium to get to the island, detracts from the overall experience. Tourists, particularly international ones, often express frustration about the perceived "nickel-and-diming" nature of these costs. There's growing demand for a more straightforward, one-time payment system rather than the step-by-step collection of various fees. A more seamless digital payment system could alleviate some of these frustrations and enhance the convenience for travelers, ensuring a smoother, more enjoyable entry into the island.

The Need for Better Infrastructure and Safety Standards

Beyond the financial burden, there are growing concerns about the quality of infrastructure and the standards of hygiene and safety practices on the island. Boracay, with its rapidly expanding tourist population, faces the challenge of maintaining comfort facilities that meet international standards. Tourists expect clean restrooms, hygienic eating and drinking facilities, and safe transport options, but as the local government and businesses struggle to meet these demands, some travelers have found themselves disappointed.

The influx of tourists, without corresponding improvements in sanitation and infrastructure, risks tarnishing Boracay’s once-untouched reputation. The high number of visitors and the lack of attention to these basic needs can lead to problems like foodborne illnesses, overcrowded beaches, and even safety concerns in resorts and transport systems. For Boracay to remain a premier destination, it is crucial to prioritize health and safety, ensuring that these essentials are in place before any further expansion of the tourism sector.

Building a Bridge to Ease the Burden on Tourists

One of the most talked-about proposals to alleviate the stress of getting to Boracay is the construction of a bridge that would connect Caticlan, the mainland, directly to Boracay Island. This bridge would reduce the travel time by at least 30 minutes and cut down the hassle of waiting for boats, navigating transport, and dealing with the various steps required to make it to a resort or hotel.

The proposed bridge could greatly benefit tourists coming from Kalibo airport, whose travel time to Boracay is often an arduous and inconvenient journey. Currently, the process involves multiple transfers, including buses, ferries, and tricycles. With the bridge in place, visitors could be at their hotels within just 5 to 20 minutes after picking up their luggage. This would not only significantly enhance the tourism experience but also boost local business by making the island more accessible and attractive to a broader audience.

However, even locals of Aklan who have migrated to Metro Manila and return to the province for vacations are not immune to the fees. They too are required to pay these charges when passing through Caticlan, leading to a sense of frustration among those who consider these fees to be unfair or excessive. Many of them feel that a one-time payment would be a more practical solution, easing the inconvenience for everyone involved.

Alternatives to Boracay: The Rising Appeal of Other Islands

While Boracay has long held the crown as the country’s prime tourist hotspot, other islands are starting to attract increasing attention due to their more affordable offerings and less crowded environments. Destinations like Samal, Coron, El Nido, Puerto Galera, Siargao, and Palawan have emerged as top alternatives, offering equally stunning natural beauty at a fraction of the cost of Boracay.

Samal, for example, provides picturesque beaches and diving spots without the inflated prices often found in Boracay. Coron and El Nido in Palawan are known for their breathtaking lagoons, pristine dive sites, and quieter ambiance, providing a more relaxed experience. Even Siargao, with its world-class surf spots and laid-back vibe, is becoming a top choice for both local and international tourists.

These islands are proving to be cost-effective alternatives, offering similar experiences without the burden of excessive fees. For many, this is becoming an increasingly attractive option, especially when Boracay’s prices and overcrowding continue to escalate.

A Vision for the Future of Boracay

Despite the growing frustrations with Boracay’s infrastructure and fees, many still see the island’s potential for sustainable development. Properly managed, Boracay can continue to thrive as a top-tier tourist destination while preserving its environmental beauty and improving the visitor experience. However, this will require significant investment in infrastructure, safety standards, and more thoughtful regulation of fees.

A balanced approach is needed—one that ensures both the protection of Boracay’s natural resources and the comfort of its visitors. The construction of the bridge, a more transparent fee system, and improvements to the island’s facilities are all steps in the right direction. If done correctly, Boracay can continue to be a shining example of the Philippines’ tourism industry, one that caters to the needs of both locals and tourists while preserving the environment for future generations.

For now, the island remains at a crossroads. Will it continue down the path of overexploitation, or will it evolve into a more sustainable, visitor-friendly paradise? Only time—and the efforts of the local government and businesses—will tell.

Robert Bonta: Upholding Constitutional Integrity in Turbulent Times

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In a period marked by significant political upheaval, California Attorney General Robert Bonta has emerged as a steadfast defender of constitutional principles. His recent legal actions against former President Donald Trump's executive orders, particularly those targeting birthright citizenship, underscore his commitment to upholding the nation's foundational values.

Challenging the Revocation of Birthright Citizenship

On January 21, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order aiming to end birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to non-lawful resident parents. This move directly challenges the 14th Amendment, which has long been interpreted to grant citizenship to anyone born on U.S. soil. In response, Attorney General Bonta, alongside a coalition of 18 states including New Jersey and Massachusetts, filed a lawsuit asserting that the order is unconstitutional and would cause irreparable harm to states and their residents. 

Bonta criticized the executive order as a clear overreach, stating, "We are a nation of immigrants. To deny birthright citizenship is to deny the very fabric of what makes America strong and diverse." A federal judge in Washington temporarily blocked the order, acknowledging the substantial constitutional questions it raises. 

Controversy Over Pardons for January 6 Rioters

In a separate but equally contentious action, President Trump recently pardoned approximately 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riots. This decision has drawn sharp criticism from legal experts and former prosecutors, who argue that it could legitimize political violence and embolden extremist groups. 

Bonta expressed deep concern over the pardons, emphasizing the importance of accountability in a democratic society. He stated, "Justice must prevail, and accountability is paramount. No one is above the law, not even a former president." The pardons have sparked fears of increased mobilization among far-right groups, potentially threatening the nation's democratic processes. 

A Legacy of Advocacy and Leadership

Robert Bonta's journey from his birthplace in Quezon City, Philippines, to becoming California's Attorney General is a testament to his dedication to public service and justice. His leadership during these challenging times reflects a deep commitment to protecting the rights enshrined in the U.S. Constitution and ensuring that the principles of democracy are upheld for all.

As the nation navigates these complex legal and ethical issues, leaders like Bonta play a crucial role in safeguarding the values that define America. His actions serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and integrity in the face of challenges to the nation's democratic foundations.