(Poster courtesy of DOST) MANILA -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is hoping its 7th National Research and Development Conference (NRDC) slated this week will result in partnerships among the stakeholders, according to an official of the agency. Set on Sept. 15 to 16 at the Philippine International Convention Center, the public can listen to the NRDC via the DOST NRDC's Facebook page. "We hope that this event sparks partnerships and meaningful connections between our stakeholders from the academe, industry, and local communities. This event shows the potential in forming these kinds of partnerships. Hopefully, the participants will be inspired to take action in creating R&D projects with the government or for the industry to transform their operations, taking into consideration the role of R&D in their growth," said DOST Assistant Secretary Leah Buendia in a message on Monday. Buendia noted that the NRDC is not just for the science community, but for Filipinos from all walks of life. "We will also convey the HNRDA to show to our RSEs (researchers, scientists, engineers) the priority of DOST in the coming years. Taking the HNRDA or its roadmap as a guide, the RSEs can properly map out their proposals for funding from DOST and other government agencies," Buendia said. Apart from DOST's projects, the 7th HNRDA will also showcase the projects of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of National Defense (DND), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Philippine Space Agency. According to the DOST, one of the presentations to be highlighted is on the use of "kadios" or pigeon pea as the base of a locally formulated and sourced skin antibiotic. This study by Balik Scientist Doralyn Dalisay tackles skin diseases caused by infectious bacteria, such as acne, impetigo, and paronychia. Another highlight is the Impact-Based Forecasting and Warning System, which seeks to translate hazard information into potential impacts. An agriculture innovation called the automated furrow irrigation system that aims to improve production efficiency and sugarcane yield is also in the lineup. The DOST said all stakeholders are encouraged to witness these local innovations. "Through R&D, we can generate technology-based solutions that respond to pressing societal needs such as furthering the income and growth of our local companies; protection of human life and livelihood during disasters; sustainability and protection of our natural resources, and ensuring the well-being of all Filipinos through health, nutrition, and education," DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr. said in a statement. (PNA) }