Harnessing the Unknown: Powering the Future through Science and Innovation

 

    The 2025 National Science Month celebration, with the theme "Harnessing the Unknown: Powering the Future through Science and Innovation", is a reminder that science is not just about formulas, laboratories, or experiments. It’s about people, communities, and the future we are all trying to build together. The unknown can be scary, but it can also be exciting—it holds possibilities for new discoveries that can improve our lives, protect our environment, and prepare us for challenges that we don’t yet fully understand. This celebration invites us to face the unknown with curiosity, creativity, and responsibility. 

    In the next decades, the connection between science and society will become even stronger. We'll see a future where new scientific breakthroughs are quickly integrated into our daily lives, thanks to rapid advancements in fields like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and sustainable energy. For example, precision medicine will move beyond just treating illnesses to actively preventing them, using personalized genetic data. This means science is not just for scientists—it needs everyone’s voice. By working together, society can guide innovation in ways that are ethical, fair, and inclusive.


    In the Philippines, this theme also highlights the importance of making sure that science and technology benefit not only a few, but the entire nation. Innovations in renewable energy, carbon capture, and ecological restoration won't just be scientific projects—they will be global necessities. This will make public engagement and scientific literacy crucial, empowering people to make informed decisions about environmental policies and their own lifestyles. Science, in this sense, will become a universal language that unites diverse communities in the collective effort to protect our planet. 

    This National Science Month also serves as a critical reminder that science isn't a solitary pursuit; it thrives on collaboration and diverse perspectives. The theme "Harnessing the Unknown" calls for a more inclusive approach, making sure voices from all backgrounds—including different cultures, genders, and socioeconomic levels—are at the table. True innovation happens when we move beyond isolated thinking and embrace efforts that cross disciplines. By creating environments where engineers can work alongside artists, and data scientists can collaborate with sociologists, we can unlock solutions to problems that once seemed impossible. This commitment to inclusivity and collaboration is the key to truly "powering the future" and ensuring the benefits of scientific progress are shared by all of humanity.


    Looking ahead, if we truly embrace this year’s theme, we can build a society that is more resilient, creative, and ready for whatever the future brings. The unknown will always be part of life, but with science and innovation guided by the needs of people, we can turn uncertainty into opportunity. The journey may not be easy, but together, science and society can power a future that is brighter, more sustainable, and more inclusive for all. 

    References: 
    https://archive.opengovasia.com/2021/11/26/the-philippines-to-showcase-world-class-technologies-    during-science-technology-week
    https://genflowbio.com/what-is-biotechnology/
    https://alterno.net/sustainable-energy/ 

Climate Change and Resiliency of Filipinos

 

    

    Climate change is one of the most pressing issues in the Philippines, directly affecting people's lives and their environment. As an archipelago along the Pacific typhoon belt, the Philippines is no stranger to extreme weather like typhoons, floods, and droughts. However, human activities such as burning fossil fuels, industrial pollution, and rapid urbanization have intensified global warming, making these natural hazards more destructive. The increasing concentration of greenhouse gases is changing weather patterns, causing sudden and long-term shifts in the environment. 

    One of the main drivers of environmental degradation is deforestation and land-use change. Forests play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide, regulating rainfall, and preventing soil erosion. Yet, large areas of Philippine forests are lost to logging, agriculture, and urban expansion. Without the protection of forests, communities become more vulnerable to landslides, flash floods, and prolonged droughts. This destruction also affects biodiversity, reducing the natural resources that many Filipinos depend on for food, shelter, and livelihood.  

    Underlying structural issues make these problems worse. Many Filipinos live in high-risk areas such as coastal communities, floodplains, and informal settlements because of poverty and limited access to safe land. Weak enforcement of environmental laws, poor urban planning, and short-term economic priorities further increase vulnerability. As cities grow, demand for land, energy, and transport rises, which contributes to higher emissions and worsens climate-related disasters. These challenges highlight the need for stronger governance, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development practices. 

    One major reason for this environmental decline is deforestation and land-use change. Forests play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide, regulating rainfall, and preventing soil erosion. Yet, large areas of Philippine forests are lost to logging, agriculture, and urban expansion. Without the protection of forests, communities become more vulnerable to landslides, flash floods, and prolonged droughts. This destruction also affects biodiversity, reducing the natural resources that many Filipinos depend on for food, shelter, and livelihood. 

    Despite these enormous difficulties, Filipinos have shown incredible resilience. Communities often unite during crises, providing mutual aid and support to those affected by disasters. Grassroots initiatives like tree planting, coastal cleanups, renewable energy projects, and climate education are on the rise, proving that ordinary citizens can play a vital role in combating climate change. While the threats are undeniable, the adaptability, unity, and determination of Filipinos offer hope that with the right policies and global cooperation, the country can build a more sustainable and resilient future.    

    References: Climate Impacts Tracker. (2024). Climate Change in the Philippines: Causes, Effects and Solutions. Retrieved from climateimpactstracker.com

The Spirit of Competition: A Look Back at Intramurals 2025

 

    

    The Intramurals 2025 was one of the most anticipated events of the school year, bringing students together to celebrate camaraderie, sportsmanship, and talent. The opening of the ceremony was a truly unforgettable event. The tone was set for the entire week, filling the campus with energy, excitement, and a strong sense of unity among all participants.

    One of the most remarkable highlights of the event was the search for Mr. and Ms. Intramurals 2025. Contestants from different grade levels and departments proudly represented their teams with confidence, wisdom, and charm, making the competition not only entertaining but also inspiring to witness. This event wasn’t just about beauty; it celebrated the intelligence, talent and personality of our students. The chosen winners were Jillian Santiago Bilgera, who’d represented the Grade 10 Red Falcons, and Lexus Jarvis Belaras who’d represented Grade 12 HUMSS/GAS Orange Dragons, who truly embodied the spirit of the intramurals—athletic, intelligent, and poised. 

    Also the most unforgettable part was my participation in the sport, Taekwondo. Stepping into mats with a mix of nerves and adrenaline surged through me. Each match was an intense whirlwind of kicks, blocks, and strategic movements—a culmination of countless hours of dedicated practice. My opponents were skilled and formidable, pushing me to my absolute limit. While the competition was tough, the camaraderie among the taekwondo players was even stronger. It was a tough but rewarding experience that pushed me to be more disciplined, focused, and determined.

    Overall, the Intramurals 2025 was more than just a series of games and competitions—it was a powerful reminder of our shared spirit, a testament to the fact that winning isn’t everything. The real victory lies in the bonds we forged and the lessons we learned. From the electrifying opening ceremony to the quiet moments of mutual respect on the taekwondo mats, this year’s intramurals created memories that will last a lifetime.