Filipino scientists were urged to develop genetically modified coconut to increase the production of lauric acid, a substance found mainly in coconut oil and is used in making soaps, insecticides and cosmetics.

Dr. Calixto Protacio of the University of the Philippines Los Banos’ Crop Science Cluster said the development of canola with a lauric acid content of 60 percent is threatening the Philippines’ lead in the oils market.

Protacio said local scientists should use the same biotechnological advances for GM canola in coconut, stressing that it offers the "fastest avenue for coconut improvement and makes it possible to target the gene(s) of interest."

To bring more people to become part of the science community, Filipino scientists have to build public awareness and interest about what they are doing.

According to Fortunato Dela Peña, Department of Science and Technology undersecretary, the country has a good pool of scientists, some of whom are already working feverishly on various researches, including nanotechnology and biotech, which can become viable commercial ventures in the future.

He added that many young elementary and high school students excel in science and mathematics, some of whom actually win competitions here and abroad.

Department of Science and Technology opens its 2010 NAST (National Academy of Science and Technology)-LELEDFI Award for Outstanding Research in Tropical Medicine.

The award with the aims to:

• to honor outstanding research contributions in the field of tropical medicine;
• to recognize the role of scientific research in the country's development; and
• to encourage scientific and technological research focusing on tropical diseases as a means of assuaging the growing health crisis.

To help Philippine made technologies, Sen. Manuel Roxas III is pushing for the creation of a law that would make local technologies become commercial ventures.

The said law is called Philippine Technology Transfer Act of 2009. It said to encourage the transfer, dissemination and commercialization of technology programs that are sponsored by the government.

In addition the said proposal will also establish a Congressional oversight committee composed of 10 representatives from the Senate and House of Representatives, all of whom are already part of science, and information technology committees.