By Vincent Moro, DOST-STII

Some of the country’s well-known science communicators eagerly shared with students what motivates them to write and create stories that highlight the benefits of science and technology in the lives of every Filipino.

During "Kwentuhan with SciComm Idols," a two-hour forum organized by the Department of Science and Technology-Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII) as part of the 2024 National Youth Science, Technology, and Innovation Festival (NYSTIF), invited journalists, content creators, and practitioners emphasized that creating science content across various platforms is worthwhile despite its challenges.

Among the science communication practitioners who participated in the discussions were 2024 Bantog Awardee Mikael Angelo Francisco, science online creator Mark Joseph Tinao, GMA News Online Science and Technology founding editor Timothy James Dimacali, and International Rice Research Institute media relations specialist Ruby Shaira Panela.

Inspirations to Become Science Communicators and Content Creators

Dimacali shared that he had liked science ever since he was a kid. He also cited his interest in electronics and quartz crystals, which piqued his curiosity as a student. When he asked his teacher about it, the teacher encouraged him to explore and find out more on his own. This early experience eventually nurtured his love for science and communication, which he later used as a tool in his career.

Meanwhile, Panela credited the science TV show Sineskwela as her all-time favorite and inspiration. She pursued journalism in college but realized that she still had a deep hunger for science. Her journalism course became the tool that allowed her to enter her career, but she ultimately found her way back to science through communication.

Francisco shared that from an early age, he was already drawn to science. His fascination with comics, dinosaurs, and superheroes sparked his interest in pursuing a career in science, which also allowed him to generate income through his creative endeavors.

Lastly, Tinao admitted that he entered the communication field out of envy. He used this emotion positively, turning his passion and interest in science communication into a motivating force.

Challenges and Fulfillment for SciComm Idols

The invited science communicators also shared the challenges they face in covering and creating science stories. 

Tinao highlighted that one of the main challenges in the field of science communication is the difficulty of making science accessible to people. He also pointed out that many scientists in the Philippines struggle with effective communication.

Francisco and Panela echoed this sentiment, with Francisco stating that science is often perceived as being only for the highly intelligent because it is not communicated effectively to the public. Dimacali added that presenting science properly to the public is essential to dispel this misconception.

Panela noted that there are still many stories to tell and much to learn in science communication. Francisco, in turn, shared that as long as one has a passion for science, they will never tire of promoting and sharing science stories with the public.

Tinao expressed that science communicators don’t need to be all-knowing, but they do need to be well-spoken. Dimacali, on the other hand, believes that despite the challenges, science continues to capture the interest of Filipinos. “I feel like I’m exactly where I belong,” he said.

Kwentuhan with SciComm Idols was among the activities of the 2024 NYSTIF, held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Forum Tent in Pasay City from September 18-21, 2024. The event featured fun games and interactive activities covering various STI topics, including blockchain technology, science communication, metrology, textile technology, data analytics, food and nutrition, 3D printing, and the science and art of leaves.                                                                                                                                     

For more information on the 2024 NYSTIF, please visit the official page of National Youth Science, Technology, and Innovation Festival (https://www.facebook.com/nystif.dost).