What is NBW?
National Biotechnology Week (NBW) is a celebration wherein the biotechnologies generated for medical, agricultural, industrial, and environmental applications are showcased. This was signed by Former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo under Presidential Proclamation 1414 declaring every third week of November as National Biotechnology Week and enjoins the collective efforts of eight Philippine government executive departments (Interagency Committee - IAC) namely:
- Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Agriculture, Department of Education, Department of Local and Interior Government, Department of Health, Department of Trade and Industry, and Commission on Higher Education.
For this year, the National Biotechnology Week is spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
What is this year's theme?
In line with current events and the demand for adaptation under the new normal, the theme for this year is “BIOTEKNOLOHIYA: PAGBANGON AT PAGASA PARA SA MATATAG NA KOMUNIDAD, KAPALIGIRAN, AT EKONOMIYA”. As the Filipinos strive to proactively respond to the changing times brought about by different global crises such as COVID-19 pandemic, it is highly appropriate to emphasize the positive impact of biotechnology to the various sectors of the society. Through this initiative, we can see the close link of the 3 pillars of sustainable development (social sustainability, environmental sustainability, and economic stability) since most of the problem solving-efforts focus only on one pillar. If any of the three pillars is weak, the system as a whole will not be sustainable. Which is why as mandated by the Presidential Proclamation 1414, the different agencies involved in the National Biotechnology Week aim to strengthen the 3 pillars of sustainability through collaborative effort. By showcasing the different biotechnologies involved in their sector, the general public becomes more informed of its impact in our society.
In compliance with the safety protocols set under the new normal, all activities related to the celebration of the NBW will be conducted through virtual means.
