Test-Takers Receive New Computers to Support Learning

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The Department of Education (DepEd) MIMAROPA Regional Office formally received 50 desktop computers donated by an education partner on Wednesday to ensure that learners can take online international assessments in the future.

Witnessed by Education Secretary Sonny Angara and Assistant Secretary for Operations Malcolm Garma, DepEd MIMAROPA Director Nicolas Capulong noted that the donation was like “a gift of heaven”.

Dr. Capulong also emphasized that the computer units given to their region would be vital in preparing their schools for online international assessments, including the upcoming Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) next year.

Moreover, Secretary Angara expressed his sincerest gratitude to Pilipinas Today CEO Renesar Deunida, who was the one who donated the computer units to DepEd MIMAROPA.

“Talagang hulog ng langit ito, Sir [Rene]. Kami ay taos-pusong nagpapasalamat. Maraming, maraming salamat, Sir Rene. Hindi ka nakalimot dahil si Rene, he came from humble beginnings. At alam niya ‘yong transformative power of technology,” Sec. Angara said.

Mr. Deunida, also a proud product of the public school system, likewise vowed to distribute another 50 units next month.

With more than two decades of experience in the field of technology, Mr. Deunida served as the Information Technology specialist for the United Nations, HSBC, and the World Health Organization (WHO).

UPD-CS Launches Awareness Campaign on Genetic Modification and Gene Editing Research

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#GeneTalks aims to enhance understanding of genetic research while also addressing common misconceptions in the field. (Photo credit: UPD-CS Science Communication Team)

The University of the Philippines – Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS) recently organized a campaign focused on Genetic Modification (GM) and Gene Editing (GE) research in the country, as well as on the challenges faced by its researchers.

Titled “#GeneTalks,” the two-part, multi-stakeholder awareness campaign, spearheaded by the UPD-CS Office of the Associate Dean for Research, Innovation, Development, and Enterprise (OADRIDE), aims to foster understanding and elevate the level of public discourse on genetic research by discussing the challenges, opportunities, and potentials of research in GE and GM, while also addressing common misconceptions related to the field. This event series emerged in response to the Court of Appeals' ruling, case no. CA-G.R. SP No. 00038, which restricts the use, testing, and importation of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), and its potential impact on the academe’s role as a research institution.

The first forum held on November 4 and titled “Lab to Field,” explores GM research, its regulatory processes in the Philippines, and its importance in agriculture. The panel of esteemed speakers includes Dr. Ernelea Cao, Professor Emeritus at the UPD-CS Institute of Biology on regulatory processes for GM research and its significance; Atty. Edmund Jason Baranda, Managing Partner of Baranda and Associates, on the Court of Appeal’s ruling on GMOs; and Dr. Lourdes Taylo, Bt Eggplant Project Leader, on Bt eggplant and the role of GMOs in food security and nutrition.

“Understanding these dynamics is crucial for ensuring the ethical and responsible conduct of research, and for expanding our insights into GM research for the benefit of scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders,” said UPD-CS National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (UPD-CS NIMBB) Director Dr. Pia Bagamasbad during the forum, who observed that scientists may not be aware of the broader implications of GM research and products.

On the other hand, the second forum, held on November 11 and titled “Edit to Innovation,” covers GE technologies, their potential across various fields, and their broader implications. The panel of esteemed speakers includes Dr. Reynante Ordonio, Senior Science Specialist at the Philippine Rice Research Institute, on the current status of biotechnology in the Philippines and GE applications; and Dr. Ron Leonard Dy, Associate Professor at the NIMBB, on the use of GE in molecular diagnostics.

“Communicating genetic research through talks such as #GeneTalks provides transparency, allowing the public to ask questions and check the validity of the scientists’ claims. It is a way to bring about societal trust and acceptance.” shared Dr. Ma. Anita Bautista, NIMBB Deputy Director for Research and Extension and Member of the UPD-CS Technical Working Group for GMO-related concerns. “When scientists share information about genetic research and their outcomes, they implicate their authenticity, accountability, and moral and social values.”





By: Eunice Jean Patron

Brace for Impact: Super Typhoon PepitoPH Threatens Metro Manila with Heavy Rain and Strong Winds

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Metro Manila, including Pasig City, braces for potential impacts as Super Typhoon PepitoPH barrels closer to Luzon. PAGASA, the Philippines' national weather bureau, has raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 over the region, with the possibility of intensifying to Signal No. 4 depending on the storm’s movements.

As of 5:00 AM today, PepitoPH is located 85 km northeast of Daet, Camarines Norte, and is forecast to bring moderate to heavy rainfall across Metro Manila throughout the day. The storm may weaken slightly to a typhoon before making landfall over Aurora or Quezon provinces but will still unleash powerful winds, torrential rains, and possible flooding.

Pasig City at the Center of the Storm

Pasig City is expected to feel the brunt of PepitoPH by midday or afternoon, when the storm reaches its peak strength in the area. Residents should prepare for:

Strong Winds: 

Capable of uprooting trees and damaging infrastructure.

Heavy Rainfall: 

Flooding in low-lying areas and possible landslides in hilly areas.

With the storm tracking closer, now is the time to act. While forecasts may change, preparation remains crucial to ensuring everyone’s safety.

Key Safety Reminders:

Follow Barangay Advisories: 

Stay updated on evacuation orders and other critical information from local officials.

Prepare Your Emergency Go Bag: 

Essential items like food, water, flashlights, power banks, and important documents should be ready to go.

Secure Your Home: 

Reinforce windows, doors, and roofs to minimize potential damage from the strong winds.

Stay Informed: 

Monitor weather updates from trusted sources like PAGASA. The next official bulletin will be issued at 8:00 AM.

Emergency Assistance: 

For urgent needs, call the Pasig City Hotline at 8643 0000.

Weather Update Summary:

Current Location: 

85 km northeast of Daet, Camarines Norte

Forecasted Landfall: 

Aurora or Quezon

Impacts: 

Strong winds, heavy rains, possible flooding

Metro Manila Signal: 

Currently at Signal No. 2, with potential escalation

Call to Action:

Super Typhoon PepitoPH reminds us of the importance of preparedness in the face of natural disasters. As Metro Manila braces for the storm, unity and vigilance are key to ensuring safety for everyone. Take the time now to safeguard your home, communicate with loved ones, and stay informed.

Stay tuned to Wazzup Pilipinas and PAGASA for real-time updates and helpful tips. Mag-ingat po ang lahat!