THE DEPARTMENT of Science and Technology was lauded for effectively translating “basic research into useful products” particularly in the field of genomics.

United States Embassy Science and Technology Fellow and National Science Foundation Program Director Dr. Sally O’Connor said that “investments in genomics research also found success in battling the spread of SARS CoV2 through public surveillance of outbreaks, tracking of the spread of specific variants, and influencing policy to prevent further spread of the virus.”

This was in reference to the swift response of DOST in rolling out programs and projects related to COVID-19 detection, tracking and management technologies.

The DOST also introduced a new study on a disease that exclusively affects people of Filipino ancestry. Called X-linked dystonia-parkinsonism or lubag, it is a debilitatingly severe, inheritable neurodegenerative disease affecting males with maternal ancestry that can be traced to the Panay region.

The progressive disease usually affects males aged 35 to 45 years.

The DOST, with the help of the UP-National Institutes of Health and the Philippine Genome Center, is working to characterize the prevalence of the causative gene for XDP to have a better understanding of the disease and help decision makers determine targeted investments in health care.

The department also supported the expansion of genomics applications to forensics through the project “Philippine Population Database Utilizing DNA Fragment Analysis, Capillary Sequencing, and Next Generation Sequencing for Forensic Applications.”

It includes the history, evolution, origins and applications of Filipino genomes. This study also helped resolve child sexual abuse cases.

In agriculture, the DOST, in partnership with the Philippine Carabao Center provided strategic science-based interventions to address low productivity of swine through the development of the DNA marker aided selection technology.

The agency also showcased the exhibits of spinoff companies created due to successful R&D programs like the Manila Health Tek Covid-19 Test Kit, Andali Rapid Test Kit for ASF, practical applications of genomics on criminal investigations (sexual assault kit) and disease forecasting (DiWa app), and new breakthroughs or technology on genomics.

DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr. said that by investing in programs like these, “the Philippines is creating a more resilient and sustainable society, driving innovation, economic growth, and improving the quality of life for its citizens.”

“The DOST Genomics Program’s impact spans diverse sectors, including human health, agriculture, forestry, and marine resources. Its contributions have been indispensable in the fight against a health crisis,” DOST Undersecretary Leah Buendia said.