Singapore - The Philippines made a strong representation at the ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conclave held in Singapore from April 24-26, 2024. The three-day event, organized by the ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation (COSTI), A*STAR, and the Government of India, brought together women scientists and researchers from ASEAN Member States and India to promote women-to-women connectivity, and engage more women in science, technology, and innovation (STI).
The Philippine delegation, led by DOST Undersecretary Maridon O. Sahagun, the current Chair of the COSTI Sub-Committee on S&T Infrastructure and Resources Development (SCIRD), included Dr. Ruby Anne N. King of the DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), Dr. Meryl Algodon of the DOST-Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI), Dr. Felicidad Christina R. Penafiel of the University of Sto. Tomas (UST), and Ms. Charlene Basig, the current COSTI National Secretariat-Philippines. They joined their counterparts from the ASEAN region and India in engaging in discussions, knowledge exchange, and the exploration of collaborative opportunities particularly in thematic areas namely, (i) Artificial Intelligence, (ii) Healthcare, and Sustainability (Energy Solutions).
The Philippine delegation presented the output of their research works and actively participated in the conclave's plenary and breakout sessions, sharing insights on the current status and challenges faced by women in STEM fields in the ASEAN region. The event also featured panel discussions and an innovation competition, which fostered collaborative scientific and innovative activities among the ASEAN-India women scientists.
"This conclave is a testament to the growing role of women in shaping the future of science and technology, not just in the Philippines, but across the ASEAN region and India ... We are grateful for the opportunity to be part of this important initiative and look forward to continued collaboration and exchange" said DOST Undersecretary Sahagun.
The three-day conclave aimed at strengthening cooperation in science, technology, and innovation, and creating a networking platform for women scientists to thrive and contribute to the development of their respective countries and the region as a whole. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including COSTI Chair-Singapore Prof. Andy Hor, Head of Climate Energy and Sustainable Technology Division at the Department of Science and Technology in India, Dr. Anita Gupta, key speakers from Singapore, and the ASEAN Secretariat.
The ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conclave is an initiative under the COSTI with funding support from the ASEAN-India Science & Technology Development Fund (AISTDF) and the respective ASEAN Member States.
Photos by Organizers
A group photo of the attending participants from the 10 ASEAN Member States, ASEAN Secretariat, and the Government of India
DOST Undersecretary Sahagun (3rd from left) joined the Judging Panel during the AIWSC Innovation Competition
A diverse group from India, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Philippines during the Day 1 - Breakout Session
A diverse group from India, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Philippines during the Day 1 - Breakout Session
One of the panelists, Dr. Meryl Algodon of DOST-ASTI, shared insights on overcoming systemic barriers that hinder women participation in STEM globally
Dr. Felicidad Christina Penafiel of UST pitches her innovation during the AIWSC Innovation Competition
The five-women team from the Philippines who participated in the ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conclave.
