DepEd urges learners to drive national progress through innovation

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QUEZON CITY, 11 March 2026—Education Secretary Sonny Angara on Wednesday encouraged learners to pioneer technology-driven solutions to pressing local and global challenges as he officially opened the 2026 National Science and Technology Fair (NSTF).



With this year’s theme, “Harnessing the Unknown: Powering the Future Through Science and Innovation,” the annual competition organized by the Department of Education (DepEd) serves as the nation’s top platform for high school learners to showcase groundbreaking research and innovations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Angara urged the country’s young scientists to spearhead practical solutions in critical sectors, including sustainable energy, food production and nutrition, and technology-enhanced disaster resilience.



The DepEd chief cited the recent international recognition of learners from Patin-ay National High School in Agusan del Sur for their research on medicinal plants, as proof of the world-class talent of the Filipino youth in research and development.



“In line with the vision of President Bongbong Marcos to leverage science and technology for a better quality of life, we urge our learners to pioneer solutions that address our most critical national challenges,” Angara said.



“By mastering rapidly evolving technologies today, the Filipino youth serve as the primary architects of a more innovative and resilient Bagong Pilipinas.”



The NSTF also serves as the official qualifying round for the prestigious International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), the world’s largest pre-college science competition.



NSTF participants from around the country engage in various activities and competitions, including the Tuklas (STEM Research Competition) where students present projects in four categories: Life Science, Physical Science, Robotics and Intelligent Machines, and Mathematics and Computational Science.



The STEM Innovation Expo competition showcases market-ready solutions for issues such as food safety, water conservation, renewable energy, cybersecurity, and health.



The NSTF also features the STEM Academy conference and the Agham Bayanihan, a community exhibit where partner institutions demonstrate innovative technologies and services to the public.

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